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12 Unmissable Things To Do In Liverpool And The City Region In March

Posted on 02/03/2025 | by Uncover

st-patricks-day-celebration-with-daoirí-farrell, Liverpool Philharmonic Hall 2025

March is here, and with it comes a packed calendar of things to do in Liverpool and the city region. As spring starts to bloom, the city is bursting with incredible events, exhibitions, performances, and more. Whether you’re after thought-provoking art, thrilling theatre, hands-on workshops, or lively music, there’s something for everyone. A highlight this month is DaDaFest International 40, marking four decades of celebrating disability and Deaf cultures through a packed programme of high-quality, stereotype-challenging art across the region. Discover our top picks and find the best things to do in Liverpool and the city region this March.

1. Willy Russell’s Shirley Valentine, Liverpool Everyman (1-29 March)

For their 60th Birthday, the Everyman Theatre brings home Willy Russell’s Shirley Valentine to its stage. Award winning Willy Russell’s one woman show is to be taken on by director Stephen Fletcher and played by Liverpool actor Helen Carter. Set in Liverpool the play features themes of self-discovery, freedom and rebellion.

2. Abi Palmer: Slime Mother, Bluecoat (4-16 March)

Following a journey of worship, love and co-existence Slime Mother is a film which follows childhood memories of hating slugs and flicking them away, to the slugs being worshipped and loved. The beautifully composed film work follows a range of spoken word narrated by Palmer alongside various shots of the slugs themselves Slime Mother will be showing for free in the Bluecoat from the 4 March, so be sure to add this to your list of things to do in Liverpool this spring.

3. Up Next Festival, Unity Theatre (6-8 March)

Up Next Festival

Up Next Festival returns for a jam-packed weekend of bold, boundary-pushing new work from an eclectic mix of artists. From laugh-out-loud cabaret and deeply personal storytelling to immersive installations, the festival celebrates creativity in all its forms. Expect an unforgettable showcase of fresh talent, featuring performances from Dean Horrocks, Leebo Luby, Violet Arts, third floor theatre, and many more.

4. Meet and Make: Soap Designing, Sudley House (7-8 March)

Sudley House Fathers Day 2025

One of the more hands on and creative things to do in Liverpool this March. Take home a handmade bar of soap designed and made by you this March at Sudley House. Using the melt and pour method this relaxing workshop incorporates smells, dried flowers, oils and colours to make your soap individual to you. The Meet and Make workshop is also a great way to make new friends and get to know new people in the workshop itself or having a chat in the cafe whilst the soaps dry.

5. DaDa Fest International 40, Various Locations (8-31 March)

Expect a busy line-up of film, including large-scale projection, performances, visual arts, workshops and talks are promised at this year’s DaDaFest International 40(DDFI40). Celebrating disability and deaf cultures through a range of high-quality artwork and performances. With 90% of events open to the public for free DaDa Fest is unmissable. Don’t miss out on these exciting things to do in Liverpool this March.

6. Ghost Stories, Playhouse Theatre (11-15 March)

Ghost Stories at The Playhouse Theatre Liverpool

For thrilling things to do in Liverpool this March, Ghost Stories has to be on your list. One of London’s best reviewed plays of all time is hitting the Playhouse Theatre from the 11 – 15 March. Ghost Stories follows a world of thrilling twists and turns as Professor Goodman tries to debunk three paranormal hauntings. As he runs out of explanations this worldwide phenomenon will leave you on the edge of your seat.

7. Graham Crowley: I Paint Shadows, Walker Art Gallery (14 March – 13 July)

Graham Crowley I Paint Shadows

The Walker Art Gallery presents Graham Crowley: I Paint Shadows, a striking new exhibition by the 2023 John Moores Painting Prize winner. Opening 14 March 2025, this solo showcase explores Crowley’s masterful use of light and shadow, featuring new works alongside his prize-winning painting Light Industry. Nearly 50 years after his first John Moores entry, Crowley returns with a bold investigation of ‘sites of creativity’, transforming everyday scenes into thought-provoking studies of perception and form.

8. Bluecoat family day, Bluecoat (15 March)

Bluecoat Family Day

The Bluecoat family day returns this March, running from 1-4pm with a range of free creative activities for all of the family to enjoy. Another fantastic opportunity if you’re looking for things to do in Liverpool with the kids this March!

