Are you ready for the big Blackpool iFest Switch-On?

Every year, the Blackpool Promenade is lit up by over one million lamps in a light show like no other. 2015 is set to be a big year for the Illuminations as the brand new lighting experience ‘LightPool’ will be unveiled, which is set to use innovative projection mapping technology with large scale projections on the front of The Blackpool Tower building, to bring the Lights to life.

The Illuminations kicks off with three days of performances courtesy of the Blackpool iFest Switch-On Weekend. With something to keep every member of the family entertained, we have put together selections of the activities and events taking place this year so that you can make the most of your visit.

Film fans and pop lovers

Friday evening will see the Lights turned on by the talented Hollywood Director, Tim Burton. Famous for iconic films such as Edward Scissorhands, Batman, Alice in Wonderland, Beetlejuice and The Nightmare Before Christmas, he filmed his latest masterpiece Miss Peregrine’s School for Peculiar Children in the resort and will be taking a break from his hectic schedule to bathe Blackpool in light for the first time this year.

There will also be performances from chart-topping UK acts including Lawson, Professor Green, Toploader and Little Boots with special headliners The Vamps. Friday night is sure to be full of fun, so get your dancing shoes ready and prepare yourself for an evening full of pop tunes and amazing light displays.

Tiny tots

Saturday morning will see CBBC arrive in Blackpool to present their morning programmes. Thousands of lucky ticket winners will also be treated to a special family show hosted by Blackpool resident and Blue Peter presenter Barney Harwood, those who attend will also get the chance to see three hours of CBBC fun and games, followed by a premiere of the new series of the Danger Mouse cartoon.

Big kids and eighties vibes

Saturday evening is dedicated to vintage pop, with the Tower Festival Headland arena welcoming top acts with some 80s nostalgia, headlining with Bananarama and featuring Jason Donovan, Paul Young, Limahl, Owen Paul and T’Pau take to the stage in the ultimate throwback concert.

Hosted by Fun House’s Pat Sharp, Saturday evening will transport you back to a time when the hair was bigger, the colours were brighter and shoulder pads were essential.

Comedy lovers

Sunday will see stand-up brought to the Comedy Carpet for the first time ever! Comedy legend Al Murray – The Pub Landlord will bring a host of comedy stars to the Comedy Carpet including Chris Ramsey, Alun Cochrane, Tiff Stevenson, Carl Hutchinson and Craig Campbell.  So head down for what is assured to be an evening full of laughs.

Get your tickets for the Big Switch-On Weekend

There are still a few tickets left for sale from the the VisitBlackpool Tourist Information Centre, Festival House, Promenade so make sure to get in quick, so you can enjoy all the festival has to offer.

With something for everyone to enjoy this weekend from tiny tots to big kids, head down to the beach and let us help you finish your summer with a bang.