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New Years Eve Family Evening 2024 Visitors – FAQs

28 December 2024

If you’re coming to our New Years Eve Family evening 2024 – here’s your party guide! Please read carefully:-

PRE-ORDER DRINKS

We strongly recommend pre-ordering drinks for your table…

Having hundreds of people arrive to the venue at the same time, can cause there to be long queues at our bars and long wait times for drinks at the beginning of the evening.

Avoid waiting – by pre-ordering drinks either by contacting our box office team, or check out our online order portal (VisitOne – this link is sent with your tickets via email when booking).

The drinks will be brought out to your table on your arrival (we will prioritise your order, to minimise waiting) and you can get the party started as soon as you arrive!

You can also pre-order Champagne or Prosecco to be delivered to your table for the midnight countdown too.

To order a special discounted drinks package you can order by contacting our box office team, or clicking the ticket link already sent via email (this will be resent again 48 hours before your visit via SMS)

– Standard Drinks & Pre-Order Info

Contact Our Box Office (For pre-orders)
– Call 01253 297 297
– Email – [email protected]
– WhatsApp – +447822013192

TIMINGS

Our doors will open at 7pm. Early arrivals cannot be admitted to the room, so please arrive from 7pm when the bars will be open and serving drinks.

Pre-ordering drinks avoids queues at the bars on arrival – so we encourage pre-ordering (see above).

We cannot take responsibility for children at any time during their visit, and they should be supervised by a parent/guardian at all times.

Entertainment will begin at 8.30pm and continue throughout the night. Entertainment consists of DJ, childrens entertainer, Super Hero Meet & Greets, face painting and glitter tattoos.

Bars will remain open for an hour after midnight. The Festival Suite will close at around 1am, and guests are welcome then to go into the Main Arena room for the after party.


FOOD

Tickets do not include food, but food upgrades can be pre-ordered via our ticket portal (Visit) or on the night from our ‘Viva Kitchen’ menu (Click Here)

Our kitchens will close at approximately 10pm

No other food or drink is permitted to be brought into the venue, and we reserve the right to conduct searches on the way in. Any bottles/food found will be confiscated and you may be refused entry.
– Call 01253 297 297
– Email – [email protected]
– WhatsApp – +447822013192

OTHER FAQs

  • We accept cash and all major debit/credit cards – including ApplePay / Google Pay across all of our bars.
  • Dress code is smart/relaxed (we encourage smart dress), but there is no sportswear or caps allowed to be worn in the venue.
  • We operate security at the premises and we reserve the right of search bags/clothing on arrival. Any drinks being brought into the premises will be confiscated and entry may be refused if found bringing your own drinks into the venue.
  • We operate a challenge 25 policy. Please bring appropriate ID if purchasing or consuming alcohol in the premises
  • All payments balances must be made by 27th December at the latest. Any payment not received by this date will result in your booking be unfortunately cancelled and your deposit retained.
  • We strongly recommend pre-booking a taxi if required, as they do not tend to rank outside the venue or in the vicinity on New Years Eve

OTHER USEFUL INFO

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New Years Eve Gala Evening 2024 Visitors – FAQs

If you’re coming to our New Years Eve Gala evening 2024 – here’s your party guide! Please read carefully:-

PRE-ORDER DRINKS

We strongly recommend pre-ordering drinks for your table…

Having hundreds of people arrive to the venue at the same time, can cause there to be long queues at our bars and long wait times for drinks at the beginning of the evening.

Avoid waiting – by pre-ordering drinks either by contacting our box office team, or check out our online order portal (VisitOne – this link is sent with your tickets via email when booking).

The drinks will be brought out to your table on your arrival (we will prioritise your order, to minimise waiting) and you can get the party started as soon as you arrive!

You can also pre-order Champagne or Prosecco to be delivered to your table for the midnight countdown too.

To order a special discounted drinks package you can order by contacting our box office team, or clicking the ticket link already sent via email (this will be resent again 48 hours before your visit via SMS)

– Standard Drinks & Pre-Order Info

Contact Our Box Office (For pre-orders)
– Call 01253 297 297
– Email – [email protected]
– WhatsApp – +447822013192

TIMINGS

Our doors will open at 6pm. Early arrivals cannot be admitted to the room, so please arrive from 6pm when the bars will be open and serving drinks.

Pre-ordering drinks avoids queues at the bars on arrival – so we encourage pre-ordering (see above).

We will start meal service from 6.30pm

PLEASE NOTE – We are finding delays to our food service are being caused by late arrivals – often 1 or 2 people who are running late or in the smoking area, and subsequently party organizers holding back food service for their group/party until everyone arrives.
This can have a wider impact on the food service throughout the venue, and whilst we will do our best to accommodate requests to delay serving – please have everyone seated as soon as you possibly can to avoid delays. This will help a great deal to ensure a smooth running evening.

