Newsroom

9 November 2026

It’s the most wonderful time of the year

The countdown is on until Blackpool’s Tower Festival Headland is transformed into a magical winter wonderland as Christmas By The Sea returns for another festive season.

The hugely popular outdoor village will open on Friday 20 November, bringing an exciting collection of festive attractions for all ages, including a free skating rink that will be open daily until Sunday 3 January 2027 (excluding Christmas Day).

Alongside the rink, visitors can enjoy festive light installations, themed log cabins selling food, drink and gifts, plus artificial snowfall throughout the village.

A host of family favourite rides will also return, including the 100ft snow slide, Christmas-themed fun house and helter skelter.

New for this year is a traditional 40-foot carousel taking centre stage on the Comedy Carpet, providing a festive backdrop for those all-important Christmas snapshots. Also new for this year is Airforce, an exciting thrill ride making its Blackpool debut.

Thrill-seekers can once again enjoy the Snow Dome Waltzers, Ice Breaker and the iconic Star Flyer.

Christmas By The Sea will be complemented by a full Illuminations display along the seafront.

Cllr Lynn Williams MBE, Leader of Blackpool Council, said:

“Now in its sixth year, it’s hard to imagine Christmas in Blackpool without Christmas By The Sea. It has become such an important part of our festive time, giving residents and visitors even more reasons to come into town, spend time together and enjoy everything Blackpool has to offer. “For me, that’s what Christmas is all about bringing people together, creating memories and having fun. It’s also what Blackpool does best. “As we look ahead to our City of Culture 2029 bid, it’s important to remember that culture isn’t just about the arts, it’s about shared experiences, celebrating who we are and creating opportunities for everyone to take part and enjoy themselves. Christmas By The Sea is a brilliant example of that, with something for everyone to enjoy. “Seeing the area around the Tower Festival Headland buzzing with people, families and friends enjoying themselves throughout the six weeks is a fantastic way to end the year. It makes me incredibly proud to see Blackpool bringing that festive magic to life once again.”

Kate Shane MBE, Managing Director of Blackpool Tourism Limited, said: 

"Christmas By The Sea perfectly complements Blackpool’s already strong festive offer. Whether you're looking for a full family day out, a place to pick up Christmas gifts, somewhere to enjoy festive food and drink with friends, or simply somewhere to spend an hour or two while visiting Blackpool’s attractions and shows, there is something for everyone. "It has become a much-loved part of the Christmas calendar and continues to attract visitors of all ages throughout the festive period."

Christmas By The Sea will be open daily from 12 noon to 9pm until Sunday 3 January 2027, with the exception of Christmas Day.

For more information and the latest updates, including skating rink opening times and attraction details, visit www.visitblackpool.com/christmasbythesea

Blackpool is in the final four to be named UK City of Culture 2029 and Christmas by the Sea is the latest in a big year of events on the town’s doorstep, which has included the works of David Bowie, Halle Orchestra, Claude Monet Sir Ken Dodd and the Royal Shakespeare Company. To find out more about UK City of Culture and back Blackpool’s bid visit www.blackpool2029.co.uk

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