Paddy McGuinness officially lights up Blackpool

Blackpool's world-famous Illuminations were officially switched on by comedian and presenter Paddy McGuinness, marking the start of another dazzling season for one of the UK's most iconic attractions.

In a 25,000-capacity arena on the Tower Festival Headland, visitors and residents gathered to witness performances from Lucy Spraggan, The Feeling and Five before the famous Switch-On moment illuminated six miles of spectacular light installations stretching along Blackpool's Promenade.

Paddy McGuinness said: “It’s a huge honour to be here in Blackpool to switch on the world-famous Illuminations. Growing up in the North West, I spent many happy days here with family and friends, and some of my favourite childhood memories are of walking through the lights with a bag of chips in hand.

“What’s so special is that generations of families are still creating those same memories today. The Illuminations are part of the fabric of family life and there’s nowhere quite like Blackpool when the lights are shining.

“To be asked to perform the Switch-On in front of 25,000 people is an incredible privilege and a moment I’ll never forget. It’s a night that means so much to so many people, and I’m proud to be a part of it.”

Kate Shane MBE, Managing Director of Blackpool Tourism Limited, said: “It’s been a fantastic night and we are grateful to all the performers and Switch-On star Paddy for launching the 2026 Illuminations season with a bang.

“The Illuminations remain one of Britain's most treasured visitor experiences and continue to attract people to Blackpool every year when other resorts are closed for the winter. They play a crucial role in extending the tourism season, supporting local businesses and showcasing the resort on a national stage.”

Cllr Lynn Williams MBE, Leader of Blackpool Council, said: “Nights like this prove why there’s nowhere quite like Blackpool and provide yet another compelling reason why we should be City of Culture in 2029.

“The Illuminations Switch-On brings thousands of people together for a fantastic celebration, offering entertainment on a huge scale that is free for everyone to enjoy. It captures the energy, warmth and showmanship that Blackpool is famous for, bringing communities and visitors together and creating unforgettable shared experiences. It is quite simply what Blackpool does best, and demonstrates the powerful role culture plays in our town.

“We would like to thank everyone who joined us this evening and look forward to welcoming visitors from across the UK and beyond to experience the magic of the Blackpool Illuminations over the coming months.”