Visit Blackpool

Switch-On FAQs

We're getting so excited for Blackpool's biggest party of the year, and hope you are, too! We understand that you'll have some questions, so whilst winners will be e-mailed the full terms and conditions, here are some FAQs to get the party started! 


1. When will we find out if we’ve won?
We have now sent out all emails to winning applicants. Didn't win tickets? You can watch the free live stream on Friday 2 September here.

2. How do the e-tickets work?
This year, the process of obtaining your Switch-On tickets is slightly different. Successful applicants will need to RSVP to secure their tickets. Once you have confirmed your attendance, you will be on the list to receive your tickets via TicketSource before the event. You may either print your ticket and bring it with you, or show your e-mail on your mobile device. Every single guest will be scanned in at the entrance, so ensure you have all tickets with you or you won’t be able to access the Tower Ballroom. If you have won tickets but have not been sent your e-tickets, please check all junk and spam folders.

3. Where’s the party at?
The Blackpool Illuminations Switch-On concert will be held inside The Blackpool Tower Ballroom for the second consecutive year. Please note that if you are travelling by car we suggest you aim to use Central Car Park. A map detailing car parks available in Blackpool can be viewed here.

If you are travelling by train to Blackpool North, The Blackpool Tower is a 10-minute walk from the station, simply head to The Blackpool Tower’s Promenade entrance directly opposite the Comedy Carpet.

4. What time do the doors open?
Doors open at 5:30pm. Please enter by The Blackpool Tower entrance on the Promenade. 

5. What is the dress code?
There is no specific dress code. We advise wearing comfortable shoes if you have general floor admission as there will be no seating available. 

6. Do I need to wear a face covering?
Face masks will not be mandatory. However, you may wish to use them in areas indicated by signage or if you feel more comfortable doing so. We politely ask patrons who are not wearing masks to respect other audience members’ personal space and recognise where you may need to step back to allow someone extra room.
 
7. Do I need to take a COVID-19 test before the event?
As an indoor, reduced capacity event with plenty of space, we are a low risk environment, and do not require you to show proof of vaccine or negative test on entry. 
Please do not come to the event if you: 

  • are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19
  • have tested positive for COVID-19
  • have been told to isolate 
  • a member of your household has tested positive for COVID-19

If you start to experience any symptoms during the event, see our onsite first aiders.
 
8. Are there any age restrictions?
We welcome all ages to Switch-On. However, an adult (18 and over) must accompany anyone under the age of 16 and we strongly advise not to bring young children under the age of five due to the nature of this year’s event.

9. Can I bring a bag with me?
Please note that due to increased security measures, no backpacks, large bags, holdalls or suitcases larger than a sheet of A4 paper will be admitted into the venue, nor will any food or drink (there will be refreshments onsite). You will be refused entry if you attempt to enter the venue with prohibited items. There will be no temporary storage facilities for such items within the venue and it will be left to the patron to find a safe temporary facility to hold the item. All bags will be searched. A cloakroom will be available on the night to store coats and jackets only.

Patrons with accessible and medical requirements/equipment will be considered on an individual basis and we kindly ask that you contact VisitBlackpool (website@visitblackpool.com) in advance for ease of entry.

10. Will golden tickets be available for this year’s Switch-On?
There will be golden tickets available for this year's event, guaranteeing entry to the Tower Ballroom on the night. Tickets can be bought here
 
Full Terms and Conditions can be viewed here.