9. St. Patrick’s Day Celebration with Daoirí Farrell, Liverpool Philharmonic Hall Music Room (17 March)

st-patricks-day-celebration-with-daoirí-farrell, Liverpool Philharmonic Hall 2025

Join award winning singer and Bouzouki player Daoirí Farrell this March 17th for a live performance, playing some of the best Irish Folk to come out of Ireland in the past six years. Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with this lively performance, one of the many things to do in Liverpool this St Paddy’s.

10. Arts For Social Change Showcase, Online (27 March)

Collective Encounters returns with another Arts for Social Change Showcase, a dynamic evening of rapid-fire presentations from passionate creatives using the arts to make a difference. Featuring up to ten speakers sharing bold ideas, projects, and causes in just five minutes each, this event is an inspiring space to connect, spark conversations, and drive change. Whether you’re an artist, activist, or simply curious, come along to celebrate, challenge, and collaborate!

11. Northern Live – Do I Love You, The Atkinson (28 March)

Northern Live – Do I Love You

Experience the electrifying energy of Northern Soul with this incredible live show, bringing the underground movement’s legendary sounds to the stage. Featuring an 11-piece band and four powerhouse vocalists, the performance delivers over 30 iconic hits, from Out On The Floor to Tainted Love. Get ready for an unforgettable night of dancefloor anthems and timeless soul classics!

12. Trans Day of Visibility, Museum of Liverpool (29 March)

Trans Day of Visibility, Museum of Liverpool 2025

Don’t forget to add this to your list of things to do in Liverpool this March, join the Museum of Liverpool this March for their annual celebrations of Trans Day of Visibility. Celebrate the diversity of Liverpool with a range of events highlighting what it means to be trans and non-binary in the city.

To find other events you don’t want to miss and other things to do in Liverpool this March check out our What’s On page.

Culture Radar – Liz Barker (March For The Arts)

Posted on 24/02/2025 | by Uncover

This week’s Culture Radar guest is Liz Barker, the Director and Founder of March for the Arts, Arts Activism and Supporting Creatives.

Loved: The River of Light was fantastic as always, I particularly enjoyed the ‘Bubblesque’ and ‘Firefly Field’. Over the festive period I loved getting to see Alice in Wonderland at Shakespeare North Playhouse, and the Everyman Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto Rapunzel. I also think the Lights Up on Liverpool Exhibition in Central Library is a must see for anyone interested in Liverpool’s arts heritage, it’s beautifully curated by Arts Groupie.

Looking forward to: I’m keen to visit The Holly Johnson Story before it closes in July at the Museum of Liverpool, take one of Arts Groupie’s Theatre Walking Tours, and see Shirley Valentine at the Everyman. And as a life long fan, I’d be remised if I didn’t mention, I’m very excited that The Boss himself, Bruce Springsteen is coming to play Anfield in the summer.

Trivia: People might be unaware at March for the Arts we offer free advice and consultation to freelancers and arts organisation relating to working better in the arts. We also have a guidance document called Working Guidance for Arts Freelancers and Organisations that can be accessed for free via our website.

The Making of The Access Manifesto: How 20 Stories High and Graeae Theatre Created A Blueprint For Inclusive Arts

Posted on 24/02/2025 | by Uncover

The Access Manifesto - Outreach Session — Participants getting involved in one of the 20 Stories High and Graeae outreach sessions

“A reassuring reminder of how many organisations and creatives within our community want to continue to curate access-informed spaces.” – Claire Beerjeraz

The Access Manifesto is a bold call to action for greater inclusivity in the arts, developed by 20 Stories High and Graeae Theatre Company. Shaped by the voices of young Deaf, Disabled, and neurodivergent people, the manifesto provides a practical framework for arts organisations to create truly accessible spaces. Here’s the story of how The Access Manifesto was created.

How High Times and Dirty Monsters Led to The Access Manifesto

The Access Manifesto was created after 20 Stories High and Graeae Theatre Company collaborated on their award winning show High Times and Dirty Monsters in March 2023. This production explored the challenges faced by young Deaf, Disabled, and neurodivergent people today. To create this show, they worked with over 60 young people and young adults from across the UK, including Liverpool, London, Leeds, Chester, and Manchester.

