About Blackpool Illuminations
This 3D installation was created by Jack Irving, a famous international designer, in collaboration with Lancaster University’s team of computer scientists. It stands 10 meters high and includes 6 large-scale structures, creating an interactive and immersive projection show with a deep-sea creature theme.
Visiting this light exhibition lets you witness tons of Christmas light displays, including rope lights, fairy lights, meteor shower lights, icicle lights, curtain lights, blinking Christmas trees, net lights, and many more.
Blackpool lights Dates (2026-2027)
The annual Blackpool Illuminations is extended by 2 months for another time. This is due to the growing number of visitors. So, there is no way for you not to visit this much-awaited light festival.
This Christmas light show is undoubtedly a perfect place to celebrate the holiday season with our loved ones. No matter how busy you are, set a date and enter the world of magical lights.
The light exhibition will kick off on September 4, 2026 and runs until January 3, 2027. You have plenty of time to prepare for this spectacular event. You can invite your family and friends and make your Christmas season more enjoyable and memorable.
Where The Blackpool festival of lights is Located
Blackpool Illuminations 2026-2027 takes place in Promenade, Blackpool, Lancashire, England FY1 5YA. And here’s how you can get there:
By Car
First, take the Junction off the M6 and continue to M55. Then, you will see The Blackpool Tower.
By Train
You can take the Superfast Avanti train to reach Preston, where you can find two services that will take you to Blackpool North (Northern Rail).
By Couch
National Express Coach Services have daily service from and to Blackpool and stops at Preston, Birmingham, and Manchester.
Other breathtaking lights festivals to visit in Europe are:
Lights Festival Hours
Here are the Blackpool Illuminations festival hours for 2026 and 2027:
September 2026
- 9:15pm – 1:00am: Sept 4
- 8:00pm – Midnight: Sept 5, 11, 12, 18, 19
- 8:00pm – 11:00pm: Sept 6, 13, 20
- 8:00pm – 10:30pm: Sept 7, 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17, 21, 22, 23, 24
- 7:30pm – Midnight: Sept 25, 26
- 7:30pm – 11:00pm: Sept 27
- 7:30pm – 10:30pm: Sept 28, 29, 30
October 2026
- 7:30pm – Midnight: Oct 2, 3
- 7:30pm – 10:30pm: Oct 1
- 7:15pm – 11:00pm: Oct 4, 11
- 7:15pm – 10:30pm: Oct 5, 6, 7, 8
- 7:00pm – Midnight: Oct 9, 10
- 7:00pm – 11:00pm: Oct 11
- 7:00pm – 10:30pm: Oct 12, 13, 14, 15
- 6:15pm – Midnight: Oct 16, 17
- 6:15pm – 11:00pm: Oct 18
- 6:15pm – 10:30pm: Oct 19, 20, 21, 22
- 6:00pm – Midnight: Oct 23, 24
- 5:00pm – Midnight: Oct 30, 31
- 5:00pm – 11:00pm: Oct 25
- 5:00pm – 10:30pm: Oct 26, 27, 28, 29
November 2026
- 5:00pm – Midnight: Nov 6, 7
- 5:00pm – 11:00pm: Nov 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28
- 5:00pm – 10:30pm: Nov 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30
December 2026
- 5:00pm – 11:00pm: Dec 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 25, 26
- 5:00pm – 10:30pm: Dec 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17
- 4:30pm – 1:00am: Dec 31
- 4:30pm – 11:00pm: Dec 25, 26
- 4:30pm – 10:30pm: Dec 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 27, 28, 29, 30
January 2027
- 4:30pm – 11:00pm: Jan 1, 2
- 4:30pm – 10:30pm: Jan 3
How Much It Costs to Visit Blackpool Illuminations
Blackpool Illuminations is also locally known as The Illuminations or The Lights. This Christmas light show is 10 km (6.2-mile) long and uses more than a million twinkle lights. And the best thing about it is that it is FREE!
Weather and What to Wear
Visiting Blackpool in September gives you cool and rainy weather. The average daytime temperatures are in the high 10s C (low 60s F). At night, the temperatures are in the 10s C low (low 50s F).
In October, the weather is chilly and rainy. So, expect the daytime temperatures to be in the middle-10s C (high 50s F).
The weather is cold and rainy if you visit the festival of lights in November. At night, the average temperatures are in single digits C (low 40s F).
December gives you brisk and rainy weather. During the day, the average temperatures are in single digits C (40s F).
The light festival ends on the first of January, and you will experience brisk and rainy weather. So, expect the average daytime temperatures to be in the one-digits C (40s F).
