This August, Blackpool’s seafront will shine with more than just the famous Illuminations. Runners, cyclists, and supporters will take over the promenade for some of the town’s most exciting fitness events.
Ride the Lights
On Tuesday, August 26th from 7pm to 10pm, cyclists of all ages and abilities can enjoy a free, traffic-free ride along the six-mile promenade from Starr Gate to Red Bank Road. It’s a fantastic chance to preview the Illuminations on your bike, and don’t forget to decorate your ride with colourful lights!
If you don’t have a bike, you’re still welcome to walk the route and soak up the atmosphere. Helmets are recommended, and children must be accompanied by an adult. The tramway will be running, so extra care is needed near North Pier and the Metropole Hotel. Marshals, First Aiders, and support vehicles will be on hand to ensure a safe and fun night.
More info can be found here.
Run the Lights 10K & 5K – Registration Now Full
The Run the Lights 10K & 5K takes place on Saturday, August 16th at 9pm, starting from the Middle Walkway just north of North Pier. Runners race along a flat, fully measured course illuminated by the Blackpool lights, passing landmarks like Blackpool Tower and the Pleasure Beach.
Registration is now full, but you can still support the event by cheering on the runners along the route. All finishers receive glow-in-the-dark medals, and race timing is chip-based.
Find out more about Run the Lights.
Blackpool Night Run – Entries Closed, Donations Welcome
The Blackpool Night Run takes place on Wednesday, August 27th at 8.30pm at Tower Festival Headland. While entries are now closed, fundraising is still open to support Brian House Children’s Hospice, the only children’s hospice on the Fylde coast.
If you know someone running, please consider supporting their fundraising efforts – every little helps. Participants are asked to raise or donate at least £30 to help reach the £120,000 target needed to keep the hospice’s vital services running.
Learn how to support Brian House and fundraisers here.
Join the Fun
From cycling under the lights to cheering on runners, there’s plenty to enjoy this summer. Take part, watch, or support, there’s something for everyone to get involved with.
Both the Run the Lights and Blackpool Night Run fill up fast each year, so keep an eye out for registration and be ready to sign up early for 2026. In the meantime, please support those taking part this summer, every cheer and donation makes a difference.
Image (Visit Blackpool)