Every year from September to the beginning of November, the famous Blackpool illuminations shine nightly along seven miles of promenade. The switch-on ceremony is always a high profile event with a TV, film or music star performing the actual ceremony of throwing the switch.

When night falls, Lancashire shows the rest of the country how to really have a good time. You're never far from a delicious meal, exciting live entertainment or a truly unforgettable night out.

Blackpool Illuminations has attracted generation after generation of visitors for more over a century. Its a resort which sparkles, long after others have pulled down their shutters. The Blackpool lights started with just eight arc lamps back in 1879 when the town became the first to boast electric street lighting 'the first of many firsts'. With more than a million lights, over 500 designs, more than 500 flood/spotlights and interactive illuminations, it's an incredible display.

Check out this link to a classic video of the 1935-38 Blackpool illuminations

RIDE THE LIGHTS
Cyclists enjoy a sneak preview of the Illuminations in a traffic free environment.
This year, Ride The Lights takes palce on September 1st.

Art Cars: Part of the Illumination of blackpool
The UK's first Illuminated Art Car Parade. Prepare to see illuminations on the move...as 'Transport of Delight' grace the Promenade for the Festival of Light, part of Blackpool Illuminations.

LINKS
A brief history of the Blackpool illuminations | Visit Blackpool | Visit Lancashire | Blackpool Illuminations