There will be no hibernation in Blackpool just long Autumn nights bathed in light and colour as the Summer Season draws to a close.

The shutters have gone down in most other British seaside towns. yet Blackpool illuminations which are considered to be the greatest free light show on the planet entertain millions every year. They bring a glowing warmth to even the coldest October evening.

The illuminations have been a major part of Blackpool’s attractions since 1879 when they were described by the Victorians of the era as artificial sunshine, they have been a guiding light for visitors to the West Coast resort ever since. The basic idea is still very much the same as it was back then, but it has to be said that the style and sheer professionalism of the modern day version enhanced of course year on year by new technology have very little in keeping with the original lighting show.

Gone are the days when the lights went out as the tide came in because sea water was leaking into the cast iron cable conduits that ran along the promenade shorting out the systems. These days hi-tech has replaced high tide as the main talking point of the annual illuminations extravaganza.

The brightest night of them all will be the big switch on which is usually the first Friday in September where thousands of people descend upon the custom built arena set down in the huge Central Car parks behind the Sealife centre and adjacent to the Police Station for the switch on event. It has become the custom for celebrities to be invited to perform the function of throwing the famous switch in front of this audience and lighting up the six+ miles of promenade as the entire length of the illuminations  spring into life. Some of the more obscure celebs invited to perform the feat over the years have included a Canberra bomber in 1969, Red Rum Grand National Winner in 1977 and the Muppets in 1979. This year the comedy sensation Keith Lemon of ITV’s Celebrity Juice will perform the function at the end of the live concert which will be broadcast live by the Real and Smooth Radio Networks and be streamed through their websites.

On this and every other night of the season, Blackpool’s illuminations retain the magic and excitement which each visitor experiences on their first trip through the lights as a child. The styles and the technology, however are constantly adapting to address the green issues of conservation and energy efficiency.

The illuminations offer you a host of different experiences and ways to view the glittering spectacle. Whilst most visitors drive through the lights either by car coach or bus there are some more rewarding ways to view the displays.

Open top buses and trams are available  will give the clearest close up views of the overhead lights or perhaps ride in an open top carriage for that special romantic treat. You can of course walk the route and many hundreds do every year, all you will need are some stout shoes, a jacket and and maybe an umbrella after you have checked the weather forecast. The route runs from the New South Promenade by the Solaris Centre up to Bispham Tram Station is around 6 miles and is mostly on the flat although there is a gentle incline once passed Gynn Square tram stop. If you want to enjoy the whole experience as generations before have done then buy a bag of chips from one of the many outlets along the route and consume them as you go.

The 2011 Blackpool Illuminations will Shine from Friday September 2nd till Sunday November 6th.

Blackpool Illuminations

Bling by the Tower Illuminations 2011