Home > What's on in Lancashire and Blackpool > Blackpool Illuminations 29th August - 2 November 2008

Blackpool Illuminations 29th August - 2 November 2008

As the summer season draws to a close, Blackpool looks forward to long autumn nights bathed in light and colour.

Blackpool Illuminations are considered to be the greatest free light show on earth, which entertains millions of visitors each year and brings glowing warmth to even the coldest October evening.

The Illuminations have been a major part of Blackpool's attraction since 1879 when they were described as 'Artificial Sunshine' and have been a guiding light for visitors to the resort ever since.

Blackpool Illuminations Switched On

This year the Top Gear team Jeremy Clarkson, James May and Richard Hammond made an extended pit stop to flick on the famous switch during a free concert and special live broadcast on August 29.

Blackpool Illuminations Switch On - 'Best Ever'!

Check out the YouTube Video of The Stig Switch On

World Fireworks Championships

31 August & 5-26 September

To out-shine their opponents, entrants must demonstrate cutting edge pyro-musical design with a display that represents the style or traditions of their country.

Each competing company will launch fireworks particular to their homeland and showcase their own pyrotechnical expertise, to win the public vote.

Individual country competitors will be announced soon
Displays will take place on Sunday 31 August and then every Friday night between 5-26 September. Build up will commence around 7.30pm Fireworks from approximately 8.30pm

Interesting Facts about the Illuminations

At 10 kilometres long and using over one million bulbs, Blackpool Illuminations are an awesome spectacle. But how and why did it all start? And what's it all for?

New for 2008

The 'greatest free show on earth' is set to be even more spectacular with some new additions for 2008, find out more ....

For the times of the illuminations and more information about the Blackpool Illuminations visit the Visit Blackpool site.