Strictly stars to open Christmas by the Sea

Blackpool is preparing to launch a magnificent programme of Christmas entertainment – with a sprinkling of Strictly stardust.

Professional dancers from the BBC show will officially open this year’s Christmas By The Sea village on Friday 21 November – the eve of the much-anticipated return of Strictly Come Dancing to the world-famous Tower Ballroom.

The opening event will feature performances from Scream Theatre School. Talented youngsters from across the Fylde Coast will entertain the crowds with a lively mix of musical theatre and festive medleys, bringing a taste of holiday magic to Blackpool’s Promenade.

Family favourites, Mooky and Mr Boo from The Blackpool Tower Circus, will also take to the stage before the Strictly dancers officially open the event.

Now a firm favourite in Blackpool’s events programme, Christmas By The Sea will feature a free-to-use skating rink, festive light installations, themed log cabins with food, drink and gifts and magical snowfalls.

It will also see a variety of themed children’s attractions, exciting thrill rides including a 100ft-long snow slide, and an aerial swing ride, the Star Flyer. This year will also see the return of a German Swing Grill, Snow Dome Waltzers, a Helter-Skelter slide and Ice Breaker thrill ride. New to the site this year will be a Christmas themed Fun House, set over three floors this new attraction will feature spinning barrels and discs, shuffle boards and special lighting effects.

Christmas By The Sea will be complemented by a full Illuminations display along the seafront until January 4 2026.

The village will open every day between noon and 9pm until 4 January 2026 (barring Christmas Day).

Cllr Lynn Williams MBE, Leader of Blackpool Council, said: “Christmas By The Sea is definitely the most magical event of the year. It is lovely to see so many families on the Promenade enjoying a unique Christmas experience in Blackpool.

“Like the Switch-On concert earlier this year, we always like to give local youngsters the opportunity to showcase their talents at our events. I look forward to seeing pupils from Scream Theatre School perform again this year.

“Christmas By The Sea has something for everyone - from the free skating rink and snowfall to thrill rides. Here’s to a magical and memorable Christmas in Blackpool.”

Kate Shane MBE, Managing Director of Blackpool Tourism Limited, said: “Christmas By the Sea is a truly magical moment for our resort - a chance for the whole community to come together and kick off the festive season in style.

“From talented local students and the iconic performers of the Blackpool Tower Circus to the dazzling professionals from Strictly Come Dancing, this celebration will showcase the best of Blackpool’s spirit and entertainment.

“We’re grateful to the BBC for once again bringing the sparkle of Strictly to our launch event and helping us make this a Christmas to remember.”