Lytham 1940s Weekend 2026: Dates, Attractions, Parking & Where to Stay
Your Complete Locals Guide
If you've never experienced the Lytham 1940s Weekend, 2026 is the perfect year to discover why it's one of Lancashire's most popular summer events.
Returning on Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th August 2026, this much-loved annual celebration transforms Lytham into a living snapshot of wartime Britain. Vintage military vehicles line the streets, swing music fills the air, and thousands of visitors arrive dressed in authentic 1940s fashion to celebrate an unforgettable era.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, a lover of vintage culture, or simply looking for a fantastic summer weekend on the Fylde Coast, here's everything you need to know – including why staying overnight in nearby Lytham St Annes makes the experience even better.
The whole town turns back the clock to commemorate an unforgettable era.
What is the Lytham’s 1940s Weekend?
Now in its fifteenth year, the Lytham 1940s Weekend has become one of the UK's most popular wartime-themed events. Across two days, Lytham Green and the town centre itself come alive with live entertainment, classic vehicles, military displays, vintage traders, dancing, music and plenty of family-friendly activities. The event is completely free to attend during the daytime, making it a fantastic value weekend for families, couples and groups of friends.
Taking place primarily on Lytham Green, the weekend offers a lively programme of entertainment from morning through to evening.
Visitors can enjoy:
Free live entertainment from 10am to 5pm & a licensed forties bar in the main marquee
Tribute wartime performances from ‘Winston Churchill’
A plethora of historic military and civilian vehicle exhibits
Vehicle parade through Lytham town centre at 1:00pm on Saturday & Sunday.
1940s singing, dancing, wartime reenactments and live music including resident DJ around Clifton Square
Swing dancing, including dance demonstrations - join even if you have two left feet!
The streets of the town adorned with nostalgic memorabilia such as bunting, sandbags giving a real vintage appeal
Vintage traders and memorabilia stalls
Evening entertainment and themed events throughout the town
Highlights Not to Miss
The Entertainment Marquee
One of the biggest attractions is the main entertainment marquee on Lytham Green, featuring a packed programme of wartime music, singers and tribute acts throughout both days.
Visitors can enjoy performances inspired by the golden age of British entertainment, from wartime singalongs to Winston Churchill recreations and classic George Formby favourites.
Vintage Vehicles & Military Displays
Every year, military vehicles, jeeps, trucks and wartime equipment attract huge crowds. The displays offer a fascinating glimpse into Britain's wartime history and provide fantastic photo opportunities.
Dancing in the Streets
One of the most memorable sights of the weekend is seeing hundreds of visitors dancing in period dress throughout the town. Clifton Square becomes a hub of swing dancing, while additional dancing and music can often be found around the seafront.
Dress the Part
While dressing up isn't essential, many visitors embrace the spirit of the event with vintage clothing, military uniforms, tea dresses and wartime-inspired outfits. Even a simple floral dress, braces or flat cap helps you feel part of the atmosphere.
Why Stay in St. Annes?
The best way to experience the Lytham 1940s Weekend is to make a weekend of it.
Located just a short 10-minute drive from the event, our hotel offers the perfect base for exploring everything the event has to offer while enjoying a comfortable and relaxing stay away from the busiest crowds. Because the event attracts thousands of visitors, parking near Lytham Green can become extremely busy, especially during peak times. Arriving early is strongly recommended.
For many visitors, the easiest option is to stay locally and avoid the stress of travelling home after a full day of activities.
Benefits of staying nearby include:
Avoid Traffic and Parking Stress
Instead of setting an early alarm and competing for parking spaces, enjoy a relaxed breakfast at The Glendower before heading to the event. You can hop on the 7 or 68 bus, or even the train and forget the worries of finding a parking spot.
Enjoy the Evening Entertainment
Many visitors leave before the evening events begin. Staying locally means you can enjoy the full weekend experience without worrying about a late drive home.
Explore More of the Fylde Coast
While you're here, take time to visit:
St Annes Beach and Pier
Ashton Gardens
Fairhaven Lake
Lowther Pavilion and Gardens
One of our Many Championship Golf Courses
Book The Glendower Hotel Early for August 2026
The Lytham 1940s Weekend is one of the busiest weekends of the summer on the Fylde Coast, with accommodation filling quickly as the event approaches.
The Glendower boasts:
61 bedrooms
Seafront location with spectacular views
Extensive free parking on a first come first serve basis
Dog-friendly rooms
Coast Brasserie & Bar
Just a 10-minute drive to Lytham Green
If you're planning to attend, booking your room early is the best way to secure your preferred dates and enjoy a stress-free weekend of wartime nostalgia, live entertainment and seaside charm.
We look forward to welcoming you to Lytham St Annes for one of Lancashire's most unique and enjoyable events.