December - it’s the most wonderful time of the year and Blackpool has pulled out all the stops to deliver a cracking Christmas offer. With so many things to see and do in the UK’s favourite seaside resort, where do you start?
To help give you some inspiration for your day trip or short winter getaway, we have rounded up 35 things to do in Blackpool this December that are guaranteed to get you into the holly jolly spirit. Tick them all off just like Santa’s Christmas list or cherry pick your festive favourites.
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1. Explore Christmas By The Sea
November 21 - January 4, 2026
Blackpool’s Tower Festival Headland has been transformed into a magical festive village complete with a free skating rink; simulated snowfalls firing out of giant cannons; cosy Christmas cabins fronted by stallholders selling unique gifts and delicious food and drink; festive installations; and family rides.
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2. See the world-famous Blackpool Illuminations
Shining nightly until January 4, 2026.
With six miles of magic to explore, Blackpool Illuminations are often touted as the best free light show on Earth. The promenade light show has been extended to January 4, 2026, which means that the dazzling display will shine over the full festive season for yet another year.
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3. Get your skates on and head to the free rink
Open daily from November 21 - January 4, 2026 (barring Christmas Day)
Get into the Christmas spirit, wrap up warm and glide - or slide, depending on your skating ability - around the free skating rink on the Promenade.
Located at the Tower Festival Headland in the shadow of the iconic Blackpool Tower, the 20m synthetic rink is the picture-perfect backdrop amidst the dazzling Illuminations and the Christmassy village. It’s festively fabulous and, best of all, completely free!
Find out opening times and skating FAQs
4. Dare to ride the Star Flyer
As part of the Christmas By The Sea offering, experience the thrills of the aerial swing ride on the Promenade. Brave the ultimate dizzy thrill located on the Tower Festival Headland next to the popular free skating rink.
5. See a festive film at Backlot Cinema
Get the popcorn ready! Located in the brand-new extension of the Houndshill Shopping Centre, Backlot Cinema & Diner features one of the largest IMAX screens in the North West, measuring a massive 10.85m high and 19.87m wide.
With a line-up that’s nothing short of iconic—from timeless Christmas classics to the hottest new releases in IMAX, there’s something for everyone during the festive season.
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6. See Abba Christmas by Candlelight
Friday, December 19
Take a chance on a Christmas night to remember with An ABBA Christmas by Candlelight at the Opera House, Winter Gardens. Featuring the UK’s leading tribute act, ABBA Reunion, the show will have you saying Thank You for the Music as you sing and dance to over 20 hits, from Mamma Mia to Dancing Queen. Full of sparkle, song, and Super Trouper festive feels!
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7. Take part in the Santa Dash
Sunday, December 7
Have fun whilst raising money for Trinity Hospice and get involved in the annual Santa Dash on Sunday 7 December. Kick-start the festive season and sign up to take part in the two-mile run along Blackpool Promenade. Registration includes a Santa suit, a medal and a warm hot chocolate at the end of the race.
Participants set off from Sandcastle Waterpark and head north along the promenade, before making a U-turn at the Manchester pub and returning to the waterpark.
If dashing around isn't your cup of tea, take a seat along the promenade to watch the festive spectacle.
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8. See snow at the seaside
Once in a blue moon, Blackpool turns into a magical winter wonderland with a light dusting of real snow but, here at VisitBlackpool, we’re taking it into our own hands for a guaranteed White Christmas.
Head to the Comedy Carpet for the full alpine experience where you will see flurries of snow firing out of our giant cannons at regular intervals during opening times (12-9pm). Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!
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9. Tackle your Christmas shopping at Houndshill Shopping Centre
From thoughtful stocking fillers to last-minute presents, shop to your heart’s content at Houndshill Shopping Centre, handily located a five minute walk away from the Christmas By The Sea village.
Don’t forget, Houndshill Shopping Centre will be open until 9pm for their Late Shopping Nights every Thursday in December
10. Check out the rides on the Tower Festival Headland
If you aren't feeling brave enough to ride the Star Flyer, why not try out the tamer rides on the Tower Festival Headland instead?
As part of the Christmas By The Sea event, which runs from 21 November to 4 January, take your pick from a selection of new rides for this year, including the three-storey Fun House, Walterz, Snow Bob and Ice Breaker. There is also a selection of children's rides from Candy Cane Bungee Trampolines, Santa Claus’ Tea Cups, Santa’s Sleigh, to a gentle carousel.
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11. Meet Father Christmas
It’s time to find out if your little one has been naughty or nice. Santa will be visiting numerous Blackpool venues this Christmas, including Pleasure Beach Resort, Coral Island and Houndshill Shopping Centre. Treat your younglings to a visit to meet the main man and let it be a Christmas to remember.
See a full list of Santa’s Grottos
12. See Beauty & The Beast Pantomime at Blackpool Grand
December 5 - January 4, 2026
It wouldn’t be Christmas without an unforgettable trip to this year’s fabulous, family pantomime Beauty & The Beast Pantomime at the Grand Theatre from Friday 5 December 2024 to Sunday 4 January, 2026. Oh no it wouldn’t!
