2025 promises an incredible lineup of events across Liverpool and the City Region. From captivating exhibitions and star-studded performances to thought-provoking festivals and interactive experiences. Highlights include the highly anticipated Liverpool Biennial, the UK’s largest free contemporary visual art festival, alongside unique events like the buzzing Bee Parade and Holly Johnson’s live show at the M&S Bank Arena. These are just the events announced so far for 2025—stay tuned for even more as the year unfolds!
2025 Liverpool and City Region Events To Get Excited About
1. The Plant That Stowed Away, Tate Liverpool (6 February – 11 May)
The Plant that Stowed Away at Tate Liverpool explores the intertwined histories of trade, plants, and people, with a focus on industrialisation, colonisation, and migration. Inspired by Chris Shaw’s Weeds of Wallasey series, the display examines the impact of trade on urban and natural landscapes. Featuring works by Henri Matisse, Cristina de Middel, Delanie Le Bas, and Kader Attia, it blends photography, collage, textiles, and film to tell a compelling story of transformation and resilience.
2. Elizabeth Smolen – Trailblazer, Williamson Art Gallery (12 February – 20 December)
Elizabeth Smolen: Trailblazer celebrates the remarkable life of Elizabeth Smolen, a Polish refugee who became a champion scooter racer and businesswoman in Birkenhead. The exhibition explores her daring escape from Soviet Poland, her passion for engineering, and her role in Wirral’s scooter scene. Highlights include two Vespa scooters, memorabilia from Birkenhead’s Cloud 9 Scooter Club, and personal stories that showcase Smolen’s legacy as a local legend.
3. RESORT: A Creative Weekender at BOARC (28 February – 2 March)
Join Heart of Glass and Short Supply for a Creative Weekender at Bidston Observatory Artistic Research Centre, exploring failure, secrets, and lessons from mistakes.
On Friday the Reading for the Restless workshop dives into Jack Halberstam’s The Queer Art of Failure, examining its relevance to life and artistic practice and on Saturday there’s talks led by Short Supply and guest speakers (TBA) explore challenges and possibilities in the art world. Designed for artists, cultural practitioners, and educators, the event is free (with food provided), and optional overnight accommodation is available for £10/night.
4. Grand Parade of the Bees, World Museum (5 April)
Join the buzzing Bee Parade from World Museum, celebrating bees with flowers, pollinators, and vibrant dance! Led by Bob the Butterfly, Gerry the Gerbera, and dance group Movema, the parade swarms down William Brown Street with fun for all ages.
Get involved by attending workshops to craft costumes or mini wildflower meadows, and meet Bob and Gerry at 11am or 1pm inside the museum. Don’t miss Movema’s dazzling performance outside.
5. John Power – Cast, The La’s, and Me, The Atkinson (16 April)
Experience an intimate evening with John Power, Britpop legend and former member of The La’s and Cast. Reflecting on his iconic hits like Alright, Sandstorm, Walkaway, and Flying, as well as his acclaimed solo work, John shares music alongside wild, funny, and heartfelt stories from his career—including the recent success of Cast’s 2024 album Love Is The Call. A must-see for fans of Britpop and timeless rock’n’roll.
6. Song City Safari (Museum of Liverpool) 3 May – 26 August
Embark on a Song City Safari at the Museum of Liverpool’s Wondrous Place gallery, an interactive journey celebrating Liverpool’s musical and creative heritage. Explore how the city became the pop capital of the world through engaging activities, quizzes, and songs (participation optional).
Safaris run at 3pm on 3-4 May, 19-22 June, and 24-26 August 2025, lasting 30-45 minutes. Tickets are £5 for adults and £2 for children aged 6-17, with limited availability. Booking opens closer to the event.
7. Hamilton (Liverpool Empire Theatre) 6 May – 7 June
Don’t miss Hamilton, Lin-Manuel Miranda’s award-winning musical, coming to Liverpool’s Empire Theatre for the first time. This groundbreaking production tells the story of Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant and Founding Father, through a dynamic blend of hip-hop, jazz, blues, R&B, and Broadway styles. Experience the story of America’s past as told by America today in this modern masterpiece.
8. Liverpool Biennial 7 June – 14 September
The 13th edition of the Liverpool Biennial, Bedrock, runs from 7 June to 14 September 2025, curated by Marie-Anne McQuay. Inspired by Liverpool’s sandstone geology and social foundations, the theme explores family, cultural heritage, and the legacies of colonialism, connecting the city’s history, communities, and green spaces.
Featuring works by 30 artists and collectives, the UK’s largest free contemporary visual art festival spans historic buildings, galleries, and unexpected locations. Over 14 weeks, enjoy free exhibitions, performances, screenings, and community events celebrating Liverpool’s vibrant cultural scene.
9. Holly Johnson (M&S Arena) 21 June
Music legend and LGBTQ+ icon, Holly Johnson, marks 40 years of Welcome to the Pleasuredome with a special anniversary tour. Featuring timeless hits like “Relax,” “Two Tribes,” and “The Power of Love,” this new production celebrates the enduring legacy of Frankie Goes to Hollywood.
10. Romeo & Juliet (Everyman Theatre) 13 September – 4 October
Experience Romeo & Juliet like never before at Liverpool’s Everyman Theatre. Directed by Ellie Hurt, this powerful new production strips Shakespeare’s timeless tale of forbidden love to its emotional core.
Young lovers Romeo and Juliet defy their feuding families in pursuit of a brighter future, but can love triumph over hatred and history? Hurt, a YEP Directors alum and acclaimed UK theatre creator, returns to the Everyman with a visceral and fresh take on this classic tragedy. A must-see reimagining of one of Shakespeare’s greatest works.
11. Sam Avery: Thunderstorm (Playhouse Theatre) 21 November
Award-winning comedian Sam Avery returns with his new show Thunderstorm. Known for his sharp wit and punchy style, Sam tackles the chaos of modern life with humor, covering everything from parenting mishaps to culture wars and political absurdities. Expect an evening of thunderous punchlines, lightning-fast jokes, and unforgettable laughter!
To discover loads more events happening in Liverpool and the city region this year check out our What’s On Listings.