Southport's first Year of Culture announced for 2026

French street theatre company Transe Express will bring its Cristal Palace show to Lord Street

Southport's first ever Year of Culture will take place in 2026, it has been announced.

The town is set to be transformed into a year-round stage for art, performance and music, for what organisers have said will be a "truly unforgettable year in the town of seaside spectacle and wonder".

Giant chandeliers, world class circus performers and "never ending rainbows" will all be on show as part of a programme of new cultural events.

Culture Liverpool is working alongside Sefton Council on the creative programme. Here's what has been announced so far.

Lightport - February

Organisers say to expect a year of "spectacle and wonder"

An immersive light and sound installation from leading international artists Lucid Creates will turn the town into a walk-through rainbow of colour and creativity.

Cristal Palace – April

World-renowned French street theatre company Transe Express brings its Cristal Palace show to Lord Street with a 15m-wide (about 50ft) flying chandelier, transforming the street into an open air ballroom.

With live music, aerial performances and a dazzling fusion of art and theatre it is set to be one of the year's defining moments, organisers say.

Big Top Festival - May

Big Top Gandini Juggling will be among the performances in the town

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.

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 with 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! - October

A literature festival designed for families and young readers will take place throughout October half-term.

Books Alive! will fill the town with storytelling installations, live performances and author-led workshops, turning Southport "into a living storybook".