School’s nearly out for summer – and Blackpool is rolling out a spectacular programme of free events and affordable entertainment over the holiday period.
With the biggest collection of indoor and outdoor family attractions outside of London, as well as a huge mix of eateries and accommodation to suit all pockets, there is something for everyone. Here's a round-up of 50 highlights for the summer season:
Action in the skies at Blackpool Air Show
Witness jaw-dropping aerobatics and thrilling displays at the annual Blackpool Air Show, including the world-famous RAF Red Arrows. Spread across two days from 9 - 10 August, it’s a perfect free day out for families and aviation enthusiasts alike!
It’s a CBeebies Party in the Tower Ballroom
CBeebies House Party LIVE will be taking over the beautiful Blackpool Tower Ballroom for three days during the school summer holidays with a stage show full of music, dancing, bubbles and surprises, including a special bedtime story.
Families can expect appearances from some familiar faces, including Justin Fletcher, Nigel Clarke, Joanna Adeyinka-Burford, George Webster and Duggee.
All the interactive fun at Showtown
Immersive displays, interactive exhibits & fun for all the family at Blackpool's all-singing, all-dancing museum (but not as you know it!). Winner of Exhibition of the Year 2025 and shortlisted for the Children in Museums award, Showtown celebrates the people and performances that made Blackpool the home of show business.
There’s some fantastic events on throughout the summer holidays, including: Wartime Exhibition (daily until 19 September), Jitterbug and Jive: Family Dance Workshop (12 July), and Create Your Own Wellington Aircraft Model (9 August).
Bust out the blockbusters at Backlot Cinema & Diner
Get the popcorn ready! Experience Backlot Cinema & Diner where you can enjoy a variety of summer blockbusters, including the eagerly anticipated Jurassic World Rebirth.
Located in the new extension of the Houndshill Shopping Centre, the cinema which opened last year, features one of the largest IMAX screens in the North West, measuring a massive 10.85m high and 19.87m wide.
Try out the AirSlides at Ascent Adventure Park
Airhop Adventure Park is the first trampoline park in the region to feature the thrilling new AirSlides. Typically found in water parks, slide headfirst on a special mat, launch through the air and land safely on a giant airbag.
Airhop Blackpool offers a wide range of other activities including over 100 interconnected trampolines, the North West's first indoor caving system and a Ninja Assault course.
Spot all the animals at Blackpool Zoo
Last year, Blackpool Zoo experienced a baby boom in various parts of the park. The birth of its second critically endangered Bornean orang-utan was announced last summer, plus several pairs of Magellanic penguins welcomed some fluffy chicks. These new additions offer a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the zoo’s important conservation efforts.
It's SpongeBob month at Pleasure Beach Resort
It’s a Bikini Bottom extravaganza at the UK’s only Nickelodeon Land in July. Celebrate SpongeBob month with your favourite underwater friends, meet and greet the characters, and join all the SpongeBob-themed activities throughout July at Pleasure Beach Resort.
Go on a roaring adventure at VIVA Blackpool
Step into a world of prehistoric wonder on July 31 with Dinosaur Explorers: Rangers of the Last Egg – the ultimate immersive dinosaur experience that brings dinosaurs face-to-face with you! It’s a colourful, high-energy family show at VIVA Blackpool packed with fun, laughter & learning.
All the Merlin Magic
Merlin's magic awaits and there are more attractions in resort than you can shake a stick of rock at. Choose your adventure from The Blackpool Tower Eye, SEA LIFE Blackpool, Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse, Peter Rabbit Explore & Play, and Madame Tussauds Blackpool or buy a money-saving pass, which includes three attractions for £35, over on The Blackpool Tower’s website.
Look for friends In The Night Garden
Now in its 16th year, In the Night Garden Live is one of the UK's favourite family events. From July 16-17, you’ll see all your favourite characters beautifully brought to life at the Opera House Winter Gardens with full-size costumes, magical puppets, and endearing music.
Step into Narnia with The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe
Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime as the West End smash-hit production of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe comes to Blackpool at the Winter Gardens Opera House from July 29 – August 2. Join Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter as they meet new friends, face dangerous foes and learn the lessons of courage, sacrifice, and the power of love.
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Try out a giant inflatable waterpark
Wild Shore Blackpool, a water-based adventure park, offers a range of dynamic, unique, and adrenaline-charged activities. Located at Reams Hill Holiday Park on the outskirts of the resort, take your pick from wakeboarding, paddle boarding, open water swimming and the Aqua Park, a giant floating playground with Ninja warrior-style adventures.
Longer opening times at Pleasure Beach Resort
Why not extend the fun and take advantage of Twilight Thrills and Late Night Riding sessions at Pleasure Beach throughout the summer?
