We’re renowned for our quality music and arts events here at The Continental - in our dedicated event space: THE BOATYARD.
Some are ticketed, while others are free to enter. Take a look at the listings and follow the links to buy tickets.
‘THIS TOWN’ ACOUSTIC TOUR
Coming off the back of a US tour supporting Benson Boone, and a legendary Jools Holland debut, BROOKE COMBE’s debut album “Dancing On The Edge Of The World” is a lush collage of orchestral beauty, irresistible rhythm, and a voice that could have come directly off of a 1965 Motown record. The Scottish artist is bringing a new edge to Northern Soul.
FIRST THURSDAY OF EVERY MONTH!
Whether you sing, play guitar, or do stand-up or spoken word, come along and take to the stage at the friendliest and best Open Mic Night in town, with hosts Typhaine & Colin. Or simply come along and sample some of the finest under-the-radar talent Preston has to offer!
For over five decades, CLIMAX BLUES BAND has stood as a cornerstone of British music, crafting an unmistakable sound that blends deep-rooted tradition with progressive musicianship.
Their international breakthrough Couldn't Get It Right, featuring the distinctive voice of Colin Cooper, soared to #3 on the US Billboard charts and remains a radio staple today. Albums like FM Live and Gold Plated cemented their reputation for both artistic integrity and commercial success.
MENACE were one of the original wave of punk bands to explode out of the London scene in the summer of '77. They epitomised everything about that incredible year. they played all the main punk gigs like the Roxy, Hope & Anchor and Vortex, as well as Rock Against Racism festivals, building up a large following. They were - and still are - pure punk!
ANOTHER FANTASTIC FREE ENTRY SHOW IN THE SNUG
Join us in the Snug as we celebrate the legendary artistry of Bob Dylan. Preston’s own Matt Joe Hall (County Pilots) will be performing an intimate set of Dylan’s most iconic songs.
This isn’t a tribute act — it’s a heartfelt homage to one of the world’s most influential and prolific songwriters. Expect all the favourites you know and love. A night for the true Dylan fans.
Fully endorsed by the band themselves, LAID are the UK's no.1 tribute to Manchester legends, JAMES.
LAID have hit the tribute scene with lightning pace, receiving high praise everywhere they play.
Playing all the hits including “Sit Down”, “She’s a Star”, “Tomorrow”, “Come Home” and “Laid” they are destined for great things!
Yes, THE Sad Café!
Regarded as one of the best live bands in the 80s they will be performing all the fan favourites including Everyday Hurts, My Oh My, Strange Little Girl and US hit La Di Da along with many others from the band’s immense back catalogue.
DON’T MISS THE CHANCE TO CATCH THIS CLASSIC ACT HERE AT THE CONTI!
After releasing their third LP, ‘What Kind Of World?’, on the legendary Acid Jazz label in August 2025, NEW STREET ADVENTURE will hit the road again in early 2026 to spread the word of their new soul vision!
‘What Kind Of World?’ Is a commentary on fatherhood, family and fears of what the future holds, soundtracked beautifully by an eclectic production encompassing singer and songwriter Nick Corbin’s obsession with soul music. Introspective yet uplifting, this is New Street Adventure’s most ambitious album to date.
Plus support from THE HONEY DROPS
A celebration of House Music in the Conti Snug, hosted by Cottam.
Free entry - 7pm-midnight
ANOTHER FANTASTIC FREE ENTRY GIG IN THE SNUG
Re/Groove—Classic Tracks. Fresh Funk.
Re/Groove are a powerhouse trio bringing a fresh funk twist to the songs you love. From Fleetwood Mac and The Police to Deep Purple, Talking Heads, and Kate Bush, they transform timeless tracks into vibrant, groove-driven performances that get the crowd moving.
Re/Groove don’t just cover classics—expect high energy, serious grooves, and a full on funk experience.
