Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, for the first time in the event's 141st year history, the 2020 Blackpool Illuminations display will be extended again, running from 4 September 2020 until 3 January 2021. This will mark the first year that the Illuminations have been operational over the winter holiday season, including Christmas and New Year. The organisers have committed to streaming 2020's Illuminations to internet users, which will feature Mel C virtually performing and 7 local heroes switching the Illuminations on.