On selected dates, the park will be open from 10am – 9pm for Twilight Thrills and 10am-10pm finishing with a spectacular fireworks display for Late Night Riding. Dates include August 9, 16 and 24, and September 27.
It’s Capital of Dance throughout July
Capital of Dance is the world’s first, month-long, fringe festival dedicated to dance, movement and physical theatre. Enjoy live shows, street performances, workshops and social dance, from ballroom elegance to contemporary groove. Find out the full programme and bust a move or two!
Preview the Lights on a bike
Get ready to ride! Don't miss this incredible Ride The Lights event on Tuesday 26 August. Pedal along a traffic-free Promenade and discover the magic of Blackpool Illuminations ahead of the official Switch-On.
Join the Illuminations Switch-On party
Can you believe that the Illuminations Switch-On is just around the corner? The big celebration on Friday 29 August will be held on the Tower Festival Headland. We can’t say much more at the moment as the details are still under wraps but expect a night to remember.
Donkey rides aplenty
Is there anything that screams seaside more than a donkey ride on the beach? Find your furry friends strolling along the golden sands during low tide on good weather days (except Friday – that’s donkey’s day off). Kids only, sorry adults!
A fabulous evening at Funny Girls
Enjoy a fabulous night out at Funny Girls, a world-famous cabaret show. Expect dazzling performances and lively music with a surprise or two thrown in.
Feel the sand between your toes
Enjoy a classic day out on Blackpool’s golden sands. Build sandcastles, paddle in the sea, hire an iconic striped deckchair, and soak up the sun. Three of our beaches were recently granted Seaside Awards, showing that our beaches are clean, safe and meet high environmental standards.
See The Wind in the Willows come to life
Hop aboard for a high-spirited journey from August 14-17 with Mole, Ratty, Badger and Toad in this charming stage adaptation of a timeless classic at the Grand Theatre, based on Kenneth Grahame’s best-selling classic.
Razzle-dazzle with Chicago The Musical
Dubbed the “sexiest musical ever” Chicago comes to the Winter Gardens in July for one week only, starring Strictly Come Dancing Professional Dancer and TV Star Janette Manrara. It’s set to be packed with jazz, scandal, and show-stopping.
It's heating up at Hot Ice at Pleasure Beach
Pleasure Beach's spectacular Hot Ice show has returned with a brand new production, XS. Running until 13 September, witness the world's longest running ice show in action throughout the summer season.
Wheely good fun on Blackpool's Central Pier
Central Pier offers endless entertainment with thrilling rides, lively arcades, and the famous Big Wheel. Don’t miss the bustling atmosphere and stunning sunsets.
Sky high adventures at The Blackpool Tower Eye
No visit is complete without a trip to the iconic Blackpool Tower Eye. Enjoy panoramic views 380ft in the air and the thrilling SkyWalk glass floor… if you’re brave enough!
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Cool off at Sandcastle Waterpark
Dive into a world of aquatic fun at the UK’s largest indoor waterpark. With more than 18 rides to choose from, it’s a splash-tastic adventure for everyone. Try out the MasterBlaster or race down the Duelling Dragons, conquer the wave pool or float around the River Creek.
Test your putting skills
Test your putting skills at one of Blackpool’s crazy golf courses. Fun for all ages, these courses are a great way to add some friendly competition to your day. You’ve got a magical adventure awaiting at The Hole In Wand Blackpool, the interactive lanes at Putt Above, Dino Golf at The Blackpool Tower, or Adventure Golf next to Pleasure Beach Resort.
Experience The Eras Tour right here in Blackpool
Last summer, The Eras Tour was in full swing in the UK, but let’s not make this year a Cruel Summer. Taylormania is heading to the Winter Gardens on the 3 August.
An award-winning extravaganza that plays tribute to one of the leading contemporary recording artists of our time. Katy Ellis a self-obsessed ‘Swiftie’ features an incredible live band and dancers, promising to deliver the most authentic recreation of a Taylor Swift show you will ever see.
Dive into SEA LIFE Blackpool
Encounter sharks, rays, and other marine life in interactive and immersive exhibits that educate and entertain at the family-friendly aquarium.
Be star struck at Madame Tussauds Blackpool
Pose with your favourite celebrities and iconic figures at Madame Tussauds Blackpool. A fun and interactive experience for the whole family! There’s some new faces, including Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, and TV presenter, Alison Hammond.
Choose culture at Grundy Art Gallery
Explore contemporary art at the Grundy Art Gallery. Featuring a diverse range of exhibitions, it’s a cultural gem in Blackpool’s art scene.
Head to Walterz Entertainment Centre
You’ve got all the fun at Walterz Entertainment Centre, offering bowling, arcade games, AR darts and shuffleboards. Based at Newton Hall Holiday Park, it's a fantastic spot for family fun and friendly competition, plus there’s even disco toilets – what more could you want?!
