Africa Oyé have announced big changes for their 2026 festival as organisers prepare for an exciting new era for the much-loved event.

The UK’s biggest celebration of African and Caribbean music and culture returns this summer following a fallow year in 2025 due to rising infrastructure costs, changing legislation, and the increasingly difficult challenge of keeping the event free.

The jewel in Liverpool’s festival crown will return as a ticketed event in 2026 with organisers committed to making it as affordable as possible for its audience.

Paul Duhaney, Artistic Director Africa Oyé spoke about the decision:

“We couldn’t let the festival just disappear off the UK’s cultural calendar. The Board, myself, and the team all agreed that a paid event would be a much better alternative to no Oyé at all, and I hope our loyal audience agree with the decision and keep showing us the support they always have. The change will enable us to maintain and build on the quality of the event that people have come to expect and ensure that those attending can do so in safe and relaxed environment.”

The festival began back in 1992 as a series of gigs in Liverpool city centre put together by Africa Oyé’s founder, Kenny Murray. It’s growth over the last 33 years has seen it taken in multiple venues including Birkenhead Park, Princes Park, and Concert Square; it has taken place in the picturesque surroundings of Sefton Park since 2002.

Next year’s celebration – taking place on the 20th and 21st June 2026 – will be the first ticketed Oyé in Sefton Park in the festival’s history, as ever delivering an eclectic mix of international live acts, emerging talent, community performances, family friendly workshops, DJs, world cuisine, arts & crafts and much more.

Earlybird prices see local resident tickets start at just £6 with general admission beginning at £11. Children under 12 receive free entry to the event (with a paying adult) and there is a discount when buying for groups of four people.

Paul also explained how local organisations, shops and businesses can get involved next year: 

“Grassroots festivals rely on the support of the local community and Oyé has always enjoyed great support from the city and region – including additional support pledged by Liverpool City Council for this first year of transition to a ticketed event. We’ll be working with community organisations to distribute free tickets to as many low income people and families as possible.

Any local companies that would like to buy a bundle of tickets to contribute to this effort and be recognised as an official supporter of the festival – so that we can pay it forward – would be hugely welcomed so please do get in touch.

We’re still a registered charity and we’ve kept the ticket prices as affordable as we possibly can. The Earlybird prices are limited though so grab them while you can and get the dates in your diary.”

Jen Cleary, Director North West, Arts Council England said: 

“We know that Africa Oyé is a popular event within both the North West and the music world, so I’m delighted that it will be returning in 2026. I’m sure that local people and visitors alike are looking forward to the relaunched Africa Oyé next year.”

Find out more and book tickets on the Africa Oyé website.

Find more music events across Liverpool on our calendar.

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From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.

Eureka! Science + Discovery and Boogie Babies Launch New Programme for Young Families.

Eureka! Science + Discovery is delighted to announce a new partnership with Boogie Babies Music & Sensory Play, supported by funding from the British Science Festival, to deliver a series of engaging workshops designed especially for young parents and their babies.

The Boogie Babies sessions will run at Eureka! Science + Discovery and are specially created to support parents in understanding baby brain development through play, music, movement, and sensory exploration.

Led by Jenna, a fully trained Early Years practitioner and founder of Boogie Babies, each themed session offers a joyful mix of sensory play, songs, baby sign language, and gentle baby yoga. Parents will also gain insights into the science behind their baby’s responses, and practical ideas to continue supporting their development at home.

Jenna said:

“Development blossoms through laughter, joy, and shared moments. These sessions are designed not only to nurture babies’ growth but also to give parents confidence and knowledge in supporting their child’s early learning journey,” 

As part of the programme, funding will also provide 12 annual passes for families attending the course, giving them free access to Eureka! Science + Discovery for a whole year.

Sessions are open to babies from newborn to first steps, with spaces for up to 12 babies per session. Older siblings are welcome, though activities will be tailored for babies. Families can book on arrival at Eureka! Science + Discovery, with sessions available at 10:45am, 12:15pm, and 1:45pm, each lasting one hour.

Recruitment is taking place through local Family Hubs, ensuring the programme reaches young families who will benefit most.

Find out more on the Eureka! Science + Discovery website.

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Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide. 

From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.

Liverpool FC has launched a comprehensive survey to ensure supporters have a genuine say in shaping the future of ticketing policy at the club.

The latest survey, which forms part of the club’s ongoing ticketing review, will be sent to half a million supporters to ensure that fans are at the centre of any future ticketing policy decisions and  guarantee their collective voices are heard.

This survey is an important part of the club’s ongoing ticketing review which has seen the club set out ticketing principles, conduct surveys, engage with fan focus groups and work closely with the Supporters Board to understand how fans feel about the current ticketing approach and understand the challenges that they face.

As part of the review, some initial changes were introduced ahead of the 2025/26 season which aimed at improving supporters’ ticketing journeys and addressing ticket misuse.

The review to date has identified ticket access as the most important topic to supporters, and the survey will be gathering opinions of fans on this subject to help inform any further changes and improvements that the club may make. The review has also highlighted  complexities and inconsistencies within the club’s existing ticketing approach that it hopes to address via this process.

The club has identified some potential policy proposals to explore and the results of this survey, alongside detailed data modelling and discussions with the Supporters Board will inform decision making on any potential changes.

The club emphasises that no policy decisions have yet been made – it is committed to involving supporters throughout the process, reflecting the club’s ongoing commitment to transparent, inclusive and data-driven policymaking.

Some examples of the policy areas being explored include:

• A multi-year loyalty system, for example credits being relevant for multiple seasons
• Credits only awarded for tickets bought via Club channels such as a club sale or Ticket Exchange, rather than for tickets sent or received via ticket forwarding
• Introduction of Ticket Exchange for cup home fixtures
• Ways to protect tickets for supporters who do not meet the guaranteed threshold for ticket access, for example a reduction in the number of guaranteed games for supporters with 13+ credits, a ringfenced pot of tickets for supporters who are not in the Auto-Cup Scheme for home cup fixtures, ballot of small number of tickets for some away fixtures
• Ways to protect tickets for ‘priority groups’ such as local and young people, for example by the introduction of a dedicated local Young Adult area or priority for local juniors

The ticketing survey will be sent today (Thursday October 16) via email to a wide range of supporters, including current and lapsed LFC Official Members and season ticket holders. Fans are reminded to check their junk folders if they have not received the survey across the day.

Anyone who doesn’t fall into one of these groups, however, is able to access the survey here. The deadline to complete the survey and provide feedback is 5pm GMT on Thursday October 30.

LFC understands that any future changes to ticketing will have a direct impact on fans and that ticketing is one of the most important aspects of the club for many supporters.

Fans should be aware that changes may not be necessary in all areas covered in the survey and its inclusion in the survey does not mean changes will be made in every area, rather it ensures the club has a full picture of supporter sentiment allowing the club to make informed and impactful decisions on ticketing.

Any changes that are made following the results of the survey may be introduced over a number of seasons rather than immediately to minimise disruption for supporters and ensure a smooth transition to any new policies.

There are a number of factors that will be key to the successful delivery of any ticket changes and the club are investing in improved technology to ensure any potential changes can be supported by enhanced supporter journeys and greater protection from misuse.  

Phil Dutton, vice president of ticketing and hospitality at LFC, said:

“The views and experiences of our fans will directly influence our ticketing policy for years to come. We understand that ticketing is an emotive subject but by working closely with the Supporters Board and hearing from our fanbase, we can ensure any changes we make are considered and focused on the needs of our supporters.”

“We would like to thank the fans for their ongoing passion and support and we look forward to receiving their valuable feedback through this survey as we continue to shape the future of ticketing together.”

Find more information on the Liverpool FC website.

Find all the latest Liverpool FC news here.

Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide. 

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Rich McCulloch has been crowned the winner of the 2025 Southport New Comedian Of The Year.

The hilarious comic won the top prize in a fiercely contested Grand Final on the 12th night of the 17-day Southport Comedy Festival. 

A Southport native, now living in Leeds, Rich is an alternative musical comedian, combining surreal storytelling with lively physical performances. 

Performing comedy for just 18 months, Rich is the current winner of the Lawrence Batley Theatre Best New Act 2025. He was also Shortlisted for Best Newcomer and Best Alternative Act, at the Yorkshire Comedy Awards 2025.

He was among eight superb stand up comedians from all over the UK who were competing in the Grand Final at Victoria Park, with nearly 200 people entering this year. 

He was awarded the Southport New Comedian Of The Year trophy by Dragon Soop Sales & Marketing Director Isabelle Kent, along with a £300 prize. 

Runner-up on the night was Oliver Bowler, from Bolton, a talented rising star of the UK comedy scene. A natural born storyteller, with just two years of comedy under his belt, Oliver has been hailed by his comedy peers as one of the most exciting stand-ups to hit the circuit in recent years and is marked as one to watch after winning over audiences across the UK. 

In third place was Tabish Akbar. A data scientist, based in Manchester, Tabish has been doing comedy for just under three years. In that time he has gone on to win Beat the Frog, The King Gong, Beat the Blackout, Ding Dong and Backyard Comedy KO. 

Also impressing the audience in the Grand Final were: Gill Gee, Marty Riley, Tov Falk, 

Ben Robinson and Dave Rowlands. 

Southport Comedy Festival Director Brendan Riley said: 

“The Southport New Comedian of the Year Grand Final was absolutely brilliant! 

“This is the 17th year we have organised the contest and the standard of the performers was incredible. 

“They have all been gigging for less than four years but the quality of their routines and their material was fantastic

“All eight of our finalists could forge careers in stand-up comedy. 

“We had a huge response to our call for entries this year. At our Grand Final, we had finalists who travelled from Southampton, from Bradford, from Manchester, while our winner hails from Southport but now lives in Leeds. 

“It was a superb showcase for new and emerging talent and a great accolade to be able to put on their CVs. 

“The audience was brilliant, really supportive of all our acts. 

“Once again, we kept ticket prices low at just £5 each to encourage people to come and enjoy these emerging comedians performing.

“We’re very grateful to our sponsors, Dragon Soop, who have supported the event for the past four years. 

“Dragon Soop is an exciting, progressive brand, and this event fits perfectly with their profile. 

“Congrtatulations to our winner, Rich McCulloch, and to all of this year’s finalists.

“I’d also like to thank this year’s judges; Isabelle Kent (Dragon Soop Sales & Marketing Director), Alan Adams (Southport Flower Show General Manager), John Harding (magician and comedian), Babu Patel (S.B. Patel) and Andrew Brown (Stand Up For Southport Director).” 

