The stunning new Lightport event is in Southport this February Half Term – he’s all you need to know!
Lightport takes place 5pm-9pm on Saturday, Sunday and Monday (14th – 16th February 2026).
This brand new, free immersive light and sound experience is produced by leading international artists Lucid Creates to turn Lord Street in Southport town centre into a walk-through rainbow of colour and creativity.
Lightport sees families, friends and visitors of all ages explore a vibrant world of colour, sound and movement.
Starting off at Mermaid Gardens and stretching across a 400-metre route in the heart of our town, the experience will transform Lord Street into a playful, walk-through trail of interactive light installations inspired by the beauty and joy of rainbows, creating magical visuals for all to enjoy.
What is Lightport?
Lightport is open to public from Saturday 14 – Monday 16 February 2026, 5pm to 9pm each evening
Where will the event take place?
Organisers advise starting your journey via Mermaid Gardens to get the full experience.
The installations will be in four locations:
- Mermaid Gardens (outside Sainsbury’s, PR9 0AF)
- Monument Square
- Christ Church Gardens
- Town Hall Gardens (outside The Atkinson)
Do I need a ticket?
No, the experience is self-guided and no booking or tickets are required
How much is it to attend?
Lightport is a free event, with no booking or tickets required
Is the event accessible?
Yes, Lightport has accessible entrances and exits between each of the four locations with signposting. Those with access requirements should refer to the Accessibility Guide linked below.
View Accessibility Guide here.
How long is the Lightport route?
Lightport is a unique sound and light installation that will take over a 400m long stretch of Lord Street in the centre of Southport.
There is no time limit, but organisers expect most visitors to spend 30-60 mins in the experience.
Where can I post and see pictures and video of Lightport?
We’d love to see photos and video of Lightport in our Stand Up For Southport Facebook group!
Local people have been sharing some incredible footage of this awe-inspiring event – take a look!
Where can I find out more about the artworks?
Visit southport2026.com/lightport for full details on each zone and installations.
How should I travel to Lightport?
Organisers encourage the use of public transport to ensure a smooth journey and to be more sustainable.
You have the option to travel by bus or train into Southport town centre, with Southport train station only a 5 minute walk to the starting point of Lightport & plenty of bus routes available.
Plan your journey here with Merseytravel & Merseyrail.
Will there be food and drink at Lightport?
There is no on-site food and drink offer as part of the event so make sure to book a table at some of our amazing local venues before or after your visit to Lightport.
Will there be road closures?
Yes, around the cenotaph (London Street)
Period of closure will be kept to a minimum, diversions will be place, and any businesses & residents affected will be given prior notice
I’m a local business – how do I get involved?
- If your business is offering any special activity or events for Lightport, you can submit your content for promotion here.
- To access social media materials to support Lightport, view our Digital Toolkit.
- For any other enquiries, get in touch with us at tourism@sefton.gov.uk
Southport 2026: A year of spectacular events
Lightport marks the first event of the Southport 2026 programme, a year-long celebration of the town’s Elegantly Eccentric past, present and future.
Using cutting-edge lighting technology and immersive audio, Lightport sets the tone for a year packed with culture, creativity and unforgettable experiences.
This year as well as our annual iconic events Sefton Council is bringing spectacular events with giant chandeliers, world class circus performers and never ending rainbows – as part of a hugely ambitious programme of new cultural events for Southport 2026.
Southport 2026 is produced by Sefton Council with Creative support from Culture Liverpool.
The programme is funded by Sefton Council and Liverpool City Region Combined Authority.
Do you have a story for Stand Up For Southport? Do you need advertising, PR or media support? Please message Andrew Brown or email: mediaandrewbrown@gmail.com
