Blackpool Council shares free and low-cost October half-term family activities - everything you need to know

Blackpool Council has highlighted a range of free and low-cost activities for families to enjoy across the resort during the October half-term holidays, with Halloween events, creative workshops, library sessions and the return of the Lightpool Festival among the attractions on offer.

The programme includes activities for children of different ages, alongside opportunities for families to explore Blackpool’s cultural attractions and take advantage of discounts available to local residents.

Lightpool Festival and Halloween events

The Lightpool Festival will run from 21 to 31 October, bringing light-based art installations, live performances, 3D projection shows and family-friendly activities to Blackpool Town Centre and Tower Festival Headland.

Families can also get into the Halloween spirit with a party hosted by the Friends of Layton Rec on Friday 30 October, starting at 4.30pm. The event is family-friendly, and everyone is welcome.

On Saturday 31 October, children aged five to 11 can head to Central Library for a Halloween stories and craft session from 2pm to 3pm, where they can make their own Peg Monster. The activity is free to attend, with all materials supplied, and children should be accompanied by adults.

Creative workshops and activities at local libraries

Blackpool’s libraries will host a variety of activities throughout the half-term period, offering opportunities for children and young people to explore their creativity.

On Tuesday 27 October, Anchorsholme Library will host Get Green in the Library from 2pm to 3pm. The free story and craft event celebrates Green Libraries Week and is suitable for children aged four to eight, although everyone is welcome. The Green Doctors will also be available to offer advice on making homes more eco-friendly.

On Thursday 29 October, aspiring artists and comic fans can take part in graphic novel drawing workshops led by Mollie Ray, the first-ever Young Comics Laureate.

The first workshop will take place at Palatine Library from 10am to noon, followed by a session at Library@TheGrange from 1pm to 3pm.

Participants will have the opportunity to develop characters, create stories and learn about making their own comics. The workshops welcome beginners and experienced comic book fans alike, but places are limited.

To book, contact Palatine Library on 01253 478050 or Library@TheGrange on 01253 478270.

Meanwhile, Layton Library will host a Barbie Styling session on Friday 30 October, from 10am to 12.30pm. Hosted by Vintagebarbieclare, the activity will allow children aged four to 10 to choose a Barbie or Ken doll, select outfits and accessories, and take photographs if they wish. Places can be booked through the library or by calling 01253 478145.

Free music academy for young people

Young people aged 13 to 17 can take part in the Get It Loud in Libraries Academy at Central Library from 26 to 30 October.

Running daily from 11am to 3.30pm, the free week-long academy will give participants the chance to write and record their own tracks, learn about music production and videography, and explore other creative skills.

A free lunch will also be provided.

Explore Blackpool's attractions for less

Local residents can also benefit from discounts on some of the resort’s best-known attractions.

Blackpool Tourism Limited is offering residents with an FY postcode up to 50% off attractions, including The Blackpool Tower, The Blackpool Tower Dungeon, Sandcastle Waterpark, Madame Tussauds and more.

The offer provides an opportunity for families to enjoy days out across the resort at a reduced cost.

Illuminations and exhibitions continue

Alongside the half-term activities, Blackpool’s major attractions and cultural venues will continue to welcome visitors.

The Blackpool Illuminations will remain on display along the full traditional route from Starr Gate to Red Bank Road until Sunday 3 January 2027. Visitors are advised to check the switch-on times.

At Grundy Art Gallery, the exhibition Linder: The Return of the Linderland by Linder is listed as running until Saturday 3 October, with the gallery open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 4.45pm.

Families can also explore sessions and events at Blackpool’s three Family Hubs, covering the north, central and south areas of the town. Activities take place at various times, with a full timetable and booking information available through the Family Hubs website.

On Wednesday 21 October, Moor Park Library will host the Empire Soldiers VR Experience from 10am to noon. The free, immersive virtual reality storytelling event will highlight the often-overlooked contributions of Caribbean and South Asian troops during the First World War.

Looking ahead to Christmas By The Sea

Looking beyond the half-term holidays, Blackpool will welcome the return of Christmas By The Sea from 20 November to 3 January at Tower Festival Headland.

The venue will be transformed into a festive village featuring an outdoor skating rink, magical snowfalls, log cabins, larger-than-life light installations and festive-themed rides.

With activities ranging from free library workshops and Halloween celebrations to illuminated displays and discounted attractions, Blackpool Council’s programme offers families a variety of ways to enjoy the school holidays and make the most of the resort.

Families are encouraged to check individual event details and booking requirements before attending, particularly where places are limited.