Lightpool Festival returns to Blackpool this October half term, marking its 10th anniversary with 30 free artworks staged across the town from Wednesday, October 21 to Saturday, October 31. The festival builds upon Blackpool's world-renowned Illuminations heritage and features creations by local and international artists at a diverse range of indoor and outdoor venues.
The programme spans 3D projection shows, installations and interactive features. Returning artworks include Firefly Field by Studio Toer, Spin Me A Yarn by Studio Vertigo, Blackpool Rock by Jason Wilsher-Mills MBE, the Lightwork's Tiffany Lamp, and Blackpool Wings by Interior Designer, TV Personality and Blackpool Illumination's Creative Curator, Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen.
Ten new artworks for 2026
To mark its 10th anniversary, ten new artworks for 2026 have been added, each representing a year of the festival's history. These include exclusive world premieres such as In Love with My Dynamic Soft Elephant by Chila Kumari Singh Burman MBE, The Ballroom by Doddz Presents, Crystal Tide by Anne Bennett, What the Gull?! by Caroline Daly, Super Magic Stone Circle by Daniel Kurniczak (UK Premiere), and Common Ground by students from the Blackpool School of Arts.
Community groups played a key part in this year's festival. The lightwork by Blackpool School of Art students marks 100 years of Blackpool's Stanley Park and explores ideas of leisure, ownership of space and reconnection. Grassroots organisation Aunty Social collaborated with local communities and residents through open calls and workshops to create a 10-metre tapestry depicting the town's history, inspired by the Bayeux Tapestry's historic return to England.
Artistic director's pride
Lightpool Festival Artistic Director Phil Holmes said: “I am so incredibly proud of Lightpool Festival, especially as 2026 marks the 10th anniversary. From the artists and local community organisations, the continued support of Arts Council England, to the families and visitors who attend, I am so grateful to everyone for making Lightpool Festival what it is – a truly memorable experience that fosters community building and the passion of young, emerging creatives”.
As part of the festival, the Carnival Magic show returns to the Tower Ballroom on Monday, October 26, featuring giant hand-crafted puppets, costumes, choreography and drumming. Tickets for the event have already sold out.
Council leader's endorsement
Leader of Blackpool Council and Cabinet Member for Tourism, Arts and Culture Lynn Williams added: “Lightpool Festival is a cherished moment in Blackpool’s event calendar. This year’s programme is set to be truly special, and I am delighted that again, local people, artists, schools, community groups and creative organisations are at the heart of it all. Blackpool brings people together better than anywhere else, and that’s down to our unique character and imaginative communities. Here’s to another ten years and beyond”.
Lightpool Festival runs alongside the iconic Blackpool Illuminations, which began on September 4 and run until Sunday, January 3. The lights stretch for six miles from Starr Gate to Red Bank Road in Bispham. More details and locations for installations can be found on the Lightpool Festival website.
