Everything you need to know about the HUGE Fan Park coming to Liverpool for the World Cup

The men’s World Cup is about to kick off – and so is the fun!

Sefton Park Cricket Club is playing host to Fan Park Liverpool, a new family experience focusing on football at its best.

Starting in Norway 10 years ago, Fan Park – or Fotballfesten as it’s known there – has grown to become the largest event in the country, and the whistle’s being blown here this year as it arrives in the city ready for the World Cup in Qatar.

Manager of Fan Park Liverpool, Jostein Ansnes, explains that while the event is a chance to catch every game throughout the tournament and offer people a great atmosphere in which to watch it, Fan Park Liverpool is more than just footie.

Jostein says: “The idea is to create an experience that’s not just about the football. There will be entertainment, good food and drink from local vendors, competitions, visits from football’s famous faces, and surprise guests.

“In Oslo, there are lots of people who aren’t really football fans, but who come to the event because they want a nice time out. And that’s what we hope will happen in Liverpool.”

A heated big top will keep out the winter chills and create a feeling of summer and, along with the action on the pitch which can be seen on giant screens, there’ll be tons going on inside.

That includes music from around the globe to tie in with that day’s teams, dance acts, a matchday host and appearances from footballing legends.

There’ll be competitions like a penalty shootout – with someone you may recognise trying to stop the ball from going in the net – and other games that people of all ages can join in with, and all in a relaxed and secure environment.

The big top will seat 2,500 people and entry is free on the day, but if you want to guarantee a premium place you can book a table which seats up to eight at £20 a head, buying a minimum of one drinks package which will be on your table on arrival so you can get the party started straight away.

And there are VIP packages – perfect for that company Christmas do or family get together – which cost £250 for a table of six and include a hot and cold buffet and a meet-and-greet with one of those famous footballing faces, as well as the great party atmosphere that’s guaranteed as standard.

Jostein stresses: “The World Cup is a fabulous event, but you don’t have to be a die-hard football fan to enjoy the party atmosphere, or the quality food and drink. It is for football fans, but it’s for families and other people who want a good time. So, if you just want to go out and listen to some nice music and enjoy good food, that’s alright too!

“We’re creating a summer atmosphere with, hopefully, a good mix of people, male and female, all ages and cultures.

“Liverpool is a multi-cultural city so it’s important for us to focus on more than just the England games. This is for everyone and we want to reach as many people as possible.”