Christmas is a wonderful time to visit Blackpool with children, with sparkling lights, Santa experiences, festive shows and family attractions bringing plenty of seasonal fun to the seaside. Whether you're planning a special weekend, looking for affordable activities or organising days out during the December school holidays, there are lots of Christmas events in Blackpool for kids to enjoy in 2026. From indoor adventures at Jungle World Park Blackpool and the Christmas by the Sea festival to festive theatre performances and character meet-and-greets, here are 12 family-friendly activities to help you plan a memorable Christmas in Blackpool.

12 Best Christmas Events in Blackpool for Kids 2026

1. Enjoy Christmas Holiday Fun at Jungle World Park Blackpool

If you're looking for an indoor family outing when the winter weather turns cold or rainy, Jungle World Park Blackpool is a lovely place to start.

Located inside Houndshill Shopping Centre on Victoria Street, the indoor play centre welcomes children aged 0–12 and provides play spaces for younger and older visitors.

Children can enjoy:

• A large jungle-themed indoor slide
• Multi-level climbing frames
• A dedicated toddler soft play area
• Trampolines and a mini zipline
• Interactive play equipment
• A Tropical Tiki Café for refreshments

The centre also offers different sessions for children of different ages, including Jungle Monsters for younger children and Jungle Rebels during weekends and school holidays.

Jungle World Park's published FAQs mention Christmas play activities, festive crafts and character entertainment. The Blackpool venue has not yet published a dated Christmas 2026 programme on its current events page, so families should check for announcements before planning around a special festive event.

Best for: Toddlers, children aged 0–12, rainy days and families with younger and older siblings.

Planning tip: Check the Jungle World Blackpool play sessions and latest events before visiting. Children need socks in the play areas, and advance booking is recommended during school holidays.

2. Visit Christmas by the Sea at Blackpool Tower Festival Headland

Location: Tower Festival Headland, Blackpool Promenade

Christmas by the Sea is one of Blackpool's main festive attractions, bringing seasonal entertainment to the seafront near Blackpool Tower.

The festival transforms the headland into a Christmas village filled with colourful lights, decorations, festive food and family attractions.

Children can wander through the Christmas surroundings, watch artificial snowfalls and enjoy the illuminated displays.

Selected fairground rides and seasonal stalls add more activities for families who want to spend a few hours by the sea.

2026 dates: 20 November 2026 to 3 January 2027, excluding Christmas Day.

Best for: Families with children of different ages, festive photographs and Christmas evenings.

Planning tip: Entry to the festive village is free, but rides, food and other purchases may cost extra. Wrap up warmly because the event takes place outdoors.

3. Try Free Christmas Ice Skating by the Sea

Location: Tower Festival Headland

For children who want something more active, the Christmas by the Sea festival includes a free-to-use outdoor skating rink.

The rink sits within the festive village, surrounded by Christmas decorations, lights and seasonal entertainment.

Children who are new to skating can practise their balance with adult support, while more confident skaters can enjoy moving around the rink.

You can combine a skating session with a walk around the village or a warm drink afterwards.

2026 availability: During the Christmas by the Sea season, subject to the rink's operating arrangements.

Best for: School-age children, teenagers and families interested in winter activities.

Planning tip: Check the skating rules, available equipment, suitable ages and whether queues or timed entry arrangements apply. Younger children should use the rink only when they meet the operator's requirements.

4. See the Blackpool Illuminations at Christmas

Location: Blackpool Promenade

Blackpool Illuminations are not limited to the autumn season. In 2026, the lights continue throughout December and into the New Year.

Families can enjoy colourful displays, illuminated characters and decorative features along the Promenade.

Younger children may enjoy spotting familiar shapes and colours, while older children can take photographs of their favourite displays.

Turn the visit into a simple family game by asking children to find stars, animals and different coloured lights.

You don't need to walk the entire route to enjoy the experience. Choose a comfortable section near the town centre or another suitable viewing point.

2026–27 dates: 4 September 2026 to 3 January 2027.

Best for: Free family entertainment, Christmas evenings and children of different ages.

Planning tip: The Illuminations are free to view. Allow extra time for traffic, parking and crowds, especially during weekends and the Christmas holidays.

5. Meet Father Christmas at Pleasure Beach Resort

Location: Ocean Boulevard, Blackpool

Meeting Father Christmas is a favourite festive tradition for many young children.

