Strolling Sideshow Characters

Roll up, roll up, Th’ESPs are back on the streets of Blackpool with our larger-than-life Sideshow Characters, inspired by Blackpool’s rich heritage of entertainment.

Meet this crew of odd-bods and misfits up close and personal. You might bump into Vera, the world’s clumsiest escapologist or Dr Septimus Slither, a snake-oil salesman with a questionable cure for everything. From Lumpi the fire-starting clown to Suria the exiled dancer, they are a charmingly chaotic bunch who love to stop for a chat and showcase their “rare” talents.

Performances take place between 6-7.30pm and last for 20 minutes, so drop in to Abingdon Street Market grab yourself a bite to eat, and enjoy the show!

Part of Blackpool’s February Festival of Circus and Magic, 19-22 February 2026. Funded by Blackpool’s Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID).