Category: Blackpool News and Events
🎉 Viva Locals Offer – Just £10 for a Night to Remember!
11 June 2025
We’re rolling out the red carpet for our community with an exclusive offer: all residents with an FY postcode or a Viva Locals Card can enjoy our resident shows for just £10 per person – or £15 for premier seating. Because we believe the best nights out should be for everyone, especially our neighbours.
🌟 Eligible Shows (Available Now Through Season End)
Experience the magic of Blackpool’s best live entertainment with these spectacular productions:
Whether you’re into classic hits, dazzling cabaret, or timeless show tunes, there’s something to fall in love with.
💳 How to Access the Offer
It’s easy to claim your locals discount:
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Show your Viva Locals Card at the box office
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Enter promo code:
WELOVELOCALSwhen booking online -
Mention the offer when you call or visit us in person
No fuss. Just fantastic entertainment at a price you can’t beat.
💥 Extra Perks with the Viva Locals Card
Why go just for the ticket deal? Your Viva Locals Card also gives you:
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Discounted drinks at the bar
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Exclusive offers on selected visiting shows
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Priority notifications for new promotions and events
Ask our team how to sign up and start saving even more.
📍 Who Qualifies?
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Residents of any FY postcode (proof of address may be required)
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Anyone holding a valid Viva Locals Card
📌 Terms & Conditions
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Offer valid only for the six specified resident shows.
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Applies to performances remaining in the current season only.
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Must present a valid Viva Locals Card or use promo code
WELOVELOCALSat time of booking. -
Offer subject to availability; early booking advised.
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Bar discounts and extra show offers require a valid Locals Card.
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Not valid in conjunction with other promotions or group discounts.
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Management reserves the right to amend the offer at any time.
🎟️ Don’t miss out – book now and enjoy the show, local style!
Have questions or want to get your Locals Card? Contact us here or drop by the box office.
Other recent news
Blackpool World Fireworks Championships 2025
9 June 2025
Returning once again for 2025, the amazing FREE event in Blackpool Promenade opposite Blackpool Tower, near Coral Island is set to light up the skies with 3 dazzling displays during the World Fireworks Championship!
The fireworks are now fired from the Beach – meaning everyone on the Promenade will get a spectacular view, and it’s estimated each event attracts more than 50,000 visitors to the Tower Festival Headlands.
Blackpool Welcomes The Best Pyrotechnic Displays in the World
SAVE THE DATE. This year, the dates are confirmed as:-
- Saturday 13th September 2025 – Heat 1
- Saturday 27th September 2025 – Heat 2
- Saturday 11th October 2025 – Heat 3
Usual Timings of the Event
The crowds will start to build from 7.30pm with the first fireworks fired at approximately 8.30pm
Whilst the famous Blackpool illuminations light up the whole of Blackpool Promenade, these amazing fireworks displays which are choreographed to music will light up the skies.
The stunning displays, which are set to music, will take place over the beach in front of The Blackpool Tower and just a stone’s throw away from Coral Island. All of the displays are free to access.
Getting to the Event
Traffic builds early and roads into Blackpool get very busy due to the sheer volume of traffic – Public transport is recommended.
If you are wishing to travel by car, visitors are advised to park n the southern car parks and use the trams to travel directly to the event.
Please remember all displays are subject to weather conditions, things could change at the last minute.
2021 World Fireworks Championships
The winners of the 2021 competition were Germany – with their amazing display captured from our roof online here
The finale was a stunning display by Titanium Pyrotechnics – captured on video from the roof of Viva Blackpool online here
2019 World Fireworks Championships
The winners of the 2019 competition were Ukraine – Dance of Fire and are still reigning champions beating off competition from Estonia and Canada.
To see the winning display, check out the video courtesy of YouTube / Pleasure Beach Thrills
Other recent news
Capital of Dance Returns to Blackpool
Following a successful pilot event last year, Capital of Dance will return as an annual fixture in Blackpool’s event calendar from the 1st-31st July.
The festival was borne out of Blackpool’s unrivalled heritage in dance that dates back to the late 1890’s, when hundreds of people travelled to the resort to dance on the pier. From the early 1900’s onwards, ‘dance trains’ brought thousands of people to Blackpool, to trip the light fantastic in the resorts two spectacular dance spaces: the Empress Ballroom and the Tower Ballroom. Both venues continue to welcome dozens of national and international dance competitions throughout the year, and for every Strictly professional dancer, ‘getting to Blackpool’ still remains the annual aspiration.