Pleasure Beach Resort is offering a Christmas Grotto experience in 2026, where children can enjoy an interactive visit guided by elves.

The experience includes activities such as decorating a bauble, collecting reindeer food and meeting Father Christmas.

Children also receive a gift, with an Alice in Wonderland ride included in the advertised experience.

This is a lovely choice for families who want a structured Santa visit with more than a simple photograph.

2026 dates: 21 November to 24 December.

Best for: Younger children, Santa experiences and festive family outings.

Planning tip: Tickets are advertised from £19.99 per child, including two accompanying adults. Check the exact date, ticket inclusions and available time slots before booking.

6. Meet Santa at SEA LIFE Blackpool

Location: Blackpool Promenade

SEA LIFE Blackpool is offering a festive grotto experience that combines a Santa visit with an opportunity to discover marine animals.

Children can visit the aquarium, see colourful fish and other underwater creatures, then meet Father Christmas and his elves in the decorated grotto.

Each child who books the full Santa experience receives a gift to take home.

The combination of an aquarium visit and seasonal entertainment can make an enjoyable family outing, especially when the weather is poor.

2026 dates: Selected dates from 5 to 24 December.

Best for: Animal-loving children, toddlers and families seeking indoor Christmas activities.

Planning tip: The Santa upgrade is advertised at £8.50 per child in addition to valid aquarium admission. A separate Santa-only ticket option is also available. Book ahead, as the grotto has limited spaces.

7. Join Stick Man's Christmas Dance Party at The Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse

Location: Blackpool Promenade

Families with younger children can enjoy a storybook-inspired Christmas celebration at The Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse.

The attraction is hosting festive activities featuring Stick Man, the popular character from Julia Donaldson's children's story.

Children can enjoy a Christmas dance party, listen to familiar festive music and meet Stick Man.

The Clubhouse also features imaginative play areas based on popular children's books, with climbing equipment and spaces designed for younger visitors.

For children who already love these stories, recognising the characters can make the visit even more enjoyable.

Advertised festive dates: 21 November to 4 January.

Best for: Toddlers, preschoolers and children under 10.

Planning tip: The Stick Man Christmas activities are included with standard Clubhouse admission. Online booking is required, so choose your preferred entry time before travelling.

8. Watch Jack and the Beanstalk at Blackpool Grand Theatre

Location: Church Street, Blackpool

A Christmas pantomime is a lovely family tradition, especially for children who enjoy colourful characters, music and storytelling.

Blackpool Grand Theatre is staging Jack and the Beanstalk for Christmas 2026.

The production brings the familiar fairy tale to the stage with comedy, songs, colourful costumes and audience participation.

Children can follow Jack's adventure, join in with traditional pantomime responses and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Older children may appreciate the jokes and story, while younger children can enjoy the music and stage effects.

2026–27 dates: 4 December 2026 to 3 January 2027, with performances on selected dates.

Best for: Primary-school children, family theatre trips and festive indoor entertainment.

Planning tip: Check show duration, seating, performance times and any accessible or relaxed performances before booking. Loud sounds and stage lighting may not suit every child.

9. Enjoy Snowtots: Christmas Special at Showtown Blackpool

Location: Bank Hey Street, Blackpool

For families with babies and toddlers, Showtown Blackpool is hosting a gentle Christmas activity session.

Snowtots: Christmas Special combines seasonal sensory play with festive music and movement.

The advertised activities include pretend snow, Christmas-themed sensory experiences and a dance party for young children.

This is a useful option for parents who want a short, age-appropriate activity rather than a full-day outing.

The session also provides an opportunity for little ones to discover different textures, sounds and seasonal decorations.

2026 date: Thursday 3 December, with sessions from 10am–11am and 11am–12pm.

Best for: Babies and children aged 0–4.

Planning tip: Admission is free, but booking is required. The venue states that tickets become available on 12 November 2026.

10. Experience Scrooge Cirque Extravaganza at Winter Gardens Blackpool

Location: Opera House, Winter Gardens

Families looking for something different from a traditional pantomime can enjoy Scrooge Cirque Extravaganza at Winter Gardens Blackpool.

This Christmas production combines the story of Ebenezer Scrooge with circus acts, music, comedy and colourful stage performances.

The show features aerial performers, acrobatic entertainment and characters inspired by Charles Dickens' Christmas story.

It can be a good choice for families with older children who enjoy live performances and visual entertainment.

