Huge Stanley Park centenary weekend edges closer as more plans revealed
Many events are taking place
A packed programme of activities is being put together for a bumper weekend celebrating the centenary of Blackpool’s Stanley Park.
The two-day event in October will including dazzling spectacles, feats of skill and the involvement of all parts of Blackpool’s community.
The celebrations are making 100 years since the Grade II-listed park, which covers 390 acres and was designed and built under the eye of eminent garden designer Thomas Mawson, was officially opened on October 2 1926 by the 17th Earl of Derby.
Since that time, the park has been at the centre of many activities in the town , be it sport events, fun in the play area, classic car shows, live concerts at the bandstand, boating on the lake, tackling the upgraded BMX track or the skate park, enjoying an ice cream or having drinks or hot food in the Art Deco cafe.
To mark the centenary, a massive investment of £500,000 has been made from Blackpool Council’s municipal funds, alongside £50,000 raised by the Friends of Stanley Park group.
Projects include renovations at the park, including the restoration of the iconic Cocker Memorial Clock Tower, restoration work on the Italian marble fountain and its decorative seahorse statues in the Italian Gardens, and a special plant makeover for the historic Floral Clock.
Now attention is turning to the special two-day centenary celebration which will be the culmination of the milestone.
WHAT IS HAPPENING?
The two-day event is being planned for Friday October 2 and Saturday October 3 and while some activities have been announced, most are being kept under wraps as the event moves nearer.
Friday, October 2: The official milestone anniversary day kicks off the celebrations.
Saturday, October 3: A vibrant daytime festival atmosphere across the park featuring artisan market stalls, family fairground rides, interactive activity sessions, and all-ages live entertainment.
Saturday Evening: A spectacular, high-tech drone light show by Celestial (the group behind the park’s Britain’s Got Talent display) illuminating the night sky as a visual tribute to the landmark
There is also going to be a huge skating competition making use of the park, organised by Blackpool’s community arts group, House of Wingz.
This event, called Lord of the Wingz, will a host of dazzling skaters displaying remarkable skills.
There will also be free skating tuition sessions, teaching youngsters and even adults some of the core skills.
House of Wingz will also be putting on music and dancing displays on the day.
Sam Bell-Docherty, co-founder and artistic director at House of Wingz, said: “I’m Blackpool born and bred and when I was growing up, a lot of things centred around Stanley Park.
“We even had our school sports days there. I’m so proud that House of Wingz is involved in these celebrations.”
Councillor Jane Hugo, Deputy Leader of Blackpool Council (Place) and Cabinet Member for Climate Change, said: “For 100 years, Stanley Park has been a place where memories are made.
“This centenary year is about celebrating its past, enjoying everything it offers today and investing in its future so people of all ages can continue to enjoy this remarkable, award-winning green space.”
“The drone show, artisan market, family fairground rides and entertainment will help make this a memorable celebration, and we look forward to welcoming residents, families and visitors to be part of this special milestone.”