Dragon Soop Sales & Marketing Director Isabelle Kent said: 

“Dragon Soop is thrilled to have been part of another fantastic Southport Comedy Festival Grand Final, the talent on stage was phenomenal. 

“Huge congratulations to winner Rich McCulloch, along with runners-up Oliver Bowler and Tabish Akbar. 

“Dragon Soop is proud to support an event that celebrates emerging comedy talent and brings so much laughter to Southport.” 

The 14th annual Southport Comedy Festival in association with Halliwell Jones Kia Southport all takes place under canvas in a luxury heated and seated marquee courtesy of Elite Events in Southport’s famous Victoria Park, home of the Flower Show, from now until Sunday 19th October 2025.

More acts still to come include UK comedy icon Mick Miller (Thursday 16th October 2025), American comedy legend Rich Hall (Friday 17th October 2025), high-energy festival favourite Jason Byrne, (Saturday 18th October 2025) and Irish Comedy Queen Deirdre O’Kane (Sunday 19th October 2025).

The entire festival is being staged in a giant luxury heated and seated marquee courtesy of Elite Events in Victoria Park, home of Southport Flower Show.

Find out more about Southport Comedy Festival and book tickets here.

Find out what’s on in Southport here.

Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide. 

From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.

Since opening in October 2023, Botanico has become a local favourite, serving breakfast, brunch, wood-fired pizza, pasta and Bistro dishes in its bright, leafy space in the heart of Woolton Village.

To mark its second year, Botanico would love to say thank you to its loyal guests and community with 50% off food all day on Thursday 16th October.

Whether it’s breakfast or brunch from 8.30am, right through to the evening Bistro menu, guests can enjoy food half price on pre-booked tables.

Renowned for its popular breakfast and brunch menu, handcrafted Afternoon Tea, artisan authentic gelato, coffee and pastries that are baked fresh each day, as well as its delicious Sunday roast and evening Bistro menu, Botanico has become a go-to neighbourhood eatery for couples, groups of friends, families and colleagues, as well as guests celebrating milestone events and walkers in the nearby area for takeaway coffee and cake.

Both family and dog friendly, Botanico warmly welcomes everyone through its doors and the team are so grateful for the support in Woolton Village and beyond throughout the last two years.

Owner Donato Cillo said:

“Reaching our second birthday is a really special moment for us. We’ve loved becoming part of the Woolton community and welcoming guests who have supported us since day one. Our offer of 50% off all food on Thursday 16th October is our way of saying thank you and inviting everyone to come and celebrate with great food in the place we’re so proud to have created.”

Guests can enjoy Botanico’s full menu, from breakfast classics and stacked pancakes to freshly made wood-fired pizzas, homemade pasta and evening Bistro plates, all at 50% off food prices on Thursday 16th October.

Offer details:

• 50% off food all day (excluding drinks)
• Thursday 16th October only – From 8.30am until 9pm
• Valid for pre-booked tables

Botanico is open daily from 8.30am, serving breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner, with a Tea Room Terrace dedicated to its elegant Afternoon Tea.

Find out more and book a table on the Botanico website here.

Jet2 is unlocking even more sunshine for Summer 2027, after putting an expanded Summer Sun programme on sale from Liverpool John Lennon Airport.

With flights and holidays to 23 sun and leisure city destinations across the Canaries, Balearics, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Cyprus, Malta, Bulgaria and Portugal available to book from today, customers in Liverpool and Merseyside can look ahead and get their well-deserved summer break secured.

In response to continued demand, Jet2.com and Jet2holidays have increased their capacity to popular destinations Malaga, Alicante and Palma (Majorca) from Liverpool John Lennon Airport.

The unrivalled programme represents almost 750,000 seats on sale and more than 60 departing weekly flights fromLiverpool John Lennon Airport during peak periods, offering plenty of choice and flexibility to customers and independent travel agents when it comes to booking some summer sun.

The release of the programme today means that the companies are the first airline and tour operator to make Summer 2027 available to book, as many customers look to lock the sunshine in nice and early. 

Early bookers can get Summer 2027 sorted with a low £60 per person deposit and then spread the cost through interest-free monthly payments.

Key Summer highlights from Liverpool John Lennon Airport announced today for 2027 include:

• 23 destinations on sale 
• Antalya, Bodrum, Dalaman, Tenerife, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Alicante, Malaga, Reus, Palma (Majorca), Ibiza, Menorca, Faro (Algarve), Madeira, Crete (Heraklion), Corfu, Kos, Rhodes, Zante, Paphos, Bulgaria (Bourgas), Malta
• Over 60 departing weekly flights during peak periods

Today’s announcement means that customers can enjoy a Summer 2027 holiday and experience Jet2.com and Jet2holidays’ award-winning VIP customer service. The companies’ famously welcoming customer service, which has seen them continually win accolades including Which? Travel Brand of the Year and Which? Recommended Providerstatus across seven categories, includes great flight times, 22kg baggage allowance and 10kg hand luggage with Jet2.com.

Customers booking a package holiday with Jet2holidays can take advantage of ATOL protection, a selection of 2 to 5-star accommodation, transfers to and from the airport, and Free Child Place Holidays.

Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said:

“We know that customers are looking to book their Summer 2027 holidays in advance, so they can get the best choice of hotels, rooms and dates. In response to customers wanting to lock in their getaways, we have put our Summer Sun programme on sale for 2027 from Liverpool John Lennon Airport before anyone else, giving them the chance to get that holiday booked in. With fantastic choice, holidaymakers have an unbelievable selection of flights and holidays to choose from and by going on sale today, we are letting them book in advance and get their sunshine sorted. We are looking ahead to another very successful summer  from the airport.”

Paul Winfield, Director of Aviation for LJLA, added:

“We are delighted to see Jet2.com expand its presence at Liverpool John Lennon Airport, serving 23 routes for Summer 2027. Liverpool John Lennon Airport continues to provide a Faster.Easier.Friendlier experience for passengers across the North and North Wales, who can fly to many of the most popular destinations in Europe, starting their journey with a stress-free experience.”

Find out more information about Jet2 holidays in Liverpool and book here.

Find out the latest in Liverpool here.

Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide. 

From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.

Actor Stephen Graham is set to release a book inspired by his experience of making Adolescence.

Letters To Our Sons, written by Graham and psychology lecturer Orly Klein, will be published in October next year and will feature advice the fathers wished to pass on to their sons and what in their opinion “being a man should be about”.

Fathers are able to submit their entries to the book on its website, which says the book aims to create “open and honest conversation between fathers and their sons”, with the hope it will be given to sons by fathers “when they haven’t got the words”.

Graham said:

“After my experience of making Adolescence, I was really surprised with the amount of dads that came up to me, and told me the kind of conversations they’ve been having with their sons.

“We came up with this wonderful idea to ask you dads out there to write some letters for a book, where you can really talk to your sons and communicate with your sons, because a good friend of mine told me about this beautiful idea that Orly had with her son when he turned 13.”

Klein added:

“We asked a load of men who we loved and admired to write him a letter on what they believe makes a good man, and what they wish they’d have known when they were younger.

“And we ended up with all these letters with amazing like nuggets of wisdom in them and life lessons for him to sort of carry through now for the rest of his life in becoming a man.”

Graham said the letters “can be about anything”, with Klein adding that “they can be funny, they can be sad, they can be moving”, and saying that those entering pieces do not need to be “a great writer”.

The 52-year-old actor added:

“Please, please, please, please, please, put pen to paper or get that keyboard out, get someone else to help if you want.

“I’m dyslexic, but I’m still going to do one so my missus will probably help me, but get your letters in please so we can read them, and you can help us make a book that can hopefully talk to generations to come.

“So please help us make this book.”

For every letter sent in for the book, publishers Bloomsbury will be making a donation to the MANUP? charity and and social enterprise Dad La Soul, both of which help young men with their mental health.

Netflix’s Adolescence features This Is England star and co-creator Graham as Eddie Miller, the father of 13-year-old Jamie, played by Owen Cooper, 15, who sees armed police burst into his home to arrest his son.

Eddie is then chosen as Jamie’s appropriate adult, accompanying him at the police interview and learning the extent of what his son is accused of doing.

The programme, co-written by Graham alongside Jack Thorne, examines so-called incel (involuntary celibate) culture, which has led to misogyny online and bullying using social media.

Adolescence has prompted a national conversation around online safety, with Graham and Thorne accepting an invite to a parliamentary meeting on the subject by Labour MP Josh MacAlister.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has also praised the show, urging Parliament and schools to watch it, and saying he had watched the show with his own children.

You can watch Adolescence on Netflix.

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From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.

Based in the busy area of Smithdown Road, The Tavern Co has become famous in the city of Liverpool for serving up to devoted customers its Mexican-themed menu for three decades.

It has always been a huge hit with breakfast and brunch fans, and really started a trend for relaxed morning-to-noon dining. It has also now become the home of the Tavern’s Got Talent !

Tavern’s Got Talent has just seen Amelia Lummis named as the first winner at the end of September. 

Tavern’s Got Talent is an exciting weekly open mic competition where local singers, musicians, and performers showcase their talent on stage. Each Wednesday guests can enjoy great food, drinks, and live entertainment while voting for their favourite act. Season 2 Kicked off on 8th October with crowd votes deciding who makes it to the grand finale – where the top performers compete for the ultimate prize. It’s all about great vibes, local talent, boss drinks deals and unforgettable nights at your favourite home from home spot.

The final is to be held on 29th October. Winners get £150 in cash as well as a weekly gig at the Tavern Co every Friday night.

Sean Wilkinson of The Tavern Co explains:

“We are absolutely delighted that we are launching the next Tavern’s Got Talent. We look forward to welcoming everyone through our famous doors once more, and guests can relax and enjoy the very best of the competition each Wednesday or indeed enter themselves.” 

The Tavern Company is located at 619-625 Smithdown Road, Liverpool L15 5AG.

Find out more on The Tavern Company website.

Find all the latest Liverpool news here.

Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide. 

From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.

The Clatterbridge Cancer Charity Musicals Ball has provided a boost of more than £244,000 to drive forward research and help patient care for people with cancer in Cheshire and Merseyside.

Music sensation Jamie Webster and Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram were among the 450 guests who packed out the Rum Warehouse at Liverpool’s Titanic Hotel for the event.

Actress and TV presenter Kym Marsh was host, bringing warmth and humour to the stage throughout the night.

The event started with a sensational routine to classic songs from the musicals by dance group Desi Nach. It ended with a very special performance by Webster of his love letter to Liverpool, This Place, accompanied by a poignant montage of images of patients, fundraisers and staff from Clatterbridge.

