When the sun dips below the Irish Sea, Blackpool transforms into one of the UK’s most exciting nighttime destinations. From dazzling light shows to world-class entertainment, the seaside resort offers something for everyone after dark. Here’s your complete guide to the best things to do in Blackpool at night.
1. Experience the Magic at Funny Girls
If you’re looking for the ultimate night out in Blackpool, start at Funny Girls. This iconic drag and cabaret show has been wowing audiences since 1994 and consistently ranks as Blackpool’s number one rated show. Located in the stunning Grade II listed former Odeon cinema on Dickson Road, Funny Girls delivers an unforgettable evening of comedy, dance, and spectacular performances.
The show features professionally trained performers in dazzling costumes, with hilarious hosts like DJ Carmen and Zoe keeping the energy high throughout the night. Shows typically start at 8:30pm, with doors opening at 7pm. You can book just show tickets or upgrade to include a three-course meal at Garbo’s, the venue’s art deco restaurant, for £29.85 per person.
What makes Funny Girls special is its authenticity. This isn’t just entertainment – it’s a Blackpool institution that’s been voted in the top 10% of attractions worldwide on TripAdvisor. The performers are incredibly talented, with backgrounds ranging from musical theatre to international circus schools. Whether you’re a local or visiting from abroad, Funny Girls offers that perfect blend of glamour, laughter, and show-stopping performances that makes for an unmissable night out.
2. Visit Funny Girls for Pre-Show Dining
Make your visit to Funny Girls even more special by arriving early for dinner at Garbo’s restaurant. The three-course meal, served in an elegant art deco setting, is excellent value and perfectly timed so you finish just as the show begins. The menu features a range of options, and the table service continues during the show, with waitresses bringing drinks throughout the evening.
Dining packages at Funny Girls create a complete night out without having to move between venues. The restaurant captures the glamour of the golden age of entertainment, setting the perfect tone for the spectacular show that follows.
3. Marvel at the Blackpool Illuminations
Running from late August through early January, the Blackpool Illuminations are the world’s largest free light show. This six-mile display stretches along the Promenade from Starr Gate to Bispham, using over one million LED lights to create a magical nighttime spectacle.
First illuminated in 1879 with just eight carbon arc lamps, the Illuminations have evolved into an international phenomenon. Each year brings new installations, including recent creations by designer Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen. The 2024 season featured the whimsical Disco Donkey Cavalcade and unique tableaux celebrating Blackpool’s seaside heritage.
You can experience the lights by car, tram, or on foot. Heritage tram tours operate during the season, offering a nostalgic way to view the display. The lights typically switch on around 9pm during the autumn months and stay illuminated until midnight or later.
4. Ride the Rollercoasters at Blackpool Pleasure Beach
When darkness falls at Pleasure Beach Resort, the park takes on a whole new atmosphere. During special Late Night Riding events, the park stays open until 10pm or later, allowing you to experience iconic rides like The Big One, ICON, and the seven-time winner of the World’s Best Water Ride, Valhalla, under the stars.
These evening sessions often culminate in spectacular firework displays at 10pm, with themed music and special shows throughout the park. The combination of adrenaline-pumping rides and illuminated attractions creates an electric atmosphere. Some rides close slightly earlier due to firework safety zones, but you’ll still have access to most of the park’s 10 thrilling rollercoasters.
The park offers 11 hours of riding on Late Night Riding dates, giving you plenty of time to experience everything from family-friendly attractions in Nickelodeon Land to the hair-raising drops and loops of the Big One.
5. Dance at the Blackpool Tower Ballroom
Step back in time at the world-famous Blackpool Tower Ballroom, a venue that’s been hosting dancers since 1894. This stunning room features ornate chandeliers, gilt decorations, and one of the finest sprung dance floors in the world. Throughout the year, the ballroom hosts evening dance sessions, Northern Soul nights, and special events.
The ballroom’s resident organist plays the Wurlitzer, adding to the magical atmosphere. Whether you’re an experienced dancer or just want to waltz around this historic venue, the Tower Ballroom offers a genuinely special evening experience. The venue also hosts private events and themed nights, so check the schedule before visiting.
6. Catch a Show at the Winter Gardens
The Winter Gardens complex is home to some of Blackpool’s finest evening entertainment. The Opera House, one of Europe’s largest theatres, hosts everything from West End musicals to comedy shows and concerts. Recent productions have included hits like Mamma Mia!, The Rocky Horror Show, and performances by comedy legends.
The Empress Ballroom, which opened in 1896, remains one of the world’s most spectacular event spaces, hosting concerts, balls, and special events. The Winter Gardens offers multiple venues under one roof, so there’s always something happening. Check their schedule for current shows – you might catch stand-up comedy, musical theatre, or live music performances.
7. Explore Blackpool’s Three Historic Piers
Each of Blackpool’s three piers offers unique evening entertainment. North Pier, the oldest and most elegant, features the Bloom Bar and Garden with stunning sea views, live entertainment, and the Joe Longthorne Theatre hosting regular shows. The Grade II listed Victorian architecture creates a sophisticated backdrop for your evening.