Through workshops, research and development weeks, and one-to-one sessions with young Disabled people, the teams listened to their lived experiences, thoughts, and feelings to shape the show. This process gave 20 Stories High and Graeae the opportunity to connect with more young people and make sure their voices were at the heart of the production. The show explored key issues around disability, the education system, family, work, the cost of living crisis, and parenthood, highlighting the intersections of Disability and everyday life.

Through these conversations, it became very clear that change was urgently needed, especially in the arts sector.

The Access Manifesto Outreach Event — The Access Manifesto Screening and Workshop event at the Museum of Liverpool

Listening, Creating, and Taking Action: The Birth of The Access Manifesto

Maisy Gordon, an actor in High Times and Dirty Monsters, and Ayzah Ahmed, a Graeae Young Company member, recognised the need for continued activism. They found that many arts spaces were not only failing them but were also neglecting the majority of disabled people they worked with.

20 Stories High and Graeae led sessions in Liverpool and London to learn more about how young disabled people feel within theatres and the arts. The sessions were focused on creativity and discussion. The participants in the sessions created poetry, music, artwork, devised scenes, stand up comedy and wrote songs in response to the conversations that took place.

“One of the biggest topics that came up in the workshop was how few disabled people are seen on stage. It’s not just about young disabled creatives needing to see people like them in the arts, but also about young disabled people wanting to see themselves in stories and characters, just like everyone else. The lack of representation is really harmful to disabled people in our community. It makes us feel invisible and excluded. Representation matters, and right now, there’s a big gap that needs to be filled.” – Maisy Gordon

Ayzah and Maisy then collected all of the thoughts, ideas, and provocations to develop a practical, step-by-step guide aimed at helping arts organisations and venues take significant strides toward making the arts more accessible for young audiences, participants, and artists. This is how The Access Manifesto was born, a tool made by those who are directly impacted to inspire and guide the arts sector towards a more inclusive future.

The Access Manifesto Film Screening at Museum of Liverpool — The Access Manifesto screening and workshop at the Museum of Liverpool

The Access Manifesto Screening & Workshop Event

In January, 20 Stories High in collaboration with Graeae Theatre Company held a screening and workshop event for The Access Manifesto. The event was open to artists, organisations and leaders to come together and watch the film, learn about the available resources and share learning around accessibility. Taking place at the Museum of Liverpool, the event had over 60 creatives attend, and start to take action.

“It was fantastic to go to 20 Stories High’s Access Manifesto launch event and see so many local theatres and arts organisations fully engaged in coming up with solutions to remove barriers for disabled creatives and audience members.” – Laurance Clark

Hosted by Paislie Reid, Maisy Gordon and Jayden Reid, the event allowed participants to start working on their ‘access tracker’, a resource available online that helps plan accessibility improvements for the short and long term.

“In the lead up to the event I felt safe to ask for what I needed and this was fully supported. It was so useful to talk to other organisations big and small about how they are currently making lasting change and what initiatives they are using to do so. It was a safe, supportive and innovative space.” – Abigail Middleton, Liverpool’s Royal Court

The Access Manifesto screening and workshop also saw 23 individuals and organisations pledge to follow the manifesto, and continue to develop their accessibility going forward.

The Access Manifesto Film & Resources

The Access Manifesto is a film performed and written by Ayzah Ahmed and Maisy Gordon, and interpreted by Jayden Reid that features poetry and 8 Manifesto points. The Manifesto can also be accessed as a document in various different formats including large print, dyslexia friendly and easy read. You can watch or read The Access Manifesto here.

Since the launch of The Access Manifesto in July 2024, Maisy Gordon has worked with the organisations to release multiple guides and resources to accompany the film. These were aimed at spreading more awareness around disability, access and how to practically use The Access Manifesto as a tool.

A highlight of these is the ‘Using The Access Manifesto’ guide, a document that goes into more detail about each manifesto point in a practical way and gives examples of free and paid ways you can improve access in your venue, organisation or practice.

Pledge to Follow The Access Manifesto

20 Stories High and Graeae are inviting individuals and organisations to join in a collective effort to promote accessibility in the arts. By pledging to follow The Access Manifesto, you’ll play an active role in helping to create lasting, meaningful change in the sector.