The room had earlier fallen silent when the story of patient Rob Schenck was shown to remind ball goers of the crucial work their fundraising will support.

Clatterbridge Cancer Charity has pledged £5 million over five years to support research into new treatments and Rob has spent the last 12 months as a patient in the clinical trials unit.

The 28-year-old, from Rainhill in Merseyside, was just 25 when he was diagnosed with an aggressive form of testicular cancer.

Last year he was offered the chance to join a groundbreaking clinical trial at The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre last year and has made remarkable progress.

Under the expert guidance of Professor Christian Ottensmeier, Rob has received an experimental cancer vaccine treatment allowing him to return to his studies for a new career and take up exercise again.

Rob said:

“The clinical trial has offered me hope where often there isn’t any hope. Prof Ottensmeier and all the team at Clatterbridge have been amazing and I am so grateful.

“This treatment is a game changer, and it is so important that this research is happening at Clatterbridge to help people like me.”

Before entering the research trial, when his prognosis had been poor, Rob married Brogan, and the newly married couple were not sure what the future held.

They are now looking to the future with renewed positivity and were at the ball to spread the message of hope with fellow guests.

They were given a rapturous standing ovation after their story was told.

Brogan said: “We had such a wonderful night and want to thank everyone for being so generous so that other patients can benefit from the type of treatment Rob has had.”

More than £244,000 was raised on the night, a new record for the annual ball and a total described by Clatterbridge Cancer Charity Chief Executive Katrina Bury as “phenomenal”.

Auctioneer Addison Gelpey led bidders through a series of impressive prizes including glamorous holiday destinations, football hospitality, a luxury shopping experience and a unique piece of artwork. He also invited generous guests to pledge donations to boost the fundraising total. Elements Girl Band got guests on the dancefloor once the fundraising was complete.

Charity patrons Cathy Frost and Emma Rodgers were presented with the Chair’s Award for Outstanding Contribution during the evening by Trustee Jordan Wright, to recognise their contribution over several years each.

Jordan, who was deputising for Charity Chair Brian Barwick OBE, said:

“I would like to thank Cathy and Emma for their remarkable dedication to Clatterbridge Cancer Charity.

“It was an honour to present the Chair’s Award to them both on behalf of Brian.

“They epitomise the best of Clatterbridge Cancer Charity and it was fitting that on a wonderful night of fundraising we celebrated their contribution.

“The Ball was an example of what makes our Charity and its supporters so important to people with cancer in our region, people coming together to make a real difference to those who need it most.”

Charity CEO Katrina Bury said:

“Every year we are overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity of our supporters who come to the ball but this year we are completely blown away to reach almost a quarter of a million pounds.

“Every raffle ticket bought, tombola prize won, auction bid and pledge made helped us reach this phenomenal figure that will help people with cancer in Cheshire and Merseyside.

“I want to say thank you to every single person who came to the ball, had fun and helped us raise this fantastic sum of money and I want to thank our sponsors who enabled us to host such a wonderful night for our guests.

“I would also like to thank Kym for being such a brilliant host, Addison for his expert auctioneering skills and Jamie, Elements and Desi Nach for entertaining our guests and embracing the spirit of this very special night.

“Of course, special thanks must go to Rob and Brogan for allowing us to share their story and illustrate how important fundraising is to patients at Clatterbridge.” 

Host Kym has a close personal connection with the Charity after her late dad Dave was treated at The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre.

She said:

“My dad was looked after by Clatterbridge, and he was keen for us to say thank you and tell everybody how brilliant they are. I was delighted to host the ball and help the Charity raise such an incredible amount of money on the night. Those funds will help research into future treatments to help patients and that is so important.

“I loved meeting Rob and Brogan and being part of such a special night. Thank you to everyone who bought raffle tickets, bid for an auction prize or donated in some other way. You are really helping improve the lives of cancer patients and should be very proud.”

The Musicals Ball was sponsored by DELL Technologies and CDW, The Johnson Foundation, J&J Fire Engineering, A&B Engineering and ETC.

Find out more about Clatterbridge Cancer Charity here.

Find all the latest Liverpool news here.

Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide. 

From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.

Liverpool City Region is hosting its fourth Innovation and Investment Summit at The Spine today (October 15).

Taking place at The Spine in Liverpool’s Knowledge Quarter on October 15, the summit underlines the region’s UK-leading place-based innovation approaches and spotlight the bold target to invest 5% of GVA in Research and Development by 2030.

The summit highlights why innovation is the golden thread running through the recently launched LCR Local Growth Plan to add upwards of £10bn GVA to the LCR economy. The event builds on the city region’s annual Innovation and Investment Fortnight, held in May, showcasing £1billion live innovation programmes and a £2billion pipeline of opportunities across high-growth sectors.

It brings together senior figures from across the regional and national innovation ecosystem to enhance collaboration and thought leadership.

Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram, who will open the summit, said:

“From our Life Sciences Innovation Zone, which will create thousands of high-value jobs, to LCR Connect, our own publicly owned, ultrafast digital network, we’re proving that world-class innovation doesn’t just happen in the Golden Triangle – it’s already here in the Liverpool City Region.

“But this isn’t a story about big numbers and shiny buildings – it’s about people. We’re bringing our communities with us on this journey and creating good jobs, new skills and real opportunities for them to thrive. Because innovation means little if its benefits are locked away in laboratories or boardrooms. I want the value it creates to be felt in every community – from Kirkby to West Kirby – because growth that doesn’t lift people up isn’t growth worth having.

“Our message is clear: We’re ready to work with government, with investors, and with innovators from across the globe to make our area the UK’s most investable innovation region – a place where big ideas become real opportunities for the 1.6 million people we represent.”

The summit has grown in scale and stature year on year which is reflected in its strongest-ever speaker line-up.

It features top level representatives from the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology (DSIT), The Advanced Research + Invention Agency (ARIA), The British Private Equity & Venture Capital Association (BVCA), Innovate UK, and AxialBridge, alongside the Mayor and vice chancellors from the region’s universities.

Attendees also include leaders from UK Research & innovation the British Business Bank, The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, the Canadian High Commission, RTC North, BioGrad, and the University of Liverpool,  alongside the Mayor and vice chancellors from the region’s universities.

The programme includes keynote sessions, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, with SMEs able to access direct support through the Innovation Marketplace and Founders Corner.

Jaspreet Grewal, a former clinician and researcher who now works as a venture partner and strategic consultant, will deliver a keynote speech on developing innovation ecosystems, drawing on nearly two decades of global experience in healthcare, life sciences and venture capital.

CEO and Co-Founder of Axial Bridge, a global life sciences advisory firm, her talk will explore how diverse, globally connected ecosystems can support clinical research, innovation and access to capital.

She is joined by Dr Caroline Martin, Research & Innovation Partnerships Lead, High Commission of Canada to the UK and Nicholas Greenwood, Trade & Investment Analyst, Govt of Alberta, further underscoring the significance of ongoing partnerships with the High Commission.  During their stay, the Canadian delegation are embarking on a series of visits to meet with key stakeholders, including iiCON, LSTM, Knowledge Quarter, and BioGrad.

The summit is particularly relevant for local founders Shameem Sampath from AI Rehab and Michael Watts of Blum Health, both of whom are actively expanding into the Canadian market.

Notably, Blum Health is participating in a six-month Global Incubator Programme with Innovate UK Business Growth with the support of Alex Pilkington of IUK BG.

Liverpool ONE is set to welcome Brewski, Jerk Junction and Iced, with local favourite Madre also opening a brand-new sister venue on the site.

Landsec has announced 13,600 sq ft of new F&B additions to Liverpool ONE, as four independent operators sign at the leading retail and entertainment destination. Brewski, Jerk Junction and Iced are new to Liverpool, while local brand Madre is opening a brand-new sister venue in Liverpool ONE.

As Liverpool ONE experiences an 8.5% increase in year-to-date F&B sales, the four add to the mix of leading names and local favourites that together provide a distinct point of difference to the destination.

The four local operators commit to Liverpool ONE at a time of growing consumer demand for independent F&B operators. A recent CACI survey found that 11% of consumers have increased their spending on independent restaurants in the last 12 months, rising to 14% in the North West. Outside of London, it is the region most likely to see an increase in independent restaurants, with the capital at 15%, the North West at 14%, and the rest of the UK combined at 10%.

Rob Deacon, Director of Asset Management at Liverpool ONE – Landsec, commented:

“A strong dining offer is fundamental to any successful mixed-use destination, and we are delivering a unique line-up that both responds to demand and keeps guests returning time and time again. Liverpool ONE has experienced an 8.5% increase in year-to-date F&B sales, and with four more independent brands set to make their mark, that growth is set to continue.”

Opening in November, Brewski will make its city debut on Liverpool ONE’s Leisure Terrace in a 4,700 sq ft unit alongside Wagamama and Smoke & Dough. Specialising in North American comfort food featuring a rotating menu, the restaurant will provide over 200 covers (including 78 outside)

Taking a 4,100 sq ft unit on Paradise Street, Jerk Junction will add to Liverpool ONE’s international dining options. Serving a menu of authentic Caribbean street food, such as Traditional Curried Goat and Jerk Loaded Fries, Jerk Junction will have 50 covers

Iced has chosen the Leisure Terrace at Liverpool ONE for its latest opening. Created by the team behind Bean Coffee, a long-term tenant at the destination, the new store is now open, serving iced matcha lattes, coolers, lemonades, smoothies, and its viral Pink Choc Matcha. Following the success of its first store, Iced is proud to bring its independent, locally founded brand to Liverpool ONE

Rounding out the quartet, Madre is bringing its take on Mexican cuisine to Hanover Street as the brand selects Liverpool ONE to open a brand-new 4,400 sq ft sister site this winter. Salon Madre will host a tequila-led pool hall, taqueria and bar, featuring frozen, classic and flavoured Margaritas, Mexican street eats, three pool tables, three dart boards, and several private party spaces.

James Daly and Steven Stockton-King, Directors at Brewski, added:

“On the road to expansion, it is crucial that we cherry-pick locations with a stellar reputation that guarantee a dedicated and varied customer base. Liverpool ONE provides a strong foundation as we look to make our Liverpool debut, and we know this new restaurant is sure to be a successful one.”

Jon Whyte, Founder of Iced, added:

“Liverpool ONE has such a dynamic mix of stores and attracts a wide-ranging demographic, making it the perfect destination for Iced, and our decision to launch the concept at the destination comes as a direct response to the success of our existing Bean. It’s a true hotspot in the city where independents like us can thrive, supported by both the vibrant atmosphere, the strong community, and a proactive landlord who champions local businesses.”

