Southport is set to its host first-ever Earth Day celebration at Wayfarers Arcade

Southport is gearing up to mark Earth Day with a brand-new, community-powered event at the historic Wayfarers Arcade this April.

The free, family-friendly Earth Day event will take place on Monday 22 April from 10am to 2pm, and will feature a packed programme of interactive workshops, expert-led talks, and creative activities designed to inspire attendees to live more sustainably and cut down on energy costs.

The event aligns with this year’s global Earth Day theme, Our Power, Our Planet, and aims to demonstrate how individuals and communities can make a meaningful impact, both environmentally and economically.

Visitors can take part in energy-focused advice sessions from organisations including Scottish Power, Making Energy Greener, Southport Eco Centre, and the National Energy Agency. These drop-in sessions will help residents better understand their energy bills and offer practical, cost-saving advice on how to reduce consumption.

Dr Barnabas Calder, Head of the History of Architecture Research Cluster at the University of Liverpool, will deliver a talk on Southport’s architectural history and its links to energy use. Visitors will also be able to explore a dedicated heritage zone, where they are invited to share their own stories and memories of past energy practices.

The event also places a strong focus on creativity and sustainability. Attendees can take part in upcycling workshops including dreamcatcher crafting using recycled t-shirts, led by Jen Rogers from Knot Me Macrame, and sustainable art sessions hosted by Emmy Porter from Art Ease CIC.

A virtual reality experience from the University of Manchester will give visitors the opportunity to view Earth from an astronaut’s perspective, while green-fingered guests can enjoy a plant swap hosted by Jess Coulson of A Book of Petals. Meanwhile, Becky Potter from Gang of Elk Forest School will be sharing advice on engaging children with nature and outdoor play.

Local artist David Booth, a member of the Royal Society of Sculptors, will be showcasing a selection of works created from recycled and reclaimed materials. He will also be on hand to talk about his passion for turning industrial waste into impactful artwork.

For those looking for something more physical, the Smoothie Bike Challenge invites participants to use pedal power to blend their own drinks. The highest scorer will receive their very own smoothie maker as a prize.

Free vegan meals will be available throughout the day, and all visitors can enter a special prize giveaway.

The event has been made possible through support from local businesses and organisations including Making Energy Greener, The Engine Room, Scottish Power and Wayfarers Arcade.

Rebecca Armstrong, Director at The Hearth, said:

“Earth Day unites over a billion people across nearly 200 countries, and I am overjoyed that Southport will now be part of this global movement. At a time when many are grappling with rising energy bills and climate anxiety, this event is about offering practical solutions and inspiration for positive change.”

Nadia Speers-Robinson, Co-Director at The Hearth, added:

“The theme of ‘Our Power, Our Planet’ speaks to the ability of individuals and small businesses to drive change. We hope visitors leave feeling empowered with practical steps to live more sustainably – changes that benefit both the environment and their finances.”

The Southport Earth Day event is open to all ages and completely free to attend.

For more information about Earth Day, visit their website or follow The Hearth on social media.

Find out more about what’s on in Liverpool here.