Recently nominated for ‘Best Pantomime (over 900 seats)’ at the UK Pantomime Awards, this year’s production promises to be the boldest and brightest yet. Featuring Coronation Street’s infamous bad boy, Marc Baylis, Britian’s Got Talent Finalist, Steve Royle, Betty Legs Diamond and Kitty Harris.
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13. Follow Buddy's journey in Elf the Musical
December 9 - 14
'The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear'. What better way to celebrate the festive season than seeing Elf the Musical at the Winter Gardens?
Based on the hit movie starring Will Farrell, this spectacular heart-warming story follows the fortunes of Buddy, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole. The would-be elf is raised unaware that he is actually a human, until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth.
It’s a 90-minute performance, featuring a flying sleigh, 20ft high candy canes and Pixar-style animated backgrounds.
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14. Grab a bite to eat at Abingdon Street Market
Check out Blackpool’s biggest food hall and choose from six independent food vendors, two bars and a coffee shop. Abingdon Street Market, a vibrant addition to the town’s offerings, opened its doors in 2023 with a 250 seating area for socialising and enjoying food and beverages purchased in the market.
Make sure to stop by at the variety of retail stalls, from fresh produce to artisanal goods and say hello to the friendly local vendors.
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15. SIX The Musical is back at the Winter Gardens
December 22 – January 4, 2026
The crowning glory of Broadway, the West End and beyond, the international smash hit musical SIX makes its royal return to Blackpool following its three previous sold-out runs!
From Tudor Queens to Pop Princesses, the six wives of Henry VIII take to the mic to tell their tales, remixing five hundred years of historical heartbreak into an 80-minute celebration of 21st century girl power.
We strongly advise booking ahead as we anticipate another sold-out run here in Blackpool.
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16. Make some waves at Sandcastle Waterpark
It might be a while until we feel the summer sun on our skin again, but you can soak up the warmth with Sandcastle Waterpark’s 84-degree tropical climate, ideal for those blustery, rainy days.
Get set for a water-filled adventure in the largest indoor waterpark in the UK with more than 18 slides and attractions. Whizz down the Aztec-themed slides or make a splash on the Masterblaster, the longest indoor rollercoaster waterslide in the world.
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17. Go for a hole in one
It's all about magical experiences during the festive season and Hole in Wand is no exception.
Get ready for a wizard adventure, along the way there will be a forest full of venomous snakes, an ancient castle with a magical fountain and a chance to witness the magic of York’s mysterious Shambles. At the end of your adventure, find out if you have the magical powers of a Serpent, Basilisk, Unicorn or Wizard and receive a magic potion gift to take home worth £2.99.
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18. Wrap up for your winter walk
Exhausted from Christmas shopping? Need a break from sightseeing? Blackpool is blessed with many open spaces, so grab your cosiest Christmas jumper and take to the great outdoors for some fresh seaside air.
Enjoy the Great Promenade Show, go for a sandy stroll or walk around the idyllic Italian Gardens and the beautiful boating lake at Stanley Park.
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19. Dance under the Mirror Ball
Not so long ago, the majestic Mirror Ball returned to the Promenade after undergoing a full refurbishment. See it shine in the day or watch it twinkle at night as its projectors turn it into a light show extravaganza.
The artwork was created by artist Michael Trainor and is reputed to be the world’s biggest Mirror Ball being 6m in diameter with a whopping 47,000 mirror tiles.
Address: New S Promenade, Blackpool FY4 1NJ
20. Check out Walterz Entertainment Centre
Let the games begin! Take a trip to Walterz Entertainment Centre on the outskirts of Blackpool. The £1.5m amusement centre offers ten-pin bowling alleys; the first augmented reality darts boards on the Fylde Coast; shuffleboards; pool to pinball; and karaoke booths.
While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to push the big red button in the toilets for a disco surprise! Located at Newton Hall Holiday Park, the exciting entertainment hub is open to the general public as well as the site’s holiday visitors. It’s free entry with all games individually priced. Booking is advised for private karaoke booths and bowling.
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21. Explore the underwater world at SEA LIFE
Calling all underwater explorers, SEA LIFE Blackpool is one of the most magical places for all families to enjoy. Discover over 2,500 species from the curious to the rescued and learn all about the creatures that live beneath the surface.
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22. Jason and the Adventure of the 254 at Grundy Art Gallery
October 18 – December 20
Presented across Grundy’s galleries 1, 2 and 3, Jason and the Adventure of the 254 showcases the renowned artist’s largest and most personal work to date.
Drawing on Jason’s experience of becoming disabled as a child, the exhibition is a joyful and subversive exploration of the human body with huge sculptures, vibrant illustrations and interactive dioramas.
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23. See Cinderella at Pleasure Beach Resort
November 22 - December 24
From 22 November to 24 December, get ready to be swept away as Pleasure Beach Resort presents "Cinderella". The magical production features stunning sets, top musical hits, amazing costumes and exciting special effects to keep audiences both young and old entertained.
Cheer and clap your way through the show and enjoy this real winter warmer this Christmas.