This flurry of F&B deals follows Wingstop’s city debut at Liverpool ONE earlier this summer. Opening a 3,000 sq ft unit on Lord Street, Wingstop has delivered the brand’s internationally acclaimed menu, consisting of wings, tenders, burgers, and sides, all hand sauced-and-tossed in a choice of ten distinct flavours.

Find out more about these new venues on the Liverpool ONE website.

Find more places to enjoy food and drink across Liverpool on our website.

Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide. 

From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.

There’s major news for the city today as its been unveiled that Liverpool is on the shortlist to be European Capital of Innovation 2026.

The European Commission has revealed the finalists for the European Capital of Innovation with Liverpool as one of three remaining entrants.

Supported by the European Innovation Council under Horizon Europe, the iCapital prize is awarded to cities that act as front-runners in leveraging innovation to shape more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient urban environments. 

After an intense selection process, including interviews with six semi-finalist cities, a high-level jury of innovation leaders from academia, business, and policy has made its choice, naming Liverpool as a top three finalist. No UK city has ever won this prestigious award. 

Liverpool’s bid is named ‘LIFE’, which stands for ‘Liverpool Innovates for Everyone’. It is focused on what the City and the wider City Region has achieved since being European Capital of Culture in 2008, detailing the work that has been done and is ongoing to inspire young people and improve people’s lives through inclusive innovation – a strategy fuelled by culture and powered by innovation. 

Through the shortlisting process Liverpool has been recognised for driving significant urban transformation, through its commitment to cultural regeneration and technological advancement. It has not just reflected on past successes however, but used these important milestones to accelerate and transform its ongoing strategy. 

Liverpool has prioritised inclusive growth and community engagement, enhancing its reputation as a leader in creativity and innovation. By fostering collaborations between arts, technology, and social sectors, Liverpool has effectively harnessed its historical and cultural assets to create dynamic economic opportunities and a vibrant innovation landscape. 

Mayor Steve Rotheram said:

“I’ve been telling everyone that will listen in government that we are an innovation powerhouse, so I’m delighted Liverpool has been shortlisted to be the European Capital of Innovation. It’s a powerful recognition of the incredible progress we’ve made – and the bold ambitions we have for the future.

“Innovation isn’t just something we do – it’s who we are. From world-first breakthroughs in science and medicine to our pioneering Innovation Zone, we’re proving that when you invest in people, places and ideas, you can create something truly transformative. 

“As we look to the future, we want to cement our place as the go to city region for AI, advanced manufacturing and life sciences. 

“This shortlisting is a testament to the creativity, resilience and talent of our people – and a signal to the world that the Liverpool City Region is leading the way.” 

Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, said:

“This is fantastic news for our city and reflects our growing reputation for driving innovation. 

“We are renowned for the way we innovate in delivering mass events of global significance, how we deliver our public services and ensure opportunities are accessible to all people regardless of their background. 

“Becoming European Capital of Innovation would reinforce our status as a beacon of best practice and give us further opportunity to both share our knowledge, and also learn from others.” 

Colin Sinclair, CEO of Knowledge Quarter Liverpool (KQ Liverpool) and Sciontec Developments Limited (Sciontec), said:

“We are so proud that Liverpool has been recognised on the international stage for its commitment to inclusive innovation. KQ Liverpool is home to many of the city’s key leaders in innovation and we are proud to have played our part in the wider efforts of Team Liverpool to reach this stage. 

“We look forward to working together to hopefully bring this title home and use it as a springboard for inspiring the next generation, for job creation and for economic growth.” 

The other two finalists, alongside Liverpool, are Grenoble Alpes Métropole and Rotterdam, a previous finalist. Judges revealed today how these cities have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to fostering innovation-based ecosystems, setting an example for sustainable and inclusive urban development across Europe.

Find out more about the European Capital of Innovation here.

Find all the latest Liverpool news here.

Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide. 

From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.

Mathew Street Records launches on Saturday, October 18, with one of the world’s best-known addresses. And for owners Peter Wilson and Tom Waite that was an opportunity they couldn’t refuse.

The pair have been running record fairs together for the past two years, including Liverpool Record Fair at the Adelphi and the twice-yearly Great Northern Record Convention at Bolton Stadium which is the largest in the UK.

They hadn’t any intention of opening a shop as well, but a fair at last year’s International Beatleweek changed their plans.

Peter explained:

“We did the fairs at weekends and that gave us time to do whatever we wanted in the week which we liked. When it was International Beatleweek last year we ran a record fair at Cavern Walks in conjunction with the festival and it was a great success.

“JSM who own the building approached us a few months later and asked if we’d be interested in opening a shop and straight away we said no. But they suggested we talk about it and think about it because they thought it would be a great idea to have a record shop on Mathew Street.

“By the end of our first conversation, I was kind of agreeing so I spoke to Tom and he thought it sounded pretty good and after a few more meetings we thought, let’s do it. We’ll put our all into it like we do with the record fairs and see what happens.”

For Cheshire-based musician Peter, it couldn’t have been a more perfect location.

“I’ve spent a lot of my life in Liverpool,” he says. “I became obsessed with The Beatles from when I was about 12 and I used to beg my mum to take me to Liverpool so we’d come here on a Saturday and go to Mathew Street.

“As I grew up I became a musician, and I still gig in my spare time, so Liverpool has always meant a lot.”

Although obviously it’s in the home of The Beatles, 37-year-old Peter says the shop will be stocking an eclectic mix of music.

“We’ll be selling mostly vinyl, predominantly used but some new, some CDs, memorabilia and ephemera. We’ll also have all genres, not just related to Mathew Street, so we’ll cover classical, jazz, hip-hop, punk, reggae, everything …

“We have been beefing up our Beatles stock for four months now, but artists like Billy Fury and Gerry & the Pacemakers too because they’re all really popular and it’s still fantastic music that’s stood the test of time.”

Mathew Street Records, run by Peter, Tom and co-director Janey Fairhurst, will be part of a wider renaissance planned for Cavern Walks. Adjoining and open plan to the record shop, they’ve also created The Library Coffee House which is filled with antiquarian books and squishy Chesterfield sofas.

Peter hopes it will become a destination for music lovers locally as well as visitors from around the globe.

“We’re inside Cavern Walks which is on Mathew Street so that’s a lovely address to have.

“This is easily one of the top music destinations in the world. In America they can boast a couple of locations but beyond that I think there’s really nowhere that has the prowess of Mathew Street. 

“It’s a place where people were discovered and cut their teeth and it does have a magic when you walk down the street. There’s always a great energy and a great vibe here and the amount of people this street pulls in is phenomenal.”

Find out more about Mathew Street records here.

Find all the latest Liverpool news here.

Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide. 

From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.

This Christmas, Liverpool’s iconic waterfront will come alive with unmissable entertainment for all ages.

From chart-topping music and top-tier comedy to festive theatre, family fun and fan-favourite events, the M&S Bank Arena, The Auditorium, and Exhibition Centre Liverpool are where the city will come together to celebrate the season in style. Whether you’re planning a night out with friends, a magical day with the kids, or a festive treat for someone special, there’s no better place to celebrate this winter. If it’s not on your Christmas calendar yet — it should be. 

The action begins in November with the arrival of the Gladiators Live Tour (1–2 November), bringing adrenaline fuelled excitement to the city for the first time ever. Legendary boyband Five perform not one but two nostalgic live shows (5 & 30 November), while JLS (13 November) return with The Club is Alive: 2025 Hits Tour, joined by special guest Example. 

Comic Con Liverpool (15–16 November) will once again transform the arena and sister venues into a celebration of pop culture, followed by the return of one of Britain’s most loved comedians, Peter Kay (21–22 November), with two nights of laughter. 

December brings another wave of star power. Ricky Gervais (4 December) debuts his highly anticipated stand-up show Mortality, before Elf the Musical (6–7 December) brings festive sparkle to the stage. British music legends Madness (10 December) are joined by Squeeze for their Hit Parade UK Tour, followed by comedy king Jimmy Carr (11 December) and Welsh rock icons Stereophonics (16 December). To round off the year, Adam Rowe and Dan Nightingale bring their smash-hit podcast Have A Word (20 December) to the arena for a festive special. 

The Auditorium offers a rich programme of festive shows for all the family. The season begins with The Mersey Beatles (1 November) celebrating the Fab Four’s timeless catalogue, before the return of James B Partridge – The Big Christmas Assembly (23 November), a joyful evening of singalong Christmas nostalgia. 

November also features Sky Full of Stars – A Tribute to Coldplay (29 November) and A Fairytale for Christmas (30 November), immersing audiences in Yuletide favourites performed by talented singers, musicians and dancers. 

December brings a double dose of festive spirit with Step Into Christmas (6 December) and a spectacular run of the pantomime Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (12–28 December), promising magic, music and laughter for the whole family. 

The new year also brings musical tributes, with Uptown Girl – The Billy Joel Collection (10 January 2026) and Simon & Garfunkel: Through the Years (24 January 2026). 

At Exhibition Centre Liverpool, the season kicks off with Magic: The Gathering Spotlight Event (31 October–1 November) – a Spider-Man themed celebration for gaming fans. 

Later in December, the venue will once again host the ever-popular Liverpool Indoor Funfair – Christmas Edition (20 December–3 January), featuring jaw-dropping rides, exciting attractions and festive cheer all under one roof. 

Find out more on the M&S Bank Arena website.

Find out what else you can get up to this Christmas across Liverpool here.

Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide. 

From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.

Halloween is set to be a bone-fide biggie in Liverpool city centre this year, with loads of spooktacular events and activities to help you celebrate this scarily good season.

From story times to a carnival parade and a fiendishly fab trail, you’ll not be stuck for ideas for ghoulishly great things to see and do.

Chloe Gaughan, marketing manager for Liverpool BID Company, says:

“Halloween is such a great time for families in the city centre and we’ve been working to get animation through shops, hospitality and cultural venues, as well as public spaces, to bring a spooktacular celebration to everyone. 

“Autumn is so beautiful in Liverpool, so it’s the perfect time to get out and about.”

Check out the brand-new Skeleton Storywalk

Wander through the city centre this Halloween to find skeletons hidden in windows in a new bone-tingling trail. Not only can you discover the spooky skeletons created by artists as you walk through town, but you can also grab a ‘skelfie’ with three skeletons along the trail and share it with @liverpoolbidcompany for the chance to win a special Halloween bundle.

Spooky story sessions

The ghouls at Arts Groupie are hosting two spooky story sessions, one at Liverpool Library on Thursday, October 30, and another on the first floor of the Museum of Liverpool on Friday, October 31.

