Blackpool lights the Way: Innovation in Neon

In the 1930s, Blackpool embraced neon with dazzling flair, from promenade illuminations to pioneering signage. Join Professor Vanessa for a lively talk asking: was this cutting-edge modernity or seaside kitsch? Discover how Blackpool became a beacon in the history of light, festivity, innovation and its controversial history.

Event times

30th October, 2-3pm

Tickets

£5 Adults

Sir Ken Dodd Learning Space, Showtown

What's on this month

Wartime Blackpool

02 April 2025

As the world commemorates 80 years since the end of the Second World War, Blackpool’s untold wartime story takes centre stage in a compelling new exhibition at Showtown!

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Wings & Wonders Combo Ticket

23 July 2025

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Central Library Tour

18 September 2025, 10:00am - 11:00am

Come and have a look around Blackpool's beautiful Carnegie library.

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Grundy Art Gallery

18 September 2025, 10:30am - 11:30am

Discover more about the history of Grundy Art Gallery.

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JC Robinson Heritage Talk

18 September 2025, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Discover more about the 30+ buildings designed by JC Robinson

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1906 Cleveleys Cottage Walk

18 September 2025, 12:00pm - 1:00pm

A guided walk around the houses built for the ‘Cleveleys Cottage Exhibition of 1906’.

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Inside the Collections: Blackpool Tower

18 September 2025, 1:00pm - 1:30pm

Explore historic collections relating the building of Blackpool's iconic tower.

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Whitegate Drive Tour

18 September 2025, 2:00pm - 3:30pm

Take a guided stroll down Whitegate Drive

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Promenade History Tour - SOLD OUT

18 September 2025, 3:00pm - 4:30pm

This guided walk uncovers the history of twenty-three historic landmarks.

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Grundy Art Gallery

19 September 2025, 10:30am - 11:30am

Discover more about the history of Grundy Art Gallery.

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1906 Cleveleys Cottage Walk

19 September 2025, 12:00pm - 1:00pm

A guided walk around the houses built for the ‘Cleveleys Cottage Exhibition of 1906’.

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Lightworks Illuminations Depot

19 September 2025, 1:00pm - 2:30pm

Enjoy a guided walk around the workshop and explore the history of the lights on this heritage tour.

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Grundy Art Gallery

20 September 2025, 10:30am - 11:30am

Discover more about the history of Grundy Art Gallery.

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Pride Beside the Seaside - SOLD OUT

20 September 2025, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Join us for a fascinating journey through Blackpool’s bold, brilliant, and often overlooked queer entertainment history!

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Blackpool Ghost Tour - SOLD OUT

20 September 2025, 3:00pm - 4:30pm

Join us on a guided tour of sites in Blackpool that are alleged to be haunted.

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Blackpool Tower Tour

21 September 2025, 10:30am - 12:00pm

Join us for a tour of Blackpool Tower and explore its fascinating history.

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Totsfest '25 - SOLD OUT

25 September 2025, 10:30am - 12:30pm

Summer may be over but there’s time for one more festival – Totsfest!

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Showtown Relaxed Hour

05 October 2025, 10:00am - 11:00am

Ideal for visitors who appreciate a quieter, calmer atmosphere and want to enjoy Showtown at a more relaxed pace, away from the usual crowds.

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View past exhibitions