In years past the incoming tide used to leak into the wiring and cause the lights to fail.

In 1879 before Blackpool illuminations were THE Blackpool Illuminations only eight arc lamps lit the promenade.

From Bispham to Gynn Square 56k video Broadband video	From Gynn Square to Central Pier 56k video Broadband video

In 1912 10,000 lights lit Princess Parade to mark the first royal visit.

Although the lights were a success the outbreak of the First World War brought them to a temporary halt until 1925.

From Central Pier to Starr Gate 56k video Broadband video

The length of the lights were extended in 1932 to just under six miles.

The first celebrity switch on was in 1934, the celebrity was Lord Derby.

The illuminations cost over £2m.


The lights went out again in 1939 at the start of the Second World War, and weren't switched on again until 1949 by Anna Neagle.

Some of the lights are now powered with a low voltage current.

The illuminations workshop is on Rigby Road.