Blackpool Illuminations 2026: early celebrity reveal promises star-studded switch-on
The countdown to Blackpool Illuminations 2026 has begun and, for the first time, organisers are announcing details earlier than ever, giving visitors a chance to plan ahead.
The early reveal comes as discussions continue this week with a high-profile celebrity to perform the official switch-on, with organisers hopeful of concluding talks in time to make an official announcement soon.
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Kate Shane, Managing Director of Blackpool Tourism Ltd, told a 200-strong audience that the aim of announcing the switch-on earlier is to encourage more visitors to stay longer and return throughout the season.
She said: “We've got a meeting this week to talk about switch on. It might be a year where we can actually go out and say who's turning on the Illuminations this year before the start of the main season so we can get that message out and get the momentum going.”
Last year’s switch-on star was Olly Murs, with previous Illuminations having featured stars including Mel B, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, Shirley Ballas, Alfie Boe, Tim Burton and Peter Kay, to name but a few.
Many get to design their own installations with help from interior designer and TV personality Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, with each celebrity bringing their own magic - a tradition Blackpool is keen to keep alive in 2026.
The Illuminations, stretching across 6 miles (about 10 km) of Blackpool’s iconic promenade, are the pinnacle of the town’s cultural and tourist calendar, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors. From “Walk the Lights” to “Ride the Lights,” the event offers a range of ways to experience the dazzling displays after dark.
The Illuminations are more than just a visual spectacle, however. For generations, the Blackpool Illuminations have been a symbol of the town’s resilience, creativity, and enduring charm. What’s more, they are also a key part of Blackpool’s tourism strategy, drawing families and fans alike and supporting the local economy.
With the season extended over recent years, organisers have seen significant growth in visitor numbers with the lights now shining from late August well into the New Year, with the switch-on representing one of the biggest dates in Blackpool’s year as thousands flock to the Promenade.
With the early announcement forming part of Blackpool Tourism’s strategy to get people to visit, stay, and return to Blackpool, Kate added: “We’re working hard to finalise our plans and announce our 2026 switch-on celebrity. It’s all about giving people something to look forward to and ensuring Blackpool remains a must-visit destination.”
This year, ‘80s icon Toyah will be creating her own illuminations art installation, with the prolific 1980s British icon, singer, actress and author best known for her punk-influenced style and vibrant career spanning over 50 years.
As the countdown to the 2026 season begins, anticipation is already building for the next chapter in the resort’s luminous story.