Blackpool has unveiled a dazzling array of new, family-friendly features set to illuminate the resort’s famous 2026 Illuminations display, created in collaboration with three acclaimed female artists.
British singer-songwriter Toyah Willcox joined the launch to reveal a unique tableau and accompanying song, created exclusively for the Illuminations and inspired by her cherished childhood memories of visiting Blackpool.
Toyah 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 story-telling 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.”
During a special preview event at Blackpool Council’s Lightworks facility, where the world-famous Illuminations are designed and manufactured, the Illuminations team unveiled a host of exciting new additions, including:
Wishing Star by Toyah Willcox
Step into the inspiring world of Wishing Star, a heartwarming story of courage, resilience and self-discovery from acclaimed performer Toyah Willcox.
The Blackpool Illuminations will shine nightly from Friday 4 September to Sunday 3 January 2027. For more information head to: www.visitblackpool.com.
The annual display, which attracts millions of visitors to the resort during the autumn and winter months, will be launched at a special balloted music concert to be staged on the Tower Festival Headland on the evening of Friday 4 September. This year’s event sees Blackpool Tourism Limited collaborate with the BBC, with the evening hosted by BBC Radio Lancashire presenters Graham Liver and Sharon Hartley. As part of the collaboration, BBC Radio Lancashire will also showcase some of the region’s most exciting up-and-coming talent through BBC Introducing.
The star-studded evening will begin with a spectacular free concert on the Tower Festival Headland, featuring performances from singer-songwriter Lucy Spraggan, rock quintet The Feeling and headlined by iconic British pop group Five.
A total of 20,000 free tickets will be available through a public ballot, which closes at 11pm on Sunday 9 August. Tickets will be fairly split between Blackpool Council residents and visitors.
Visit www.visitblackpool.com/switchon to apply. Successful applicants will be required to pay a £5 admin fee per booking.
Visitors wishing to guarantee their place can purchase a Golden Circle ticket for £12 plus a £5 admin fee per booking.
For more information visit www.visitblackpool.com/switchon.
Source: https://toyahwillcox.com/toyah-unveils-tableau-for-blackpool-illuminations/