
Free Family Fun at Blackburn Market this May Half-Term!
Keep the kids entertained over the May Half-Term holidays with lots of fun, free family activities at Blackburn Market!
From immersive theatrical performances to creative art workshops, there’s something to spark the imagination of every child.
Here’s what you’ve got to look forward to at Blackburn Market…
Wednesday, 28 May 2025: Alice Rowbottom Paper Cup Puppets

Come and make your very own paper cup puppet. Design, craft and build your very own puppet in this family-friendly workshop.
You can construct your puppet character to take home using paper cups, wooden sticks, and assorted bits and bobs.
This is a free drop-in workshop between 11 am and 3 pm.
Friday, 30 May 2025: Scratch Built Theatre Big Doodle Drop In

Join us for a FREE, hilarious art session where you’ll draw a life model fully clothed (thankfully!) in the silliest of outfits. Plus, we’ll have a comedy critic on hand to give you constructive feedback on your creations! Whether you’re a seasoned Picasso or a doodling newbie, all are welcome. Take your masterpiece home or display it for all to see.
It’s a great event for all ages to get creative and have fun.
This is a free performance/workshop which happens 4 times in the day at 11 am, 12 pm, 1 pm and 2 pm..
Saturday, 31 May 2025 Lempen Theatre Penny and the far-thing

What’s in Ilaria’s suitcase? Will Darren the Fisherman see the Wish Fish again? And should you accept a frying pan from a stranger? Plus lots of other stories with Ilaria the storyteller.
This performance will happen at 11am, 12pm, 1pm & 2pm at Blackburn Market.
The show lasts for 30 minutes and is suitable for ages 3+
BwD Programme at a glance
May Half Term | Saturday, 24 May 2025 | Blackburn Town Centre | ||
Wednesday, 28 May 2025 | Blackburn Market | Alice Rowbottom | Paper Cup Puppets | |
Wednesday, 28 May 2025 | Darwen Market | Lempen Theatre | Performance | |
Friday, 30 May 2025 | Darwen Market | Alice Rowbottom | Paper Cup Puppets | |
Friday, 30 May 2025 | Blackburn Market | Scratch Built Theatre | Big Doodle Drop In | |
Saturday, 31 May 2025 | Blackburn Town Centre | Rubbish Shakespeare Company | ||
Saturday, 31 May 2025 | Darwen Market | Scratch Built Theatre | Big Doodle Drop In | |
Saturday, 31 May 2025 | Blackburn Market | Lempen Theatre | Performance |
Enjoy Blackburn Market
Blackburn Market boasts a wide range of stalls, from homeware to nail salons, cafes to cards and gifts. The food hall area is always bustling, with shoppers enjoying a bite to eat from our fantastic array of authentic food stalls.
Why not have a browse before or after your free event? Take a look at our stalls before your visit.
Click Here to Download the Discover Blackburn this Half Term Events & Activity Guide
