Global Major Cities Guide

Liverpool hosts regular festivals and events celebrating music, arts, food, and culture throughout the year.

Sections

1. Types of Events in Liverpool

Liverpool hosts a wide variety of events throughout the year, including:

Music Festivals: Celebrating Liverpool's legacy as the birthplace of The Beatles and its UNESCO City of Music status.
Art and Cultural Festivals: Showcasing visual arts, literature, and performance.
Food and Drink Festivals: Highlighting local and international cuisine.
Family-Friendly Events: Activities and festivals designed for all ages.
Sporting Events: Celebrating Liverpool's passion for football and other sports.
Seasonal and Holiday Events: Christmas markets, Halloween parades, and New Year celebrations.

2. Key Festivals and Events in Liverpool

a. Liverpool International Music Festival (LIMF)

When: Annually in late summer (usually July or August).
What: A celebration of Liverpool's music scene, featuring local and international artists across genres like pop, rock, R&B, and electronic music.
Cost: Free entry for many performances; some ticketed events range from £10–£30.
Booking: Tickets can be purchased online via the official LIMF website or local ticketing platforms like Skiddle.
Accessibility: LIMF venues are wheelchair accessible, and assistance for those with disabilities is available upon request.
Tips: Arrive early for free events to secure a good spot. Bring a picnic blanket for outdoor performances.

b. LightNight Liverpool

When: Annually in May.
What: A one-night arts and culture festival where museums, galleries, and public spaces host free performances, workshops, and exhibitions.
Cost: Free, though some workshops may require a small fee.
Booking: No tickets required for most events; check the LightNight website for specific activities that require pre-registration.
Accessibility: Most venues are accessible, but check individual locations for details.
Tips: Plan your route in advance using the festival map to make the most of the evening.

c. Liverpool Biennial

When: Every two years (next in 2024).
What: The UK’s largest festival of contemporary visual art, featuring exhibitions, installations, and performances across the city.
Cost: Free entry to most exhibitions; some workshops or guided tours may have a fee.
Booking: No booking required for general entry; check the Biennial website for special events.
Accessibility: Venues are generally accessible, with detailed information provided on the festival website.
Tips: Take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the artworks.

d. Africa Oyé

When: Annually in June.
What: The UK’s largest free celebration of African music and culture, held in Sefton Park.
Cost: Free.
Booking: No tickets required.
Accessibility: The park is wheelchair accessible, and assistance is available for those with disabilities.
Tips: Bring sunscreen, a picnic, and cash for food stalls offering African and Caribbean cuisine.

e. Liverpool Irish Festival

When: Annually in October.
What: A celebration of Liverpool’s Irish heritage, featuring music, dance, storytelling, and film.
Cost: Many events are free; ticketed events range from £5–£20.
Booking: Tickets can be purchased online via the festival website.
Accessibility: Most venues are accessible.
Tips: Don’t miss the traditional Irish music sessions in local pubs.

f. River of Light Festival

When: Annually in late October to early November.
What: A spectacular light and art trail along Liverpool’s waterfront, featuring illuminated installations by international artists.
Cost: Free.
Booking: No tickets required.
Accessibility: The trail is wheelchair accessible.
Tips: Visit after sunset for the best experience and dress warmly.

g. Liverpool Food and Drink Festival

When: Annually in spring and autumn.
What: A showcase of Liverpool’s culinary scene, with food stalls, cooking demonstrations, and tasting sessions in Sefton Park.
Cost: Entry tickets start at £5; food and drink are purchased separately.
Booking: Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate.
Accessibility: The park is wheelchair accessible.
Tips: Arrive hungry and try local specialties like Scouse (a traditional stew).

h. Christmas in Liverpool

When: November to December.
What: Festive markets, ice skating rinks, and light displays across the city.
Cost: Free entry to markets; activities like ice skating cost around £10–£15.
Booking: Tickets for activities can be booked online or on-site.
Accessibility: Most venues are accessible.
Tips: Visit the Christmas markets at St George’s Hall for unique gifts and mulled wine.

3. Family-Friendly Options

Liverpool Pirate Festival: A fun-filled event at the Albert Dock with pirate-themed activities, live performances, and boat displays. Free entry.
Imagine That! Science and Discovery Centre Events: Regular workshops and activities for children, with tickets starting at £10.
Liverpool ONE Events: Seasonal family-friendly activities in the city’s main shopping district, often free.

4. Free Events

Many of Liverpool’s festivals, such as Africa Oyé, LightNight, and the River of Light Festival, are free to attend.
The city also hosts free outdoor cinema screenings, public art installations, and community events throughout the year.

5. Ticketing Procedures

Tickets for most events can be purchased online via official festival websites, local ticketing platforms like Skiddle, or at the venue.
For free events, no booking is required, but some may require pre-registration for workshops or limited-capacity activities.
Early booking is recommended for popular events to avoid disappointment.

6. Accessibility

Liverpool is a generally accessible city, and most major venues and festival locations provide wheelchair access, accessible toilets, and assistance for those with disabilities.
Check individual event websites for detailed accessibility information.
The city also offers a Shopmobility service for renting mobility scooters and wheelchairs.

7. Local Customs and Tips

Community Spirit: Liverpool is known for its friendly and welcoming locals. Don’t hesitate to ask for directions or recommendations.
Dress for the Weather: Liverpool’s weather can be unpredictable, so bring layers and waterproof clothing, especially for outdoor events.
Cash and Card: While most vendors accept cards, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller stalls at markets and festivals.
Public Transport: Use Merseytravel buses and trains to get to festival locations. Many events are within walking distance of the city center.

Liverpool’s festivals and events offer a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the city’s culture and social life. Whether you’re a music lover, foodie, art enthusiast, or family with kids, there’s always something exciting happening in this dynamic city.