Some weekends are bigger than an event. They feel like the true start of a new season. Blackpool is exactly that kind of moment. In January 2026, the international world of Racing Pigeons turns its full attention to England for the legendary BHW Show of the Year. This is not tradition for tradition’s sake. This is commitment to the sport.
The show is organized under the authority of the Royal Pigeon Racing Association and powered by British Homing World. The venue itself is just as iconic as the event: the historic Winter Gardens.
The Essential Dates and Times Every Fancier Must Know
Clarity matters. These are the confirmed details for Blackpool 2026.
Friday January 16 2026
Pigeons basketing until 19:00
Judging starts at 19:30
Saturday January 17 2026
Show open from 09:00 until 17:00
Sunday January 18 2026
Show open from 09:00 until 14:30
Pigeons may only leave the show pens after 14:30
Venue address
Winter Gardens Blackpool
97 Church Street
Blackpool FY1 1HL
England United Kingdom
These are not side notes. These are the details that define a smooth experience for exhibitors and visitors alike.
Why Blackpool Is More Than a Show
Anyone who has walked through the Winter Gardens during the BHW Show of the Year knows the feeling immediately. Energy. Noise. Passion. Conversations everywhere about Racing Pigeons, systems, performances, bloodlines and the future of the sport.
National champions stand next to club fanciers. Experienced veterans exchange ideas with young talent. This is the sport meeting itself face to face. Honest. Open. Driven by respect for the pigeon.
The BHW Show of the Year in Reality
What makes the BHW Show of the Year unique is the complete picture. Top level judging based on knowledge and tradition. Trade stands that matter, where innovation and experience meet. Auctions that attract international attention. And above all, people who understand that Racing Pigeons is about far more than results alone.
Every cage tells a story. Every pigeon represents years of selection, care and vision. This is not a display window. This is dedication made visible.
International Impact That Reaches Far Beyond the UK
What happens in Blackpool never stays in Blackpool. Bloodlines discussed here soon appear in lofts across Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany and beyond. Names that circulate during this weekend often reappear later in race results and auction catalogues.
Blackpool functions as a barometer for the sport. Those who pay attention see trends before they become mainstream.
Trade With Substance and Reputation
The trade stands are serious and focused. No noise. No gimmicks. Products and systems on display are proven in real lofts by real Racing Pigeon fanciers. Decisions made here often shape the entire season ahead.
The auctions connected to the event follow the same philosophy. Quality, reputation and international reach come together naturally. This is commerce without losing the soul of the sport.
January Sets the Direction
January is not a waiting room. January is the foundation. Anyone walking through Blackpool on January 17 and 18 2026 will feel where the sport is heading. Which topics matter. Where opportunities arise. Where discussions are starting.
Blackpool sets the tone for conversations, ambitions and the entire Racing Pigeons season.
The Pigeon Boss Conclusion
If you care about the future of Racing Pigeons, Blackpool belongs on your radar. Not because you have to be there, but because it makes sense.
The BHW Show of the Year 2026, under the banner of the RPRA, shows the sport at its strongest. Community. Knowledge. Passion. And above all, respect for the pigeon.
This is not just a date | From January 16 to January 18 2026, Blackpool is Racing Pigeons at its purest.
Jan de Wijs
The Pigeon Boss
