Blackpool Lights tickets: do you need tickets to see Illumination lights in 2023?

The famous Blackpool Lights are shining bright as the dark nights continue draw in.

The Illuminations have been running annually since the 19th Century and have returned for 2023. Sophie Ellis-Bextor had the honour of doing the big switch-on this year.

If you are planning on seeing the Blackpool Lights between September and January - you might be wondering if tickets are needed.

Here's all you need to know:

Do you need tickets for Blackpool Lights switch-on?

No, you do not need tickets for the turning on event. It is completely free to watch the switching-on ceremony on Friday, 1 September.

However if you are heading down to the event this week, you are advised to arrive early to make sure you get a good spot on the promenade.

Are tickets required for Blackpool Illuminations?

The lights are free to view the whole time they are switched-on. All you need to do is get to Blackpool to view them.

Visitors are advised that the Blackpool Lights run from 1 September 2023 until 1 January 2024. The exact time the lights are turned on each day will change throughout the autumn and the festive period - depending on the time the sun goes down, as they can't be switched on until it is dark.

For the first half of September, the lights will not be turned on until around 8pm - but it will get earlier as the weeks roll on.