As part of the month-long festival, ‘Dance Marathon Week’ (5-11th July), will provide the opportunity for everyone to experience the joy of dancing where the sky meets the sea, with a daily programme of free, outdoor dance events on the Comedy Carpet art installation, at the foot of Blackpool Tower. There will be dance workshops, performances and dance parties taking place from 12 noon onwards every day.
Dance Marathon Week will be launched on Saturday 5th July with a special performance of ‘Gravity’ by Sadlers Wells National Youth Dance Company (NYDC). Created and choreographed by the UK’s leading hip-hop dance company Boy Blue Entertainment, it features three Blackpool dancers who were offered funded places with the company as a direct result of last year’s Capital of Dance Festival. NYDC hosted a free workshop/audition in the resort last July and the three local, teenage boys were discovered at that event. They are now touring with the show across the UK and will also be travelling to Berlin. NYDC will be back to host another workshop/audition on Sunday 6th July at Whittaker Dance and Drama Centre in Blackpool, offering another opportunity for local dancers to potentially join the company.
Sunday 6th July will host Rock The Coast, a national hip-hop and street dance battle under the leadership of locally based House of Wingz arts and dance company.
Other highlights include World Latin Champion and ex Strictly professional Flavia Cacace, who will host two, free outdoor workshops.
Dollie Henry MBE, the Founder and Artistic Director of dance company BOP, and one of the most formidable exponents of jazz dance, will host a jazz class that is inclusive for all, whatever your ability. The British Dance Sport Association will host Salsa workshops and performances on Tuesday 8th July, led by Maria Palmieri from Salsatropical Dance Company.
‘Dance Marathon Week’ will culminate on Friday 11th July at 2pm, with an attempt to break the World’s Largest Disco Dance! The King of Disco, Blackpool‘s Lionel Vinyl will be leading the crowds in what will be the biggest disco party that Blackpool has ever seen on the promenade.
For Strictly fans, the Capital of Dance festival has cooked up a feast of famous faces from TV’s most popular show.
Burn The Floor, choreographed by Strictly’s Creative Director Jason Gilkinson, is on at the Opera House on 12th July starring Strictly Come Dancing winner Dianne Buswell alongside Vito Coppola, whilst Anton Du Beke and Giovanni Pernice take to the same stage two days later.
Following a global tour through Asia, America and Europe, London City Ballet will be at Blackpool’s beautiful Grand Theatre on the 12th July, showcasing artists rarely seen in the UK with four different dance works. These include an early work called Haieff Divertimento by master choreographer George Balanchine, that has never been seen outside the USA before.
Marina Blore, Artistic Director for Capital of Dance said: “The ambition is for Blackpool to do for dance, what Edinburgh has done for comedy. There is nowhere else in the country to rival Blackpool’s heritage in dance. It has been ever present for over 130 years, through the war years and the big band era in the ballrooms, to variety theatre, disco, Northern Soul, superclubs and of course Strictly Come Dancing.”
“The Blackpool Dance Board will focus on dance and movement throughout the year not just for tourism, but also for the benefit of the local community. Dance will be provided to help with social isolation, Parkinson’s, dementia, obesity and addiction. We will also be focusing on creating new opportunities for locally trained dancers and choreographers to work with some of the world’s leading producers and dance companies.”
This year’s Capital of Dance festival will host workshops for professionally trained dancers by leading choreographers. These include Marlon ‘Swoosh’ Wallen, who has worked with Kylie Minogue and Madonna, performed at Buckingham Palace and is the founder of World Dance Champions, the street dance group Flawless, from Britain’s Got Talent. The crew starred in the smash hit films Streetdance 3D 1 and 2.
Capital of Dance is one of Blackpool’s flagship events in the town’s Cultural Strategy and it has support from Arts Council England, Tourism Business Investment District and UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Other recent news
Viva launches on the Go Blackpool App – To Boost Business & Visitor Experience
4 September 2024
Blackpool Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) has launched GO Blackpool, a ground breaking mobile app designed to enhance local business engagement and improve the visitor experience.
GO Blackpool will act as a free platform for locals and visitors, offering the latest news, shopping deals, guides and insights into Blackpool’s rich heritage. The app also features Viva Blackpool, including a full listing of shows and events along with offers and promotions exclusive to Go Blackpool app users.
