Presenter to perform switch-on as free concert draws big names to the seafront
The figure chosen to flip the switch on this year’s Blackpool Illuminations is BBC Radio 2 presenter and comedian Paddy McGuinness. The ceremony is scheduled for Friday 4 September 2026 and will form the centrepiece of what organisers describe as the resort’s biggest night of the year.
The switch-on will be accompanied by a free concert on the Tower Festival Headland, billed to include performances from singer-songwriter Lucy Spraggan, rock quintet The Feeling and a headline set from the reformed British pop group Five. The event is a collaboration between Blackpool Tourism Limited and the BBC, with the evening presented by BBC Radio Lancashire hosts Graham Liver and Sharon Hartley.
"Paddy McGuinness is set to light up Blackpool’s biggest night of the year."
Paddy McGuinness has established a long-running connection with the town. He has previously appeared at the Winter Gardens and the Grand Theatre, been involved in television filming in Blackpool and taken part in local fundraising challenges. The appointment follows closely on another high-profile announcement: comedian Peter Kay confirmed he will end his Better Late Than Never tour with a charity show at the Blackpool Opera House.
What residents and visitors should expect
- Large crowds on the promenade and Tower Festival Headland on the evening of 4 September.
- A free, arena-style concert featuring regional and national acts prior to the switch-on.
- Visible collaboration between local tourism organisers and the BBC, including local talent showcase through BBC Introducing.
The event will bring together national broadcasters and popular music acts while also highlighting local performers via BBC Introducing. Organisers anticipate thousands will attend the arena on the headland; residents should expect increased footfall, additional transport demand and temporary operational measures in the town centre and seafront area on the night.
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Switch-on date | 4 September 2026 |
| Switch-on guest | Paddy McGuinness |
| Concert acts | Lucy Spraggan, The Feeling, Five |
| Hosts | BBC Radio Lancashire – Graham Liver and Sharon Hartley |
Details on road closures, stewards, public transport alterations and safety arrangements for the evening have not been published in full. Residents are advised to monitor communications from Blackpool Council and Blackpool Tourism Limited for practical guidance as the date approaches. Local businesses, particularly in hospitality and retail, can expect higher visitor numbers that evening and into the weekend.
The return of major televised and live events to the resort continues to be significant for Blackpool’s evening and visitor economy. The Illuminations switch-on remains one of the town’s highest-profile events each year and this announcement confirms a line-up intended to attract both local people and visitors from across the region.