You Gotta Roll With It and get yourself down to The Continental to catch the awesome Indie & Britpop Tribute Band -THE CASSETTES!
Playing absolute bangers from the 90s Britpop Era from bands like; Oasis, Blur, Stone Roses, The Smiths, Shed Seven and many more. They'll even sneak into the current century covering the likes of Arctic Monkeys and the Courteeners.
A heavy hitting, energetic band promise a night not to be missed!
THE FREDDIE & QUEEN EXPERIENCE are the UK's Premier Queen & Freddie Mercury Tribute Band who are internationally & critically acclaimed.
The band performs all over the world with sell out shows in the UK & abroad, with most recently in UAE & Europe. They deliver a passionate & energy packed show just full of QUEEN's greatest hits!
ANOTHER GREAT SUNDAY AFTERNOON BIG BAND EVENT AT THE CONTINENTAL
JAZZ STATS BIG BAND is a vibrant ensemble based in the North West area, dedicated to delivering the very best in big band jazz.
Their repertoire spans both classic and contemporary jazz pieces from legends like Buddy Rich, Maynard Fergusson, Stan Kenton, Ted Heath, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, as well as modern greats such as Gordon Goodwin and NYJO and local composers such as Frank Griffith.
The Laughienda brings another huge night of comedy to Preston, featuring DANNY SUTCLIFFE and Sarah Millican tour support SALLY-ANNE HAYWARD!
Also featuring ALEX STRINGER and support from AMIR BUX
“Guaranteed laughs” - The Guardian
“One of the best nights out" - The Manc
ANOTHER FANTASTIC FREE ENTRY SHOW IN THE SNUG
A Nashville-style writers’ round showcasing the stories behind the songs. Connor Banks hosts an intimate evening of original music, joined by Gary Quinn, Jackson Ward and Kassidy Kiernan.
Each artist will take turns sharing songs, swapping stories and performing in a stripped-back acoustic setting that puts the songwriting front and centre. Expect honest lyrics, raw performances and a warm, communal atmosphere where every song has a story to tell.
THE GUNS N ROSES EXPERIENCE is the UK’s premier tribute band dedicated to bringing the electrifying energy of Guns N' Roses to life.
With stunningly authentic vocals that echo Axl Rose’s iconic sound and killer guitar tones reminiscent of Slash, this tribute band transports you straight to the heart of rock's golden age.
Join us for a night of explosive, unforgettable music!
Get ready for a night filled with incredible films from around the world, hosted by Lancashire legend John 'Gilly' Gillmore.
Come and walk the red carpet with us at our screening and awards night. We'll be screening eight award winning short films, across a range of genres - from comedy, to horror, and a short film produced by Lancashire Filmmakers.
"Watch their ascension continue" Classic Rock Magazine
BRAVE RIVAL are a rock band on a mission. No gimmicks, no frills—just raw, high-energy, riff-driven rock that demands to be heard.
Since forming in 2019, the Portsmouth-based quartet—vocalist Lindsey Bonnick, guitarist Ed ‘the Shred’ Clarke, bassist Billy Dedman, and drummer Donna Peters—have built a reputation as one of the UK’s most electrifying live acts. Their debut album Life’s Machine (2022) put them on the map, catching the attention of critics, fans, and even Joe Bonamassa, who called them one of his “favourite discoveries.”
OPAL OCEAN is an Australian acoustic duo redefining what two guitars can do. Blending elements of flamenco, rock, and progressive music, Alex Champ and Nadav Tabak craft a sound that’s both technically impressive and deeply expressive.
Whether in the studio or on stage, Opal Ocean delivers an immersive experience—rhythmic, melodic, and full of energy. With new music in the works and a growing global presence, Alex and Nadav continue to push the boundaries of acoustic sound while staying true to their roots.
Eric, as the original guitarist and founding member of THIN LIZZY, continues to be a major influence in the world of rock and blues. In recognition of his contribution to music, he was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the NI Music Awards in November 2024. Thin Lizzy was also recently voted the greatest Irish rock band of all time, further cementing their legendary status.