We cannot take responsibility for children at any time during their visit, and they should be supervised by a parent/guardian at all times.

The show will commence at 8.30pm

Bars will remain open for an hour after meal service/entertainment. The venue will close at around 2am.


FOOD

‘Dinner & Show’ tickets include a pre-show meal.

We require pre-ordered meal choices as soon as possible. If you haven’t already done so, submit your choices urgently. To see the menu and submit your meal choices online – click here.

If we do not receive menu choices in time, your party will be served the default menu – which is Soup, Chicken and Fruit Salad

Contact Our Box Office (For any other questions)
– Call 01253 297 297
– Email – [email protected]
– WhatsApp – +447822013192
No other food or drink is permitted to be brought into the venue, and we reserve the right to conduct searches on the way in. Any bottles/food found will be confiscated and you may be refused entry.

OTHER FAQs

  • We accept cash and all major debit/credit cards – including ApplePay / Google Pay across all of our bars.
  • Dress code is relaxed (we encourage smart dress), but there is no sportswear or caps allowed to be worn in the venue.
  • We operate security at the premises and we reserve the right of search bags/clothing on arrival. Any drinks being brought into the premises will be confiscated and entry may be refused if found bringing your own drinks into the venue.
  • We operate a challenge 25 policy. Please bring appropriate ID if purchasing or consuming alcohol in the premises
  • All payments balances must be made by 27th December at the latest. Any payment not received by this date will result in your booking be unfortunately cancelled and your deposit retained.
  • We strongly recommend pre-booking a taxi if required, as they do not tend to rank outside the venue or in the vicinity on New Years Eve

OTHER USEFUL INFO

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Christmas Day 2024 Visitors – FAQs

20 December 2024

If you’re coming to our Christmas Day Gala Dinner – here’s your party guide! Please read carefully:-

PRE-ORDER DRINKS

We strongly recommend pre-ordering drinks for your table…

Having hundreds of people arrive to the venue at the same time, can cause there to be long queues at our bars and long wait times for drinks at the beginning of the afternoon

Avoid waiting – by pre-ordering drinks either by contacting our box office team, or check out our online order portal (VisitOne – this link is sent with your tickets via email when booking).

The drinks will be brought out to your table on your arrival (we will prioritise your order, to minimise waiting) and you can get the party started as soon as you arrive!

To order a special discounted drinks package you can order by contacting our box office team, or clicking the ticket link already sent via email (this will be resent again 48 hours before your visit via SMS)

– Standard Drinks & Pre-Order Info

Contact Our Box Office (For pre-orders)
– Call 01253 297 297
– Email – [email protected]
– WhatsApp – +447822013192

TIMINGS

Our doors will open at 1pm. Early arrivals cannot be admitted to the room, so please arrive from 1pm when the bars will be open and serving drinks.

Pre-ordering drinks avoids queues at the bars on arrival – so we encourage pre-ordering (see above).

We will start meal service from 2pm – and meal service is at a leisurely pace across the afternoon.

PLEASE NOTE – We are finding delays to our food service are being caused by late arrivals – often 1 or 2 people who are running late or in the smoking area, and subsequently party organizers holding back food service for their group/party until everyone arrives.
This can have a wider impact on the food service throughout the venue, and whilst we will do our best to accommodate requests to delay serving – please have everyone seated as soon as you possibly can to avoid delays. This will help a great deal to ensure a smooth running afternoon.

Entertainment and games are scheduled to take place throughout the afternoon – including our festive quiz, games and on stage vocalists/entertainment.

There will be some activities/games for the children setup in our ‘Round Room’ area. Please note that there is no dedicated children’s entertainer – all entertainment scheduled this year will take place in the main arena/room. We cannot take responsibility for children at any time during their visit, and they should be supervised by a parent/guardian at all times.

Bars will remain open for an hour after meal service/entertainment. The venue will close at 6pm at the latest to allow our team to enjoy the rest of the evening with their families.


FOOD

All tickets include our Festive Christmas Dinner menu. There is a menu for Under 12s to also choose from (See link below)

The afternoon includes a 5 course menu including Canapes On Arrival, Starter, Main, Dessert and Coffee/Mince Pies.

We require pre-ordered meal choices as soon as possible. If you haven’t already done so, submit your choices urgently. To see the menu and submit your meal choices online – click here.

