List of people who have switched on the Blackpool Illuminations
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The Blackpool Illuminations In 2009 with mermaids hanging each side of the lamp posts with decorative lights hanging in between them whilst the Blackpool Tower in the background is lit up gold
The Blackpool Illuminations is an annual lights festival with over one million light bulbs. Founded in 1879 and held each autumn from August until November they are on for 66 nights a year. In 1934, the town began a tradition of marking the start of the festival by hosting a public figure to perform the inaugural switch-on of the lights. For the first public ceremony, the honour was performed by Lord Derby.[1] In subsequent years, hosts have predominantly been drawn from the world of entertainment with occasional appearances by sportspeople and political figures. Unusual hosts have included a Canberra bomber aircraft in 1969 and racehorse Red Rum in 1977.
The 2021 switch was performed by Strictly Come Dancing judge Shirley Ballas.[1] For the 2021 Blackpool Illuminations display they will be extended to 122 nights from 3 September 2021 until 3 January 2022.[1]