Category: Blackpool News and Events
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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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.
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.
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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The ‘Blackpool Cup’ Football Tournament Returns This Easter
15 March 2024
Blackpool is once again preparing to welcome 400 youth football teams and over 10,000 attendees during the Easter Weekend as they return for Blackpool Cup tournaments.
The tournaments will bring a major boost to the local economy as well as showcasing Blackpool’s credentials as a family-friendly resort, capable of hosting major International sporting events.
Teams are travelling from seven countries across Europe, including Netherlands, Poland, Ireland and the four home nations together with more than 70 local teams based in Blackpool in which is sure to be an exciting festival of football and fun.
The weekend kicks off with an official opening ceremony at the iconic Blackpool Tower Circus. Matches will be played over at the excellent new facilities on Myerscough College and UCLan Sports Arena.
This year the Blackpool Cup is supporting two local charities, the NHS Blue Skies Hospital Funds and Blackpool Carers along with the Butterfly Tree Charity in Zambia. There will be donation stations set up for people to bring along any old kit and boots, which will be sent out to Zambia after the competitions along with the tournament match balls.
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Blackpool Air Show 2024
8 March 2024
One of the UK’s biggest and best FREE airshows, Blackpool Air Show is scheduled to return for 2024 across the weekend of the 10th and 11th August 2024
Full details of the 2 day festival of all things aircraft, stunts and more flying specials will be announced with the RAF Typhoon display team and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight who are also confirmed for both days of the free event.
The festival also features stalls and ground displays from the likes of the RAF, Blackpool Life Boat and is a real carnival event in the shadow of the Tower.
The best views are from on the Tower Headlands – with the displays mostly taking place over the Irish sea infront of the Blackpool Tower between the Central Pier and North Pier.
If you are unable to make the show, you may be able to watch some of the displays on our live webcam – located on the roof, overlooking the promenade.
Previous Blackpool Air Shows
The history of the Blackpool Air show dates back over 100 years to 1909, when it was first held at Blackpool Airport showcasing some of the first planes ever built. This makes the Blackpool Air Show one of the longest running in the World!
Sadly, the 2020 show was cancelled due to the ongoing pandemic. But our friends at VisitBlackpool and Live Blackpool compiled some videos of previous displays below.
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Blackpool World Fireworks Championships 2024
Returning once again for 2024, the amazing FREE event in Blackpool Promenade near Coral Island is set to light up the skies with 3 dazzling displays during the World Fireworks Championship!
Blackpool Welcomes The Best Pyrotechnic Displays in the World
SAVE THE DATE. This year, the dates are confirmed as:-
- Saturday 7th September 2024 – Heat 1
- Saturday 21st September 2024 – Heat 2
- Saturday 5th October – Heat 3
Usual Timings of the Event
The crowds will start to build from 7.30pm with the first fireworks fired at approximately 8.30pm
Whilst the famous Blackpool illuminations light up the whole of Blackpool Promenade, these amazing fireworks displays which are choreographed to music will light up the skies.
The stunning displays, which are set to music, will take place over the beach in front of The Blackpool Tower and just a stone’s throw away from Coral Island. All of the displays are free to access.
Getting to the Event
Traffic builds early and roads into Blackpool get very busy due to the sheer volume of traffic – Public transport is recommended.
If you are wishing to travel by car, visitors are advised to park n the southern car parks and use the trams to travel directly to the event.
Please remember all displays are subject to weather conditions, things could change at the last minute.
2021 World Fireworks Championships
The winners of the 2021 competition were Germany – with their amazing display captured from our roof online here
The finale was a stunning display by Titanium Pyrotechnics – captured on video from the roof of Viva Blackpool online here
2019 World Fireworks Championships
The winners of the 2019 competition were Ukraine – Dance of Fire and are still reigning champions beating off competition from Estonia and Canada.
To see the winning display, check out the video courtesy of YouTube / Pleasure Beach Thrills
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Lightpool Festival
25 April 2023
The award winning Lightpool Festival returns to Blackpool from the 20th to the 28th October 2023.
Running alongside the World Famous Blackpool Illuminations, this FREE series of events, outdoor activities and special illuminated art installations are staged across a wide range of venues and locations across the town.
The programme features a spectacular mix of extraordinary light installations, live performance and 3D projection shows – not to be missed, across one of the busiest weeks of the year in Blackpool.
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King’s Coronation Celebrations in Blackpool
16 April 2023
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Happy 10th Birthday To VIVA!
5 August 2022
The last couple of years have proven to be an unpredictable bag of emotional highs and lows for all. Yet true to human nature, despite any adversity, we tend to come out at the other end with our heads held high; stronger than ever.
This is also true for Blackpool’s very own entertainment gem: Viva Blackpool.
This year we celebrate 10 fabulous years of establishment as the go-to performance venue of the ‘Vegas of the North West’. We have come far since we opened all that time ago and still continue to wow visitors and locals alike with our unique take on the glitz and glamour of show-bar entertainment.
Taking a stroll down memory lane, we find ourselves in June 2012 where Martin Heywood (Managing Director) and Leye D Johns (Entertainment Director and Resident Host) first held the keys not only to the building, but to the doors of an exciting and ever evolving future. With fire in their bellies and endless ideas ready for fruition, it took them no more than 5 weeks to turn the old Mecca Bingo site into the beautiful Purple Palace of present. The opening night was an astounding success and of course, the rest is history. Now, they look back with pride at how far they have come and how their achievements have exceeded even their own expectations.
Viva have had no issues with producing spectacles of the highest caliber for an entire decade – taking your breath away with mesmerising visuals, vocalist and dancers of superb excellence, hilarious antics from the outrageous yet loveable Leye D Johns and of course stunning costumes; all peppered with an overall compilation of utmost professionalism within our glamorously dressed purple themed setting. It is clear that Viva have never compromised their aspiration for quality no matter what we may have faced.
