South Shore shops turn festive for 'Winter Windowland' on Small Business Saturday
Independent traders in South Shore are teaming up to transform Lytham Road and Waterloo Road into a “Winter Windowland” as part of this year’s Small Business Saturday celebrations.
The national event, taking place on December 6, encourages shoppers to support local, independent businesses during the busy festive season.
In South Shore, dozens of shops have had their windows turned into snowy seasonal scenes by North West artist Paul Crawford, whose intricate stencils have been commissioned to add extra Christmas sparkle.
Alongside the festive makeover, businesses will offer one-day discounts, special deals and treats, ranging from free hot drinks to money off haircuts, gifts and meals.
The event is being supported by Blackpool Council’s business growth team, which provides fully funded advice for new and expanding businesses through its Growth Business Academy and Net Zero Business Academy, funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Entertainment and lights switch-on
A programme of family entertainment will take place on Waterloo Road between 3.30pm and 6pm, with the Christmas lights switch-on at 4.30pm.
Visitors can expect music, dance performances, pop-up stalls, face painting, a brass band, carol singing and even a visit from Santa.
Local café owner Sarah Hallett, from South Shore Pitstop Community Café, said the celebrations are helping to bring businesses together.
“It’s been brilliant to see the improvements happening around South Shore,” she said.
“The fresh planting, cleaner streets and festive shop window scenes have really lifted the whole community’s spirits and encouraged businesses on Waterloo Road to become even more enthusiastic about wanting to work together as a community, which is really positive.”
Also with the December 6 lights switch-on, including face painting, dance performances, pop-up stalls, a brass band, carol singing and Santa’s grotto, we’re excited to welcome even more families to the high street.”
Cllr Mark Smith, Blackpool Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy and the Built Environment, said Small Business Saturday was an important reminder of the value of local independents.
“South Shore is full of brilliant, hardworking business owners,” he said.
“Winter Windowland will not only make the area look festive and welcoming, but also encourage people to pop in, shop local and discover something new.”
Participating shops and offers
A wide range of South Shore businesses will be offering discounts or freebies on the day, including:
- AJ The Barber – 10% off haircuts
- Barnardo’s – Buy one get one free on ladies’ dresses and trousers
- Debbie’s Diner – Free hot chocolate
- Easterleigh – Men’s and women’s items 3 for £5
- Extreme Hair and Beauty – 20% off any service booked for January 2026 (quote “Winter Wonderland”)
- The Gazette – In-store offers, discounts and freebies
- HIS Provision Charity Shop – All adult clothing £1
- Jackie’s Shop – 10% off, or 15% for NHS staff
- King of Candy – 10% off
- Maya’s Meals – 10% off
- Omoto – Free bag of semolina when spending £30
- Premier Carpets and Rugs – 5% off carpets and rugs
- Premier (Main Shop) – Free mince pie and hot drink with every £1 spent
- Premier (Pet Shop) – Free 100g dog treat for visiting dogs
- Shop Floor – 10% off purchases over £5
- Smart Mart – Spin-the-wheel prizes or money off
- Star Mobile – Free screen protector with phone case; 50% off £30 earbuds
- South Shore Pitstop Café – Free tea/coffee with breakfast; free mince pie with hot drink
- Scrivens – £10 private eye test (usually £30); £10 off glasses for NHS sight test recipients
- Trinity Hospice Shop – Buy one get one free, plus extra festive items