It aims to strengthen the town’s economy by connecting businesses with customers through a user – friendly app that provides real -time updates on events, offers and more.
Sue Grindrod, Managing Director of Blackpool BIDs, said: “We’re really excited to introduce GO Blackpool, which will be a game-changer for how businesses and visitors interact in our town. This app will greatly benefit the local economy and enhance the overall Blackpool experience; our goal is to sign up 200 businesses in the first three months and achieve 1,000 app downloads by year-end.
“This launch marks a significant milestone in our commitment to innovation and growth. GO Blackpool is not just a tool – it’s a platform that will transform the way people engage with local businesses and attractions. By making information and offers readily accessible, we aim to create a thriving, connected ecosystem that benefits everyone in Blackpool.”
GO Blackpool provides seamless navigation, detailed business listings and a wealth of resources to help users make the most of their time in Blackpool by offering everything local in one place.
For businesses, the app incorporates cutting-edge technology like GeoAlerts, enabling them to advertise offers and events while gaining valuable local insights. Additionally, for those within the Business Improvement Districts(BIDs), GO Blackpool offers crucial insights into who is using the town centre, mapping footfall trends and measuring the effectiveness of local initiatives.
Marcus Chidgey, CEO of Loqiva, the app developer, added: “GO Blackpool is designed to seamlessly connect businesses with locals and visitors and we’re looking forward to seeing its positive impact on Blackpool’s economy and community spirit.
“By integrating features that promote local events, highlight unique attractions and facilitate real-time communication, we aim to enhance the overall experience for everyone involved.”
Blackpool Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) actively promote and support local businesses through a range of initiatives, driving growth and ensuring sustainability. By creating opportunities for businesses, enhancing the town’s economic environment and playing a pivotal role in the local economy, Blackpool BIDs contribute significantly and help position the town as a top destination.
Sue said: “Blackpool BID is truly committed to promoting our local businesses and this marks a noticeable step in driving growth and supporting Blackpool in its future.”
Cllr Mark Smith, Blackpool Council’s Cabinet Member for Levelling Up Place, said: “GO Blackpool is a welcomed innovation that promises to boost our local economy and enhance the visitor experience. We fully endorse this initiative and look forward to its success in connecting businesses with customers effectively.
Other recent news
Clowning Around! Introducing Blackpool’s most famous Clown Mooky!
30 May 2024
Mooky the Clown, Blackpool Tower Circus’ biggest star, has been captivating audiences with his comedic antics and engaging performances. Just a short walk away, Viva Blackpool operates as a vibrant neighbour, offering a variety of shows that cater to the Blackpool audience – demonstrating that shows in Blackpool are for everyone!
Having first performed on stage aged just 4 years old, Mooky (aka Laci Endresz Jr) comes from 3 generations of clowns and performs in the circus ring with his brother, Mr Boo!
Blackpool has been famous as a hub for family entertainment for over 130 years, with its Pleasure Beach, historic piers, and the iconic Blackpool Tower. At the heart of this entertainment culture is Mooky the Clown, whose performances are a major draw for families visiting the Blackpool Tower Circus – which is celebrating it’s 130th anniversary this year!
Mooky’s ability to connect with both children and adults alike enhances the family-friendly atmosphere of the area and Viva Blackpool complements this by offering a diverse lineup of shows, from musical tributes to comedy nights, ensuring that there’s something for every member of the family.
Having started performing at the Blackpool Tower back in 1992, Mooky’s unique style, characterized by a blend of traditional circus clown antics and modern humor, sets a high standard for entertainment in Blackpool – the UK’s capital of fun and entertainment. Thousands have enjoyed his interactive performances involving the audience in a way that few other entertainers can match. In contrast, Viva Blackpool provides a more varied entertainment offering, from live music to stand-up comedy, broadening the cultural tapestry of Blackpool, the home of Variety entertainment.
Feedback from thousands of visitors often highlights a trip to the Blackpool Tower Circus to see Mooky as a highlight of their stay. Many commend his engaging performance style and the joy it brings to their children. Similarly, reviews for Viva Blackpool praise the quality and variety of its shows. The positive reception of both venues indicates a healthy demand for quality entertainment, with Mooky’s performances often inspiring visitors to return.
Looking ahead, both venues are preparing for a busy summer season. Mooky continues to be a central figure in upcoming circus shows, which are expected to draw large crowds. Viva Blackpool is not far behind, with a schedule packed with new and returning acts designed to appeal to a broad audience with it’s own comedy star Leye D Johns – celebrating his own 30 year anniversary in Blackpool this year!
Mooky the Clown remains an integral part of the entertainment landscape in Blackpool, bringing laughter and joy to families and visitors. The ongoing success of his shows at Blackpool Tower Circus is complemented by the diverse entertainment options available right here at Viva Blackpool. Together, they continue to enhance Blackpool’s reputation as an amazing family entertainment destination!
Other recent news
A short guide to the famous Blackpool Donkeys!
28 May 2024
Blackpool is the UKs capital of fun, and of course a famous bustling seaside resort on the northwest coast of England, is renowned for its iconic landmarks, vibrant entertainment, and sandy beaches.
Among the many attractions, one tradition stands out for its charm and historical significance: the famous Blackpool donkeys. For over a century, these gentle creatures have been an integral part of the Blackpool beach experience, offering rides to generations of visitors and creating lasting memories for families from all walks of life.
The Beginnings of a Seaside Tradition
The tradition of donkey rides in Blackpool dates back to the late 19th century. As the popularity of seaside resorts grew during the Victorian era, so did the demand for new and novel forms of entertainment. Donkey rides quickly became a favored pastime, particularly for children, who delighted in the simple joy of a ride along the sandy shores.
Donkeys were first introduced to Blackpool’s beaches in the 1890s. These initial forays were modest, with only a handful of donkeys available for rides. However, as tourism boomed and Blackpool developed into a premier holiday destination, the number of donkeys on the beach increased, solidifying their place in the town’s cultural fabric.
The Golden Age of Donkey Rides
The early to mid-20th century marked the golden age of donkey rides in Blackpool. During this period, the sight of donkeys trotting along the beach, adorned with brightly colored saddles and bridles, became synonymous with the quintessential Blackpool holiday. Each donkey was typically given a charming and memorable name, adding to their appeal and helping children form affectionate bonds with their four-legged friends.
The donkeys were managed by local families who took pride in caring for the animals and ensuring their well-being. These families would often return year after year, building a rapport with regular visitors and contributing to the friendly, welcoming atmosphere that Blackpool was known for.
Modern-Day Blackpool Donkeys
In recent years, the tradition of donkey rides has continued to thrive, albeit with modern updates and a stronger emphasis on animal welfare. Regulations have been put in place to ensure that the donkeys are well cared for and that their working conditions are humane. For instance, donkeys are given regular rest breaks, veterinary check-ups, and are only allowed to work for a limited number of hours each day.
Today, the Blackpool donkeys remain a beloved feature of the seaside resort, cherished by both locals and tourists. Their presence evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminding visitors of simpler times and the enduring appeal of seaside holidays. The donkeys themselves, often dressed in eye-catching attire, continue to delight children and adults alike, providing a timeless connection to Blackpool’s rich heritage.
As modern Blackpool evolves and adapts to the changing demands of tourism, the donkeys are likely to remain a steadfast part of its charm. Efforts to promote sustainable and ethical tourism are ensuring that these gentle animals are treated with the care and respect they deserve, preserving the tradition for future generations.
The history of Blackpool donkeys is a testament to the town’s enduring appeal and the timeless joy of seaside holidays. From their humble beginnings in the Victorian era to their status as a modern-day attraction, the donkeys of Blackpool have become an iconic symbol of this beloved seaside resort. As they continue to trot along the beach, they carry with them the legacy of over a century of cherished memories and seaside fun.
By exploring the history and ongoing tradition of donkey rides in Blackpool, we gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural significance of these endearing and loveable animals.
Did you know... that the Blackpool Donkeys get a day off written in local law? On a Friday, you won’t see a donkey on the beach as licensing does not allow the animals to work on what used to be a traditional ‘changeover’ day when midweek visitors would leave, and the weekend visitors would arrive!
Did you know… many donkeys retire to Donkey Sanctuaries, such as Sidmouth Donkey sanctuary in Devon where they get to enjoy lazy days grazing and snoozing! The photograph we used on this article was of Charlie, the Blackpool donkey who retired after 21 years working on the sandy shores and now resides in Sidmouth with his retiree friends!
