The Acapulco nightclub in Halifax, West Yorkshire, has been open since 1961 and still sells drinks for just 75p before 11pm – a price that has not changed in two decades. Founded by Polish immigrant Ted Turczak, who escaped the horrors of the Second World War, the venue originally operated as what was almost an illegal casino before becoming a Halifax institution. It now belongs to Simon Jackson, who first joined as a DJ in 1992 and took over in 1996.
‘We’ve set all our drinks at 75 pence for the last 20 years,’ Jackson said. ‘The idea was that people who don’t have that much money can come in, enjoy a night out and help get the club busy. Then those who want to stay a little later can spend a bit more on drinks.’
“Acapulco nightclub in Halifax, open since 1961, still sells 75p drinks for 20 years.”
Known affectionately as The Mighty Acca, the nightclub has built a loyal following through its nostalgic atmosphere and community spirit. ‘It’s still very much a 1980s, 1990s nightclub. It’s quite party orientated, so you’ll still get things like Village People played. But it’s got character and obviously it’s done alright. It’s been going for 65 years and it’s still going strong now,’ Jackson added.
To mark its 65th anniversary, the club has launched a campaign to secure a Halifax Civic Trust Blue Plaque, which would stand as a lasting tribute for future generations. Unlike many modern venues, Jackson says Acapulco focuses on entertainment and the local community, regularly hosting giveaways, family-friendly events including a summer festival, and special nights for those who might otherwise struggle to access nightlife. ‘It’s not like a normal nightclub where it’s all about raves, drugs and profit,’ he said. ‘This is more of a local thing; it’s more about entertainment and enjoying yourself.’
The club also runs regular Special Educational Needs (SEN) nights, inviting children and young people with learning difficulties or disabilities to experience a nightclub in a safe, alcohol-free environment. ‘I think we are the only nightclub in the area that do it, because nobody will touch it because they’ll say, “Oh, can’t do it for insurance,” and all sorts of rubbish,’ Jackson said. ‘Anyhow, somebody came to us and said, “Would you do this?” we just said, yeah.’
Now, as it enters its 66th year, the Acapulco shows no signs of slowing down – proving that a focus on character and community can outlast any trend.