2026 dates: 10–13 December.

Best for: School-age children, teenagers and family theatre outings.

Planning tip: Tickets are advertised from £21.50. Check performance times, seating and accessibility information before booking.

11. Enjoy Dear Santa Live at Viva Blackpool

Location: Church Street, Blackpool

Younger children who enjoy Christmas stories may like Dear Santa Live at Viva Blackpool.

The performance brings a familiar festive theme to the stage, with a story centred around Father Christmas and the excitement of the season.

It's an indoor outing for families who want a seated Christmas activity rather than active games.

Children can enjoy watching the performers and following the story, while parents can arrange suitable refreshments at the venue.

2026 date: Sunday 6 December, with the show starting at 2pm.

Best for: Younger children, families who enjoy live storytelling and daytime Christmas entertainment.

Planning tip: Check the running time and ticket arrangements before booking. The venue advises that buggy parking space is limited.

12. Sing Along at the Grand Christmas Concert

Location: Blackpool Grand Theatre

For families who enjoy Christmas music, the Grand Christmas Concert offers another festive evening out.

The 2026 concert features the Poulton-le-Fylde Brass Band performing familiar Christmas songs and seasonal music.

Children can listen to the instruments, hear festive favourites and enjoy an evening at the theatre with parents or grandparents.

This activity may appeal to slightly older children who can sit comfortably through a musical performance.

2026 date: Monday 14 December, starting at 7pm.

Best for: Music-loving children, older primary-school pupils and mixed-generation family outings.

Planning tip: Tickets start from £18, excluding any collection or delivery fees. The theatre also advertises family ticket options, so compare prices before booking.

Christmas Events in Blackpool 2026: Dates at a Glance

All dates refer to the 2026 Christmas season, continuing into January 2027 where shown. Special event programmes and ticket availability may change.

Which Christmas Events in Blackpool Are Best for Different Ages?

Choosing the right Christmas event depends on your children's ages, interests and comfort with crowds or loud music.

These are suggestions rather than fixed age rules.

Some children love lively seasonal events, while others prefer quieter activities. Check each attraction's age guidance, accessibility information and sensory arrangements before booking.

Free and Affordable Christmas Events in Blackpool for Kids

Christmas family outings can become expensive when you're booking several attractions, so mixing free experiences with paid activities can help keep spending manageable.

Some affordable choices include:

• Blackpool Illuminations: Free to view along the Promenade.
• Christmas by the Sea: Free general entry to the village, with charges for selected rides and refreshments.
• Christmas skating rink: Advertised as free to use, subject to the operator's rules.
• Showtown Snowtots: Free admission for the Christmas Special, but advance booking is needed.
• Town centre Christmas lights: Enjoy a simple walk looking at decorations and shop windows.
• Homemade Christmas activities: Make festive cards, decorate biscuits or organise a family treasure hunt at home.

Paid attractions can still be worthwhile when they suit your children's interests and your family budget.

Compare admission costs, adult tickets, travel, parking and optional activities before deciding what to book.

Best Indoor Christmas Activities in Blackpool for Rainy Days

December weather in Blackpool can be wet, windy and cold, making indoor options useful for families with young children.

Jungle World Park Blackpool provides soft play and active entertainment without depending on good weather.

SEA LIFE Blackpool offers an aquarium experience and selected Santa visits, while The Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse combines indoor play with familiar characters.

For quieter outings, Showtown's Christmas activities and suitable theatre performances give families alternatives to outdoor events.

You can also read our guide to toddler activities in Blackpool during December for more indoor family ideas.

How to Plan a Family Christmas Day Out in Blackpool

A little preparation can make your festive outing easier, particularly during busy December weekends.

1. Check Your Children's School Holiday Dates

Lancashire County Council's 2026–27 calendar lists Friday 18 December as the end of the autumn term, with the spring term starting on Monday 4 January 2027.

Some Blackpool schools and academies may follow different arrangements, so check your child's individual school calendar.

2. Separate Santa Events from New Year Activities

Many Santa grottos finish on Christmas Eve.

Other attractions, including Christmas by the Sea, the Illuminations and selected theatre performances, continue into January.

If you're planning an outing between Boxing Day and New Year's Day, check which events are still running before booking.

3. Book Popular Christmas Events Early

Santa experiences, theatre tickets and special children's sessions may have limited availability.

Choose your preferred dates and check the official booking information before making travel arrangements.

