Key Points
- The Balmoral pub in Bolton hosted its annual "Christmas in July" celebration on July 26, 2025.
- Danny Loynd, manager of The Balmoral, spearheaded the event, building on a tradition he started at his previous venue, The Griffin.
- The event has grown in popularity, with expectations for 2025 to be the "most thrilling and enjoyable yet," according to Loynd as reported by Liam Milton of Yahoo News UK.
- Attendees enjoyed live entertainment, two complimentary buffets, festive cocktails, and a raffle with numerous prizes.
- The charity beneficiary for the 2025 event had not been chosen as of the latest reports, but last year’s event supported Fortalice, a domestic abuse charity in Bolton.
- The Balmoral recently underwent a £90,000 refurbishment, reopening in January with major improvements to interior and exterior spaces.
- Owned by Stonegate, the largest pub chain in the UK, The Balmoral is one of Bolton's most affordable pubs, with budget-friendly prices.
A time-honoured summer tradition brought early festive cheer to the heart of Bolton this weekend, as The Balmoral pub welcomed locals for its much-anticipated "Christmas in July" party. Live entertainment, tasty treats, charity fundraising, and a festive atmosphere marked yet another milestone for this community-driven event, now in its third year at the Bradshawgate venue.
What Is the 'Christmas in July' Event Hosted by The Balmoral Pub?
As first reported by Liam Milton of Yahoo News UK, The Balmoral pub, located on Bradshawgate in central Bolton, once again transformed itself into a mid-year winter wonderland with its annual Christmas-themed summer bash. The tradition, initiated by manager Danny Loynd during his tenure at The Griffin, has continued to gather momentum, attracting increasing crowds each year.
In an interview with Yahoo News UK, Danny Loynd stated:
“We do it every year because it allows everyone to enjoy a Christmas celebration. It’s getting busier and busier, year after year, so I believe this year’s will be the most thrilling and enjoyable yet. We have live entertainment planned throughout the day and a complimentary buffet—actually, we have two free buffets! One will be at 4 PM and the other at 8 PM.”
Why Celebrate Christmas in July?
The idea behind the July celebration is to foster community spirit and ensure that the fun of Christmas is not limited to December. As Loynd shared with Yahoo News UK, the popularity of the event at his former establishment led him to recreate it at The Balmoral. The summer timing also offers an opportunity for families, friends, and regulars to come together without the pressures of the traditional holiday season.
What Activities and Amenities Were Offered During the Event?
According to the Yahoo News UK report by Liam Milton, this year’s festivities featured:
- Live entertainment scheduled throughout the day.
- Two free buffets served at 4 PM and 8 PM to ensure all guests were satisfied.
- Ongoing efforts by the staff to conceptualise unique festive cocktails fitting the Christmas theme in the middle of summer.
- A charity raffle with “numerous prizes,” aiming to boost community participation and goodwill.
Which Charities Have Benefited from The Balmoral’s Christmas in July Event?
Last year, the pub’s chosen charity was Fortalice, a local organisation supporting victims of domestic abuse. Danny Loynd, in his interview with Yahoo News UK, noted that while a charity was still to be finalised for the 2025 event, giving back to the Bolton community remained a central purpose of their summer celebration.
How Has The Balmoral Evolved Recently?
As highlighted by Liam Milton of Yahoo News UK, The Balmoral recently underwent a significant £90,000 refurbishment, with the pub reopening in January after a three-week closure for major renovations. The improvements covered both indoor and outdoor areas, positioning the venue as a revitalised hub for community gatherings and leisure activities.
What Reputation Does The Balmoral Hold in Bolton?
Noted in a report by Yahoo News UK and corroborated by local coverage, The Balmoral is not only famous for its unique summer celebrations but also its affordability. The Bolton News previously reported that a pint of John Smith’s was priced at just £2.15, making it among the most budget-friendly pubs in town. Owned by Stonegate, the UK’s largest pub chain, The Balmoral continues to cement its status as a mainstay in Bolton’s social landscape.
Why Is The Balmoral’s Christmas in July So Popular?
Speaking to Yahoo News UK, Loynd reiterated the growing excitement around the event, stating: “It’s getting busier and busier, year after year, so I believe this year’s will be the most thrilling and enjoyable yet.” The event’s success owes much to its ability to bring people together for a unique summer experience, with all the hallmarks of a traditional Christmas: great food, entertainment, community spirit, and charitable giving.
What Was the Community Response?
Feedback from locals, cited by Yahoo News UK, has consistently highlighted the value of the “Christmas in July” event in providing a bright spot in the town’s summer calendar. Many appreciate the opportunity to enjoy the festive vibes twice a year, with several thanks aimed at Loynd and the Balmoral’s staff for their continuous efforts to uplift and unite the community.
What Makes The Balmoral’s Event Unique Compared to Other Pubs?
As featured in Yahoo News UK and evident in local discussions, The Balmoral distinguishes itself as
“the only pub that does Christmas in July”
in Bolton. Its blend of genuine community engagement, affordability, and creative programming has secured its place as a trailblazer in Bolton’s pub culture. As The Balmoral looks forward to future editions of the event, its reputation as the town’s most festive and community-minded pub is only set to grow.