Southport's 2026 events launch in style as Lightport transforms Lord Street

Thousands of families have packed out Southport’s iconic Lord Street last weekend as boulevard was transformed into a river of light and colour.

With people travelling from across the North West, the town’s first ever Lightport experience took place from Saturday February 14th to Monday February 16th, officially marking the start of Southport’s ambitious 2026: Elegantly Eccentric cultural programme.

Stretching across a 400-metre route in the heart of the town, the experience transformed Lord Street into a playful, walk-through trail of interactive light installations inspired by the beauty and joy of rainbows, creating magical visuals for everyone to enjoy.

Not only did the trail wow thousands of families but it also provided a much needed post-winter boost for town centre businesses, with Saturday February 14th being recorded as the busiest period in three months for hotels, bars and pubs in the Southport.

Cllr Marion Atkinson, Leader of Sefton Council, said:

“What a way to start our 2026 Elegantly Eccentric cultural programme!

“It was the perfect way to blow away the gloom of winter for us all and we have received some incredible feedback from residents, businesses and visitors who were absolutely astounded by what they saw.

“The success of Lightport sets a high bar for the remainder of the Southport 2026 programme, which promises to keep the town centre buzzing throughout the year.

“I would also like to thank all those hard working local businesses for embracing and working with us to promote Lightport, staying open later and championing this wonderful town.

“It is great to see how Sefton’s investment in major event in Southport is helping everyone.”

Owners of Silcock’s Amusements Herbert Silcock and Serena Silcock-Prince lauded the weekend.

Herbert said:

“It has been a huge success for the town and just what was needed.

“I would like to thank all those who organised this fantastic event and I hope it becomes an annual occurrence.”

Serena added:

“Lightport has been incredible. It has been fantastic to see so many happy faces enjoying not only the wonderful light installations but also everything Southport has to offer as a town.

“There has been a real buzz the last few days and we look forward to the other Elegantly Eccentric showcases!”

The Elegantly Eccentric cultural programme is being delivered by Sefton Council in partnership with the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority and Culture Liverpool.

Upcoming Southport events include:

Cristal Palace – 3 – 4 April

World-renowned French street theatre company Transe Express brings its spectacular show Cristal Palace to Lord Street with a 15-metre-wide flying chandelier, transforming the street into an open air ballroom with live music, aerial performance and dance, a dazzling fusion of art and theatre set to be one of the year’s defining moments. More details will be announced soon.

Big Top Festival – 2 – 3 May

Big Top Festival will take over the town with the best of modern circus including shows from world renowned companies including Circa and Gandini Juggling coming to one of the artforms spiritual homes. Across open-air stages, audiences can expect breathtaking acts, live music and hands-on workshops for all ages.

Southport Originals – Summer

Throughout the summer, Southport’s much-loved calendar favourites return in style, the Southport Flower Show, Food and Drink Festival, Southport Air Show and British Musical Fireworks Championships, celebrating the town’s proud traditions while drawing visitors from across the UK.

Books Alive! – 24 – 31 October

Books Alive! Is a reimagined literature festival designed for families and young readers. Running through half-term, the event will fill the town with storytelling installations, live performances and author-led workshops, turning Southport into a living storybook.

The success of the first Elegantly Eccentric experience comes as leading UK retailer Home Bargains has been confirmed as the programme’s headline sponsor.

As headline sponsor, Home Bargains support will help fund a diverse range of activity across art, culture and performance,, with a strong focus on participation and community pride.

Find out more about the upcoming Southport events here.

Find even more events across Southport and the Liverpool City Region on our calendar.

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