Shabaz Says… it’s Christmas! Blackburn star to switch on town lights

Blackburn’s very own social media sensation Shabaz Ali will have the honour of switching on the town’s Christmas lights on Saturday 21 November 2026, with 90s dance favourites Livin’ Joy joining the celebrations for a festive party in the town centre.

Better known to millions of social media followers as Shabaz Says, the Blackburn personality will take centre stage on King William Street as the town officially begins its countdown to Christmas.

And he’s not the only big name appearing. Dance act Livin’ Joy, featuring vocalist Luzahnn, will bring a selection of 90s club anthems to the celebrations, including Dreamer and Don’t Stop Movin’.

The event, organised by Blackburn BID and supported by Blackburn with Darwen Council, will feature a full day of entertainment, festive shopping and free family activities, culminating in the Christmas lights switch-on at approximately 6pm.

From Blackburn to millions of followers

Shabaz Ali has become one of the UK’s most recognisable social media personalities, building a huge audience through his humorous commentary on celebrity lifestyles, influencers and the extravagant spending habits of the rich.

His popular I’m Rich, You’re Poor videos have earned him a loyal following, with his distinctive northern humour and down-to-earth observations proving particularly popular.

Since finding fame online, Shabaz has published a book, toured the UK with his comedy show and presented the BBC Three documentary Shabaz Asks: Are Billionaires Bad?

Now, he’ll be returning to the spotlight in his hometown for one of Blackburn’s biggest annual celebrations.

Livin’ Joy to bring 90s dance classics to Blackburn

Dance music fans will have another reason to head into town, with Livin’ Joy featuring Luzahnn announced as the headline musical act.

The group became a familiar name on dancefloors during the 1990s, with hits including Dreamer and Don’t Stop Movin’.

Their performance will form part of an afternoon and evening of live entertainment hosted by local soul singer-songwriter Paul Stuart Davies.

A range of local dance schools, community groups, musicians and performers will also take to the stage throughout the afternoon.

What’s happening at Blackburn Christmas Lights Switch-On?

The celebrations begin at 10am on Saturday 21 November, when the Crafty Vintage festive artisan market opens.

Independent traders will offer gifts, seasonal food, drinks and Christmas treats, giving visitors the opportunity to enjoy some festive shopping alongside the entertainment.

The main stage programme begins at 2pm, with a mixture of local performers and headline guests.

Families can also enjoy a range of free activities throughout the day, including:

• Free fairground rides
• Free face painting
• Free circus skills workshops
• Walkabout Christmas characters
• A special performance from the cast of King George’s Hall pantomime, The Wizard of Oz
• Live music, dance and community performances
• A festive artisan market

As the evening approaches, a professionally produced light show will form part of the countdown to Blackburn’s Christmas lights being switched on at approximately 6pm.

The celebrations will then continue with a spectacular fire show.

A celebration for the whole town

Nicola Clayton, Chair of Blackburn BID, said:

“We’re incredibly excited to reveal our headline acts for this year’s Blackburn Christmas Lights Switch-On. Shabaz Ali and Livin’ Joy featuring Luzahnn will bring something truly special to the celebrations, alongside a fantastic line-up of local performers showcasing the very best of our community.

“We’re inviting everyone to come into the town centre and enjoy an unforgettable festive experience as we kick-start the Christmas season.

“Alongside our headline acts, visitors can enjoy free fairground rides, festive markets, face painting, circus skills workshops and entertainment throughout the day.

“The addition of a spectacular professional light show and an incredible fire performance will create a magical atmosphere as we count down to the moment Blackburn’s Christmas lights are switched on.”

Supporting Blackburn’s town centre

The event is expected to attract thousands of visitors into Blackburn, providing an opportunity for local shops, cafés, restaurants and other businesses as the Christmas shopping season gets underway.

Councillor Quesir Mahmood, Deputy Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council and Executive Member for Growth and Development, said:

“Once again, we’re proud to be supporting Blackburn BID with this year’s Blackburn Christmas Lights Switch-On, helping to bring another fantastic festive event to the town centre.

“With great entertainment, family activities, festive markets, headline acts and a spectacular light and fire show, it’s set to be a brilliant day for residents, visitors and local businesses alike.

“Whether you’re coming for the music, the markets, the family activities or simply to mark the start of the big countdown to Christmas, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

“The event is expected to attract thousands of visitors, helping to boost footfall in the town centre and support local businesses as the Christmas shopping season begins.”

When is Blackburn Christmas Lights Switch-On 2026?

Date: Saturday 21 November 2026

Location: King William Street, Blackburn town centre

Festive market opens: 10am

Main stage entertainment: From 2pm

Christmas lights switch-on: Approximately 6pm

Special guests: Shabaz Ali (Shabaz Says) and Livin’ Joy featuring Luzahnn

Admission: Free, with a range of free family activities