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24. Get into the Spirit of Christmas at VIVA Blackpool
Delight in a wonderful, festive show performance, starring the Viva cast of talented vocalists, dancers and speciality artistes, hosted by comedian Leye D Johns. Extend your time by adding a pre-show festive lunch option to enjoy with all the trimmings.
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25. Enjoy a meal out
Feeling a bit peckish after all the festive fun? There is a wide selection of independent cafes, bars and restaurants in Blackpool - from the Budapest-meets-Singapore hawker restaurant, Michael Wan’s Wok Inn, cosy Stefani’s which serves up delicious homemade pizzas to the newly-opened Abingdon Street.
There is also a range of national branded restaurants, including Pizza Hut, Nando’s and Slug and Lettuce to mention a few.
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26. Pose with the stars at Madame Tussauds
Why not get your Strictly fix at Madame Tussauds Blackpool? Feel star-struck as you meet glam presenters, Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, and take a sneak peek backstage at their glittering, dazzling dressing rooms. Meet the recent new stars, including Taylor Swift, too!
There’s plenty of famous fun at the seaside too, including the Coronation Street and Marvel zones. There’s also the I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here zone.
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27. Spot your favourite quotes on the Comedy Carpet
There’s nothing like the British sense of humour, and a visit to Blackpool's Comedy Carpet is a bit like a trip to the Hollywood Walk of Fame; but immortalising and celebrating the jokes, songs and comedy catchphrases of Britain’s comedy scene.
Sitting in the shadow of the world-famous Blackpool Tower, the largest commissioned artwork in the UK features the quotes of 850 talented writers and comedians and contains over 160,000 granite letters. It’s extraordinary; it’s comical; it’s not to be missed.
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28. Dance in the wonderful Blackpool Tower Ballroom
Words can’t describe how exquisite The Blackpool Tower Ballroom looks following a £1 million makeover thanks to funding from Historic England and Blackpool Council a few years ago. Come and see it for yourself on select days until the end of the year.
It’s the go-to destination for dance fans across the world with its jaw-dropping architecture, stunning sprung dancefloor and magical backdrop. Put on your dancing shoes, waltz away to the enchanting sounds of the Wurlitzer and prepare to be lost in a world of elegant charm and ornate beauty. If you prefer to watch from the side, enjoy a delightful afternoon tea and soak up the scenery from your seat.
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29. Grab some fish 'n chips
Sometimes it’s the simple things in life that are the most memorable. Why not head down to the promenade and treat yourself to a portion of fish ‘n chips? There’s more chippies in Blackpool than you can shake a stick (of rock) at, including Yorkshire Fisheries which is the oldest chippy in town and the latest addition, Papas Fish and Chips.
We recommend strolling along the seafront, basking in the magical Blackpool Illuminations with a chippy tea in hand – you won’t regret it!
30. Meet the Stick Man at Gruffalo Clubhouse
Immerse in festive cheer at The Gruffalo and Friends Clubhouse this Christmas! Join the Clubhouse Christmas dance party for a jolly time, dancing to family-favourites with Stick Man. Plus, don't miss the chance to meet this beloved character for the ultimate Christmas experience.
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31. See the animals at Blackpool Zoo
If you love animals, you will love a day out at Blackpool Zoo. Home to more than 1,000 animals - including the zoo’s newest arrival, a baby elephant - it’s one of the must-see attractions in Britain’s favourite seaside resort.
Explore the 37 acres of traditional, spacious parkland and see what you discover!
Blackpool Zoo is open every day from 10am (except Christmas Day)
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32. Stay over a night or two
Make a long weekend out of your Blackpool trip or visit mid-week for a quieter experience. A seaside staycation before Christmas has everything you need for your perfect winter getaway.
With an extensive list of family attractions, free events, new restaurants, and top-class shows, there’s too much on offer in Blackpool for you to experience in only one day. A short break also gives you the opportunity to see the sights and stay for the Lights without rushing back home in the evening.
After all, the evening is when Blackpool really comes alive in winter. From a budget bolthole to boutique chic, the resort offers a wide range of accommodation choices whatever your budget.
Browse all our accommodation options
33. Pop into our Tourist Information Centre
Your go-to place for all your Blackpool memorabilia, the Tourist Information Centre (TIC) located next to the Beach House Bistro & Bar on the Promenade houses a plethora of Blackpool souvenirs – from keyrings, jigsaws, model tram cars, and a wonderful range of stocking fillers, including handmade glass baubles and our Christmas-inspired official BPL merchandise.
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34. Try your luck at the arcade in Coral Island
Coral Island is the UK’s largest indoor family amusement complex and entry is completely free. Perfect for those drizzly days, it's home to plenty of arcade games, slot machines, amusement rides and, let’s not forget, the ultimate Camel Derby.
With a pot full of 1ps and 2ps, you will be endlessly entertained.
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35. Presenting: Elf Pop Dreams Christmas Cracker Live
December 21-24
It’s a cracker of a show! Join Twinkle, Sparkle, Jingles, and Dazzle on a fun-filled, musical adventure as they try to become elf-popstars!
Who better to help them than the most magical person in the world, Santa Claus himself? With the children’s help, will they get in touch with Santa, will he reveal something truly surprising? Will they get the magic they have been searching for?
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