Stars coming to the Winter Garden's Olympia in 2026 after major investment
Blackpool’s iconic Olympia venue is set to shine in 2026 with major live music dates including punk legends, indie favourites and high‑energy rock acts as the venue reasserts itself as a premier live destination.
A reimagined Olympia
The Olympia Exhibition Hall at the Winter Gardens has emerged as one of Blackpool’s most distinctive large‑scale indoor venues, offering around 2,600 sqm of space for standing concerts, club nights and bold cultural programming.
Its raw industrial look, expansive layout and loading access make it ideal for headline acts and festival‑style shows that can harness both ambience and scale.
Kick-off with punk at the Rebellion run up
Before the main festival arrives in August, the Rebellion Run Up ushers in a fortnight of punk celebration.
On Tuesday 4 August, legendary new wave icon Adam Ant leads a show with The Undertones and Altered Images in what promises to be a standout night.
The following night, Wednesday 5 August, ska legend Neville Staple of The Specials headlines with Arthur Kay & The Originals and modern act Death Of Guitar Pop, bringing 2‑Tone rhythms to Olympia ahead of the four‑day Rebellion Festival (6–9 August), the world’s largest independent punk and alternative gathering.
Indie icons and rock anthems hit Blackpool
Later in August, crowds can catch The Fratellis live at Olympia on 21 August - the Glasgow indie trio known for hits like Chelsea Dagger will play with support from The Twang and The Lilacs.
The following week, Friday 28 August brings British rock band The Enemy to Winter Gardens, offering fans a rousing night of riffs and energy.
A summer of music
With its flexible space and growing reputation, Olympia is fast becoming a go‑to stop for headline‑level shows outside the traditional theatre format.