Eric has been touring extensively, completing three UK tours last year. This year, Eric has also taken to the stage in Dublin and across Ireland for the sold-out play Moonlight, celebrating the life of his former bandmate and friend, Phil Lynott.
ANOTHER FANTASTIC FREE ENTRY SHOW IN THE SNUG
For this St Patrick’s Day Special at the Continental, we’re very excited to be celebrating Ireland and its music with NICK SPENCER.
From songs that tell stories of heartbreak and overcoming adversity through to popular singalong pubs classics, Nick will be covering a diverse range of Irish songs to celebrate the day.
In 1982, Bruce Springsteen released “Nebraska”, a collection of acoustic home recorded demos upon which he’d captured the nature of the songs precisely. Recording sessions with members of The E Street Band had failed to enhance the songs, and upon release, Bruce moved instead into recording a sizeable number of further songs with the band for Born In The USA, the album that made him into a bona fide superstar.
Bruce Springsteen never toured ‘Nebraska’.
But what if he had?
Using only the songs, themes, and instrumentation that Springsteen had written and was using at the time, THE NEBRASKA TOUR TRIBUTE puts together as accurate a representation as you can get, of the show that never was.
“Absolutely brilliant chaps!” David Coverdale
The UK's ultimate tribute to Whitesnake, featuring some of the UK's finest musicians.
With numerous festival appearances & sold out shows at venues including O2 Academy's Newcastle, Sheffield & Islington, The Globe Cardiff, Chepstow Castell Roc Festival, Wannasee Festival, Rock The Park Festival Wrexham, Tribfest, amongst many others as well as hosting the annual & extremely successful Deep Purple Family Tree Show.
“Absolutely loved them. Really good tribute band....and I don''t like many” Steve Bebee (Kerrang! / Planet Rock)
From Don’t Go Into the Cellar! Theatre
An original one-man performance featuring an audience with the infamous Demon Barber of Fleet Street himself, Sweeney Todd!
The classic penny dreadful tale is performed with gusto and swagger by Jonathan Goodwin in a show directed by Gary Archer.
HE’S BACK!
GRAEME PARK: Over 3 decades on the decks, on stage and on the radio.
The story of DJ Graeme Park mirrors the story of the evolution of dance music and club culture itself.
Catch him here for amazing night of dance with guest DJs TONY CANNON and NICK ALMOND!
THE KINGSHAKES are one of the UK’s leading rockabilly bands!
A three-piece ensemble, consisting of guitarist Duane Conn, drummer Steve Clark and double bass player Dan Clark. They’ve taken their old school Neo Rockabilly all over the world and across the UK, and never stop gigging. The band recently released their album "Hard Knocks", which features original tracks alongside their high-octane rockabilly style.
Playing everything from original songs and hard-hitting covers for you to bop, wreck, stroll and sometimes a jive... THE KINGSHAKES bring one hell of a party!
Plus special guests TBC
Pete Allenby (vocals) / Paul Mason (guitar/vocals) / Ian Cooke (bass/vocals) / Sergio Zinna (drums)
THE HARRY MASON PROJECT’s genre sits somewhere between rock and blues (‘block’ perhaps?) and has created quite a stir around Preston and the Fylde Coast. Highlights of 2025 included an appearance at the famous Blues Bar in Harrogate (we’ll be back at least two times in ’26), a spot at the St Anne’s Music Festival and a couple of appearances at local ‘hidden gem’ venue, The Stagedoor in Longridge. Don’t miss your first chance to catch them at the Conti!
One of the UK’s top tributes to THE POLICE!
Power trio FIVE-O are a Police tribute at the top of their game, playing with the same precision and energy that made The Police such a well-loved band.
Whether it’s The Police’s greatest hits or their deeper cuts, Five-O offer a show for casual fans and aficionados alike.
