Tag: Events

Jayne Mansfield Switches on the Lights

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On 9th September 1959, Hollywood actress Jayne Mansfield had the honour of switching on Blackpool’s world-famous Illuminations. Pictured here at the event, Mansfield stands at the centre, flanked by Ted Hill, the leader of the boilermakers’ union (left), and W.J. Carron, the president of the engineers’ union. Behind them is Morgan Phillips, the secretary of the Socialist party. This glamorous moment was part of the Trades Union Congress celebration, and Mansfield, with her iconic image, was the perfect figure to mark the occasion. Mansfield and her husband went to enjoy themselves at Blackpool’s beach but caused a controversy. A ‘Baby… Read more »

Dame Barbara Windsor in Blackpool

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Dame Barbara Windsor was a beloved figure whose iconic roles spanned decades, making her a household name for generations of viewers. From her unforgettable performances in the Carry On films to her larger-than-life portrayal of Peggy Mitchell, the feisty landlady of the Queen Vic in EastEnders, Barbara captured the hearts of millions with her infectious energy and charm. Born Barbara Ann Deeks in London in 1937, she was the only child of John and Rose Deeks. In 1939, as World War II intensified, Barbara was evacuated to Blackpool for her safety, where she spent several years living in various homes…. Read more »

The First Blackpool BIBA Awards

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The first Blackpool BIBAs (Be Inspired Business Awards) event took place in 2008 at the Tower and brought glitz to the local business community. Former Spandau Ballet front man, Tony Hadley, provided the entertainment to the 600 attendees. The awards took the Lancashire business community by storm and so the BIBAs quickly became the awards business wanted to win. The event returns to the resort in 2024 and is expecting over 1,000 guests to attend the iconic Blackpool Tower Ballroom. Twenty trophies will be up for grabs – plus Lancastrian of the Year – and the BIBAs team have been getting… Read more »

Coastal Radio Local Business Awards

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The inaugural Coastal Radio LBA (Local Business Awards) in 2024 was a resounding success, setting the stage for what promises to become an annual highlight in the region’s business calendar. The event was made possible by the incredible support of Coastal Radio’s headline sponsor, Danbro Business Solutions and Financial Planning, alongside the invaluable contributions of the other 24 category sponsors, all of whom played a vital role in bringing the awards to life. A heartfelt thank you was extended to every sponsor, partner, and supplier involved in the event. Without their commitment and dedication, this celebration of local business excellence… Read more »

The Enterprise Vision Awards

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The Enterprise Vision Awards (EVAs) are one of the most prestigious business awards for women in the UK, celebrating the achievements, talents, and entrepreneurial spirit of women in business across a range of industries. Founded in 2010, the awards aim to inspire and showcase the success of women who have shown exceptional leadership, innovation, and success in their respective fields. The event is particularly significant for highlighting the contributions of women in business and empowering them to continue making strides in a traditionally male-dominated arena. Each year, the Enterprise Vision Awards bring together a diverse range of female entrepreneurs, leaders,… Read more »

Sophie Tucker – From Opera House to Thornton

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Sophie Tucker was born Sonya Kalish on January 13, 1886, in Tulchin, Ukraine, then part of the Russian Empire. Several months after her birth, her family immigrated to the United States and later settled in Hartford, Connecticut. Sophie Tucker, widely known as the “Last of the Red Hot Mamas,” was one of the most iconic entertainers of the early 20th century, renowned for her bold stage presence, powerful contralto voice, and pioneering contributions to vaudeville and popular music. Her career spanned decades, from the early days of vaudeville in New York to Hollywood films, radio, and a celebrated recording career…. Read more »

Stanley Matthews Honoured

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Stanley Matthews was born in Hanley, Stoke on Trent in 1915. His father, a professional boxer known as ‘The Fighting Barber’, instilled a lifelong dedication to training in the young Stan. From the age of six onwards Stanley did deep breathing exercises, chest expanding and skipping, and walked everywhere. In 1948, Stanley Matthews achieved a historic milestone by being named the inaugural English Footballer of the Year, a recognition of his remarkable skill and influence on the field. That same year, he also made his debut in the FA Cup Final for Blackpool FC, marking the beginning of his three… Read more »

Showzam!

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Showzam is a vibrant festival that celebrates Circus, Magic, and Variety, and since its debut in 2008, it has grown into a major highlight of Blackpool’s event calendar. It has been on for several years and stopped prior to the COVID epidemic, but it’s back in February 2025. Each year, the festival becomes more ambitious, offering a diverse range of performances that appeal to all ages. For five days, Blackpool is transformed into ‘Circus Town,’ showcasing the very best in international circus and street performances. Over 25,000 visitors flocked to see performers from eleven different countries taking over the streets,… Read more »

Blackpool’s First Pride Event

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Blackpool’s Pride event, which began in 2006, has since become an annual celebration that continues to grow in both size and significance. The festival includes a lively parade, a rich lineup of live performances, and an eclectic mix of entertainment. A standout feature of the event is Youth Pride, specifically tailored for those under 18, offering a range of activities, stalls, and performances designed for younger audiences. A signature element of the Pride celebrations is the playful use of rainbow wigs, often worn by participants. On 9th June 2018, the town’s Pride event was a dazzling display of colour, as… Read more »

Married Dangling From The Tower

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In 1985, escapologist Karl Bartoni and his bride, Wendy Stokes, created an unforgettable spectacle when they married while suspended high above Blackpool Tower. Surrounded by flowers, the couple was lowered in an open cage, 450 feet above a crowd of 20,000 onlookers below. With a vicar, a choir, and a church organ stationed at the top of the Tower, they exchanged vows while standing on a plank, suspended in mid-air. Sadly, the couple later parted ways, and Bartoni—whose real name was Antoni Peter Bartnik—humorously arranged for his headstone to be made in advance, joking that it would allow him to… Read more »