Oldham Illuminate Festival 2026 returns with Blackpool Illuminations

Oldham's Illuminate Light Night is making a triumphant return in 2026, and this time it's bringing a touch of Blackpool glamour to our town. The festival, which transforms Oldham into a dazzling spectacle of light and art, will feature installations from the famous Blackpool Illuminations-those iconic lights that have been drawing crowds to the coast for generations.

The news comes as part of a packed calendar of events for Oldham residents. TV personality Katie Price is set to bring her star power to the Oldham Coliseum this Easter with a panto performance that's already generating buzz. Meanwhile, the 2024 Christmas Lights Switch-On proved to be a family favourite, with special guests including children's TV character Bluey and Coronation Street's Peter Rush drawing thousands to the town centre.

It's not just about entertainment though. The council has also invested in our community's future, with Northmoor Library receiving a substantial £168,000 boost. This funding will help create new opportunities for learning and connection in one of Oldham's most diverse neighbourhoods.

The Illuminate Festival aims to show Oldham 'in a whole new light'-quite literally. By bringing Blackpool's famous illuminations to our streets, organisers hope to create a unique experience that celebrates both our local identity and our connections to the wider region. It's part of a broader effort to make Oldham a destination for culture and community events throughout the year.