For Jungle World Park, booking a suitable session ahead of time can help avoid disappointment during school holidays.

4. Plan Around the Weather

For outdoor events, bring warm layers, waterproof clothing and comfortable footwear.

Choose an indoor activity as a backup if the forecast includes strong winds or heavy rain.

If you're travelling with toddlers, avoid scheduling too many attractions on the same day.

5. Consider Sensory and Accessibility Needs

Some Christmas events involve bright lights, crowds and loud music.

Look for quieter sessions, relaxed performances or calmer spaces where available.

Jungle World Blackpool offers ASD and disability-friendly sessions with lights on, music off and a quieter play environment at advertised times.

Sample One-Day Christmas Family Itinerary in Blackpool

If you're visiting Blackpool for a day, combining one booked activity with a few flexible attractions can make the outing easier.

This is a sample plan, not a confirmed timetable. Actual session times, attraction opening hours and daylight conditions may differ.

If you're visiting with younger children, consider skipping one of the afternoon activities to allow more time for meals, rest and travel.

Christmas Family Safety Tips

A few practical steps can help keep children comfortable during festive outings.

• Dress for winter weather: Bring coats, gloves, hats and waterproof footwear for outdoor events.
• Check activity restrictions: Follow the age, height and supervision rules for skating, soft play and fairground rides.
• Take care around roads: Keep children close when walking near the Promenade, crossings and busy car parks.
• Choose safe decorations: Avoid small loose pieces and accessible button batteries around toddlers.
• Allow time for breaks: Busy festive events can be tiring, especially for younger children.
• Follow venue guidance: Check rules for food, clothing, footwear and child supervision before your visit.

If your child is sensitive to noise or crowds, consider daytime activities or quieter sessions rather than a busy evening programme.

Plan a Christmas Family Outing at Jungle World Park Blackpool

For families in Blackpool, Fleetwood, Lytham St Annes and surrounding areas, Jungle World Park Blackpool offers indoor play throughout the year.

Its Houndshill Shopping Centre location makes it convenient to combine a play session with Christmas shopping or other central Blackpool attractions.

The centre provides a dedicated toddler area, larger play equipment and a café, making it suitable for families seeking active play during the colder months.

If you're organising a separate children's celebration during December, the venue also offers Jungle World Blackpool party packages.

For more local activities, read our guide to family days out in Blackpool.

Final Thoughts

Christmas in Blackpool offers plenty of ways for families to enjoy the festive season together.

From Jungle World Park's indoor play activities and colourful Christmas lights to Santa experiences, festive theatre and winter attractions, these Christmas events in Blackpool for kids offer choices for different ages, interests and budgets.

You don't need to book every attraction or plan a busy schedule. Choose a few experiences that suit your children, check event dates and leave time to enjoy the atmosphere.

With a mixture of indoor entertainment, free attractions and special Christmas events, families can enjoy Blackpool throughout the festive season.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best Christmas events in Blackpool for kids in 2026?

Christmas by the Sea, Blackpool Illuminations, Santa at SEA LIFE, the Pleasure Beach Christmas Grotto and Jack and the Beanstalk are good options. Families can also visit Jungle World Park Blackpool for indoor play. Choose activities according to your children's ages and interests.

2. Are there free Christmas events in Blackpool for children?

Yes. Blackpool Illuminations are free to view, and Christmas by the Sea offers free general entry and a free skating rink. Showtown's Snowtots Christmas Special also advertises free admission with advance booking. Parking, refreshments and selected attractions may cost extra.

3. Where can toddlers go for Christmas activities in Blackpool?

Toddlers may enjoy Jungle World Park's dedicated soft play area, Showtown's Snowtots Christmas Special and the Stick Man activities at The Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse. Short visits to Christmas by the Sea can also be enjoyable with warm clothing and suitable supervision.

4. Is Jungle World Park Blackpool open during Christmas 2026?

Jungle World Park Blackpool normally operates during school holidays and offers indoor play sessions for children aged 0–12. Christmas-specific opening changes and festive event dates should be confirmed on its official website before visiting. Advance booking is recommended for popular sessions.

5. When do Christmas events in Blackpool finish in 2026?

Dates vary by attraction. Many Santa experiences finish on 24 December, while Blackpool Illuminations and Christmas by the Sea continue until 3 January 2027. Some festive theatre and character experiences also run into January. Check individual event schedules before travelling.