Best Christmas markets and attractions near Blackpool
No festive season would be complete without a visit to a traditional Christmas market. Whether you’re looking for unique gifts, seasonal treats, or a glass of gluhwein, such festive attractions are a major draw over the holidays.
Blackpool and its surroundings provide plenty of Yuletide charm within easy reach of our Cala Gran Holiday Park. The park is open to seasonal visitors from 13 December, so we’ve selected half a dozen Christmas Fairs and events near Blackpool to explore.
Pop on some Christmas carols and check out our rundown of the best Blackpool Christmas Fairs and Christmas Markets.
1. Christmas by the Sea
7 miles from Cala Gran
Where: Tower Festival Headland, Promenade, Blackpool FY1 1AP
When: late November until 7 January
Some might say Blackpool, with its world-class illuminations, is always Christmassy, but it truly shines during the festive season.
From simulated snowfalls to a free skating rink, special light installations, and a snow ride for the kids, there’s a lot to celebrate in how Blackpool does Christmas. You’ll find the traditional Alpine chalet stalls here too, selling everything from tree decorations to hand-made candles and tasty treats.
As its name suggests, you’ll find it right by the beach!
2. Blackpool Pantomimes
7-8.5 miles from Cala Gran
Where: The Grand Theatre, Church St, Blackpool FY1 1HT
The Globe Pleasure Beach, Ocean Boulevard, Blackpool FY4 1EZ
When: late November until New Year
Nothing says Christmas like a traditional pantomime! As an entertainment hotspot right on your doorstop, Blackpool has two rival shows on offer in the 2024 festive season.
The Globe Pleasure Beach is performing Aladdin between 23 November and Christmas Eve, while The Grand Theatre is putting on Cinderella 6 December - 5 January. Both venues offer matinees and evening shows, so there are plenty of chances to catch the fun.
Blackpool’s entertainment is legendary, and it boasts numerous restaurants and pubs, so why not make a night of it?
3. Preston Christmas Market
20 miles from Cala Gran
Where: Market Square, Preston PR1 2PP
When: late November until mid-December
Situated in the square in front of the columned Harris Museum, Preston’s Christmas Market is pretty, lively, and surprising. Expect dozens of Swiss chalet tyle stalls, a carousel and Ferris wheel, and Santa’s grotto.
The Guild Hall shows Christmas movies, and there are concerts and seasonal talks. More will be revealed as the season approaches, but rest assured, there will be plenty to see and do!
4. Lancaster on Ice
23 miles from Cala Gran
Where: Dalton Square, Lancaster LA1 1PN
When: late November until New Year
Once of Lancashire’s biggest festive events, the huge ice rink in Dalton Square forms the centrepiece for this celebrated market with its Ferris wheel, Victorian carousel, and rows of festive stalls.
With plenty of places to eat and drink, this event offers lots of activities, and a seasonal tipple or two while watching the skaters circle the square’s statue. Last year, both Santa and the Grinch dropped by – will they make an appearance in 2024?
5. Hoghton Tower Farmers Market
30 miles from Cala Gran
Where: Hoghton Tower, Preston PR5 0SH
When: 15 December
There’s a celebrated monthly farmers market at this fortified 16th-century manor house, which is still owned by the de Hoghton family.
Although the official Christmas Gift Market takes place in early December, this mid-December event will provide plenty of opportunities to pick up seasonal treats and Christmas items.
Turn up early to enjoy a wander through the grounds and Instagrammable views of this archetypal civil war fort.
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