To pledge, visit 20storieshigh.org.uk and check out The Access Manifesto page.

Buried Treasure With Arts Groupie CIC: Voices From The Past – Authors On Authors

Posted on 24/02/2025 | by Uncover

By John Maguire

With World Book Day coming up on 6 March 2025, this month we decided to look at some Buried Treasure that stems from the writing desks of Liverpool. We asked our friends at Liverpool Literary Agency, a collective of contemporary writers about the local authors from the past that encouraged them to pick up the writing pen.

J.P Maxwell

Nicholas Monserrat wrote The Cruel Sea about the Battle of the Atlantic in WWII, which made the water itself the villain as a force of nature. Monserrat was born on Rodney Street and himself served during the conflict. This book was an early read which stuck in my head, especially during choppy ferry crossings to Ireland which I frequently made as a kid. No U-boats or Destroyers on the Irish Sea though, only fellow passengers swilled up on Guinness and Paddy Whiskey.

Flash forward to now and seafaring – or rather control of the sea – is at the heart of my two books; Water Street and The Americans of Abercromby Square. The advent of the screw propeller in the mid-19th Century was every bit as important as the railway in terms of how modern trade developed. Throw in slavery that was at the centre of the American Civil War and the transition of the United States into a superpower and it all boils down to that cruel sea, mistress of vast wealth and mass diasporas at the same time.

Zoe Richards

I’ve been influenced by a number of northern authors, and it’s been difficult to pick just one, but I’m going to go with a playwright. In about 1987 or 1988 (it was a long time ago!) I met Willy Russell at an event at his son’s school (a friend of mine taught at the school). He talked a bit and then he performed from Shirley Valentine, and I forgot he was a man reading the part of a woman because of his sensitivity with his words and performance. He was totally relatable and real. His writing was sharp and witty and tight, and he personally was kind and generous.

That event one summer’s evening inspired me and kept me going with my writing, albeit it took me a long time to realise my own dream. but Willy Russell showed me that ordinary people from ordinary northern backgrounds could weave our way in what felt like a very southern centric world.

Zoe’s Garden of Her Heart is available via uclanpublishing.com/book/garden-of-her-heart/

John Maguire

For me, it has to be George Garrett.

Ten Years On The Parish is a work that reveals hardships and unflinching observations of the poverty experienced in Liverpool between the World Wars. The book illustrates an uncompromising, graphic account of the unemployed struggle in Liverpool and the first Hunger March of 1922.

Garrett’s writing reveals a man of principle and a character that demands admiration. In his writings we see the very essence of the indefinable Liverpudlian spirit, which contains toughness blended with a subtext of tenderness.

Garrett wore many hats in his lifetime and is a working class renaissance man for he was a merchant seaman, a writer, a playwright, a radical activist and a founder member of Liverpool’s Unity Theatre. Which according to Alan O’Toole, ‘took both literature and the ‘message’ straight to the people on the streets.’

His catalogue of work, despite the hardships he suffered, is exceptionally impressive. Penning three plays overtly influenced by the new realism of American playwright Eugene ONeill (writer of acclaimed ‘Long Day’s Journey into the Night,’ recognised by the actress Jessica Lange as the greatest American play).

I have been influenced by his attitude of getting things done and also juggling many different projects weaving a tapestry of a creative career.

His approach inspired me to write my love letter to Liverpool, blending magic realism, humour and urban folklore in my novella The Liver Bird.

Keep an eye out for World Book Day Events in the Liverpool city region via our What’s On listings.

Culture Radar – Ted Gray (The Studio Below & Make It Write Productions)

Posted on 17/02/2025 | by Uncover

This week’s Culture Radar guest is writer, director and artist, as well as a Director of Make It Write Productions and The Studio Below, Ted Gray.

Loved: I saw The Feral Parakeet at the Smithdown Arts Hub where poetry, words and avant-garde jazz improvisation merged. It was inspiring. Time talking with my friend and fellow writer, Sue Comer, about what we write and why. I went wassailing down south in the freezing cold, a reminder of origins. When possible, I go to any of the galleries to quieten my mind. A pint in The Caledonia – beer, conversation and music.