Central Pier is home to the famous Big Wheel, which looks spectacular when illuminated at night. The pier also features the Showbar with tribute acts and the Pirates Bay Family Bar with live entertainment. At South Pier, you’ll find more rides and amusements that light up the night sky.
All three piers offer bars, restaurants, and entertainment, with many venues staying open late into the evening during the season.
8. Laugh at the Comedy Station
Located opposite Blackpool Tower, the Comedy Station has been a mainstay of Blackpool’s nightlife since 2002. This purpose-built comedy venue hosts both established acts and up-and-coming comedians throughout the year. The intimate setting allows for real connection between performers and audience, making for memorable evenings of laughter.
The venue often features multiple acts per night, giving you excellent value for your ticket. Many comedians who perform here have gone on to television success, so you might catch the next big thing before they hit the mainstream.
9. Party at Viva Blackpool
Viva Blackpool combines cabaret, dining, and nightlife under one roof. This show and party venue hosts tribute acts, musical theatre performances, and themed party nights. You can book dinner and show packages, or just enjoy the entertainment with drinks served to your table.
The venue features multiple bars and a dance floor that comes alive after the shows. Viva regularly hosts ABBA tributes, musical theatre compilations, and party nights that keep going into the early hours. It’s particularly popular for group celebrations and special occasions.
10. Experience the Lightpool Festival
During October half-term, Blackpool hosts the Lightpool Festival, an 18-night celebration of light art. The free festival features over 24 stunning artworks, including 12 new installations each year, transforming iconic buildings and outdoor spaces around the town.
Events include projection shows, live performances like Carnival Magic in the Tower Ballroom, and interactive light installations. Heritage tram tours operate during the festival, offering a unique way to experience the art trail. The festival runs from mid-October through early November and is supported by Arts Council England.
11. Dance Until Dawn at Blackpool’s Nightclubs
Blackpool’s club scene caters to all tastes. Flamingo Nightclub features multiple dance floors with different music genres, from commercial hits to dance anthems. The venue hosts internationally renowned events including Gatecrasher and Cream nights throughout the year.
For a more alternative vibe, The Tache opens Thursday through Saturday from 11pm until 4am, focusing on rock music. Trilogy Nightclub offers three floors, each with its own music style and decor, from disco to dance anthems. Most clubs offer free or cheap entry before certain times, with drink prices increasing later in the evening.
12. Enjoy Live Music at Local Venues
Blackpool’s live music scene thrives after dark. The Bootleg Social offers an intimate, atmospheric setting for live bands and DJ sets, along with movie nights. This trendy venue attracts a hip crowd and features craft beers and cocktails alongside the entertainment.
Ma Kelly’s venues across Blackpool provide up to nine free cabaret acts per day on weekends, with daily karaoke sessions and live music. The Walkabout Bar transforms from a sports pub during the day into party central at night, with live entertainment and a lively atmosphere.
13. Stroll Along the Illuminated Promenade
Taking a walk along Blackpool’s Promenade at night is free and spectacular. The six-mile stretch comes alive with the Illuminations, but even outside this season, the lit-up Tower, piers, and seafront create a magical atmosphere. Street performers, food vendors, and the sound of the sea add to the experience.
The Promenade is busiest around the North Pier area, where you’ll find the highest concentration of bars, restaurants, and nightlife venues. The Comedy Carpet near the Tower provides a uniquely British photo opportunity, with comedy quotes and jokes embedded in the paving.
14. Watch Firework Displays
Throughout the year, Blackpool hosts spectacular firework displays. The World Fireworks Championship brings international teams to compete on the beachfront, with displays synchronized to music against the backdrop of Blackpool Tower. These free events draw huge crowds.
Pleasure Beach Resort runs firework nights during the summer and at the end of season, with displays at 10pm that fill the sky above the rollercoasters. The grand finale in late November features an extended display to celebrate the season.
15. Experience the Blackpool Tower
The Tower itself houses multiple evening entertainment options beyond the ballroom. The Blackpool Tower Circus, one of Britain’s oldest circus acts, performs matinee and evening shows. The building is illuminated with 25,000 eco-friendly LED lights that can be programmed for special events, creating a stunning beacon visible for miles.
During the Illuminations season, a spectacular light show is projected onto the Tower, synchronized with music. The Tower Festival Headland opposite often hosts free entertainment, including the annual Illuminations Switch-On event.
16. Join a Ghost Tour or Paranormal Investigation
Blackpool’s history makes it perfect for ghost tours. Several companies offer evening walking tours of haunted locations, sharing stories of the town’s darker past. Some venues, including certain theatres and historic buildings, offer paranormal investigation evenings for those brave enough.
These tours typically last 90 minutes to two hours and provide a completely different perspective on Blackpool’s famous landmarks. It’s a great option for those looking for something beyond the traditional nightlife scene.