On each day there will be three 45-minute storytelling sessions – at 12.15pm, 1.30pm and 2.45pm – which will be free, completely family friendly, and fun for all ages. You need to book and, to get you into the spirit of things, if you want to you’re invited to dress up too!

Find out more here.

Meet the Skeletons at Williamson Square

Between 12pm and 3pm on Monday, October 27, you can join the skeletons as they head to Williamson Square to shake their bones and get you feeling a Halloween chill with some spooky performances. 

Enter Williamson ‘Scare’ if you dare

The skeletons might not be there but there’ll still be a ton of free activities in Williamson Square on Wednesday and Thursday, October 30-31, between 12pm – 4pm.

On Wednesday you can:

* Meet spooky friends the Ghoulish Goblins at 12pm, 1pm and 2pm
* See the Stilt-walking Wicked Witches at 1.15pm, 2.15pm and 3.15pm

And on Thursday, you can:

* Discover pumpkin carving tips & tricks

* Enjoy creepy craft sessions

Find out more here.

See the Katumba Halloween Carnival Parade

Feel the drums and celebrate the spirits as you watch the popular city centre parade with a theme this year of ‘Ancestral Spirits, Ritual Fire’.

Also marking 10 years of Katumba, the parade starts at 7pm on Friday, October 31, beginning at Bold Street and leading to an unmissable finale at Liverpool ONE.

Find out more here.

Spooky food and drink offers

You can enjoy some horrifyingly good food and drink offers at bars and restaurants across the city this Halloween, including Monster Specials at Fat Hippo and a Halloween brunch and cauldrons of cocktails at Slug and Lettuce.

Find out more here.

And there’s so much more!

You can take part in The City of Curses murder mystery afternoon tea downstairs at the Everyman Theatre, on Friday, October 31 and Saturday, November 1; see The Science of Light-themed River of Light Festival, and enjoy a Fright Night Halloween Party at Novotel Liverpool Centre on Friday, October 31, and more.

Find out what else you can get up to this Halloween across Liverpool here.

Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide. 

From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.

Updated October 15 2025

Christmas is coming … and it’ll be here before you know it.

So get your diary out because there are loads of experiences and events from carol concerts, to family fun, movie screenings, and more to make sure you get right into the festive spirit.

Featured

Santa’s Secret Forest – (Orrell Hill Woods, Ince Blundell)

Making its debut in the North West from Friday, November 21 through to Wednesday, December 24, Santa’s Secret Forest promises an immersive festive adventure set within 16 acres of woodland with a glittering trail and the chance to board the Tinsel Town Express steam train for a journey through Tinsel Town.

Find out more here.

Sleeping Beauty (Floral Pavilion, New Brighton)

Singer Kelle Bryan from girl band Eternal will be sprinkling some stardust as Fairy Snowfall in this panto full of musical hits which also sees the return of favourite Sean Jones as Lester the Jester. Dec 6 to Jan 4.

Find out more here.

A Scouse Christmas Carol (Royal Court)

The Royal Court has Scousified the great Dickens’ classic in its latest festive offering. Jacob Marley is dead and nobody knows who bumped him off – so Mary Marley tries to track down his killer, and she’s got her sights on Scrooge. Loads of adult laughs (this is for over 18s only). Friday, November 7 to Saturday, January 17, 2026.

Find out more here.

Step into Christmas (M&S Bank Arena)

This cracker of a show’s guaranteed to fill you with cheer; jam-packed with all your favourite Christmas classics, a dazzling set and performances, and a sensational live band. Make a date for your diary – Saturday, December 6.

Find out more here.

Jack and the Beanstalk (Everyman Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto)

Part panto, part concert – total fun – hero Jack battles the greedy giant to grab the gold and save the day. Expect cheeky one-liners, splendid songs and wacky costumes in this always-a-belter traditional city show. Saturday, November 15 to Saturday, January 17.

Find out more here.

Christmas Picnics, Pantomimes and more (Blackstock Market)

As well as Christmas Comedy Specials with Hot Water Comedy Club and Miracle on Blackstock Street Christmas party nights, Blackstock’s got sackloads of festive fun for kids like Dear Santa: The Experience, where young visitors can enter a ‘magic mailroom’ and A Christmas Picnic with the Characters where you can enjoy festive food and surprise visits from Christmas characters. They’ve got two pantos, and you can raise a festive glass to Whisky & Wonder, led by Victorian Whisky Host ‘the Spirit of Christmas’. 

Find out more here.

Enchanted Magical Light Trail (Knowsley Safari)

Always a cracker, Knowsley Safari’s coming alive again after dark and this Christmas it’s ‘bigger, brighter and more magical than ever’ with animal displays, a shimmering lights trail, festive food and all the usual rides and attractions. Saturday, November 22 – Tuesday, December 23.

Find out more here.

Fairytale for Christmas (M&S Bank Arena)

This fantastic celebration promises to combine the merriment of Christmas with the joy of St Patrick’s. A Fairytale for Christmas brings together talented singers, musicians and dancers for an unforgettable Irish Christmas like no other. 

This world-class concert beautifully blends well-known festive music with Irish dance and Celtic hits. Three tremendous sets of cast will spread festive cheer simultaneously throughout November and December, from Dublin to London and further afield in Scandinavia.

Audiences can expect to be immersed in the spirit of Christmas as the cast dance, play, and sing crowd favourites such as I Wish It Could Be Christmas Every day, Step into Christmas, and O Holy Night, alongside Irish Classics from The Irish Rover to Dirty Old Town.

Find out more here.

Storytime with Santa (Floral Pavilion, New Brighton)

Children can listen to traditional and modern stories as well as joining in with festive songs at this fun family experience. Every child will have the chance to talk to Santa and receive a festive gift.  Dec 13 to Dec 24.

Find out more here.

Meet Santa

Story Time with Santa (Liverpool Town Hall)

Father Christmas and Buddy the Elf share festive tales and songs in the cosy surroundings of the historic Town Hall. A sensory-friendly session will also be available. Selected dates from Dec 6 to Dec 24.

Find out more here.

Santa’s Meet & Greet – John Lewis Liverpool ONE

This is a classic Santa experience where little ones get to meet him, share Christmas wish lists and receive a special LEGO® set to take home. There’s also Santa Paws if you want to take your furry friend. Various December dates.

Find out more here.

Santa’s Grotto (Dobbies, Speke)

A North Pole adventure with fun activities – kids get to ice fish with penguins, help polar bears improve their ice hockey skills, shoot snowball hoops, see Santa’s reindeer and meet Santa himself. Nov 23 to Dec 24.

Find out more here.

North Pole Express (Gulliver’s World)

Gulliver’s has lots of Christmas packages including Smasher where kids can enjoy Christmas rides and attractions, then hop on the North Pole Express to see Santa in his grotto and choose their own gift from the Elf Workshop. Dec 5, 12 & 19.

Find out more here.

Story Time with Father Christmas (Sefton Park Palm House)

Children can share favourite festive stories, rhymes, songs and crafts with Father Christmas and his helpers at this enchanting event. It’s free, although families can make a voluntary donation. Dec 7.

Find out more here.

Santa’s Grotto and VR sleigh ride (Sefton Meadows Garden Centre, Maghull)

Head to a winter wonderland for children to meet Santa in his traditional grotto, have a chat and photo and receive a special gift. There’s also a 4D VR Sleigh Ride with a choice of three immersive adventures. Nov 22 to Dec 24.

Find out more here.

Santa’s Grotto and Fair (Parkgate Pony Sanctuary)

See Santa and support a really great cause – Parkgate Pony Sanctuary is having a festive afternoon where families can enjoy Santa’s Grotto, pony grooming, festive stalls & crafts, and meet the animals. Dec 14.

Find out more here.

Santa Paws (Croxteth Hall)

Four legged good boys and girls deserve festive fun too and at Croxteth Hall they can meet Santa Paws at his grotto, get a tasty treat and pose for a photo – Christmassy dress-up encouraged! Dec 13.

Find out more here.

Father Christmas Storytelling (Bluecoat Arts Centre)

Father Christmas is bringing a sack of silly stories to Bluecoat for a family-friendly storytelling session. 60-minute shows include a chance to meet and chat with Father Christmas and take photos. Selected weekend dates from Nov 29 to Dec 21.

Find out more here.

Breakfast with Santa (Thornton Hall Hotel)

Get a taste of the magic of Christmas by having Breakfast with Santa. There’ll be a tasty full English breakfast served along with a special visit to Santa and a gift for little ones. Selected dates from Dec 6 to Dec 24.

Find out more here.

Santa’s Sing-along (St George’s Hall)

Join Santa and his elves for a festive sing-along organised by Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation. Singing will be led by Santa, with the Singing Our Socks Off Choir and Liverpool Theatre School, plus kids will get a Christmas gift. Dec 7.

Find out more here.

Christmas film screenings

Love Actually in Concert (Philharmonic Hall)

Richard Curtis’s star-packed Love Actually is one of the most popular Christmas movies and it also has a fabulous soundtrack. This screening at the Phil will be presented live in concert, with a full orchestra playing the score live-to-film. Dec 1.

Find out more here.

RBO Encore: The Nutcracker (FACT Liverpool)

Part of the Royal Ballet & Opera screenings, which means you can see world class performances as live, The Nutcracker is a visually stunning festive treat for all the family, especially anyone who loves dance. Dec 15. 

Find out more here.

It’s a Wonderful Life (Philharmonic Hall)

Arguably the greatest Christmas film of all time, it’s certainly one that’s stood the test of time, dating back to 1946. James Stewart is George Bailey in an uplifting tale that’ll have you sobbing into your popcorn. Dec 21 & 24.

Find out more here.

The Grinch: Live-Hosted Christmas Movie Experience (The Garden @ WAV)

Step into Whoville at The Garden @ WAV for an immersive screening of the original Jim Carrey film, hosted by a Grinch character who’ll be getting up to mischief before and during the movie. Dec 7. 

Find out more here.

The Muppet Christmas Carol (Philharmonic Hall)

The Muppets’ reimagining of Charles Dickens’ classic A Christmas Carol, starring Michael Caine as Scrooge with Kermit as Bob Cratchit is absolute film genius and it’s still hugely loved every year. Dec 24.

Find out more here.

Christmas Markets

Christmas Market (St George’s Hall)

This is a biggie every year and 2025 looks like being just as huge – outside St George’s Hall will be taken over by a Christmas market with more than 80 independent traders, food and local artisans, creating a fabulous festive hub. From Nov 15 to Dec 24.

Find out more here.