Looking forward to: The WOW Pulp Idol Grand Final full of brilliant new writers but I’m in The Studio Below that weekend for the Weird and Wonderful Festival (I’ve a tiny part in Mick Francis’ Wheat is What We Eat and I’m also directing Lauren Blakeway’s The Fox). Opening our new premises on Wood St for rehearsal and performance. Liverpool International Jazz Festival. A long way off yet but the Liverpool Fringe gets better each year.

Trivia: I write to the sounds of discordant, arrhythmic jazz. My pet’s names reveal my like of absurdism – Mortimer, Vic and Bob. Art changes the world so never stop being a revolutionary. The other side of my brain loves a good spreadsheet. Street protest politics brought me to theatre.

11 Fun Things To Do In February Half Term In Liverpool and the City Region

Posted on 17/02/2025 | by Uncover

Looking for the best things to do in February half term? Liverpool and the wider city region have plenty of exciting activities to keep the whole family entertained during the school break.

From hands-on creative workshops at Tate Liverpool and Bluecoat to interactive exhibitions and theatre, there’s something for every young explorer. Whether your child loves arts and crafts, storytelling, or getting up close with history, this guide is full of fun-filled events happening across the region. Here are some of the best things to do in February half term in Liverpool and the city region.

1. Mars At The Museum, Norton Priory and Museum & Gardens (Until 9 March)

Things To Do In Half Term In Liverpool and the City Region - Mars at the Museum — Credit: Norton Priory Museum & Gardens

One of the most exciting things to do in February half term has to be Luke Jerram’s mesmerising art installation ‘Mars At The Museum’. It’s perfect for both kids and grownups, featuring detailed NASA imagery of the martian surface. With children entering for free this is a perfect chance to step outside the everyday and experience the red planet in a unique setting.

Fun Half Term Activities At Tate Liverpool

2. Blooming Creative: February Half Term Workshops (15-23 February)

The Plant That Stowed Away — Copyright: (c) Succession Henri Matisse/DACS 2017 / Photo (c) Tate

Head to the immersive learning space at Tate Liverpool + RIBA North with free activities designed by Hellen Songa. Focusing on herbs and community gardens in Liverpool, children will have the chance to make their own herbal dream pillow or wand. They’ll also get a chance to add a plant or flower to the Tate’s paper flower garden.

3. Mildred’s Albert Dock Art Trail (Available every day)

Help Tate Liverpool’s art-loving cat Mildred find 6 images placed around the Royal Albert Dock. Using the free booklet from The Tate Liverpool, this trail encourages young visitors to create their own amazing art.

4. Animal Adventures – Little Liverpool Special, Museum of Liverpool (Tuesday and Sunday Mornings)

Animal adventures is a part of the hands-on and interactive fantasy world ‘Little Liverpool’. These sessions let children explore the world of wild animals with extra animal themed activities for younger visitors to enjoy.

Creative & Adventure-Filled Fun at The Atkinson

5. Make it! Craft Workshop (20 February)

To celebrate the ‘We’re going on a bear hunt’ trail that landed in Southport last month The Atkinson are hosting a teddy bear themed art and craft workshop and are encouraging their young visitors to bring along their own teddy bears to enjoy the fun too!

6. Dinosaur Adventure Live (21 February)

Bring the family to the new Dinosaur Adventure this February half term with their brand new Dinosaur’s being let loose. In this brand new adventure, help the crew save the dinosaur’s after a weather system malfunctions threatening the lives of their prehistoric friends.

7. The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, Empire Theatre (18- 22 February)

A magical theatre experience is always a great thing to do in February half term. Step into the magical world of Narnia as the Empire takes you on a thrilling adventure in celebration of 75 years of the classic C.S. Lewis novel, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. There are matinee performances, so you won’t be up past anyone’s bedtime!

8. The Baddies, Playhouse Theatre (18 – 22 February)

Based on the book by Julia Donaldson and Scheffer this adaptation of The Baddies is perfect for entertaining your young ones this February half term. As you meet a troll, a witch and an ancient ghost who try to scare a little girl out of her wits, be prepared for lots of laughs in this hilarious adaptation of a smash hit story.

