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Blackpool is set to light up with laughter this May!

We're back, bigger and better!

Blackpool is set to become the UK’s comedy capital once again as the Blackpool Comedy Festival returns from 24 May to 1 June 2025, bringing together world-class comedians, immersive outdoor entertainment, and exciting new programming across the resort.

From headline theatre shows to street performances and interactive family-friendly events, the Blackpool Comedy Festival promises something for everyone.

Whether you’re catching a big-name act, stumbling upon a roaming street performer, or taking part in a comedy workshop, the festival aims to bring laughter to every corner of the resort.

Developed in collaboration with Manford’s Comedy Club, and supported by Blackpool Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID), the 2025 festival is a true partnership between the town’s venues, artists, and creatives.

Winter Gardens Blackpool, Showtown, Comedy Station, and Manford’s Comedy Club serve as the festival’s lead partners, delivering a diverse programme that combines headline comedy shows, street performances, workshops, and family-friendly events.

A Festival of Two Halves: South Shore & Town Centre Takeover

This year’s festival will take on a fresh approach, with a South Shore Comedy Takeover from 24–25 May, followed by a full-scale programme of events across Blackpool town centre from 29 May to 1 June.

The South Shore initiative will highlight local businesses and attractions, bringing comedy to unique and unconventional spaces.

As the festival moves into the town centre, iconic venues such as Winter Gardens Blackpool, Comedy Station, Viva Blackpool, Showtown, and The Grand Theatre will host a packed schedule of stand-up shows, improv performances, interactive events, and workshops.

Festival Highlights include Manford's Comedy Club, Gala Night at the Opera House on 31 May.
The festival’s flagship event sees Russell Howard, Maisie Adam, and Emmanuel Sonubi take to the stage for a night of unmissable stand-up, hosted Comedian Hayley Ellis

The Blackpool Comedy Festival for 2025 is set to be a festival for everyone!

Festival organisers have worked closely with partners to create an event that not only entertains but also supports local businesses, community engagement, and the town’s growing reputation as a cultural hub.

Tickets for selected events are on sale now.

For a full line-up, dates and venues, visit: Blackpool Comedy Festival (bplcomedyfest.co.uk)

What's on 29th May - 1st June

Open Up the Mic

Thu 29 May 2025, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Roll up, roll up... all under 18 year olds and tell us your favourite jokes! Become a comedian on Showtown’s pop-up stage during the Blackpool Comedy Festival.

Games through the ages

Fri 30 May 2025, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Help Showtown’s Youth Academy complete a variety of fun games from across time.

Games through the ages

Fri 30 May 2025, 1:00pm - 2:00pm

Help Showtown’s Youth Academy complete a variety of fun games from across time.

Character Comedy Masterclass with Gareth Joyner

Sat 31 May 2025, 11:00am - 12:00pm

A masterclass in realising your very own character comedy creations with comedian and art-school dropout Gareth Joyner.

The First Rule of Comedy with Jeffrey Holland

Sun 01 June 2025, 11:00am - 12:00pm

SitCom legend Jeffrey Holland, best-loved as holiday camp comic Spike Dixon in Hi-De-Hi!, will be in conversation with Britain’s Comedy Historian Robert Ross.