Every year in Blackpool, the world’s largest magicians’ convention takes place. Around 5,000 magicians attend what is known as the BMC, the Blackpool Magicians Conference.
For anyone who enjoys magic, this is the ultimate weekend. From 2026, it becomes a four day annual event filled with gala shows, satellite shows, lectures, and a huge dealers’ hall. Many visitors attend just for the dealers, with every major magic retailer represented and some flying in especially for the occasion.
I usually go every other year, having attended in 2023 and 2025, and I plan to return again next year. While admission is reasonable for what you get, attending annually can become expensive once you factor in spending money, transport, and accommodation. I normally buy a weekend Gold Pass, which gives access to all events and gala shows. BMC is always a packed and busy few days that can be tiring, but it is also a chance to enjoy our hobby and catch up with the many friends I have made in the industry. Many attendees travel from all over the world.
Planning what to see is fairly straightforward thanks to the official BMC app, which lists dealers and provides schedules for shows and lectures. While clashes can still happen, I have usually been able to plan everything I want to see without too much difficulty. In recent years, the convention has helped by running many events twice, and the app has made it easier to organise logistics in advance with calendar entries and reminders.
For me, a big part of the experience is the social side. Even though I travel and stay on my own, I know many magicians and industry friends. The House of Secrets magic bar nearby is a great place to meet people, and many magicians also gather at The Ruskin pub and hotel. It is often seen as the unofficial meeting place outside the main BMC events.
I tend to stay at the same hotel each time, just a few minutes’ walk from the venue. On my first visit, like many others, I lived off the local chippy and Greggs. Last year I chose to eat more at the hotel to add a bit of variety.
If you want to plan additional activities beyond the convention itself, Blackpool usually has plenty going on. Places such as House of Secrets, Showtown Museum, and The Evolution of Magic show at the Horseshoe Show Bar often run during February to coincide with BMC.
One of the biggest highlights each year is the evening BMC gala shows. These are always fantastic showcases featuring some of the best magical performers and talent from around the world, many of whom you would not otherwise get the chance to see in the UK. John Archer is hosting the gala show this year, and he is always hilarious. I have seen him perform a few times and he never disappoints.
When the gala shows are on, a couple of satellite shows also run at the same time, so a bit of careful planning is needed to decide what to attend.
As magic is my main hobby, I also collect signed items, including playing cards, and try to grab selfies with performers. BMC never disappoints on that front.
Lecture wise, the days are packed with choices, featuring some of the biggest names in magic sharing their knowledge.
The event is held at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool, a huge venue with plenty of space for lectures, theatre shows, dealers, and more. During the conference, it becomes a thriving hub for the magic community. There are also bars throughout the venue, making it easy to take a break or wind down between events.
If you already have your tickets, you are probably counting down the days. If you are still on the fence or hearing about BMC for the first time, tickets are still available.
Here is a gallery of some of my favourite moments from past BMC weekends and many of the magicians I have met along the way.
Enjoy BMC 2026 if you are attending.
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