Everything you need to know about Blackpool Illuminations Ride the Lights event - times and route
Everything you need to know about the Blackpool Illuminations Ride the Lights event...
Blackpool’s Promenade will close to traffic next month as thousands of cyclists are invited to take part in Ride The Lights, a free family event offering an early look at this year’s Illuminations.
The event will take place on Tuesday 1 September 2026, from 7pm to 10pm, ahead of the official switch-on of the Illuminations later that week on Friday 4 September.
For one evening, the six-mile stretch of Promenade will be closed to traffic and opened up to cyclists, giving participants the chance to ride beneath the Illuminations before they officially light up for the season.
When is Ride The Lights?
Date: Tuesday 1 September 2026
Time: 7pm to 10pm
Location: Blackpool Promenade
Cost: Free
The event offers a chance to experience one of Blackpool’s most colourful evenings, with the Promenade temporarily transformed into a traffic-free route for cyclists and pedestrians ahead of the official Illuminations switch-on.
Where does Ride The Lights take place?
Cyclists can join the route at any point along the Promenade, which runs from Starr Gate in South Shore to Red Bank Road in Bispham.
There is no requirement to complete the full six-mile route. Riders can travel as much or as little of the Promenade as they are able to.
Is Ride The Lights a bike race?
No. Ride The Lights is a fun, free bike ride and is not a race.
The event is open to everyone and provides an opportunity for families and friends to get out on their bikes and enjoy Blackpool’s Illuminations together.
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Can I decorate my bike?
Participants are encouraged to get creative and design their own Illuminations display.
Bikes can be decorated with colourful lights, lamps and lanterns, giving riders the chance to showcase their own illuminated designs as they travel along the Promenade.
Can I walk the route?
Yes. Although the free event is designed for people taking part by bike, people are also welcome to walk the Lights.
So whether you want to cycle the full route, ride a shorter section or walk along the Promenade, there is an opportunity to experience the Illuminations ahead of the official switch-on.
And for those walking, there is even the option of enjoying the experience with a chippy tea in hand.