9. When Another Dragon Roars, Unity Theatre (18 February)

Alfie and his mum both find it hard to talk about their feelings, but when they go camping they share stories about dragons. These dragons are angry, sometimes sulky and even scary. Alfie and his mum soon realise they are quite similar to the dragons. Using puppetry When Another Dragon Roars tells a story about handling emotions as both a parent and a child.

10. Block Printing, Bluecoat (19 February)

This February half term, children and their grownups are invited to Bluecoat to design and create their own block prints inspired by the Bluecoat building. Suitable for 3+, this session is free, just drop in between 1-3pm.

11. Art Plays Games, FACT (Until 27 April)

FACT has turned their first floor gallery into a space for games created by digital artists and independent game developers. Art Plays Games is fun, playful and suitable for both gamers and non-gamers featuring a different range of games which challenge conventional ways of storytelling.

For even more things to do in February half term in Liverpool and the city region check out our What’s On Listings.

Culture Radar – Kate Allerston (A Place For Us CIC)

Posted on 09/02/2025 | by Uncover

Kate Allerston of A Place For Us CIC — Credit: Stevie Hines

This week’s Culture Radar guest is the Artistic Director, A Place for Us Theatre, Kate Allerston.

Loved: I have really enjoyed the NPO events programme at Norton Priory in Runcorn, where I have been fortunate to be one of the Artistic Directors, along with my husband Chris Bastock, in 24/25. This includes the events around the Gaia (Earth) installation, the outdoor and indoor theatre & concerts programme and the events currently around the Mars installation (until 9 March 2025).

Looking forward to: I am really looking forward to being at Shakespeare North Playhouse for several of our productions this coming summer.

Trivia: I have been an actor & director for over 30 years, starting at the Liverpool Playhouse Youth Theatre as a young teen, then went on to study acting in London at LAMDA, lived/worked in London for all of the 90s and early naughties and was one of the founder artistic directors of the now international and Shakespeare Schools Festival (now Coram Shakespeare Schools Foundation) and returned to work in the arts across the LCR in 2005.

Culture Radar – Nick Rogers (The Hope Street Theatre)

Posted on 02/02/2025 | by Uncover

This week’s Culture Radar guest is the Director of The Hope Street Theatre, Merseyside Academy of Drama (MAD), Performers Theatre School, and Olivier award-winning theatre company, Papatango, Nick Rogers.

Loved: I thoroughly enjoyed An Evening with Talking Heads (which was made up entirely of a cast of current and ex-MAD students) and the What Happens Next competition by Tip Tray Theatre, both hosted at The Hope Street Theatre. Stocking Fillers at Liverpool’s Royal Court Theatre was another highlight, directed by my brilliant colleague, Sam Donovan.

Looking forward to: I’m particularly excited for On The Banks of The Royal Blue Mersey (despite being a Red!), Someone You Love by SevenBlu3, Northern Comedy’s No Sex Please, We’re British – all at Hope Street – and The Merchant of Venice 1936 at the Playhouse, and The Peaceful Hour at Liverpool’s Royal Court.

Trivia: Next year marks the 25th anniversary of Performers Theatre School, which has introduced thousands of children to drama, dance, and singing. We began on Bold Street in 2001 and moved into our current studios on Hope Street in 2015, which are also home to MAD in the evenings and Rare Studio BTEC and Intensive students on weekdays. The opening of The Hope Street Theatre in 2017 helped transform the building into a vibrant creative hub. It’s been incredible to see the space evolve into a thriving centre for the arts, with so many talented people coming together to create and share their work. And now, with amazing food courtesy of the Arts Bar, there’s truly something for everyone here, from aged 2 to 99!

Culture Radar – Tessa Buddle (Collective Encounters)

Posted on 27/01/2025 | by Uncover

This week’s Culture Radar guest is the Executive Director, Collective Encounters, Tessa Buddle.

Loved: I’ve been on maternity leave for the best part of a year so I’ve been loving our region’s family friendly cultural offer. Favourites have been Sling and Swing It (a baby-wearing dance class) run by Travelled Companions at 24 Hope Street, the brilliant Africa Oyé, the seasonal rituals at Squash Liverpool, and Collective Encounters’ sound journey ‘Voices on the Streets’ – a great way to connect with the city while on a pram walk!

Looking forward to: I can’t wait to get out and see some theatre. For starters, the new season at Unity is looking really good and I’m eagerly awaiting the DaDaFest programme.

