The Church of England in Lancashire (Blackburn Diocese) is in the final countdown to The Big Day Out in Blackpool. Scheduled for Saturday, May 16, this joy-filled celebration is designed for every age, rooted in faith, community, and thanksgiving. It is part of a series of events marking the Diocese's centenary year in 2026.
People from parishes across the county will gather from 11am to 3:15pm in the heart of Blackpool—in front of St John's Church in St John's Square, with the legendary Blackpool Tower as a backdrop. However, everyone is welcome, regardless of whether they regularly attend church.
This free diocesan celebration will bring together families to enjoy dedicated zones for different ages, live music and comedy, a free hog roast lunch, and a large open-air worship gathering. The event follows a long tradition of Lancashire residents heading to Blackpool for holidays and outings, and in this special centenary year, the Diocese is continuing that tradition with a once-in-a-generation party.
While the afternoon celebration service is open to all without booking, booking is essential for events involving young people earlier in the day and for the lunch. Many have already booked, and spaces remain, but the Family Zone is now full. The Youth Zone still has availability, and lunch bookings are still open. A dedicated page on the Diocesan website provides details and booking links.
During the morning (11am to 1pm), the Family Zone inside Blackpool Church St John's will offer games, crafts, workshops, and stories for pre-school and primary-aged children and their families. The Youth Zone, located at nearby St John's Church of England Primary School, will host teenagers for age-appropriate activities (drop-off and pick-up required). Meanwhile, adults without children can enjoy live music and comedy on the main stage in St John's Square.
From 1pm to 2pm, those who have booked lunch are invited to enjoy a free hog roast (with a vegetarian option). The day culminates in a giant open-air worship celebration from 2pm to 3:15pm, featuring music from the Salvation Army Band and the Blackpool Church worship team, stories of faith from across Lancashire, and a message from Rt Rev. Philip North, Bishop of Blackburn. BSL interpretation and a reserved space for wheelchairs or mobility scooters will be available.
Bishop Philip said: "I'm really looking forward to The Big Day Out. It's going to be a very special day where we come together to celebrate and give thanks for 100 years of God's faithfulness while renewing our shared witness to Jesus Christ in every community we serve. If you've been wondering whether to attend, there is still time to come! Bring others with you, and come expecting joy. We are gathering in Blackpool not just to celebrate the past but to proclaim afresh the hope we have in Jesus. There is a place for everyone in that story—including you!"
A video featuring Bishop Philip encouraging people to head to Blackpool on May 16 has been shared with parishes. Rev. Steve Haskett, director of mission for the Diocese, added: "It's been a real privilege to chair the team putting this day together. The Big Day Out is about making space for people to encounter Jesus Christ, to celebrate what God has done among us over the last 100 years, and to be encouraged for the mission ahead. We've planned it so there's something for everyone, so come along and share in this moment together as one diocesan family."
