Hundreds more set to join the excitement as Blackpool’s iconic ballroom opens its doors for a special live screening.

Blackpool’s famous Illuminations Switch-On is set for a new twist this year, with the Tower Ballroom opening its doors for a special live Watch Party on Friday, September 4. The event will give those who missed out on tickets for the main Switch-On arena a chance to soak up the atmosphere and see the big moment unfold on the big screen.

While 20,000 tickets for the main arena at Tower Festival Headland have already been allocated via ballot, the new Watch Party inside the historic ballroom means even more people can be part of the action. Guests at the ballroom will be able to watch the full concert and the highly-anticipated Switch-On moment as it happens.

Blackpool Illuminations (Credit: Visit Blackpool) | Visit Blackpool

placeholder image — Blackpool Illuminations (Credit: Visit Blackpool) | Visit Blackpool

This year’s line-up includes performances from Lucy Spraggan, The Feeling and headline act Five, with BBC Radio Lancashire’s Graham Liver and Sharon Hartley on hosting duties. The big Switch-On itself will be handled by BBC Radio 2’s Paddy McGuinness, who will take to the stage shortly after 9pm.

With only a few days to see the world famous Blackpool Illuminations 2025, we capture the scenes with displays old and new along the nearly six-miles of lights, from Squires Gate to Red Bank Road, Bispham, featuring one million LED lights, interactive displays and tableaux along the promenade, on until Sunday 4th January 2026. PHOTOS: Michelle Adamson | National World Resell

The Watch Party is free to attend and tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis at www.visitblackpool.com/switchon

Kate Shane MBE, Managing Director of Blackpool Tourism Limited, said: "The Illuminations Switch-On is one of the biggest nights in Blackpool's calendar and demand for tickets is always incredibly high. It promises to be a fantastic night, and we want as many people as possible to come to Blackpool and enjoy the show. We are delighted to launch our first-ever Watch Party, giving hundreds more people the chance to experience the concert."