Blackpool Illuminations: a guide
Blackpool, Lancashire’s glitzy gem, is a fun visit all-year round. However, come autumn, the seaside town truly (and literally) shines, drawing millions with its awe-inspiring display: the Blackpool Illuminations.
Spanning six miles along the Promenade, this light show has been called the 'greatest free light show on Earth'. Let’s delve deeper into the history and technology of these illuminations, opened officially by a celebrity each year.
A bright start: the history
The beginnings of the Blackpool Illuminations date back to 1879. Then, they were a mere eight arc lamps, dubbed ‘artificial sunshine’.
Fast forward to 1912, and the lights took on a grander scale, with 10,000 bulbs used to celebrate the opening of Blackpool's new promenade. Since then, the display has continued to evolve, becoming a much-loved annual phenomenon interrupted only by the two World Wars.
Now, more than 711 metric tonnes of equipment is needed to keep the historic ceremony alive, with over a million lamps and 100 miles of electric festoons.
Technology behind the twinkle
From those initial eight arc lamps, the technology fuelling the Illuminations has changed dramatically. Traditionally, incandescent bulbs painted the town in colourful hues.
Today,more environmentally friendly LED technology has replaced archaic wire bulbs. LEDs are not only energy-efficient but also offer a vibrant colour palette, making the displays even more mesmerising.
These days, the displays are no longer limited to static bulbs. Advanced lighting technology, including fibre optics, lasers, and interactive installations, have become a significant part of the event.
This blend of art and technology results in an ever-changing interactive experience that captivates an audience of over 3.5 million visitors each year.
Evolving with time
In recent years, Blackpool Illuminations have undergone huge changes. There's been a conscious effort to be more sustainable, with LED illumination helping reduce the carbon footprint of the shows by over two-thirds.
Collaborations with contemporary artists, designers, and technicians have given the displays new life, adding a touch of modern flair to the traditional charm. Stars are now invited to perform and open the illuminations annually (Sophie Ellis Bextor performed the honours in 2023).
Additionally, the Illuminations now boast 3D projection shows, interactive installations, and even a dedicated section showcasing young artists' lightworks, keeping it relevant for future audiences.
When to witness the magic
The Blackpool Illuminations typically light up the town from September to early November. While the entire duration offers a brilliant display, the best time to visit would be during the Blackpool Illuminations Switch On festival which marks the beginning of the Illuminations season. Featuring celebrity performances, concerts, and of course, the ceremonial switching on of the lights, it's a staple in the Blackpool calendar. Artists who have performed or exhibited include singer Alfie Boe, Coronation Street’s Lucy Fallon, and filmmaking legend Tim Burton.
There are illuminated trams, a Ride the Lights bike event when the Promenade is closed to cars, and lots of events for kids.
Start planning your Great British break
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Haven reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time. Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
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Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times. Park cannot be used as a permanent residence.
Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
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Let2offset is a contractual lettings product that offers eligible owners a guaranteed letting income at a preferential rate (calculated each year) in exchange for a stipulated number of letting breaks. It also allows eligible owners to pay their site fees and receive their letting income in 12 equal monthly instalments; the monthly site fee amount charged by Haven will be after deduction of the letting income.
‘Make no site fee payments when using Let2offset until 2031’ is available at 33 Haven parks excluding Burnham, Cardigan View, Far Grange, Garreg Wen, Lydstep Beach, Riviere Sands and Seaview. The letting income received will vary by make, model and location. The monthly site fee payment does not include running costs e.g. utilities, rates & insurance.
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An example of how “Make no site fee payments when using Let2offset until 2031” operates under Let2offset is the purchase of an Atlas Sahara 3 Bed holiday home at Primrose Valley with a monthly site fee of £585.00 (includes purchasing discount of £45) and monthly letting income of £803.67. The monthly difference equates to £218.67, which will be credited to the owner's account. Both letting income and site fees are subject to yearly pricing reviews and the monthly site fee costs and letting income shown in the example are based on 2024 figures.
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Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.