Birkenhead Creative Trail returns this March taking over venues across the town

The event returns on 20th March 2026 with an expanded programme spanning 16 venues across Birkenhead.

The countdown is officially on. Following the buzz of its initial announcement earlier this year, Art After Dark has today reached a major milestone by confirming the full list of 16 venues participating in the town-wide creative trail on Friday 20th March 2026.

What began as a successful pilot has evolved into a massive cultural takeover. From the industrial energy of the docks to the heart of the high street, the event will transform Birkenhead into a late-night hive of exhibitions, interactive workshops, and open studios.

This year’s expanded footprint sees the return of local favourites alongside a host of brand-new participants. While the walking map is being kept under wraps for a final reveal closer to the date, the scale of this year’s event promises a full evening of discovery.

Confirmed venues include:

Creative Hubs: Key stops including Make CIC, Future Yard, Start-Yard, and the Williamson Art Gallery & Museum.
The Working Studios: Rare “behind the curtain” access to see where the magic happens at Play Play Play, Make, Rathbone Studio, and Hamilton Vaults.
Independent Gems & Workshop Spaces: A variety of independent shops, cafes, and creative spaces like Green Jam Creatives, bringing art and activity directly to the street level.

Organised by Make CIC, Art After Dark is a strategic effort to celebrate the high street as a destination for culture and community engagement.

A spokesperson for Make CIC commented:

“To have 16 venues on board this year – including exciting newcomers like Play Play Play and the brilliant team at Start-Yard – is a massive achievement. With under two months to go, the momentum is building. We’re excited to show how these spaces, from the working studios at Hamilton Vaults to the workshop sessions at Green Jam Creatives, are working together to inject new life into Birkenhead.”

Chris Torpey from Future Yard added:

“There’s a real creative spirit bubbling away behind the grand facades of Birkenhead. Art After Dark is the night we throw the doors open and invite everyone in to see it. It’s about discovering what’s happening right now and making art accessible to everyone.”

Art After Dark is a free, town-wide event open to all ages. Registration is now open, ensuring attendees stay updated with further programme reveals and the upcoming map release.

Date: Friday 20th March 2026
Time: 5:00 PM – Late
Location: 16 Venues across Birkenhead