Legendary noise rock / post-hardcore trio UNSANE are back, continuing the previously announced series of re-releases with bonus material.
These new performances of the Unsane lineup will focus on the early material from their noisier era, including their most famous songs like Committed!
PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS: CHURCH OF THE RAT, TV FACE, THOSE FKKING SNOWFLAKES
A night with Ida Wenøe and Samantha Whates is something truly rare.
The Danish and Scottish songwriters share the stage from first note to last, weaving their voices and instruments into a single, flowing performance. Rather than separate sets, they conjure a continuous story by intertwining their songs — sometimes leaving the authorship a secret — creating a seamless, unique journey.
Now in its third year, The Laughienda brings another huge night of comedy to Preston, featuring PETE SELWOOD and viral sensation TOM LAWRINSON!
Also featuring MICHAEL MCKENZIE and support from JO OWEN
“Guaranteed laughs” - The Guardian
“One of the best nights out" - The Manc
Recent Releases * Cult Classics * Old Favourites * Hidden Gems
Cinema at The Continental returns for 2026 with Aki Kaurismäki’s FALLEN LEAVES (2023)
Finland // 1hr 21m // Cert: 12A
ANOTHER GREAT SUNDAY AFTERNOON BIG BAND EVENT AT THE CONTINENTAL
Doncaster Jazz Alumni (DJA) is a professional ensemble made up of past members of the Doncaster Youth Jazz Association. Their mission is simple: Give back to music what it gave to them - unforgettable experiences, friendship, skills for life and wonderful memories.
Damson Poets have their first event of the New Year on the 28th January in The Boatyard.
We will have our mixture of new and more experienced readers so it’s an evening that belongs to everyone and if you want to listen that’s great as well.
Entry is free, and all are welcome.
THE HYPERJAX have blazed the trials of the live circuit worldwide since 1996. They are a band made up of Rockabilly, Punk Rock and Psychobilly influences among other genres while maintaining that they are just a Rock n Roll band.
Thundering drums and bass, lightening guitar hooks and singalong choruses straight from the heart. What more could you ask for?
Plus support from THE COMPLAINT THAT CREEPS and SHAZBOT RAMONE!
JUST RADIOHEAD are the UK’s leading Radiohead tribute band, replicating and performing the astonishing music of one the nation’s most influential, versatile, and talented bands.
Showcasing tracks from the explosive postgrunge debut of ‘Pablo Honey’ through to the beautiful and most recent artrock album release ‘A Moon Shaped Pool’, the band captures a memento at each stop along the entire majestic journey.
ANOTHER FANTASTIC FREE ENTRY GIG IN THE SNUG
PALLADIUM are a dynamic four-piece jazz fusion outfit delivering a mix of groove, melody and improvisation. Blending jazz improvisation with the raw energy of funk and contemporary fusion, the band creates an experience that’s musically and rhythmically rich.
It’s already been quite the year for YAANG. Announced as part of illustrious hype list NME 100 where they were heralded as “one of the most exciting bands to come from the North West.”
Steadily building their reputation for furious, high-energy live shows, powered by the rocket-fuel combo of pulsating drum loops, clangorous guitars and a wicked sense of humour.
Former BAD COMPANY singer Robert Hart and guitarist Dave “Bucket” Colwell take you down an amazing Rock n’ Roll rollercoaster ride with songs from the legendary band.
Expect BAD CO. songs played the way they’re supposed to be played!
Come celebrate New Year’s Eve in style with us and 9-piece party band TOUCH THE PEARL!
TOUCH THE PEARL
Formed in 1988, Touch the Pearl is a long-established 9-piece Blackpool-based British covers band, popular for its unique arrangements & mash-ups of dance-floor fillers from across the decades & genres … 60’s Soul, 70’s Funk, 80’s Disco, 90’s House … to the best dance tunes of the 21st century.