Throughout the festival months, ensure to pack the following:
- Extra socks
- Long sleeve blouses or shirts
- Light or heavy skirts
- Fleece or light jacket
- Jeans or pants
- Dresses
- Raincoat
- Waterproof footwear
- Rain pants
- Coat
- Warm pants or jeans
Hotels nearby the Blackpool Illuminations festival
Below are the top accommodation recommendations near the Blackpool lights festival site:
Beachcliffe Holiday Apartments
This accommodation takes pride in its comfort and cleanliness. The 5 self-contained apartments can accommodate from 2 to 6 guests. All apartments have constant hot showers and central heating.
Craig-Y-Don Hotel
This hotel is located at the center of the famous promenade in Blackpool. It offers stunning views over the fantastic sunsets and breathtaking Irish sea.
Cliffs Hotel
Cliffs Hotel is located on Queens Promenade. It offers fantastic entertainment with 163 clean and comfortable rooms.
North Castle Hotel & Spa
The hotel and spa provide beautiful views of the Blackpool seafront. It features an 18-meter pool, a sauna, and live entertainment.
Where to Eat nearby the fest
As you join the Blackpool Illuminations, do not miss to visit the following food destinations:
Brens Barista
This fully licensed café bar is located in Queens Street and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. All food items on the menu are freshly cooked. It also offers gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian foods.
Peggy’s Snack Bar
Peggy’s Snack Bar is among the largest snack bars in Blackpool, serving full breakfast and other food items all day. It offers excellent hot and cold meal choices, served from its counter. Do not miss the head chef’s daily specials.
Viva Vegas Diner, Bar and Grill
This food destination is set on the famous Golden Mile and offers a 1950s vibe. It is one of the best places to experience high-quality entertainment and dining. It serves American classics, such as burgers, hotdogs, and milkshakes.
Traditional Chippy
The Traditional Chippy serves Blackpool’s iconic fish and chips at affordable prices. It offers all-time favorite chip favorites.
More Things to Do
Blackpool is not only about the festival of lights; you can also try other activities and attractions to make your stay more enjoyable. Here are some of the top things to do in Blackpool:
The Big One
This famous roller coaster opened in 1994 and remains the tallest in the UK. It is so high with warning beacons installed at the first two drops’ top. The first drop is 6 meters and can reach up to 74 mph.
Blackpool Tramway
The tramway is one of the world’s oldest tram systems. The line is 11-mile long and starts at Fleetwood Ferry and ends at Starr Gate.
Blackpool Tower
This 158-meter tower opened in 1894 and remained the northwest UK’s tallest artificial observation point. It was made from over 5 million Accrington bricks and 2,500 tons of iron. The Eiffel tower was the inspiration for this tower.
Stanley Park
Landscape architect Thomas Mawson designed Stanley Park. It features a boating lake, a café in an overlooking Italian Garden, a Neoclassical bandstand, and more.
You might like to visit:
Festival Of Lights Longleat
Bradford Festival Of Lights
FAQ
1. What are the parking options during Blackpool Illuminations?
Answer: Blackpool offers several public car parks, including the Central Car Park and the South Beach Car Park. During the Illuminations, these can become busy, so visitors are advised to arrive early. Alternatively, consider using the Park and Ride services available.
2. Can I smoke while enjoying the Blackpool Illuminations?
Answer: While there’s no blanket ban on smoking in outdoor public spaces in the UK, attendees are kindly asked to be considerate of others and refrain from smoking in crowded areas. Some specific event areas or venues might have designated non-smoking zones.
3. Are pets allowed at Blackpool Illuminations?
Answer: Yes, pets are generally allowed in many outdoor areas of Blackpool. However, given the crowds during the Illuminations, it might be best for the comfort of your pets to leave them at home. Always ensure pets are on a leash if they are brought along.
4. How long do the Blackpool Illuminations last?
Answer: This year, Blackpool Illuminations run from early September to early January 2024. The lights usually shine every evening from dusk until around midnight.
5. Are there food and drink stalls during the Illuminations?
Answer: Absolutely! Blackpool’s promenade offers a variety of food and drink vendors, and many local cafes, restaurants, and pubs stay open late during the Illuminations season.
6. Are there any restrictions on items I can bring while viewing the Illuminations?
Answer: While there’s no specific list of restricted items, it’s a good idea to avoid bringing large bags or potentially hazardous items. If attending specific events or venues related to the Illuminations, check their individual guidelines.
7. Can I walk through the Illuminations?
Answer: Yes, many visitors choose to walk along the promenade to view the Illuminations. There’s also the option to drive along the Illuminated route, take a tram, or join organized tours.
8. Is the Illuminations event wheelchair accessible?
Answer: The Blackpool promenade, where the main Illuminations are displayed, is wheelchair accessible. However, it can become crowded during peak times, so plan accordingly.
Sources:
https://visitblackpool.com/detail/blackpool-illuminations-2023-6011/