Makers at the Mansion (Calderstones Park)

The Makers Market is back at the Mansion in time to get Christmas pressies. There’ll be handmade candles, soaps, jewellery, home décor, clothing, art, crafts and more, as well as food.  Nov 29 & 30.

Find out more here.

Christmas Makers Market (Bombed Out Church)

If you don’t mind leaving it a bit late then the Makers Market at the Bombed Out Church could give you some last-minute pressie ideas and you’ll be supporting independent local creatives. Dec 20 & 21.

Find out more here.

Christmas Market at The Lake House (The Lake House Waterloo)

For some pre-Christmas shopping with a gorgeous waterside view, The Lake House facing Crosby Marine Lake is hosting a weekend Christmas Market with over 50 stalls so there’ll be plenty to choose from. Nov 22 & 23.

Find out more here.

Oxton Christmas Market (Oxton Cricket Club)

Oxton is holding its popular Christmas Market again with a variety of stalls offering everything from hot food and mulled wine to handmade crafts, gifts, tasty treats and festive decorations, as well as live music. Dec 14.

Find out more here.

Carol concerts

Carols by Lantern Light (St George’s Hall)

One to warm the Christmas cockles, Professor Ian Tracey plays the Willis Organ accompanied by soloist Danielle Thomas and a classical choir, with carols from ‘Oh Holy Night’ to ‘Silent Night’. It’s on Wednesdays, December 3 and 10 and tickets are £22, on sale now.

Find out more here.

Festival Carol Service and La Nativité du Seigneur (Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King)

One of many Christmas events, join the cathedral choir and clergy for seasonal music, readings and carols, before a performance of Oliver Messiaen’s monumental organ work, La Nativité du Seigneur, by cathedral organist, Richard Lea. It’s a free event on Sunday, December 21 at 5pm.

Find out more here.

G4 Christmas (Liverpool Cathedral)

Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with G4 as they bring unique renditions of traditional carols, sacred contemplations, classical favourites and modern festive hits to this idyllic sacred setting on Tuesday, December 9. Tickets available now from £37.50.

Find out more here.

Christmas Concert with Wavertree Community Gospel Choir (Sefton Park Palm House)

A fab fundraising event for the Palm House on Thursday, December 11, join Hayli Kincade and The Wavertree Community Gospel Choir for a festive evening of Christmas carols and uplifting pop and gospel. Tickets are £14.

Find out more here.

The 39th Annual NHS Carol Concert (Liverpool Cathedral)

Colette Halliday hosts as Cheshire and Merseyside NHS Choir and Liverpool Brass Band get together on Wednesday, December 10 for seasonal readings and rousing carols to celebrate the NHS. 

Find out more here.

Festive experiences

Land of Lights (Gulliver’s World Resort Warrington)

The breathtaking spectacle’s back for the third year running with a one-mile trail of lanterns covering 12 illuminated dreamworlds, along with music, entertainment and street food. Selective dates from from Saturday, October 25 – Saturday, February 31.

Find out more here.

Southport Christmas Spectacular

Families are invited to the ‘Southport Christmas Spectacular’ this November, with a huge kids party and non-stop entertainment throughout the day. This free festive event, organised by Southport BID, will take place on Saturday 15th November 2025.

Visitors can enjoy a huge kids Christmas party in the Town Hall Gardens on Lord Street between 11am and 4pm including a stage show with appearances from famous children’s TV characters, dance schools, and local performers.

People can expect to see:

• Peppa Pig Dance Party
• Bluey and Bingo Activation
• Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures Show
• K-Pop Demons Show from Starkidz
• Popstars Show from Regally Royal
• Spiderman appearance
• Local dance schools performing throughout the day

Following the conclusion of the live acts, don’t miss the launch of a brand-new interactive music show on the LED Christmas tree in the Town Hall Gardens which will animate in colour to music.

Find out more here.

Lanterns and Light (Chester Zoo)

Meet playful puppets, wander through the Ribbon Tunnel and gaze at the stars in this ever popular light trail with, new for 2025, the Airquarium, Bubble Walk and Submergence. There’s seasonal street food and drinks too. Friday, November 14 to Saturday, January 3.

Find out more here.

The North Pole Experience (Otterspool Promenade, Liverpool)

Discover the elves, lend a hand in the bustling Toy Workshop, and cosy up to Mother Christmas in her storybook cabin in this magical world. The fun includes a trip to the North Pole Post Office, the chance to skate under the stars, toast marshmallows and meet Santa, from Saturday, November 29 to Wednesday, December 24.

Find out more here.

Bar Hutte (Liverpool ONE)

Festive celebrations Apres Ski Style are back this year for karaoke, lodge parties, wreath making workshops and cosy kids clubs.  We especially love Bark Hutte, a pup-sized hütte with complimentary dog treats, photo props, and a doggy drinks menu where your furry friend can lick up some paw-secco.

Find out more here.

Santa Cruise (ChesterBoat, River Dee)

The Lady Diana will be spruced up with lights and tinsel for a Christmas one-hour cruise with treats, songs, and fun activities, and all children will get a festive book from the man in red. Santa’s sailing on Saturdays December 13 and 20, and Sunday, December 21 with tickets available now.

Find out more here.

Bronte Christmas Afternoon (The Reader, Calderstones Park)

Part of a huge season of events is The Reader’s brand-new Bronte Christmas Afternoon on Saturday, December 6 where fans are invited to explore a Victorian Christmas through festive scenes from Jane Eyre and The Tenant of Wildfell Hall, enjoy a Bronte themed lunch and rifle through some of Charlotte’s letters in which she describes snowy Yorkshire and traditional parlour games. 

Find out more here.

Santa Dash

The UK’s biggest festive 5K fun run is back on Sunday, December 7 and 1,000 Santas have already signed up. So sort out your suit and get raising cash for charity with the famous BTR Liverpool Santa Dash 5K and 1K Mini Dash.

Find out more here.

Light Before Christmas (Liverpool Cathedral)

The favourite festive spectacular, Light Before Christmas, is back for its fourth year with a brand-new theme, The Gift, transforming one of the city’s iconic landmarks. The immersive light and sound experience runs from Friday, November 28 November to Saturday, December 6.

Find out more here.

Bongo’s Bingo’s Liverpool Christmas Cracker (Content)

Get ready to go bonkers for the ultimate nostalgic Christmas experience Bongo’s style with dodgy Santa Clauses, foil cracker hats, daft dance offs and the maddest bingo show with the best – and whackiest – prizes. Friday, November 14 to Tuesday, December 23.

Find out more here.

Cheshire Oaks Winter Village

Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet’s gearing up for the festivities with its annual Christmas lights and Winter Village event boasting the UK’s tallest Christmas tree, market stalls, food, and other festive attractions like ice skating and Santa’s rides on the Ferris wheel (all while getting your designer pressies). Dates to be confirmed.

Find out more here.

Christmas concerts

A Feeling of Christmas with Rebecca Ferguson (Liverpool Philharmonic)

Rebecca and friends start the celebrations with a mix of Christmas favourites and dance anthems with classics like Santa Baby and White Christmas accompanied by The Syd Lawrence Orchestra, and hits and covers from Rebecca and her band on Saturday, December 6.

Find out more here.

Swing Into Christmas with Down for the Count Orchestra (St George’s Hall)

Guaranteed to leave you in the holiday spirit on Wednesday, December 10, the 32-piece big band recreates music from swing era with classics like The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting), Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas and The Most Wonderful Time of the Year.

Find out more here.

LIPA Christmas Concert (Liverpool Philharmonic)

Students from the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA) perform for this now annual feel-good, festive family concert featuring the LIPA Big Band, strings, choirs, vocalists, and dancers. Friday, December 12.

Find out more here.

The Spirit of Christmas (Liverpool Philharmonic)

With four fabulous shows on Friday and Saturday, December 19-20, and Monday and Tuesday, December 22-23, the now-legendary concerts are conducted by Matthew Hamilton and hosted by baritone Benjamin Appl bringing classic carols, seasonal readings, audience singalongs and festive fun.

Find out more here.

Christmas Concert with Hope Street Harmonies (Sefton Park Palm House)

The acappella community choir invites you to an evening of festive favourites and a joyful Christmas sing-a-long in this spectacular setting on Thursday, December 18. Tickets are £14, in aid of the Palm House.

Find out more here.

A Christmas Gaiety: A Queer Festive Extravaganza (Liverpool Philharmonic)

Forget those Christmas lights, it’s the Queens shining on stage as Peaches Christ and Le Gateau Chocolat come together with Queen of the West End Kerry Ellis for a Queer Christmas Extravaganza. Serving some Christmas roasts and outrageous fun amid the songs. Saturday, December 13 and it’s for over 18s only.

Find out more here.

A Christmas Carol musical (Floral Pavilion, New Brighton)

A professional cast’s joined by teams of talented youngsters from the area in this musical adaptation of the Dickens’ classic. It’s on from Thursday to Friday, November 20-21 – so chance to get an early sprinkle of seasonal magic.

Find out more here.

Family Concert: Santa’s Christmas Party (Liverpool Philharmonic)

Always a popular one with presenter Alasdair Molloy, Santa Claus is getting ready to throw his elves a Christmas party – and you’re invited! Get ready for seasonal singalongs, dancing, fun and games with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and its children’s choirs. Saturday and Sunday, December 20-21.

Find out more here.

The Christmas Orchestra (St George’s Hall)

It’s beginning to look a lot like … There’ll be all your favourite songs from Christmas films like Home Alone, Polar Express, Love Actually and Bridget Jones’ Diary along with other classics to fuel your festive spirit in the concert performed live by a 16-piece chamber orchestra with a dazzling light show. Thursday, December 18.

Find out more here.

Rob Brydon & His Fabulous Band: A Festive Night of Songs & Laughter (Liverpool Philharmonic)

After a sell out West End performance last year Rob Brydon’s taking his Christmas show around the country, arriving in Liverpool on Thursday, December 11. Joined by his eight-piece band, the Gavin and Stacey star’s got songs, stories and even an impression or two!

Find out more here.

Festive food and drinks

12 days of Christmas burgers at Tempest on Tithebarn

At the heart of Tempest’s Christmas menu are twelve mouth-watering burgers full of invention and flavour, from Two (Turtle) Turkey Doves’ slow cooked turkey crown with sage and onion stuffing, crispy bacon and cranberry sauce served with a side of rich dipping gravy, to A Partridge In A Pear Tree’s delicious Tempest honey glazed pork belly, sage and onion stuffing, pork crackling, pear and apple sauce.

