Blackpool Illuminations 2023: when are they switched-on, who turned them on, dates and when it ends

The famous lights of Blackpool are switched-on and illuminating the dark autumn nights.

Vistors and residents alike will be able to take in the famous Illuminations from September onwards. It will be switched-on by Sophie Ellis-Bextor in 2023 - having been turned on by celebrity designer Laurence Llewlyn-Bowen last year.

The Illuminations were disrupted last year due to the death of Queen Elizabeth and went dark for many days following the monarch's passing.

If you are thinking of going to see the Blackpool Lights - or what to watch the big switch-on event - you are probably wondering about the dates and timings for 2023. The organisers have confirmed plans for this year.

Here's all you need to know:

When were the Blackpool Lights being switched on?

The Blackpool Illuminations will officially be turned on by Sophie Ellis-Bextor on Friday, 1 September. The pop star - who appeared on Glastonbury's famous Pyramid Stage earlier in the summer - will perform before flicking the lights on!

Ellis-Bextor said: “I’m so excited to be coming back to Blackpool to perform a few of my favourite tracks and to switch on the iconic Blackpool Illuminations! I can’t wait to see you all there!”

She will perform three songs before turning the lights on.

What else is happening at the switch-on?

There will be a Nickelodeon Parade which is sure to be a hit with the younger visitors. The celebrations will kick off with a vibrant and lively float parade, featuring larger-than-life versions of your favourite characters such as SpongeBob SquarePants and friends, PAW Patrol, Baby Shark, Transformers, and Monsters High.

They will be joined by around 100 dancers, musicians and street performers as they make their way from Central Pier to the Tower Festival Headland for a free family party.

Among the performers in the grand parade will be Lancashire’s own 2nd Rossendale Scout Group Band, a hugely talented group of young musicians who have performed all over the UK, including an appearance at Windsor Castle in front of the Queen.

Do you need a ticket for the switch-on?

You do not need a ticket to watch the Blackpool Illumintions being turned on. The whole event will be free to access with no tickets required.

Visitors are advised to arrive early to make sure they get a good spot to watch.

How long are the lights turned on for?

The lights will shine brightly every evening for four months. The Blackpool Illuminations were be turned on from 1 September 2023 until 1 January 2024 - so it includes the full festive period.

What time are the illuminations switched on at night?

The switch on times for the Blackpool Illuminations changes daily. I Love Blackpool have a timetable for the 2023 illuminations and the timings.

Where are the illuminations?

Blackpool Illuminations are in Blackpool, Lancashire.

If you are looking for where the display starts it begins at Starr Gate (Squires Gate) and ends at Red Bank Road in Bispham.

The postcode for Starr Gate is FY4 1SY.

What is the best way to see the illuminations?

It is advised that you should see the Blackpool Illuminations on foot is possible, it will help you avoid the traffic and queues.

If you do go by foot, it is advised that you can park up and walk along Blackpool promonade, taking your time so you don’t miss anything.

You can also drive through the Blackpool Illuminations.

Visit Blackpool says: “You can drive through Blackpool Illuminations and we recommend doing so! However, there are other ways to see the display, for example, on foot or by tram.

“It all depends on the night you visit as weekends are busier compared to throughout the week.

“Wherever possible, we encourage you to park up and see part of the display on foot, especially as the new Illuminations for 2022 are best viewed up close and personal.”

Do you need tickets to go to Blackpool Illuminations?

No, the event is free.

Visit Blackpool says: “Blackpool Illuminations is the greatest free light show on Earth! We do, however, rely on generous public and business donations to maintain our fantastic light display.

“When visiting the Lights, you will have chance to donate some of your spare change at our collection huts either end of the Promenade. This can either be by cash or contactless.”