Other recent news
The ‘Blackpool Cup’ Football Tournament Returns This Easter
15 March 2024
Blackpool is once again preparing to welcome 400 youth football teams and over 10,000 attendees during the Easter Weekend as they return for Blackpool Cup tournaments.
The tournaments will bring a major boost to the local economy as well as showcasing Blackpool’s credentials as a family-friendly resort, capable of hosting major International sporting events.
Teams are travelling from seven countries across Europe, including Netherlands, Poland, Ireland and the four home nations together with more than 70 local teams based in Blackpool in which is sure to be an exciting festival of football and fun.
The weekend kicks off with an official opening ceremony at the iconic Blackpool Tower Circus. Matches will be played over at the excellent new facilities on Myerscough College and UCLan Sports Arena.
This year the Blackpool Cup is supporting two local charities, the NHS Blue Skies Hospital Funds and Blackpool Carers along with the Butterfly Tree Charity in Zambia. There will be donation stations set up for people to bring along any old kit and boots, which will be sent out to Zambia after the competitions along with the tournament match balls.
Other recent news
Blackpool Air Show 2024
8 March 2024
One of the UK’s biggest and best FREE airshows, Blackpool Air Show is scheduled to return for 2024 across the weekend of the 10th and 11th August 2024
Full details of the 2 day festival of all things aircraft, stunts and more flying specials will be announced with the RAF Typhoon display team and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight who are also confirmed for both days of the free event.
The festival also features stalls and ground displays from the likes of the RAF, Blackpool Life Boat and is a real carnival event in the shadow of the Tower.
The best views are from on the Tower Headlands – with the displays mostly taking place over the Irish sea infront of the Blackpool Tower between the Central Pier and North Pier.
If you are unable to make the show, you may be able to watch some of the displays on our live webcam – located on the roof, overlooking the promenade.
Previous Blackpool Air Shows
The history of the Blackpool Air show dates back over 100 years to 1909, when it was first held at Blackpool Airport showcasing some of the first planes ever built. This makes the Blackpool Air Show one of the longest running in the World!
Sadly, the 2020 show was cancelled due to the ongoing pandemic. But our friends at VisitBlackpool and Live Blackpool compiled some videos of previous displays below.
Other recent news
Blackpool World Fireworks Championships 2024
Returning once again for 2024, the amazing FREE event in Blackpool Promenade near Coral Island is set to light up the skies with 3 dazzling displays during the World Fireworks Championship!
Blackpool Welcomes The Best Pyrotechnic Displays in the World
SAVE THE DATE. This year, the dates are confirmed as:-
- Saturday 7th September 2024 – Heat 1
- Saturday 21st September 2024 – Heat 2
- Saturday 5th October – Heat 3
Usual Timings of the Event
The crowds will start to build from 7.30pm with the first fireworks fired at approximately 8.30pm
Whilst the famous Blackpool illuminations light up the whole of Blackpool Promenade, these amazing fireworks displays which are choreographed to music will light up the skies.
The stunning displays, which are set to music, will take place over the beach in front of The Blackpool Tower and just a stone’s throw away from Coral Island. All of the displays are free to access.
Getting to the Event
Traffic builds early and roads into Blackpool get very busy due to the sheer volume of traffic – Public transport is recommended.
If you are wishing to travel by car, visitors are advised to park n the southern car parks and use the trams to travel directly to the event.
Please remember all displays are subject to weather conditions, things could change at the last minute.
2021 World Fireworks Championships
The winners of the 2021 competition were Germany – with their amazing display captured from our roof online here
The finale was a stunning display by Titanium Pyrotechnics – captured on video from the roof of Viva Blackpool online here
2019 World Fireworks Championships
The winners of the 2019 competition were Ukraine – Dance of Fire and are still reigning champions beating off competition from Estonia and Canada.
To see the winning display, check out the video courtesy of YouTube / Pleasure Beach Thrills
Other recent news
Lightpool Festival
25 April 2023
The award winning Lightpool Festival returns to Blackpool from the 20th to the 28th October 2023.
Running alongside the World Famous Blackpool Illuminations, this FREE series of events, outdoor activities and special illuminated art installations are staged across a wide range of venues and locations across the town.
The programme features a spectacular mix of extraordinary light installations, live performance and 3D projection shows – not to be missed, across one of the busiest weeks of the year in Blackpool.
Other recent news
