The Waterfront hotel Blackpool

02/09/2026

02/09/2026

BLACKPOOL ILLUMINATIONS SWITCH-ON COMPETITION

It’s Blackpool’s biggest night of the year this Friday and we’re giving you a chance to win one of five family tickets to Switch-On! Even better, the tickets are Golden Circle, placing you in the front section of the arena.

Watch all the action up close, including performances from headliners Five, The Feeling and Lucy Spraggan, before Paddy McGuinness flicks the famous switch.

Enter via our VisitBlackpool website here: https://bit.ly/switchoncompetition

Competition closes at 10am on Thursday. T&Cs apply – good luck!

31/08/2026

31/08/2026

Don't miss out... Bluey is coming to Blackpool Zoo! 🐾🩵

On 5th & 6th September 2026, Bluey will be making special appearances throughout the day, giving families the chance to see their favourite blue heeler during an unforgettable zoo visit.

Appearances are on a first come, first served basis and all visitors and members must pre-book online for these dates.

🎟️ With just over a week to go, book now to see Bluey: https://www.blackpoolzoo.org.uk/bluey

31/08/2026

Can you believe it? We’re just one week away from Blackpool's biggest night when the famous Illuminations turn on.

Taking place on Friday 4 September, this year’s Switch-On celebration will see pop favourites Five headlining, joined by The Feeling and Lucy Spraggan. We also have BBC Introducing, shining a spotlight on some of the best local talent.

KEY INFORMATION

🎫 Ticket holders
Were you successful in the ballot? Congratulations! We hope you’ll make a weekend of it and enjoy everything Blackpool has to offer. Check out accredited places to stay, attractions and shows here: https://bit.ly/thisisblackpool

🎫⛔ Non-ticket holders
Didn’t get tickets? Don’t worry, there are two ways you can enjoy the night:

⭐ Golden Circle tickets – this is your last chance to be in the front section of the arena. Limited availability. £12 each: https://bit.ly/goldencircleswitchon

🗼 The Blackpool Tower Ballroom Watch Party – catch all the action live on the big screen in the Tower Ballroom. Free entry but pre-booking is essential: https://bit.ly/switchonwatchparty

TRAVEL
Switch-On night is one of the busiest evenings of the year in Blackpool, so please plan ahead and allow extra time for your journey. You can find a full list of car parks here: www.blackpool.gov.uk/CarParks

However you join us, whether it’s in the main arena, along the Promenade or watching on the big screen in the Ballroom, we can’t wait to welcome you to the start of the Illuminations season!

📷 Gregg Wolstenholme Photography

31/08/2026

SWITCH-ON WATCH PARTY - THE BLACKPOOL TOWER

Big news for Blackpool Illuminations Switch-On night! 🌟

Didn't get lucky in the ballot? For the first time ever, The Blackpool Tower is hosting an official Switch-On Watch Party inside the iconic Ballroom on Friday 4 September!

Watch all the action live on the big screen, including performances from Five, The Feeling and Lucy Spraggan, right up to Paddy McGuinness flicking the famous switch!

Space is free but tickets are first-come, first-served. Standing and seated options are available on the night.

🎫https://bit.ly/switchonwatchparty

30/07/2026

30/07/2026

ILLUMINATIONS SWITCH-ON STAR ANNOUNCEMENT

BBC Radio 2’s Paddy McGuinness is set to light up Blackpool’s biggest night of the year on Friday 4 September.

The beloved TV host, comedian, and author will perform the iconic honour of switching on the world-famous Blackpool Illuminations.

No stranger to the resort, Paddy has previously performed at the Winter Gardens and Grand Theatre, filmed Top Gear in town and cycled through Blackpool during his epic Ultra Endurance Cycle Challenge for BBC Children in Need.

Paddy said: “I grew up visiting Blackpool on family holidays and driving through the Illuminations. I’m chuffed to be asked to switch the lights and become part of the history of the town.

“I’ve performed in Blackpool plenty of times over the years and there’s always a fantastic atmosphere. I’m looking forward to joining the crowds for a belting night out.”

See you soon, Paddy! ❤️

There’s still time to enter the ballot to win free tickets OR skip the ballot and buy Golden Circle to guarantee entry: https://bit.ly/switchonballot2026