30/4/24
The Llandudno Victorian Extravaganza is one of Wales' biggest free family events, held every May Day bank holiday weekend from Saturday to Monday. Mostyn Street and the town centre fill with vintage fairground rides, steam engines, stalls and a daily parade. The Esplanade on Llandudno promenade is a short walk from it all.
Once a year, Llandudno steps back into the 19th century. Thousands of visitors and locals dress up in Victorian costume, and the town's wide Victorian streets become the setting for a weekend of rides, music and parades. Here's what to expect, how the Extravaganza began, and where to stay.
What's on at the Victorian Extravaganza
The town centre becomes a pedestrianised fairground of original Victorian gallopers, swing boats, craft stalls, food vendors and traditional games. Street entertainment runs throughout the day, from comedy magicians and circus workshops to fire-eaters and balloon artists.
Each day there's a grand parade, with traction engines, vintage vehicles, marching bands and costumed characters winding through the streets. There's also a Best Victorian Dress Competition on the main stage, with categories for ladies, gentlemen, children and families. You don't have to dress up to enjoy it, but plenty of people do.
Other events often run alongside the Extravaganza over the same weekend, such as the Llandudno Transport Festival, a celebration of vintage vehicles and transport heritage. Check the official programme to see what's on this year.
The history of the Llandudno Victorian Extravaganza
The first Llandudno Victorian Extravaganza was held in 1986, founded by members of Llandudno Town Council. It was created to celebrate the town's Victorian heritage and to bring visitors to Llandudno over the May bank holiday. It was an instant success, and it's been a fixture of the town's calendar ever since.
Why Llandudno is a Victorian seaside resort
Llandudno grew into a fashionable resort after the railway arrived in 1858, bringing holidaymakers from Liverpool and Manchester for the sea air and bathing. The town's layout still shows its Victorian planning, with wide streets, a sweeping promenade and one of the finest Victorian piers in Britain.
The Esplanade is part of that story. The hotel was created in the 1920s by combining five Victorian townhouses on the promenade.
Where to stay for the Victorian Extravaganza
The Extravaganza weekend is one of the busiest of the year in Llandudno, so book early. The Esplanade sits on Llandudno promenade, a few minutes' walk from the festival, so there's no driving or parking to worry about once you've arrived. There's a small free car park at the rear for guests (first come, first served).
Refurbished by the Morgans family since 2020, the hotel has rooms with sea views, and The Goat restaurant and bar is on site for breakfast, lunch or dinner between the parades. Check availability or book a table at The Goat.
Quick answers
When is the Llandudno Victorian Extravaganza?
Every May Day bank holiday weekend, from Saturday to Monday.
What time is the Victorian Extravaganza parade?
There's a parade every day of the festival. Check the official programme for this year's times.
Is the Victorian Extravaganza free?
Yes, it's free to attend.
When did the Victorian Extravaganza start?
The first Llandudno Victorian Extravaganza was held in 1986.
Where should I stay for the Victorian Extravaganza?
Book early, because it's one of Llandudno's busiest weekends. The Esplanade on the promenade has free parking at the rear, so you can leave the car and walk to the festival.
.jpeg)