17. Try Your Luck at Genting Casino
For those who enjoy gaming, Genting Casino Blackpool offers evening entertainment beyond the tables. The venue features poker, roulette, blackjack, and slot machines in a sophisticated setting. You’ll also find bars and restaurants on site, making it possible to spend an entire evening here.
The casino often hosts special events and tournaments. Dress codes apply, so check before visiting. It’s open late into the night, with the gaming floor typically operating until 5am or 6am.
18. Enjoy Late-Night Dining
Blackpool’s dining scene extends well into the evening. Beach House Bar & Bistro on the seafront offers waterfront dining with views and an extensive cocktail list. The venue works equally well for early evening drinks or a late dinner.
Traditional fish and chips are available from numerous seafront locations staying open late to cater to the nightlife crowd. For something different, the Mandarin Restaurant has earned international recognition for its cuisine, while Marco’s New York Italian at the Holiday Inn provides a more contemporary dining experience.
19. Visit Showtown Museum Evening Events
Blackpool’s newest museum, Showtown, celebrates the town’s entertainment heritage. While primarily a daytime attraction, the museum hosts special evening events during festivals like Lightpool. These include interactive exhibits, films, and performances that explore Blackpool’s unique place in British entertainment history.
The museum provides context for why Blackpool became Britain’s nightlife capital, featuring memorabilia from legendary performers and shows. Special events might include talks, performances, or themed evenings tied to current exhibitions.
20. Bar Hop Through the LGBTQ+ Scene
Blackpool has a thriving LGBTQ+ scene centred around the North Shore. Venues like Man Bar, which opens to everyone during the day before becoming an LGBTQ+ venue in the evening, and Peek-a-Booze, which features live entertainment until 12:30am and a nightclub atmosphere until 2am, create a welcoming environment.
These venues cluster near Funny Girls, making it easy to experience multiple locations in one evening. The area around Dickson Road and the streets near North Pier form the heart of this scene, with many venues offering free entry and entertainment.
Planning Your Evening in Blackpool
The best things to do in Blackpool at night depend on your interests and group. For first-time visitors, starting with the Illuminations (in season) and a show at Funny Girls or Viva Blackpool provides a quintessential Blackpool experience. The town’s compact size means you can easily visit multiple venues in one evening.
Most evening entertainment is concentrated around three main areas: the North Pier and Tower area, Central Pier, and South Shore near Pleasure Beach. During summer and Illuminations season, venues stay open later and offer more frequent performances.
Blackpool’s nightlife operates year-round, though the busiest periods are summer holidays, Illuminations season (August through January), and special event weekends. Booking tickets in advance for popular shows is recommended, especially at Funny Girls, Winter Gardens productions, and Pleasure Beach firework nights.
Experience the best of Blackpool’s evening entertainment, from the spectacular performances at Funny Girls to the dazzling Illuminations. Whether you’re planning a night of culture at the Winter Gardens, thrill-seeking at Pleasure Beach, or bar hopping along the Promenade, Blackpool delivers unforgettable experiences after dark.
FAQs About Blackpool Evening Entertainment
What time do the Blackpool Illuminations turn on at night?
The Illuminations typically switch on around 9pm during the autumn season and stay lit until midnight or later. Exact times vary slightly throughout the season, with later switch-on times in August when sunset is later. The display runs from late August through early January, creating over 100 nights of spectacular lighting.
Do I need to book tickets in advance for Funny Girls?
Yes, booking advance tickets is highly recommended for Funny Girls. The show is consistently Blackpool’s top-rated attraction and sells out regularly, especially on weekends and during peak season. You can book tickets through the Funny Girls website at https://www.funnygirlsshow.co.uk/, where you’ll also find information about dinner packages and special themed shows throughout the year.
Are Blackpool’s attractions suitable for families at night?
Many of Blackpool’s evening attractions welcome families, including the Illuminations, pier entertainment, and Pleasure Beach evening sessions. Funny Girls is an over-18s venue, but family-friendly options include the Tower Circus evening shows, Central Pier’s Pirates Bay Family Bar, and the various restaurants and entertainment venues designed for all ages. Some nightlife venues are adult-only after certain times.
How late do things stay open in Blackpool?
Opening hours vary by season and venue. During peak season (summer and Illuminations), many attractions stay open until 10pm or 11pm. Bars and clubs often operate until 2am or later, with some nightclubs staying open until 4am. Pleasure Beach closes around 10pm on Late Night Riding dates, while shows at venues like the Winter Gardens typically finish around 10pm to 11pm, depending on the production.
What’s the best way to get around Blackpool at night?
Blackpool’s tram system runs along the Promenade until late evening, providing easy access to all major attractions. Taxis and ride-sharing services operate throughout the night. Many evening attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially around the North Pier and Tower area. If you’re driving to see the Illuminations, be prepared for heavy traffic on peak evenings, particularly weekends.