With a hunger for progression, Viva have never remained the same over their double digit timeline. As we gained admirable popularity both locally and across country, we also became a platform for shows outside of our vicinity. Sharing our stage with visiting shows, we opened our venue to be a place of opportunity for entertainers worldwide. To this day, acts from all around the globe travel to perform at Viva, staying true to the concept of diverse entertainment and catering to all demographics. Viva’s prestige has even extended as far as celebrity performances, the venue seeing a number of reputable entertainers such as Joe Longthorne MBE, Cannon and Ball, Roy Walker, Billy Pierce and even the likes of Tyson Fury.
In true Viva form, we did not stop at prominence. With expansion in mind, the brand continued to grow within the hospitality industry, opening the doors to ‘Viva Vegas Diner and Bar’ in 2017. Focusing on an authentic American style diner experience, within the last few years ‘Viva Vegas Diner’ have established themselves as one of the most popular comfort food and drink destinations in Blackpool. With a fantastic location at hand; situated next to our sister venue, the restaurant looks directly onto the sea front, creating an atmospheric dining experience like no other. A must visit spot of high-end novelty.
Coming up to present day and reopening our doors to the public after lockdown – Viva have come back with full throttle! With a refurbished interior, and a take on an entirely new line-up of productions for the season, the show-bar never fails to surprise with our refreshing approach to keeping our visitors engaged and stimulated; from pre-show dining to post-show entertainment. This season Viva sees its very first West End Musical as one of its resident shows; bringing ‘Boogie Nights’ to the stage, starring none other than the original lead Shane Richie’s son: Shane Nolan. With impressive success so far in regards to what we have to offer this year, it is clear that Viva is a prime example of triumphant risk-taking. No rest for the creative!
We truly see Viva Blackpool as a powerhouse role-model for independent businesses everywhere – with constant nurturing, hard-work and a little bit or dazzle dazzle it seems anything is possible! 10 years of success stories and a name that now holds a solid ground in Blackpool’s entertainment history, Viva will not be going anywhere anytime soon. In fact, we are eager to share with you the surprises that we have in store for you over our next fabulous decade to come. Keep your eyes peeled -10 years may have passed, but we’ve only just begun…
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Queens Jubilee Celebrations in Blackpool
1 May 2022
Blackpool will be celebrating the Queens Jubilee with a wide range of events across the resort in June.
The headline event will be a unique one off ‘Heritage Tram’ parade on the afternoon of Thursday 2nd June – as a fleet of trams will come out of retirement and travel in convoy from Blackpool Pleasure Beach to the North Pier, before being available for the public to take journeys on them North and South on the promenade.
Other Queen’s celebrations will take place on the Blackpool Comedy Carpet, including a giant picnic, a special beacon lighting at three locations across Blackpool (including the iconic Blackpool Tower Ballroom), and a spectacular fireworks display launched from Blackpool Pleasure Beach on the night of Saturday 4th June.
To commence the two bank holidays at the start of the four-day holiday weekend. on Thursday 2nd June a grand parade of heritage trams will take place along the seafront, a giant outdoor picnic and free entertainment on the Comedy Carpet, a light and laser show, and a burst of fireworks at the top of The Blackpool Tower.
Staged in association with Blackpool Transport and the Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID), the parade will see around a dozen trams from the heritage fleet travel in convoy from the Pleasure Beach to Little Bispham, creating one of the largest tram parades the resort has seen.
The convoy, which sets off at 2.30pm, will pause at the Tower Festival Headland opposite the Viva Showrooms and the Viva Vegas Diner for a unique photo opportunity.
Between 3pm and 7pm, people will be able to relax at The Big Comedy Picnic, an al fresco eating out area opposite The Blackpool Tower and the Viva venues, with free live entertainment – including our very own Jersey Beats and Viva cast!
Then, between 9pm and 9.45pm, there will be further entertainment before the resort joins the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Beacons, followed by a light show and a burst of fireworks on The Blackpool Tower.
Although the historic trams were officially “retired” when new European-style trams were brought into service on the seafront route in 2012, a number of them were retained and thanks to an army of volunteers have been brought back into regular use. They now form one of the finest heritage fleets in the world.
Blackpool is one of thousands of locations and landmarks across the UK where beacons will be lit. In true Blackpool style, it will be adding its own unique twist to the ceremony. Beacon lighting has long been associated with celebrating major milestones, including Royal Jubilees, weddings and coronations. Dating all the way back to 1897, beacons were lit to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. Most recently, beacons have been used to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day and Her Majesty’s 90th birthday in 2016.
A spokesperson said: “We are thrilled that Blackpool Transport and the Tourism Business Improvement District are partnering with us to create a unique celebration of this very special royal milestone.
“A parade of heritage trams on this scale is something that has not been seen for many years and it promises to be a spectacular sight. The addition of a burst of fireworks at the top of The Blackpool Tower will create a magnificent finale at the end of the first day of the holiday.”
The parade and beacon lighting ceremony form part of a brilliant programme of events across the resort to celebrate the special royal milestone. These include:
- The lighting of The Blackpool Tower in red, white and blue throughout the four days.
- Jubilee-themed events and live entertainment at Blackpool Pleasure Beach throughout the four-day holiday weekend including late night riding, fireworks and a Jubilee Concert on Saturday 4 June.
- A chance to take afternoon tea in one of Blackpool’s magnificent heritage venues including the magnificent Blackpool Tower Ballroom, the Imperial Hotel, the magnificent Mazzei Café in the Winter Gardens, and the Art Deco Café overlooking the Italian Gardens in the award-winning Stanley Park.
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