If we do not receive menu choices in time, your party will be served the default menu – which is Soup, Turkey and Fruit Salad

Contact Our Box Office (For any other questions)
– Call 01253 297 297
– Email – [email protected]
– WhatsApp – +447822013192

OTHER FAQs

  • We accept cash and all major debit/credit cards – including ApplePay / Google Pay across all of our bars.
  • Dress code is relaxed (we encourage smart dress), but there is no sportswear or caps allowed to be worn in the venue.
  • We operate security at the premises and we reserve the right of search bags/clothing on arrival. Any drinks being brought into the premises will be confiscated and entry may be refused if found bringing your own drinks into the venue.
  • We operate a challenge 25 policy. Please bring appropriate ID if purchasing or consuming alcohol in the premises
  • All payments balances must be made by 12th December at the latest. Any payment not received by this date will result in your booking be unfortunately cancelled and your deposit retained.
  • We strongly recommend pre-booking a taxi if required, as they do not tend to rank outside the venue or in the vicinity on Christmas Day

OTHER USEFUL INFO

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It’s Time To Get Festive At Viva!

11 December 2024

The moment you step into Viva Blackpool during the festive season, you’re transported into a winter wonderland of entertainment. Our award-winning venue, proud holder of TripAdvisor’s ‘Travellers Choice’ award for 11 years running, transforms into a magical Christmas paradise where memories are made and dreams come true.

Spectacular Holiday Shows

This December, we’re bringing the spirit of Christmas to life with an incredible line-up of shows. The highlight is our family-favourite “Elf-Pop Dreams Christmas Cracker LIVE” (December 21-24), where our lovable elf-popstars Twinkle, Sparkle, Jingles, and Dazzle create an unforgettable interactive experience.

Don’t miss our “Spirit of Christmas – Festive Showtime Afternoon” throughout December, offering the perfect blend of seasonal entertainment. For those seeking something different, “Reflections a Musical Legacy to Diana Ross” (December 12th) brings glamour to your holiday celebrations, while families with little ones will adore our “Ms Rachel ‘Fun For Little Ones!’ – Tribute Show” on December 15th.

Dining and Celebration Experiences

Make your visit extra special with our pre-show dining options at the Viva Kitchen. Our festive menu adds that perfect touch to your Christmas celebration. For those planning corporate events or group celebrations, our “Now That’s What I Call Christmas Party Nights!” on December weekends offers an ideal setting for festive gatherings, or check out our “Jingle Bells Ball” Christmas party nights throughout the month

Planning Your Visit

Booking your Christmas experience at Viva couldn’t be easier. Take advantage of our flexible £5 deposit scheme for selected shows, and don’t forget to ask about our Multi-Show Pass for extra savings on tickets, food, and drinks. Contact our friendly box office team at 01253 297 297 or via WhatsApp (+447822013192) to secure your seats.

Conclusion

Christmas at Viva Blackpool isn’t just about watching a show – it’s about being part of an unforgettable festive experience. From our spectacular entertainment line-up to our warm hospitality, we’re ready to make your holiday season truly magical. Book now to secure your place in the heart of Blackpool’s most enchanting Christmas celebration.

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Jingle Bells Ball Visitors – FAQs

10 December 2024

If you’re coming to our ‘Jingle Bells Ball’ party night – here’s your party guide! Please read carefully:-

PRE-ORDER DRINKS

We strongly recommend pre-ordering drinks for your table…

Having hundreds of people arrive to the venue at the same time, can cause there to be long queues at our bars and long wait times for drinks at the beginning of the evening.

Avoid waiting – by pre-ordering drinks either from our special discounted Christmas packages (Click here PDF), or check out our online order portal (VisitOne – this link is sent with your tickets).

The drinks will be brought out to your table on your arrival (we will prioritise your order, so no waiting) and you can get the party started as soon as you arrive!

We also have special deals on Drinks tokens – which can be purchased to discount your drink purchases on the night.

To order a special discounted drinks package you can order by contacting our box office team, or clicking the ticket link already sent via email (this will be resent again 24 hours before your visit via SMS)

– Christmas Discounted Drinks Packages (PDF)
– Standard Drinks & Pre-Order Info

Contact Our Box Office (For pre-orders)
– Call 01253 297 297
– Email – [email protected]
– WhatsApp – +447822013192

TIMINGS

Our doors will open at 6pm. Early arrivals cannot be admitted to the room, so please arrive from 6pm when the bars will be open and serving drinks.

Pre-ordering drinks avoids queues at the bars on arrival – so we encourage pre-ordering (see above).

We will start meal service as soon as most of your party has arrived (we will ask before we start serving the table)

PLEASE NOTE – We are finding delays to our food service are being caused by late arrivals – often 1 or 2 people who are running late or in the smoking area, and subsequently party organizers holding back food service for their group/party until everyone arrives.
This can have a wider impact on the food service throughout the venue, and whilst we will do our best to accommodate requests to delay serving – please have everyone seated as soon as you possibly can to avoid delays. This will help a great deal.

The show will commence at 8.30pm and run throughout the evening, with our DJ taking over after the show and our bars open until late.


