Music, mythology and space exploration are among the themes set to light up the promenade.
Blackpool has unveiled a 2026 Illuminations display that promises to captivate visitors with immersive storytelling and cutting-edge design.
The line-up includes a tableau by British singer-songwriter Toyah Willcox, who has also contributed a song to the display.
Ms Willcox said: “I am thrilled to be part of this year’s illuminations.
"As a child I visited Blackpool at Easter time, and I was always enthralled by the Promenade and the sea.
"This memory is so strong, I wanted to create a display of light and storytelling that takes everyone back to their childhood selves, while enjoying the sea, the sky, the stars and the coast.
"My story is about a child and her guitar meeting new friends who make her stronger while flying over the sea.”
Her illuminated artwork, Wishing Star, will feature alongside new displays by artists Chila Kumari Burman MBE and PJ Crook MBE.
Cllr Lynn Williams MBE, leader of Blackpool Council, said the Illuminations remain a core part of Blackpool’s identity.
She said: “Since 1879, the Illuminations have been part of Blackpool’s story.
"They have brought generations of families together and created memories that last a lifetime.
"Every year the display evolves, bringing fresh ideas and new artistic collaborations while remaining true to the tradition that has made the Illuminations so special for nearly 150 years.
“For me, that is the reason I was so certain about Blackpool bidding to become UK City of Culture in 2029.
"When I realised that the City of Culture was 2029 and was of course the 150th anniversary of the Illuminations, I knew we had the best story to tell.
“The Illuminations are one of Britain’s great cultural landmarks, bringing together art, design, engineering, entertainment and innovation in a way that is uniquely Blackpool.”
Other highlights in the 2026 programme include Light of Life by PJ Crook, exploring human experiences through themes from mythology, history, and religion, and Lollies in Love with Light by Chila Kumari Burman—a neon-drenched, 26-metre tableau.
Space lovers will be treated to Artemis, an installation featuring high-definition NASA imagery from the Artemis mission, with reimagined spaceman figures representing the Artemis crew.
There’s a glowing new Beachside Boulevard lined with neon sandcastles, a reimagined Creatures of the Deep section using Greek mythology, and a whimsical Sky Forest of LED cherry blossom trees.
Visitors can look forward to a photo opportunity with a giant illuminated teddy bear, interactive projection shows, and classic seaside humour with oversized postcard cutouts.
The official switch-on event takes place on Friday, September 4, on the Tower Festival Headland.
The free concert will feature live performances by Lucy Spraggan, rock band The Feeling, and headliners Five.
The event is a collaboration between Blackpool Tourism Limited and the BBC, and will be hosted by BBC Radio Lancashire presenters Graham Liver and Sharon Hartley.
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A total of 20,000 free tickets are available through a public ballot, which closes at 11pm on Sunday, August 9.
Tickets will be fairly split between Blackpool Council residents and visitors, with a £5 administration fee per booking for successful applicants.
Golden Circle tickets can be purchased for £12, plus the £5 admin fee.
Further details and ticket information are available at www.visitblackpool.com/switchon.
The 2026 Illuminations will shine nightly from September 4, 2026 to January 3, 2027.
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