There’s Four Calling Birds’ Beef patty, crispy bacon topped with a goat cheese wheel, cranberry sauce and served with a side of rich dipping gravy. Or for vegetarian options, how about Eight Maids Are Milking which features grilled halloumi drizzled with Tempest’s honey, topped with roasted red peppers and spiced cranberry sauce, or Nine Ladies Dancing with a bubble and squeak patty with sage and onion stuffing.

Topped with a vegan pig in blanket and served with a side of vegan dipping gravy. Then there’s the sensational Six Geese Are Laying with double beef patty topped with a fried egg and red onion relish and many more to choose from. All in all, what’s not to love?

Find out more here.

Christmas menu at Nova Scotia

The wonderful dockside location will offer three courses of fantastic festive feasting, with plenty of classic choices to choose from. Firm favourites like a classic prawn cocktail and pigs in blankets star alongside pan-friend seabass, turkey crown, slow roasted beef brisket and a lentil and winter vegetable roast.

Christmas at Nova Scotia starts from Monday 17^th November and runs until Sunday 21^st December.  

Find out more here.

Christmas shows and pantos

Matilda the Musical (Empire Theatre)

Inspired by the Roald Dahl classic and with unforgettable new songs by Tim Minchin, it tells the story of Matilda Wormwood, an extraordinary little girl with a vivid imagination and extraordinary powers. Tuesday, December 2 to Sunday, January 4, 2026.

Find out more here.

Cinderella (Shakespeare North Playhouse)

Packed with magical moments, your favourite tunes, and lots of laughter, this age old tale’s been given a Prescot twist. Cinderella’s world’s turned upside down when her mum disappears and her dad remarries – and of course his new wife’s got two dreadful daughters! Friday, November 21 to Saturday, January 10.

Find out more here.

A Christmas Carol (St George’s Hall)

GINIFICENT return to St George’s Hall with a brand-new production of one of the most heartwarming Christmas stories ever as Ebeneezer Scrooge is forced to confront his past in the hope of changing his future. Friday, December 12 to Wednesday, December 24.

Find out more here.

Cinderella (Epstein Theatre)

Panto’s back at the Epstein – oh yes it is – and Corrie’s Katie McGlynn is starring as Cinders, with BBC’s The One Show and Radio Merseyside’s Kevin Duala as Buttons, and Leanne Campbell as The Fairy Godmother. Friday, December 5 – Sunday, January 4, 2026.

Find out more here.

Young Frankenstein the Musical (Liverpool Playhouse)

From the creators of The Producers so you can expect plenty of laughs. The grandson of Victor Frankenstein inherits his family’s estate in Transylvania and with the help of hunchbacked sidekick Igor and leggy lab assistant Inga finds himself in the mad scientist shoes of his ancestors. Wednesday, December 3 to Saturday, January 3, 2026.

Find out more here.

Beauty and the Beast (The Atkinson, Southport)

The Atkinson’s inviting audiences to be its guest for a gorgeous panto based on the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast. The much-loved fairytale comes to the stage in a show packed with laughter, song and dance. Dec 5 to Dec 31.

Find out more here.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (M&S Bank Arena)

Corrie’s Helen Flanagan heads the cast as the Wicked Queen alongside X Factor’s Sean Smith as the Prince and Ellis Lloyd as Snow White for what’s being billed as Liverpool’s biggest ever pantomime. Dec 12 to Dec 28.

Find out more here.

Elf the Musical (M&S Bank Arena)

The huge hit stage adaptation of the brilliant movie lands in Liverpool with a big cast, live orchestra and classic scenes, including Santa’s flying sleigh and an interactive snowball fight with the audience, all set against film backdrops on a massive LED screen. Dec 6 & 7.

Find out more here.

Dick Whittington (St Helens Theatre Royal)

Theatre Royal panto is always a top family show and this year Dick Whittington has a great cast including Emmerdale’s Matthew Wolfenden as Dick, along with St Helens favourites Lewis Devine as Idle Jack and Timothy Lucas as King Rat. Nov 28 to Jan 11.

Find out more here.

Find more Christmas events in Liverpool HERE!

Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide. 

From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.

Hollywood actor Bradley Cooper has said his new film about a man who seeks purpose in the New York comedy scene was “directly” influenced by British humour.

Is This Thing On?, which is part-based on the life of British comedian John Bishop, was directed by the US star, 50, who is also known for directing and acting in Oscar-nominated movies Maestro (2023) and A Star Is Born (2018).

The film came to fruition after BoJack Horseman voice actor Will Arnett met Liverpool comic Bishop, who told him that he had found stand-up comedy in the midst of a split from his wife, deciding to do an open-mic night one evening as he did not want to pay the cover fee.

Arnett’s character in the film, Alex, has a similar experience, getting his start at New York’s famed Comedy Cellar.

Speaking at the BFI London Film Festival, Cooper told the PA news agency:

“It’s inspired by John Bishop’s story, so that was the nugget of it and then he (Will) was working on that with John, and he was just telling me about it because we were friends.

“And I just sort of saw this image of him and I got excited about ‘What if we set it in New York, and what if it’s a movie about a relationship?’ .”

Asked how British humour influenced the film, he said: “I think directly, I think all of us have grown up on British humour and love it so yes, it’s indelible.”

Asked if it differs from US humour, he added: “It’s hard to put an umbrella over everybody, the great comics are so unique.”

Arnett, 55, told the PA news agency:

“For me there’s a lot more nuance to British humour. And so we tried to inject some of that.”

Bishop got back with his wife Melanie after a short split, and she attended the London screening with their children.

Bishop, 58, told PA:

“I couldn’t write it because it was too personal, so (a producer) said, ‘Tell Will’.

“So that was eight years ago, and then Will said, ‘Look, I’d love to write it with my friend Mark (Chappell)’.

“And then we spent a bit of time developing it, and then it just became their baby, and it’s an act of faith.

“You’re handing over a part of your life to someone else, and you hope that they’re going to treat it properly, like you would with your child.

“And he’s done more than that. He’s treated it, he’s nurtured it, and he sent it off to college.”

The film is coming to cinemas this December, according to Searchlight Pictures.

Find out the latest in Liverpool here.

Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide. 

From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.

The countdown to Christmas is already on and this year it’s going to be more magical than ever – not least because of a brand-new, enchanted wonderland that’s going to take the festive family experience to a whole new level.

Santa’s Secret Forest is a dazzling attraction that’ll transport youngsters – and grown-ups – to an amazing new world, with loads of awe-inspiring scenes and activities.

Just the sound of that will probably get you super-excited and wanting to go, but here’s 10 more reasons why you’ll definitely want to get that visit sorted…

First-of-its-kind enchanted woodland and forest light trail

Santa’s Secret Forest is set to span across 40 acres of woodland, enchanting visitors with a dazzling light trail that’ll sparkle with more than two million multi-coloured lights and breathtaking special effects.

It’s a dazzling attraction that’s close to home

Easy to find and get to, Santa’s Secret Forest is in Orrel Hill Woods on Orrel Hill Lane, Hightown, just off the A565 (Formby Bypass) between Liverpool and Southport.

Meet Santa’s reindeer

You can meet Santa’s reindeer, restingpeacefully in their woodland paddock as they prepare for the big night ahead. See the real-life reindeer up close and get a great family picture to capture the magic and the memories.

Merrywood Market

Merrywood Market is a fabulous food and drink area set in the middle of a woodland clearing and beneath a canopy of twinkling lights, serving festive food and drinks including Yorkshire pudding wraps, bratwurst, pizzas, burgers, brownies, and toasted marshmallows. It’s beginning to look a LOT like Christmas!

Santa’s Christmas Hub

At the heart of the indoor experience is Santa’s Christmas Hub, a 2,700 sqm interactive journey through 10 immersive rooms, from the Grand Lobby where you’re greeted by elves to the Toy Workshop where the toys are finished in time for Christmas, and from North Pole Command – where the mischievous elves keep tabs on who’s been kind – to Santas Sleigh Garage where urgent repairs are needed to get the sleigh flight-ready.

All aboard the Tinsel Town Express

Who wouldn’t love this, the chance to climb on board an immersive magical train carriage that takes you into a storybook world? As festive music plays and the scenery rushes by, Conductor Merryweather welcomes you aboard. But there’s a problem …Santa’s sleigh is malfunctioning, and Christmas Eve is at risk. Can you help fix it?

Send your letter to Santa in the Mail Room

Make a visit to the world’s busiest post office where letters fly through tubes to reach Santa’s desk. Here, at a cosy writing station, you can scribble your letter to Santa and send it down the magical chute, then watch as it races straight to the North Pole to be perused by the man in red.

Be transported back in time

Step into the Time Tunnel to be taken to Christmases past, and wander through magical scenes inspired by the grottos your parents and grandparents once visited. With twinkling fairy lights and festive displays, it’s a heartwarming celebration of tradition (perfect for sharing stories across the generations).

Buckle up for the flight of your life

Families can step inside the Magic Elevators and prepare for a onceinalifetime flight from Santa’s Secret Forest straight to the North Pole. As the doors glide shut and snowflakes swirl past the windows, you’ll soar high above the clouds, heading towards Santa’s snowy home ready for a special visit with the Big Man himself!

There’s plenty of time to treat you and yours

This cutting-edge cracker of a Christmas attraction is creating magic between Friday, November 21, to Christmas Eve, Wednesday, December 24th with visits available to book in the daytime and evening, and SEN Accessible Sessions on Sunday mornings designed especially for families with children who may benefit from a calmer, and more controlled environment.

Find out more and book tickets on the Santa’s Secret Forest website here.

Find out more plans for Christmas in Liverpool here.

Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide. 

From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.

Updated October 2025

There’s loads of ghoulishly great goings-on in Liverpool to celebrate the spooktacular season of Halloween.

So if you’re frightened of missing out on all the best events, have a look at everything we know so far …

Farmageddon

Let’s start with one of the most well-known Halloween events which is Farmageddon, the annual horror festival in Ormskirk that’ll have even the bravest of souls quaking in their boots.

It’s back from Saturday, September 27 to Saturday, November 1 with The Beast of Terror, The Meat Locker, the Fear Go Round, the Maze of Death, and more – and new for this year is The Facility, where people seeking refuge are being used as medical guinea pigs and left in confusion and zombification.  We’re terrified already.

Find out more here.

Spooky Cinema at The Reader

Open-air cinema returns to Calderstones Mansion for the spooky season with nine hand-picked Halloween favourites from children’s storybook animations to top family-friendly picks, an iconic Hitchcock thriller and cult classics during October half term, Tuesday, October 28 to Saturday, November 1.

Find out more here.

