25 stunning images of breathtaking scenes from the opening night of Blackpool's Lightpool Festival

Blackpool has been transformed after dark as the Lightpool Festival returned last night for its 10th year.

The award-winning light art festival will run from 21 to 31 October 2026, bringing illuminated artworks, live performances and interactive installations to venues and public spaces across the town.

Since 2016, Blackpool Illuminations has developed Lightpool Festival as a contemporary light art public showcase for new artistic and technological collaborations. The annual October festival provides audiences with a showcase of high-quality light art, featuring a diverse range of works using cutting-edge technologies and innovative approaches.

The programme brings together local, national and international artists, with locally developed pieces alongside world-class presentations from around the globe. For its tenth anniversary, Lightpool will once again combine light, creativity and culture across a variety of indoor and outdoor venues.

The festival is free, with its Light Art Trail, live performances and other events taking place across Blackpool. Check out our best images from the opening night below...