Ride The Lights returns to Blackpool - here's everything you need to know

Taking place on Tuesday 26 August thsi year from 7pm to 10pm, Ride the Lights is a unique preview event where the six mile stretch of the Promenade is closed to vehicles.

This allows thousands to walk, ride or roll through the full length of the Blackpool Illuminations before they’re officially switched on later that week.

The atmosphere is electric, literally and figuratively with participants often decking out their bikes and scooters in lights, streamers and fancy dress.

The route

The route runs from Starr Gate in South Shore all the way to Red Bank Road in Bispham, covering the full illuminated zone.

There’s no official start or finish point, so you can join in from anywhere along the Promenade. Just head to the coast, hop on your bike or scooter and glide beneath the lights.

Is it free?

Ride the Lights is completely free to attend. There’s no registration, no ticketing just turn up and take part.

Is it safe for kids?

The route is fully closed to traffic from around 6.30pm, with safety marshals, first-aiders, bike mechanics and police support throughout the evening.

Helmets are strongly advised, especially for children, and lights [both front and rear] are essential.

Where to park

Parking fills up fast, especially around the seafront. Recommended car parks include:

South Beach Car Park [near Starr Gate], Hounds Hill Shopping Centre [central], Gynn Square Car Park [near Bispham end].

Park further out and cycle in for the full experience.

Why go?

This isn’t just a bike ride, it’s a celebration. Ride the Lights offers a rare opportunity to see the Blackpool Illuminations in motion, without the cars before the big switch-on on Friday 29 August.

Whether you’re cycling with the family or strolling with friends, it’s a feel good, one night only event that captures the magic of Blackpool in its most community driven form.

So charge your lights, decorate your ride, and head to the Promenade, you won’t want to miss it.