Newsham Scream Park

The abandoned Newsham Park Hospital is regularly cited as one of the UK’s most haunted buildings and it’s host to Newsham Scream Park for the third year with a month of mind-bending terror. Running from Wednesday, October 1 until Friday, October 31 there are four new scare mazes and a brand-new Horror Selfie Museum, and it’s definitely one for those who don’t frighten easily.

Find out more here.

Halloween Family Day at Aintree Racecourse

Aintree Racecourse is teaming up with Liverpool charity Nugent for a Halloween Family Day packed with racing, entertainment and spooky fun on Sunday, October 26. As well as live racing, there’ll be loads of Halloween-themed activities and frighteningly good food.

Find out more here.

Spooky special events at Blackstock Market

There are four free Halloween Family Fundays at Blackstock on Sunday, October 26, and from Wednesday, October 29 to Friday, October 31, with creepy face painting, spooky mascots, Halloween movies, live music, dancing, and plenty of eerie surprises; as well as The Upside Down Halloween Party with a Stranger Things theme on Friday, October 31 and Saturday, November 1. There’ll be live shows every hour and a free party from 5pm until midnight with dancers, drummers and the haunting beats of 80s’ classics.

Find out more here.

Spooky Welly Walk – Sefton Park

On Saturday, October 25, the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation is turning Sefton Park spooky with its ever-popular Halloween-themed two-mile fundraising walk, and they’ll be keeping your little monsters entertained with games, creepy crafts, a freaky funfair, menacing mask making, the Bugfest Beaty Parlour, and more. The Spooky Welly Walk event opens at 10.45am and the fun doesn’t stop until 4.30pm.

Find out more here.

Murder Mystery at The Everyman

Inspired by the historical ‘Witch Hunt Craze’ and the city’s dark history you’re invited to be the jury in this interactive Halloween Afternoon Tea Special, The City of Curses – A Murder Mystery by Trial. In the midst of civil war, hunger and incurable sickness, witchcraft haunts the streets of Liverpool, and you can join the secret trial held underground on Hope Street where a witch accused of sorcery, seduction and murder must prove her innocence. It’s happening on Friday, October 31 and Saturday, November 1.

Find out more here.

Psycho City at Moloko

Dress to distress on Thursday, October 30 when Moloko invites you to prepare for your worst nightmares at Psycho City. There’s a Haunted House of Horrors, a Psycho Carnival and Psychic Tent, a funfair featuring creepy clowns, along with three ‘terrifyingly haunted arenas of music’, and more.

Find out more here.

Halloween at the Plaza Community Cinema

The Plaza Community Cinema in Crosby is hosting a series of Halloween classics throughout October including The Shining and The Addams Family.

Find out more here.

Halloween Party Fright Night at Novotel Liverpool

Check in for night of spooky fun, music and Halloween vibes at the ALL ACCOR Halloween Party on Friday, October 31. Entry is £2 and there’s themed food and drink – think ghostly sliders, bloody cocktails and more – a costume contest, and live music from 7pm. 

Find out more here.

SMEC Ghost Train

Chuff into the all-new SMEC Ghost Train – a spine-tingling, family-friendly adventure like no other. The experience will use live steam and diesel battery electric operated locomotives to pull up to 7 passengers per train.

The team have reimagined the experience for 2025 to become a fully immersive spooky railway journey packed with surprises.

Find out more here.

The 80s vs 90s Halloween Day Party at Level

Not everything goes bump in the night! The 80s vs 90s Halloween Day Party is coming to Liverpool at Level Nightclub in Fleet Street on Saturday, November 1 from 3pm-8pm. Expect loads of fearful fun from Halloween classics and 80s & 90s club anthems, ghoulish performers and scare actors, and themed cocktails and potion bars, along with tricks, treats and haunted giveaways.

Find out more here.

Halloweenville at Partridge Lakes, Warrington

Previously known as the Halloween Lakeside Trail, Halloweenville is an enchanted land where you can immerse yourself in a spooky storybook setting. On from Friday, October 3 to Friday, October 31, this year’s theme takes visitors ‘under water’ to the haunting depths of the Gold Lake where ghostly sea creatures, sunken secrets and the skeleton pirates spring to life.

Find out more here.

Farmer Ted’s Pumpkin Festival

Get ready for a bewitching tedventure at the annual Farmer Ted’s Pumpkin Festival, with dinosaurs, a dead scary maize maze, a pumpkin carving zone, fancy dress competitions, spooky stories and more, between Sunday, October 5, and Friday, October 31.

Find out more here.

Fear by the Pier

This Halloween themed event will take place at family attractions at Kings Gardens in Southport between 11am and 5pm on:

Friday, 31st October 2025

Saturday, 1st November 2025

Sunday, 2nd November 2025

Children will be able to meet at Silcock’s Pier Family Restaurant on the Promenade, where they will be able to enjoy a Spooky Kids Meal and grab a ghoulish Goody Bag.

They can take a ride on the famous Silcock’s Carousel, and play 18 holes of crazy golf at Masters Putting Green.

Tickets are £10 each.

Find out more here.

Old Skool Bingo Halloween Special at Modo

Billed as the Ultimate Spooky RnB Takeover, you’re promised a high-energy night packed with scary vibes, RnB anthems, stacks of surprises and the wildest bingo experience. It’s at the Concert Street venue on Friday, October 31.

Find out more here.

Fright Fiesta at Gulliver’s World

Families are invited to enjoy a freakily fantastic time during Gulliver’s World’s Fright Fiesta this Halloween season.

Fright Fiesta is a festival-style event brimming with colour, costumes and music, running over selected weekends in October and then for half-term week from October 25-31.

This year there will be a few new frights and delights for guests to enjoy with the Gulliver’s team ready to put the scares on visitors young and old, and of course lots of fun thrown in for good measure!

The park is open 10.30am-4.00pm for Fright Fiesta, with tickets priced from £19 per person, and children under 90cms going free.

Find out more here.

Eastham Ferry Hotel Children’s Halloween Party

Get ready for a spooktacular evening of fun and fright as Eastham Ferry Hotel hosts its Children’s Halloween Party on Friday 31st October from 5pm to 7pm!

For just £10 per child, youngsters can enjoy a magical night that includes a mini buffet, a lively disco and a thrilling pumpkin hunt.

The hotel will be transformed into a Halloween wonderland — complete with spooky decorations, fun music and plenty of treats.

Find out more here.

Masons Ultimate Halloween Bottomless Brunch

Masons invites brave souls to its Ultimate Halloween Bottomless Brunch — a celebration guaranteed to raise the dead (and your glass).

On Saturday, 1st November, from 1pm–7pm, guests will step into a realm of eerie elegance, where ghostly décor, haunting beats, and endless drinks flow freely. For just £49.50 per person, partygoers can feast on a devilishly good main and side, while indulging in 90 minutues of bottomless drinks that promise to keep the spirits high — in more ways than one.

Find out more here.

Flight Club Brunch Special

Flight Club Liverpool is serving up a bottomless Halloween brunch this October that’s so good it’s scary. The two-hour Halloween Brunch Weekender is available on Friday 31st October through to 2nd November, so whether you’re a Friday-night ghoul or a Sunday-funday spirit, you won’t miss out.

Expect some Halloween-themed tunes from the resident DJ, a devilish cocktail on arrival, a bottle of prosecco for every guest, frighteningly good bottomless pizza paddles and an hour at the oche throwing sharp pointy things (otherwise known as Social Darts!). Come dressed up and be in with a chance to bag some treats! 

Book tickets here from £33 per person.

Find out more about Halloween in Liverpool by checking out our calendar here.

Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide. 

From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.

The team behind PINS Social Club in Liverpool have now confirmed plans to open the biggest new hospitality venue in Manchester. 

Building on the huge success of PINS Social Club in Liverpool, the new 25,000 sq ft venue will span three floors, offering a next-generation social and entertainment experience in one of Manchester’s most iconic buildings.

Located in the Grade II-listed, Art Deco Sunlight House, which is currently undergoing a large refurbishment into grade A office space, the new PINS will be a place where guests of all ages can arrive as fans and leave as players – whether that means immersing themselves in live music and late-night entertainment, competing against friends or enjoying the atmosphere of live sports.

Plans for the venue include a main stage on the ground floor for its electric half time shows, tenpin bowling including VIP private lanes, a gaming mezzanine with tech darts, pool, shuffleboard, beer pong, and karaoke, plus a dedicated sports bar to cater to Manchester’s sports mad crowd. Food will be served all day, from breakfast through to late-night, ensuring guests are fuelled to enjoy their experience to the fullest.

The new venue will be located in the basement of Manchester’s Grade II-listed, Sunlight House, which has undergone a £35million restoration by the building’s owners, Karrev. It is set to become a dynamic hub fostering creativity, collaboration, and productivity, offering a variety of Grade A office spaces. The refurbishment is set to complete in October, ahead of PINS’ grand opening.

The company was founded by friends Daniel Gillbanks and David Scowcroft, who opened their first social club in February 2020. The aim was to pioneer a new entertainment concept, by elevating the combined experiences of competitive socialising and a design-led bar centred around sports heritage. 

Daniel Gillbanks explains:

“The vision for our business is centred around the guest – delivering an immersive experience in a venue that spans numerous common offerings. Providing a bar that unites competitive socialising, live entertainment and a strong programme of sports –with the core focus of creating an ‘arena- like’ experience for guests to be a part of.”

Daniel Kelly joined the team as Managing Director at the start of 2024 to expand the PINS brand, whilst also adding the newly launched Dog & Collar Pub in Liverpool and the recently acquired fan-favourite brand, Almost Famous to the D2 portfolio. 

Daniel said:

“Manchester is a city that thrives on energy, culture, and community – everything that PINS is about. This new venue will be our biggest yet, offering a bold and exciting social space that’s purpose built for entertainment, competition, and ultimately, having a great time. We can’t wait to bring our concept to Manchester’s incredible social scene. Keep an eye out for more details coming soon.”

Julien Buronfosse, Managing Director at Karrev, added:

“We’re thrilled that PINS, a renowned name in leisure and hospitality, has chosen Sunlight House as their first location outside of Liverpool.

“The PINS offering is diverse, dynamic and will provide tenants and the local community with an unparalleled leisure experience. We wanted to work with an operator that understood our vision of breathing new life into a historic building, contributing to the new era that Sunlight House is entering. The building has ambitions to be much more than Grade A office space, with a specific emphasis on community building. The addition of PINS to Sunlight House will contribute greatly to that.”

Find out more information on the PINS Social Club website. 

Find more great days out across Manchester here. 

Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide. 

From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.