Tips to help navigate this blog:
- TOP: Blog posts by area; subject-specific information sheets; links to HIVE's Social Media, and a map of contact details for our worldwide information centres and their Location Guides.
- LEFT COLUMN: Use the search engine; sign up to receive our weekly email updates, or find information by subject.
- RIGHT COLUMN: Contact HIVE with your specific query.
- CENTRAL SECTION: All the latest posts in date order:

July 29, 2025

Blackpool: Ride The Lights - An exciting preview of Blackpool Illuminations - 26th August 2025

Get on your bike and Ride the Lights! - An Exciting Preview of Blackpool Illuminations.

Ride at any point along the promenade from Starr Gate at South Shore to Red Bank Road in Bispham. You can ride as much or as little of the route as you are able.

Ride the lights is not a bike race, it's a fun and FREE bike ride open to all. A great opportunity to get out and about on your bike with both family and friends.

In order to keep safe, there are a few things to remember:
  • All bikes must have a minimum of one white light at the front and one red light at the back.
  • It is highly recommended that all participants should wear a cycle helmet.
  • A responsible adult must accompany all children.
  • Please be aware that the tramway will be operational throughout the ride, take special care in the area around North Pier/Metropole Hotel
  • Marshalls and First Aiders will be on hand along the route.
  • Bike Doctors and support vehicles will be on hand to look after breakdowns.
  • The road will re-open to traffic at 10pm. Please try to plan your ride to reach your destination by this time, and be aware of traffic after this time.
Charities are welcome to use the event as a fundraiser by encouraging their supporters to participate and get sponsored.

As you get on your bike to ride the lights, why not join in the creative fun by designing your very own Illuminations display on your bike? Decorate your ride with colourful lights, lamps and lanterns to show off your illuminations design ideas. Light your ride... then ride the lights!

Please note that there will be live filming and photography at this event. Any pictures provided maybe used by VisitBlackpool for promotional purposes. If you do not wish to be included, please contact VisitBlackpool Web Team

Road Closures for Ride the Lights

Officials close the Promenade throughout the full length of the Illuminations, usually between 6pm and 10pm on the night.

Yellow signs and cones appear from tea time, with traffic diverted off the Promenade between Red Bank Road at Bispham and Squires Gate Lane at Blackpool South Shore.

Information provided by Preston & Weeton HIVE