Christmas by the Sea returns to Blackpool

The festival launches on Friday evening and runs until 5 January

Blackpool's Tower Festival Headland is set to be transformed into a winter wonderland again this year as the resort's annual Christmas by the Sea festival returns.

The popular event launches on Friday, a day before the BBC show Strictly Come Dancing returns for its yearly trip to the Tower Ballroom.

When is Christmas by the Sea?

The grand opening at Tower Festival Headland starts at 17:00 GMT on Friday, with rumours that Strictly participants may pop over for an appearance.

Local performers will also stage a routine from the Christmas ice show, which launches at Pleasure Beach Resort in December.

The annual festival will then open daily between noon and 21:00 GMT until 5 January – apart from Christmas Day.

Blackpool’s Illuminations will also remain switched on along the seafront during the same period.

What’s included?

The festival features its “biggest” village yet, according to local officials.

The Christmas village will see simulated snowfalls every half an hour on the Comedy Carpet and the outdoor skating rink is set to return.

Visitors can also enjoy festive tram rides, light shows and fairground rides, while cabins will sell food, drink and gifts.

One of Europe’s tallest swing rides - the 196ft tall Star Flyer – will also return to the resort.

Local officials say the events brought record visitor numbers to the seafront during the winter months.

The festival has been set up by Blackpool Council, Blackpool Transport and Triangle Attractions.

Is it free?

Christmas by the Sea is a free attraction, though some elements do require tickets or have to be paid for.

The synthetic 20m (66ft) outdoor skating rink returns to the promenade this year and is free to use and includes free skate hire.

No advanced booking is required and there is a designated changing facility, skate aids and disability aids available.

Some of the festive fairground rides, including the Star Flyer are priced individually.

For the festive tram tours, you will need to book a ticket.

Adults cost £5 and children are £2.50 each with the tours running at 17:00, 17:45, 18:30, 19:15 and 20:00 GMT every Friday and Saturday evening in December.

Parking for four hours at many Blackpool Council car parks in the area will cost £2.