Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone Brings Festive Cheer to Over 1,200 Local People This Winter
In December, Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone opened its doors to welcome families from across the borough for a much-loved Christmas Family Fun Day, bringing festive cheer to more than 1,500 young people and adults.
The day began with a special invite-only morning with Santa, where over 100 people were welcomed to enjoy breakfast with Santa. Families were invited as part of the Youth Zone’s ongoing work to support those facing financial or personal hardship, particularly families who may not otherwise be able to afford presents or Christmas activities. Young people met Santa, received gifts and enjoyed a memorable start to the festive season.
Leon Crosby, CEO of Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone, said:
“For some, this is the most festive time of the year, but for others it can be the most difficult. The festive season brings added pressures – from buying presents and affording food throughout the holidays, to worrying about electricity bills just to stay warm. We see our role as vital all year round, but especially at this time, being there for young people and families who need us most. We remain open throughout Christmas and New Year, and our team consistently goes above and beyond to support our community during this period.”
Later in the day, the Youth Zone opened its doors for the wider Christmas Family Fun Day, offering a range of activities for the whole family. From Santa’s grotto and bouncy castles to a reindeer simulator, families enjoyed festive experiences across the building.
This year’s event also welcomed SUEZ, who joined Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone with a Pop-Up Reuse Shop, offering families free, fun and sustainable items. The initiative promoted reuse and sustainability while ensuring young people could take home something special to enjoy.
IMO Charity supported the event on the day, helping to ensure families who needed it most were able to take part and benefit from the activities on offer.
Umar Mulla, Youth Work Manager at IMO Charity, said:
“At IMO Charity, we believe every young person deserves spaces that inspire confidence, joy and connection. Our partnership with the Youth Zone at the Family Fun Day is a great example of what happens when organisations unite around a shared mission — ensuring the festive period is enjoyable and fulfilling for all, regardless of their circumstances.”
One parent who attended said:
“This event really helped our family. Christmas has been hard this year, and this gave our children something to look forward to. Seeing them happy and excited meant so much to us. We’re so grateful for everything the Youth Zone does.”
The Christmas Family Fun Day is just one of the many ways Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone continues to support young people and families during the winter period, providing a safe, warm and welcoming space for the community when support is needed most.