History of the Blackpool Illuminations
The Blackpool Illuminations began its legacy in 1879 when only eight arc lamps were erected on the Promenade; the people who first saw them called 'artificial sunshine'.
139 years and over a million more lamps later, the Blackpool Illuminations has grown to be one of the UK's most famous events, attracting millions of visitors from across the globe to be amazed by artistic light fixtures and spectacular light shows.
Even still, the purpose is unchanged- the illuminations aim to impress you and your family with this internationally acclaimed event.
All of the effort involved in this free family event show just how far Blackpool's Illuminations have come.
The lights now stay on regardless of the tides coming in unlike in the past when blackouts were caused by water leaking into the cast iron piping by the seafront.
A Brief Timeline
Here are just a few of the milestones in the history of the Illuminations:
May 1912
Princess Louise opened a new section of Promenade when the lights were erected on Princess Parade to mark Blackpool's first Royal visit.
The lights impressed everyone so much that they were lit again in September. Thousands of visitors came, and thus the commercial potential was made obvious.
1914-1925
The ongoing war temporarily put a stop to the display in 1914, but the Illuminations were lit again in 1925 along with huge animated tableaux added to accompany the lights.
The Blackpool Illuminations were almost six miles long by this point from Squires Gate to Red Bank Road.
1939-1949
When World War II happened, the Illuminations were stopped once more. This time they didn't come back until 1949 when the actress Anna Neagle flicked the switch.
1953-Today
From then on the lights stayed on without interruptions and bore witness to quite a few famous people who came to hit the switch to brighten the town. Are there any here that you can recognise?
- 1953 -George Formby
- 1964-Gracie Fields
- 1966-Ken Dodd
- 1972-Danny La Rue
- 1975-Red Rum (that's right, the race horse!)
- 1979-Kermit The Frog
- 1999-Gary Barlow
- 2007-David Tennant
Are you planning a trip to Blackpool to enjoy the famous illuminations and other attractions? There are many wonderful things to do for all the family throughout the year.
If you want to enjoy our wonderful seaside town, we offer comfortable bed and breakfast accommodation at reasonable prices.
We are located in the heart of Blackpool with easy access to all the local attractions. We look forward to seeing you at our cosy guest house.