Blackpool’s seafront New Year’s Eve firework display will be going ahead, VisitBlackpool has confirmed this week.
The free family-friendly event will be taking place at 5pm on New Year’s Eve at the Christmas By The Sea village on the Tower Festival Headland.
The fireworks will be launched from the beach in front of Blackpool Tower, and come as part of the town’s massive programme of festive entertainment, which also includes a giant free-to-use ice-skating rink, a Winter Village complete with market stalls, funfair rides and entertainment, and the world-famous Blackpool Illuminations.
VisitBlackpool
A VisitBlackpool spokesperson said they felt it was safe to go ahead as the display is aimed at families rather than those ‘pouring out of pubs’ at midnight.
They added: “It’s the perfect way for families to come out and celebrate the start of a new year in one of the country’s most iconic outdoor settings.”
Manchester City Council made the decision just days before Christmas, citing current government guidance and the use of vaccine passports for large outdoor events, something they said would prove ‘extremely challenging’ to manage due to the public nature of the event.
Mike Peel / Wikimedia Commons
Manchester councillor Pat Karney said it is a ‘massive disappointment’ to cancel celebrations for a second year running, saying in a statement: “We know that many people will be upset about this.
“It was a difficult decision to make but with the new Covid variant spreading quickly – and government regulations around large events – we have to put the health of our residents first.
“For those who want to indulge in festive fun, get down to the Winter Gardens and enjoy the stalls that are open until January 2nd.
“But think about your own safety and of those around you. It’s not too late to get your vaccine and booster to protect yourself from serious illness.”