Blackpool has unveiled a host of new, family-friendly additions to the resort’s iconic 2026 Illuminations, created with three acclaimed female artists.
British singer-songwriter Toyah Willcox joined the launch to reveal Wishing Star, a tableau and original song inspired by her childhood memories of visiting Blackpool. “As a child I visited Blackpool at Easter time and I was always enthralled by the Promenade and the sea,” Willcox said. “I wanted to create a display of light and storytelling that takes everyone back to their childhood selves.”
Unveiled at Blackpool Council’s Lightworks facility, this year’s new features include:
- Wishing Star (Toyah Willcox) – a story of courage and self-discovery
- Light of Life (PJ Crook MBE) – paintings exploring migration, conflict and family across history and mythology
- Lollies in Love with Light (Chila Kumari Burman MBE) – a 26-metre kaleidoscopic tableau with 760m of LED neon, plus works reflecting her Hindu Punjabi heritage and Blackpool’s Indian migration history
- Artemis – NASA imagery of the Moon and Earth, with the resort’s classic spacemen figures reimagined as Artemis astronauts
- Beachside Boulevard, Creatures of the Deep, Sky Forest, Flower Shower – new large-scale light installations
- Teddy Bear photo op and Seaside Giggles – new family photo spots
- Doddz Presents: The Ballroom – a new projection artwork on Blackpool Tower
Cllr Lynn Williams MBE, Leader of Blackpool Council, said: “Since 1879, the Illuminations have been part of Blackpool’s story… The Illuminations are one of Britain’s great cultural landmarks bringing together art, design, engineering, entertainment and innovation in a way that is uniquely Blackpool.” She added that the display’s evolution underpins Blackpool’s bid for UK City of Culture 2029 – which would coincide with the Illuminations’ 150th anniversary.
Switch-On Concert
The Illuminations launch with a free, balloted concert on Tower Festival Headland on Friday 4th September, produced in partnership with BBC Radio Lancashire (hosted by Graham Liver and Sharon Hartley, featuring BBC Introducing talent). Performers include Lucy Spraggan, The Feeling and headliners Five.
20,000 free tickets available by public ballot, split between residents and visitors – ballot closes 11pm, Sunday 9th August.
Apply at www.visitblackpool.com/switchon (£5 admin fee per booking)
Guaranteed entry via Golden Circle tickets: £12 + £5 admin fee.
The Illuminations run nightly from Friday 4th September to Sunday 3rd January 2027.
More info: www.visitblackpool.com
