By night: things to do in Blackpool

Of course, this is the attraction that really put Blackpool on the holidaymakers' map.  This world-famous light show began with a modest decision to brighten the seafront with newfangled electric lights in 1879. From the eight initial arc lamps, the gradual spread of bright lights hit 10,000 bulbs and miles of illumination by 1912. 

Today, environmentally friendly LED lights have replaced older bulbs, but the illuminations have gone from strength to strength, attracting over three million visitors annually. The illuminations are free to visit but donations help to ensure the displays can return each year.

Check out our comprehensive guide to the illuminations.

An iconic burlesque cabaret show, Funny Girls offers dazzling performances in a glamorous setting. 

A blend of camp comedy, burlesque, circus performance, music and kitsch, the show changes seasonally, including an unmissable Halloween special and a Winter Wonderful Christmas Show.

From cabarets to comedy shows, this legendary entertainment venue promises an unforgettable night out. From nostalgic disco nights to kids’ science shows, there’s a varied and lively program of events. Pop into the box office to find out more.

With three piers, Blackpool has plenty of scenic places to catch sunset and a show. From saucy seaside comedy to animatronic dinosaurs, there’s plenty to enjoy.  

North Pier hosts most of the theatre and comedy shows, while South Pier has bars and DJs. Check out their sites and book tickets in advance – the theatre shows are very popular.

Step back into end of the century elegance in this 1894 ballroom, which has showcased everything from ballroom dancing to Bollywood extravaganzas and circuses. 

Waltz and twirl on the iconic dance floor or simply watch dancers glide by with live organ music in the background. You can even try the legendary Wurlitzer organ too, with a special experience package.

Well worth a visit in the daytime for its architecture, the winter gardens and opera house properly come alive at night, when they play host to a wide program of events from musicals to dance shows to comedy. 

With a traditional British pub, The Old Victoria and cocktail bar, the Floral Lounge on site, there are plenty of places to while away an evening, even if you don’t get tickets for the show.

One of Blackpool’s best-loved small music venues, the Galleon is popular with a young, hip crowd, and features open mic nights, local musicians and cover bands. It has a relaxed, quirky, and laid-back vibe, and a very late licence, so be prepared to party until 3 or 4am if you’re having a good time.

Sometimes all you need of an evening is a tranquil moonlit stroll, with the sea on one side and glowing illuminations on the other. With three piers and 1.5 miles of promenade to stroll (the “golden mile” is longer than you might think) there’s plenty of room to wander, and plenty going on after dark too.

If fine dining in a chic interior is more your style, get on your glad rags and head to The Beach House. Enjoy cocktails with panoramic views of the sea, and outdoor tables for warm evenings. The perfect spot to unwind, with sounds by hip local DJs, this brings a hint of Ibiza to the Blackpool shorefront.

Dive into the spooky side of town, with tales of ghosts and the paranormal. A local author will walk you from one macabre location to another, regaling you with dark stories. There’s a Victorian Séance Experience too, and even a ghost tour by tram to Fleetwood and back.  

Tours run during the summer months and begin at the tourist information centre.