Enjoy a parade down the Prom to celebrate 250 years of circus fun

The resort is one of six UK ‘Cities of Circus’ this year, marking the 250th anniversary of the world’s first circus opening its doors.

A 250-strong parade of schoolchildren, floats, street performers and acts from the Blackpool Tower Circus will take to the Prom on Thursday.

The circus cavalcade starts at noon and will wind its way up the sea front from Central Pier to the Comedy Carpet, where you can expect to see some very special performances, all presented by ex-Radio Wave presenter Hayley Kay.

Everyone can don complementary Mooky the Clown masks and get involved in the parade itself, or come to enjoy the fun on the waterfront in the shadow of the Tower.

The event is one of a series being staged this month as part of national Circus 250 celebrations.

The activities kicked off with a talk on the long and illustrious history of the Blackpool Tower Circus by Professor Vanessa Toulmin, historical advisor to Circus 250 and chairman in Early Film and Popular Entertainment at the University of Sheffield.

The Blackpool Tower Circus first opened its doors in 1894, and over the years it has welcomed some of the most remarkable and exciting acts in the world. Since 1992, it has been managed by the renowned Endresz

family.

Kenny Mew, general manager of the Blackpool Tower, said: “We’re very proud to have been named one of the UK’s Cities of Circus for 2018, and also of our wonderful performers who put on a fantastic show for visitors of all ages.

“These events celebrate both the Blackpool Tower Circus, whose history of spectacular showmanship stretches back over 120 years, and of the unique circus art-form itself.

“We welcome everyone to help us wish circus a very happy 250th birthday –

and raise money for a great charitable cause in to

the bargain.”