Comedy Stars set to light up Blackpool's seafront in festival's biggest ever spectacular

The Blackpool Comedy Festival was officially launched yesterday ahead of Blackpool becoming the UK’s comedy capital once again as a packed programme returns from 24 May to 1 June 2025, bringing together world-class comedians, immersive outdoor entertainment, and exciting new programming across the resort.

The Comedy Station’s Ryan Gleeson hosted guests including Ruth and Keith of Black Liver and local partners to highlight some of the brilliant performances that will take place during the celebration.

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.

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.

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

Harry Stachini - Grenade - Comedy Station Comedy Club (28th May) 

A masterful storyteller with one of the most amiable and easy-going stage presences on the comedy circuit today, Harry Stachini’s latest show, Grenade, examines honesty.

Showstopper! Winter Gardens Blackpool (29th May)

Spontaneous musical comedy at its absolute finest – direct from the West End.

Fifteen years as an Edinburgh Fringe must-see phenomenon, a BBC Radio 4 series, a critically acclaimed West End run and an Olivier Award to their name, The Showstoppers have delighted audiences across the globe with their ingenious blend of comedy, musical theatre and spontaneity.

A brand new musical comedy is created from scratch at each at each performance of this award-winning show.

Justin Moorhouse (29th May) Comedy Station Comedy Club (29th May)

After a successful and extensively extended tour of his 2022 show Stretch and Think (which you can catch in full on YouTube), he’s back on the road with this new show.

Manford’s Comedy Club – Gala Night at the Opera House (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 by Comedian Hayley Ellis.

Festival Square (31 May & 1 June)
For two days, St John’s Square will transform into an outdoor comedy arena, featuring seasoned street performers from Covent Garden. Expect jaw-dropping stunts, interactive comedy, and world-class entertainment—all for free!

Showstopper! The Improvised Musical (29 May, Opera House)

An Olivier Award-winning, Edinburgh Fringe sensation, this spontaneous musical comedy show is set to dazzle Blackpool audiences.

Paul Zerdin & Friends (29 May, Viva Blackpool)
Britain’s Got Talent winner Paul Zerdin brings his hilarious ventriloquism act to the festival for a one-night-only show.

Justin Moorhouse (29 May, Blackpool Comedy Station)
Get ready for an unforgettable experience as Justin returns with “The Greatest Performance of My Life”.

Frankie Monroe – Old Electric Theatre (30 May, Old Electric Theatre)
BBC New Comedy, and Edinburgh Newcomer Winner Frankie Monroe is in Blackpool for another hour of laughs, tricks and mucky bitter.

A Celebration of Sitcom with Jeffrey Holland (1 June, Showtown)
Join sitcom legend Jeffrey Holland (Hi-De-Hi!) in conversation with Britain’s Comedy Historian Robert Ross for a nostalgic dive into classic British comedy.

Black Livers Game Show Show (1 June, Blackpool Grand Theatre)
Comedy duo Black Liver (AKA Ruth and Keith) present a night of games, songs, stories and silliness about the show town that is Blackpool, using research from Showtown's archive, personal experience and some made up facts.

Rock on Tommy - Remembering Cannon & Ball (1st June) VIVA Blackpool

A Nostalgic Tribute to a Comedy Legacy! A heartfelt evening as we celebrate the legendary comedy duo Cannon & Ball in “Rock On, Tommy!” This special event brings together laughter, memories, and live performances to honuor the timeless humour of Bobby Ball and Tommy Cannon. Featuring The Harper Brothers.

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 are on sale now. Visit bplcomedyfest.co.uk for full programme details and tickets.