'We project Blackpool to the world' - Council leader Lynn Williams on 2026 WDSF DanceSport Festival success
"We are a remarkably welcoming town... Everyone is welcome in Blackpool.”
After the success of the 2026 WDSF DanceSport Festival in Blackpool this March, the global DanceSport community has reaffirmed the sport’s growing international appeal.
Following then event - which attracted hundreds of elite athletes competing in GrandSlam, WDSF Open and International Ranking events - the WDSF Annual General Meeting in Rome in June saw representatives from Blackpool Council met with the WDSF to reflect on the festival’s achievements and future ambitions.
Councillors Lynn Williams and Jo Farrell highlighted Blackpool’s global appeal, the significance of the federation’s IOC-recognised status, and the town’s cultural vision leading to 2029.
‘Blackpool is an inclusive town’
"It is about us being seen at that elite level and demonstrating our capacity to deliver high-profile international events. It brings the world to Blackpool, but it also projects Blackpool to the rest of the world,” said Leader of Blackpool Council Lynn Williams. “Our town's motto is Progress, so we must move with the times.
"Seeing these incredible athletes train and compete at such a high level serves as a powerful inspiration for our residents, proving that the benefits of dance span all generations and backgrounds. Dance is woven into the very DNA of Blackpool; it is central to our entertainment heritage and our working-class culture.”
Councillor Jo Farrell added: "The [2025 and 2026] editions of the WDSF DanceSport Festival have been absolutely brilliant. It is a very exciting journey. This year was the very first festival managed by our new team; they are highly experienced, and it is this ongoing partnership with the WDSF that will help make the festival even bigger and brighter.
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“Blackpool possesses an incredible atmosphere; you can truly feel that people want to dance on that sacred floor. It allows us to offer the global community an unparalleled environment, ensuring that every athlete feels inspired by the prestigious heritage of our town.
"We are a remarkably welcoming town. Everyone is welcome in Blackpool, and we look forward to hosting the global DanceSport family for many years to come."
History, prestige, and City of Culture 2029
Historic Blackpool venues including the Empress Ballroom, Spanish Hall and Blackpool Tower Ballroom continue to play a central role in the event, enhanced by modern judging systems and elite competition formats.
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To support future growth, Blackpool Council and Winter Gardens management are also implementing venue improvements, with planning already underway for the 2027 festival, scheduled for 6–9 May, as Blackpool advances its UK City of Culture 2029 bid.
"Securing the UK City of Culture title for 2029 would be monumental, not just for external perceptions, but for how our own residents view themselves and their town,” said Cllr Williams. “We have a heritage and a future to be proud of.
“First and foremost, thank you WDSF for your support, your friendship, and for loving Blackpool as much as we do. We wish to continue this remarkable relationship. We invite the WDSF community to be our global ambassadors, speaking of Blackpool in a positive light as we regenerate and grow."