Liverpool to host celebrations during Queen Mary 2 visit to the city

Liverpool is set to host a series of celebratory events next week to honour Cunard’s 185th anniversary – marking a historic milestone in the city’s long-standing relationship with the world-renowned cruise line.

The festivities will take place after the Queen Mary 2 (QM2) sails into Liverpool on Wednesday 17 September for a two-night stay alongside Liverpool Cruise Port. Not only will the visit acknowledge Liverpool as the birthplace of the Cunard line, it will also reflect Liverpool’s groundbreaking role in naming Queen Anne last year — the first time a city, rather than a single godparent, was given the honour.

It will also mark a decade since Cunard were granted the Freedom of the City, during the unforgettable Three Queens event in 2015. The gathering of the Cunard fleet attracted over one million spectators to the River Mersey, in tribute to the Britannia’s historic departure from Liverpool in 1840, which marked the first-ever transatlantic crossing by a Cunard ship.

Highlights of the celebrations, which will take place on Thursday 18 and Friday 19 September, include:

Civic Reception at Liverpool Town Hall – A formal welcome for Captain Tomás Connery and senior officers, recognising Cunard’s enduring connection to the city and Freedom of the City status, which was granted in recognition of their historic role in maritime heritage. This will take place on Thursday at 4.30pm.

Guided tours of the Cunard Building – Exclusive behind-the-scenes access for both QM2 passengers and the public across both days. This ticketed activity will give visitors the chance to explore the hidden history of the Grade II* listed building, including the luggage room, first-class safe, and original wood-panelled rooms. Book on one of the tours here.

Pop-up Liverpool Market – Over 40 stalls showcasing local food, drink, crafts and art inside the Cunard Building’s Grand Arrivals Hall for the first time, along with a small selection outside (weather permitting). Open 10am-5pm on 18-19 September. Free entry.

Sail away moment – In partnership with Liverpool Cruise Port, 9pm there will be a brief pyrotechnic moment to mark the occasion to coincide with the ship departure time at around 8.30pm.

Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said:

“Liverpool will always be the spiritual home of Cunard and it is wonderful to be back with Queen Mary 2 to mark our 185th anniversary. So many of our proudest moments are tied to this city, from Britannia’s first sailing to the naming of Queen Anne, and it feels very special to be celebrating together once again.”

Culture Liverpool’s Head of Operations, Angie Redhead, said:

“Cunard visits are more than just celebrations – they’re vital opportunities to showcase Liverpool’s identity, strengthen key relationships, and create unforgettable memories for residents and visitors alike.

“Our special partnership with Cunard has delivered some of the most iconic moments in the city’s recent history, and this anniversary allows us to build on that legacy. By opening up the Cunard Building for guided tours and markets, we’re inviting people to step inside a space that has shaped Liverpool’s maritime story, whilst our pop-up market will showcase local makers, bakers, artists and artisans.

“These kinds of events help us foster civic pride, drive tourism, and lay the groundwork for future collaborations that benefit the city both culturally and economically.”