Statement regarding Blackpool Illuminations

It is with regret that the 2020 Blackpool Illuminations will be switched off at midnight on Wednesday 4 November and the display suspended until further notice due to the national lockdown restrictions due to come into effect the following day.

The Blackpool Tower, which has become a symbol of hope and optimism throughout this pandemic, will remain lit.

Subject to lockdown restrictions being eased sufficiently at the start of December, the Illuminations will be switched on again and run through Christmas and New Year to January 3, 2021.

Cllr Gillian Campbell, Cabinet Member for Tourism & Culture, said: “It is hugely disappointing to have to turn off the Illuminations but given the restrictions due to come in place on Thursday there is no real alternative. The primary purpose of the national lockdown is to get infection rates down and we cannot be seen to do anything that jeopardises that objective.

“It was always our intention to extend the lights season into the New Year and if there is any way in which we can switch the lights back on during December in a safe and secure way we will endeavour to do so.”