Word Fest was launched in 2022 to establish a major literary event in Blackpool, celebrating books, storytelling and the spoken word while further enhancing the resort’s growing cultural programme. Created by Blackpool Entertainment Company in collaboration with Elaine Silverwood of Book, Bean & Ice Cream, the festival was conceived to bring nationally recognised authors, broadcasters and public figures to the town, encouraging people of all ages to discover the enjoyment of reading, writing and live discussion.
The inaugural Word Fest took place from 7 to 10 October 2022 at the Winter Gardens Blackpool, transforming one of the town’s most historic entertainment venues into a meeting place for readers, writers and book lovers from across the country. Over four days, visitors enjoyed author interviews, book signings, panel discussions and live events covering subjects including fiction, history, politics, comedy, sport and television. Children’s activities and family events also formed an important part of the programme, helping to inspire a new generation of readers.
Among the festival’s headline guests was Paul O’Grady, who discussed his children’s series Eddie Albert and the Amazing Animal Gang, including The Curse of the Smugglers’ Treasure. Sir Lenny Henry reflected on his life and career through his memoir Rising to the Surface while also introducing readers to his children’s books The Boy With Wings and The Book of Legends. Television presenter and author Anton Du Beke appeared to promote his wartime novel The Ballroom Blitz, giving audiences an early look at the latest instalment in his popular series.
The programme also welcomed acclaimed author Sir Michael Morpurgo with War Horse Live in Concert, alongside bestselling novelist Milly Johnson, military historian Saul David and broadcaster Scott Mitchell. Politics featured through a live recording of The Rest Is Politics with Rory Stewart and Alastair Campbell, while Blackpool’s sporting heritage was represented by a live recording of the Seasiders Podcast featuring former Blackpool F.C. striker Gary Taylor-Fletcher. Across the festival, visitors had the opportunity to meet many of the speakers in person through book signings and question-and-answer sessions.
Since its inception, Word Fest has become an established part of Blackpool’s cultural calendar. Alongside events such as the Blackpool Dance Festival, Rebellion Festival and the world-famous Blackpool Illuminations, it demonstrates the town’s continuing ability to attract high-profile names from literature, broadcasting, politics, sport and the performing arts. By bringing nationally recognised voices to one of Blackpool’s most iconic venues, Word Fest continues to strengthen the town’s reputation as a destination where creativity, ideas and storytelling are celebrated throughout the year.
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