Lightpool returns with 'bigger and bolder' programme

Lightpool, Blackpool’s festival of light and art, is returning with a 'bigger, bolder and more imaginative' programme of free entertainment over October half-term.

The events will run from October 20-28 and will include world premieres and installations from artists from as far afield as Australia, France, the Netherlands and Spain.

The light installations include larger-than-life jellyfish along the Golden Mile, fireflies, a giant ball of wool made up of neon yarn, a cube made up of 448 glass jars each containing a miniature tableau, and an exclusive preview of designer Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen’s first-ever digital installation.

The iconic Blackpool Tower building will see an alien-like “invasion” with giant tentacles seemingly breaking through the ballroom roof.

The focus of the nine-day event is an art trail through the town centre and Promenade, with indoor and outdoor installations and projection shows.

Festivities will kick off with a fireworks display on the opening night.

Phil Holmes, festival director, said: "This year’s festival promises to take people on a spectacular journey of discovery. The programme includes some stunning light art installations and 3D projections, with the sort of creative artistry never seen before in the UK.

“It will provide an enchanting and truly memorable experience for people of all ages to enjoy against the backdrop of the world-famous Blackpool Illuminations.”

Coun Lynn Williams, leader of Blackpool Council, said: “From relatively small beginnings a few years ago, Lightpool Festival has grown into one of the most exciting light festivals in the UK.

“This year’s programme is bigger, bolder and more imaginative than anything that we have staged previously and we are grateful for the ongoing support from the Arts Council who have recognised the significance of what is being delivered here in Blackpool.”

The festival forms part of an extended Illuminations season which starts on Friday 1 September and runs until January 1 2024.