Go local at Abingdon Street Market
Discover unique treasures and tasty treats at Abingdon Street Market in the town centre. The impressively spacious food hall in the Grade-II listed building serves a variety of street food from six local independent vendors, alongside a coffee shop, cocktail stand and craft beer bar.
Tour Blackpool's amazing arcades and amusements
Relive the joy of traditional seaside fun with amusements and penny slot machines. Try your luck and enjoy the nostalgic charm of Blackpool's arcades, from Coral Island, the largest indoor arcade in the resort, to Blackpool Amusements, an instagrammable and colourful haven.
The Addams Family visit Blackpool for one week only
Following two hugely successful UK tours, and sold-out concerts at The London Palladium last year, everyone’s favourite creepy, kooky family are back on stage this summer in THE ADDAMS FAMILY from August 26-30 at the Winter Gardens.
Laugh out loud at the Tower Circus
Experience the thrills and spills of the Tower Circus. With clowns, acrobats, and amazing stunts, it’s a must-see show for all ages with plenty of belly laughs with resident clowns, Mooky and Mr Boo.
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Go wild at The Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse
Enter the magical world of The Gruffalo at the Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse. A first of its kind, kids can explore interactive play zones and meet their favourite characters from Julia Donaldson’s cherished books.
Chill out at Stanley Park
Awarded England’s best park three years on the bounce, escape to the tranquillity of Stanley Park, a green oasis in the heart of Blackpool. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride, beautiful Italian gardens, and a charming Art Deco café.
Brave The Blackpool Tower Dungeon
Brave the spooky thrills at The Blackpool Tower Dungeon. Interactive shows and rides bring Lancashire’s dark side to life.
Pick up a sweet treat
When the temperatures heat up, why not treat yourself to an ice cream? There's plenty of vendors dotted around town but, most notably, there's Notarianni's ice cream parlour and, guess what, it's been going since 1928!
Giggles galore at the Comedy Carpet
Enjoy a laugh at the Comedy Carpet, a unique installation featuring jokes from famous comedians. It’s a fun and quirky spot for photos and giggles. Consider it our version of Hollywood's Walk of Fame.
Stroll along Blackpool North Pier
Step back in time with a stroll along Blackpool’s oldest pier. Enjoy traditional seaside fun with amusements, a theatre, a picturesque carousel, and breath-taking sea views. There’s always Bloom Bar at the end if you want a refreshing drink or to soak up the views.
It's all ears at Peter Rabbit Explore & Play
Join Peter Rabbit and friends in this charming, interactive adventure along the Promenade. Perfect for little ones to play and discover Beatrix Potter's beloved tales.
Go back in time at Arcade Club
Step back in time at the Arcade Club, where retro games and modern favourites collide. It’s a gamer’s paradise with endless entertainment. Best of all? All the machines are set to free-to-play thanks to one entry price on the doors.
Afternoon Tea in the Tower Ballroom
One for the Strictly fans. Indulge in a classic afternoon tea while soaking up the elegance of the Tower Ballroom and enjoy delicious treats and the beauty of this historic venue.
Sparkle at the Mirror Ball
Dance under the world's largest mirror ball on Blackpool’s South Promenade. Created by artist Michael Trainor, it's a sparkling spot for selfies and seaside fun.
Have a chuckle at the Comedy Station
Laugh your socks off at the Comedy Station, Blackpool’s top comedy club. Over the past 22 years, they have hosted comedians such as Jason Manford, Eddie Izzard, Seann Walsh, Gary Delaney, Dan Nightingale, Maisie Adam, Adam Rowe and Justin Moorhouse, to name but a few. You're in for an evening of side-splitting fun.
Grab your boots for The British Country Music Festival
Get your boots tapping at the British Country Music Festival. Taking place at the Winter Gardens on Aug 29-31, enjoy live performances from top UK country artists in an atmosphere full of good vibes and great tunes. Yee-haw!
Discover a mini world at Model Village
Marvel at the intricate miniatures at Blackpool Model Village. This enchanting attraction offers a whimsical walk through tiny towns and landscapes. Ideal to roll into a day at Stanley Park or Blackpool Zoo.
All the action at Bloomfield Road
Catch a Blackpool FC match at Bloomfield Road. Feel the excitement and cheer for the local team.
Dance, sing and sparkle at Pop Princesses
Round off the summer holidays with a children’s pop concert with a big difference. Four fabulous fairytale Princesses are on their first world tour stopping off at the Grand Theatre on August 23.
Featuring a soundtrack of pop hits from artists such as Taylor Swift, Meghan Trainor and Miley Cyrus, plus songs from all your favourite films and musicals, come and join them on this epic around-the-globe show at the Grand Theatre.