Elmer's Big Parade Blackpool
As the first Wild in Art event to come to the Blackpool, Elmer’s Big Parade featured a trail of over 70 Elmer the Patchwork Elephant sculptures, inspired by David McKee’s beloved children’s book character. To bring this unforgettable event to the seaside resort, Wild in Art partnered with Brian House, the only children’s hospice on the Fylde coast.
Each large sculpture had each been uniquely decorated by established and up and coming artists, creating a parade through the town that was enjoyed by visitors and locals from 13 April until 9 June 2024. The sculptures were placed around key landmarks, streets, and open spaces across Blackpool and trail-goers were encouraged to visit as many as possible.
On Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 June, all the sculptures came together for a final farewell event in Blackpool Tower. As well as bringing people to the town and celebrating the diversity of local communities, the event raised much needed funds for Brian House. The auctioning of the large sculptures on 27 June raised £143,550 for the local charity.

What they say…
An incredible £143,550
was raised at a dazzling charity auction of 40 Elmer sculptures. The proceeds will support Brian House Children’s Hospice, the only specialist children’s hospice for the Fylde coast.
was raised at a dazzling charity auction of 40 Elmer sculptures. The proceeds will support Brian House Children’s Hospice, the only specialist children’s hospice for the Fylde coast.
Participating artists
Blackpool Illuminations Team
Natalie Bowker
Rachael and Phillippa Corcutt
Lois Cordelia
Harrie Dearing
Sian Ellis
Ali Elly
Emma Everitt
Rhiannon Fryer
Lucy Hebden
Steve Johnson
Hannah Jayne Lewin
Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen
Marnie Maurri
Lesley McKenzie
Nicola Mills
Fiona Montgomery
MrASingh
Sarah Nash
Helen Naylor
Donna Newman
Jenny Pearce
Jess Perrin
Natalie Ratcliffe
Zoe Ruckledge
Cathy Simpson
Megan Smith-Evans
Tim Sutcliffe
Amy Tomlinson
About Elmer the Patchwork Elephant
Written and illustrated by celebrated children’s author and artist David McKee, the Elmer books have been translated into more than 60 languages and now new books, toys and clothing add to the world of Elmer the Patchwork Elephant.
About Brian House
Brian House is the only specialist children’s hospice for the Fylde coast, offering unique, expert care and support that makes a huge difference to the most seriously ill and vulnerable children in the community.
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