Blackpool’s Summer Surge: How Inclusive Events and Resilience Boosted Tourism Amid Tough Times
Despite a challenging backdrop of rising living costs and widespread uncertainty across England, Blackpool defied the odds this summer by drawing record-breaking crowds to its iconic seafront. According to newly released data, visitor numbers to the town’s Promenade rose sharply in June, July, and August last year compared to the same period in 2023, with a remarkable peak of 6.8 million visitors in July.
The Numbers Speak for Themselves
Using Visitor Insights, which tracks footfall data via mobile phones, Blackpool’s Tourism, Economy and Communities Scrutiny Committee revealed that visitor footfall on the Promenade increased by 9% in June, 41% in July, and 24% in August 2024 compared to last year. Even in September, visitor numbers remained strong, with footfall up by 42% year-on-year. This growth stands in stark contrast to national trends, where tourism has taken a hit due to financial pressures on households.

Map showing YOY changes in visits to Blackpool based on Home Zones in the North West: 2024 vs 2023
The Secret to Blackpool’s Success
How has Blackpool managed to thrive when other destinations have struggled? The answer lies in a strategic focus on free, family-friendly events that continue to position the seaside resort as a must-visit destination.
Highlights of the summer included:
- Blackpool Air Show (August 10–11): This two-day spectacle brought approximately 350,000 visitors to the resort.
- World Fireworks Championships: Hosted over three Saturdays in September, the event attracted record crowds, with footfall climbing by 41% compared to 2023.
- The Illuminations Switch-On: A highlight of the season, the switch-on ceremony, featuring Spice Girl Mel B, drew an impressive 60,000 spectators to the Tower Festival Headland.
A Calendar Packed with Attractions
Beyond these flagship events, Blackpool’s broader event calendar also played a vital role in sustaining its visitor numbers. From the Lightpool Festival and Monster Hunt to the ever-popular Christmas by the Sea, the town has continued to innovate with creative, council-led initiatives.
Blackpool’s ability to attract high-profile productions and partnerships also contributed to its success. The BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing returned to Blackpool Tower, and auditions for Britain’s Got Talent were held at the Winter Gardens. Even BBC Radio 2’s Paddy McGuinness made a stop in Blackpool during his impressive 300-mile cycling challenge for Children in Need.
Resilience in the Face of Unrest
The town’s remarkable summer unfolded against a backdrop of significant challenges. Violent protests involving nearly 1,000 people erupted in Blackpool and other towns following misinformation about the suspect in the Southport knife attacks. Despite this, the community rallied to deliver a memorable summer season.
The Role of Data in Driving Success
The use of Visitor Insights has been instrumental in tracking not only footfall but also understanding visitor demographics. This data allows Blackpool Council to identify where visitors are traveling from, informing strategies to sustain and grow its tourism. The data-driven approach has ensured that events align with visitor preferences, maximizing their impact.

Monthly Visits to Blackpool: 2024
A Boost to Local Hospitality
While the report did not include data on overnight stays, anecdotal evidence suggests that events like the Blackpool Cup football competition and dance festivals at the Winter Gardens helped fill hotel rooms.
A Blueprint for Success
Blackpool’s success story highlights the power of community, creativity, and resilience. By focusing on inclusive, accessible events and leveraging data insights to refine its offerings, Blackpool continues to cement its reputation as one of the UK’s top tourist destinations—even in the face of adversity.
As other towns grapple with the challenges of a cost-of-living crisis, Blackpool offers a shining example of how strategic investment in tourism, combined with data-driven decision-making, can spark growth, sustain local economies, and bring communities together.
Read full BBC News article here.
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