Blackpool Illuminations

Blackpool Illuminations, often simply referred to as The Lights, is an annual lights festival held in the seaside town of Blackpool, located on the Fylde Coast in Lancashire, Great Britain. This dazzling spectacle has been illuminating the promenade for over a century, drawing visitors from all over the world to witness its enchanting display. With a history dating back to 1879, the Illuminations have evolved into a stunning event that stretches for 6.2 miles (10 km) along the seafront, using over one million bulbs to create a magical atmosphere. Whether you're traveling by car, tram, or on foot, the Blackpool Illuminations promise an unforgettable experience for all ages.

A Glimpse into History

The origins of Blackpool Illuminations can be traced back to 1879, when they were first described as Artificial sunshine. The initial display consisted of just eight carbon arc lamps that bathed the Promenade in light, predating Thomas Edison's patent of the electric light bulb by twelve months. The first display similar to the modern-day Illuminations was held in May 1912 to celebrate the visit of Princess Louise, a member of the British royal family, who opened a new section of the Promenade called Princess Parade. The event was such a success that it became an annual tradition, with the Illuminations growing in size and complexity over the years.

Throughout the 20th century, the Illuminations faced interruptions due to the First and Second World Wars, but they always returned, brighter and more spectacular each time. By 1932, animated tableaux were introduced, and the display was extended to its current length, running from Starr Gate to Bispham. In 1935, the tradition of the Switch-On ceremony began, with the Mayor of Blackpool handing over the honor to Railway Queen Audrey Mosson. This tradition continues to this day, with a celebrity guest switching on the lights each year.

The Big Switch-On

The Big Switch-On is the highlight of the Illuminations season, marking the official start of the festivities. This event is held in a specially erected arena, and it features performances by pop bands, singers, and comedians. The first Switch-On ceremony took place in 1934, and over the years, it has been broadcast live by various radio stations, including BBC Radio 1 and BBC Radio 2. The Switch-On ceremony is a star-studded affair, with celebrities from the world of entertainment pulling the switch to light up the six miles of illuminations.

Exploring the Illuminations

Visitors to the Blackpool Illuminations can explore the display in various ways. Most people choose to drive through the Illuminations by car, coach, or bus, but there are also open-top trams and horse-drawn landaus available for a unique viewing experience. The Illuminations are designed to be enjoyed at a leisurely pace, allowing visitors to take in the intricate designs and vibrant colors that adorn the Promenade.

At Bispham, there is a special walkway for the tableaux, which includes mixed media displays and large tableaux that stretch for over 5,000 square meters. The pedestrian walkway runs the length of the tableaux displays, providing an up-close view of the intricate designs and themes. The Blackpool Tramway runs along the entire length of the Illuminations, offering a convenient and scenic way to experience the lights.

Modern-Day Highlights

The Blackpool Illuminations have evolved over the years to include a variety of modern-day highlights. In 2007, interior designer and television personality Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen created a special feature called Decodance, located on Central Promenade outside Blackpool Tower. This feature, along with other contemporary installations, adds a touch of glamour and glitz to the traditional display.

One of the most popular attractions is the Doctor Who display, which features monsters from the iconic television series. Another highlight is the Space Invasion display at Gynn Square, where an opalescent mothership hovers more than 40 feet in the air, battling it out with eight spaceships. These displays use color-changing LEDs to create a mesmerizing effect that captivates visitors of all ages.

Environmental Sustainability

The Blackpool Illuminations are not only a visual delight but also a testament to environmental sustainability. It takes twenty-two weeks to erect the lights in time for the Switch-On each year and nine weeks to dismantle them after the display has finished. Most of the display now operates on low voltage, and in 2003, the Illuminations cut electricity consumption by 11% using new technology. In 2004, wind turbines at the Solarium on New South Promenade contributed to powering the Illuminations for the first time.

Today, the Illuminations use green electricity from renewable resources, including wind power, small-scale hydropower, and biogas. The goal is for the display to be carbon neutral, ensuring that this beloved tradition can continue for generations to come.

Friends of the Illuminations

The Friends of the Illuminations group plays a crucial role in supporting and promoting the Blackpool Illuminations. Established to ensure the future sustainability of the event, the group works to increase business sponsorship, promote the Illuminations season, and engage the community in preserving this iconic tradition. The Friends of the Illuminations also help fund the restoration of historic illuminated trams, ensuring that these beloved vehicles continue to delight visitors year after year.

In conclusion, the Blackpool Illuminations are a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the British seaside resort of Blackpool. With a rich history, stunning displays, and a commitment to sustainability, the Illuminations offer a magical experience that captures the imagination and brings joy to all who visit. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a long-time fan, the Blackpool Illuminations promise an unforgettable journey through a world of light and color.