Bank Holiday weekend is just around the corner, and Sefton is gearing up for a fantastic few days of entertainment. If you are looking to plan your long weekend without leaving the borough, here are some of the standout events.
A Literary Escape at Old Christ Church
Kickstarting the weekend’s activities is the Literary Escape Festival, taking over the beautiful and historic Old Christ Church in Waterloo on Saturday, 23rd May.
Running from 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM, this event is a fantastic celebration of independent authors, local crafters, and small businesses. It is the perfect opportunity to browse unique stalls, discover your next favourite summer read, and chat directly with regional writers.
- Admission: £3.50 for adults, under-16s go free.
- Facilities: Refreshments, parking, and disabled access are available on-site.
- Tickets: https://www.literaryescapeco.co.uk/event-details/literary-escape-festival-liverpool
For the Food & Drink Enthusiasts – Southport Beer Week
Where: Various pubs and bars across Southport Town Centre
When: Running up to Monday 25th May.
If you can’t wait until the Southport Food and Drink Festival next week, this town-wide celebration is the perfect warm-up. It highlights the fantastic independent beer scene in Southport. You can download or pick up a “real ale trail” map and explore a curated route of great local pubs and craft beer bars hosting mini-events throughout the weekend.
Catch the Final Week of The Sefton Open 2026
Where: The Atkinson, Lord Street, Southport
When: Saturday 23rd and Monday 25th May (Closed Sunday)
The late May Bank Holiday offers one of the final chances to catch this year’s Sefton Open. Running at The Atkinson, this massive annual exhibition celebrates the sheer variety of creative talent right here in the borough.
The gallery is packed with an eclectic, salon-style hang featuring everything from traditional oil paintings and sculpture to contemporary textiles and film. This year is particularly special as it marks the 100th annual exhibition partnered with the Southport Palette Club. It is a wonderful, free opportunity to support local artists.
Rev up for the ExtremeBHP Car & Family Festival
Where: Victoria Park, Southport
When: Sunday 24th May
Car enthusiasts and families are in for a treat as the ExtremeBHP Car & Family Festival takes over Victoria Park for a full-day showcase. This massive event will feature hundreds of vehicles on display, ranging from high-spec track cars and drift cars to classic American rides and commercial vehicles.
Aside from the static vehicle displays, visitors can enjoy live DJs, a wide selection of food stalls, and independent trade stands. It is designed to be a full-day out for all generations, combining a high-octane car show with a relaxed festival atmosphere.
Step Inside the Southport Little Theatre for a Moving Musical
Where: Little Theatre, Hoghton Street, Southport
When: Saturday 23rd May to Saturday 30 May
For theatre lovers, the Bank Holiday weekend marks the opening of Come From Away at the Southport Little Theatre. This beautifully written, heart-warming musical tells the true story of 7,000 air passengers stranded in a small Newfoundland town in the wake of 9/11.
The production is a powerful celebration of human kindness, community spirit, and unexpected connections. Tickets are available through the box office, making it a perfect evening plan for the long weekend.