FOOD

If you have purchased ‘Dinner & Show’ tickets, 3 course dining is included in your tickets.

We require pre-ordered meal choices as soon as possible, and at the very least 5 days before your visit. To see the menu and submit your meal choices online – click here.

If we do not receive menu choices in time, your party will be served the default menu – which is Soup, Turkey and Cheesecake.

If you have purchased ‘Show Only’ tickets, no food is included in your ticket purchase. We are limited in to what additional food we can serve on the night, due to the sheer volume of ‘Dinner & Show’ attendees. We cannot guarantee the snack menu will be available on the night unfortunately – so if you do want to dine, please consider upgrading to ‘Dinner & Show’ tickets.

Contact Our Box Office (For any other questions)
– Call 01253 297 297
– Email – [email protected]
– WhatsApp – +447822013192

OTHER FAQs

  • We accept cash and all major debit/credit cards – including ApplePay / Google Pay across all of our bars.
  • Dress code is relaxed (we encourage smart dress), but there is no sportswear or caps allowed to be worn in the venue.
  • We operate security at the premises and we reserve the right of search bags/clothing on arrival. Any drinks being brought into the premises will be confiscated and entry may be refused if found bringing your own drinks into the venue.
  • We operate a challenge 25 policy. Please bring appropriate ID if purchasing or consuming alcohol in the premises
  • We do not allow secret Santa gifts, or gift bottles to be consumed in the venue.
  • All payments balances must be made by 12th December at the latest. Any payment not received by this date will result in your booking be unfortunately cancelled and your deposit retained.
  • At the end of the party night, you can stay in the Viva Main Arena where our DJ will continue the party until the late hours

OTHER USEFUL INFO

Other recent news

Lionel Vinyl Visitors – FAQs

If you’re coming to our ‘Now That’s What I Call Christmas’ party night, starring Lionel Vinyl – here’s your party guide! Please read carefully:-

PRE-ORDER DRINKS

We strongly recommend pre-ordering drinks for your table…

Having hundreds of people arrive to the venue at the same time, can cause there to be long queues at our bars and long wait times for drinks at the beginning of the evening.

Avoid waiting – by pre-ordering drinks either from our special discounted Christmas packages (Click here PDF), or check out our online order portal (VisitOne – this link is sent with your tickets).

The drinks will be brought out to your table on your arrival (we will prioritise your order, so no waiting) and you can get the party started as soon as you arrive!

We also have special deals on Drinks tokens – which can be purchased to discount your drink purchases on the night.

To order a special discounted drinks package you can order by contacting our box office team, or clicking the ticket link already sent via email (this will be resent again 24 hours before your visit via SMS)

Christmas Discounted Drinks Packages (PDF)
Standard Drinks & Pre-Order Info

Contact Our Box Office (For pre-orders)
– Call 01253 297 297
– Email – [email protected]
– WhatsApp – +447822013192

TIMINGS

Our doors will open at 7.30pm. Early arrivals cannot be admitted to the room, so please arrive for 7.30pm promptly.

Food will be served at 8.30pm to your table.

Entertainment commences from around 7.30pm and takes place throughout the evening.


FOOD

All tickets for the Lionel Vinyl Party Night include our party platter food option – which consists of this menu (Click here PDF)
We do not require any menu choices to be submitted, but we advise to inform us of any allergies before arrival where possible? Contact us with your booking reference and party details to inform us.
Contact Our Box Office (For allergens)
– Call 01253 297 297
– Email – [email protected]
– WhatsApp – +447822013192

OTHER FAQs

  • We accept cash and all major debit/credit cards – including ApplePay / Google Pay across all of our bars.
  • Dress code is relaxed (we encourage smart dress), but there is no sportswear or caps allowed to be worn in the venue.
  • We operate security at the premises and we reserve the right of search bags/clothing on arrival. Any drinks being brought into the premises will be confiscated and entry may be refused if found bringing your own drinks into the venue.
  • We operate a challenge 25 policy. Please bring appropriate ID if purchasing or consuming alcohol in the premises
  • We do not allow secret Santa gifts, or gift bottles to be consumed in the venue.
  • All payments balances must be made by 12th December at the latest. Any payment not received by this date will result in your booking be unfortunately cancelled and your deposit retained.
  • At the end of the party night, you are welcome to join us in the Viva Main Arena where our DJ will continue the party until the late hours

OTHER USEFUL INFO

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.

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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!

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29 May 2024

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Charlie, the Blackpool donkey

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.

Photos of children enjoying Blackpool donkeys on the beach
Photo courtesy of Caroline Walker, taken in around 1966 with her siblings

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.

Photograph of a child enjoying a Blackpool donkey on the beach infront of the Blackpool tower
Photograph courtesy of John Salton, sat on ‘Rawhide’ in 1962 enjoying the beach!

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!

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