Trivia: Did you know Collective Encounters is 21 this year? We’ve got some exciting plans to mark the occasion including the launch of a new digital archive documenting two decades of theatre for social change in the Liverpool City Region.

Lunar New Year 2025: Celebrations in Liverpool and the City Region

Posted on 26/01/2025 | by Uncover

Chinese New Year Celebrations — Credit: Culture Liverpool

Liverpool and the city region is set to celebrate the Lunar New Year with a vibrant mix of events that honour Chinese traditions, culture, and community spirit. The Lunar New Year officially begins on Wednesday, January 29, but the city’s main festivities will take place on Sunday, February 2, offering something for everyone.

From lively parades and cultural workshops to creative activities and traditional performances, Liverpool’s Chinatown and beyond will host a series of free and ticketed events to welcome the Year of the Snake.

Here’s a roundup of the events happening across the city:

Chinese New Year: Activities in Chinatown (1 February)

Chinese New Year Saturday Activities — Credit: Culture Liverpool

A small selection of family-friendly workshops and craft stalls will take place in Chinatown on Saturday 1 February, 12pm – 4pm. This programme offers a quieter alternative to Sunday’s proceedings, without firecrackers and loud music performances, ensuring everyone can join in the fun.

Legends of Spring – Bombed Out Church Projection Show (1 & 2 February)

A stunning projection show will take place at St Luke’s Bombed Out Church, brought to life by Focal Studios to celebrate the Year of the Snake. Presented like a video game, Legends of Spring guides audiences through mythical stories of creation, renewal, and balance.

Developed in partnership with Pagoda Arts, the narrative combines traditional Chinese folklore with a celebration of Liverpool’s rich cultural heritage. Adding a fun twist, retro 8-bit video game art created by local schoolchildren and community groups enriches the story.

This is an outdoor event, so please dress warmly and wear sturdy footwear.

5:30pm – 9pm (running on a continuous loop each evening)
FREE – no tickets needed, just come along.

Liverpool’s Chinese New Year Celebrations (2 February)

The streets of Chinatown will be filled with the sights and sounds of traditional Lion, Dragon, and Unicorn dances. This free event is perfect for families and visitors looking to immerse themselves in the celebrations. There will also be family-friendly workshops and craft stalls.

Liverpool’s Bring the Fire Project are also returning to celebrate the Lunar New Year 2025 with their latest spectacular fire production, ‘Serpentine Flames: A Fiery Tribute to the Year of the Snake’ during the finale at Great Georges Square at 4:30pm.

Chinese New Year Crafts (1, 8 & 22 February)

Drop into the Museum of Liverpool for free craft sessions that invite families to create their own New Year decorations. Sessions run between 11 am and 12 pm, and from 1 pm to 4 pm.

Chinese Calligraphy with Pei Yee Tong (8 February)

This Chinese Calligraphy Workshop led by artist Pei Yee Tong is a hands-on session where participants will explore the fundamentals of the art form, focusing on symbolism, stroke techniques, and ink control methods. Whether you’re a beginner or have some prior experience, this workshop will guide you through each stage of the process. By the end of the session, you’ll create your own piece to display or gift.

Chinese calligraphy, a key part of the nation’s cultural heritage, connects us with thousands of years of tradition, history, and philosophy.

Lunar New Year at the Lady Lever Art Gallery (15 February)

Lunar New Year at the Lady Lever Gallery — Credit: Gareth Jones

Celebrate the Year of the Snake with a day full of cultural activities at the Lady Lever Art Gallery. Enjoy dance performances by the Wirral Chinese Cultural Association, hear the legend of the Zodiac Race, and participate in themed crafts.

Lion Dance Workshop (19 February) & Lion Dance Performance (23 February)

Credit - Culture Liverpool — Credit: Culture Liverpool

Learn the art and history behind the traditional Lion Dance at this interactive workshop at the Museum of Liverpool. Kids will get hands-on experience with lion puppets and drums, creating a truly unforgettable cultural moment. Then on 23 February the dazzling Lion Dance will be performed by the Hung Gar Kung Fu School.

This list will be updated as more events are announced, so check back for additional details and visit our What’s On event listings to discover more events happening across the city region.