Southport is set to celebrate creativity in all its forms this summer with the launch of Southport Arts Festival, taking place from 2nd to 10th August 2025.
This brand-new, community-led festival is being organised by three local arts advocates – Tony Wynne, Suzy Walker and Andrew Portersmith MBE – who have worked tirelessly to put together a diverse and inclusive programme designed to bring people together through the power of the arts.
This year’s festival is intended to be an annual event in the town’s calendar.
From live music and bands to poetry nights, movies, choirs and magic, the nine-day long celebration will showcase performances across some of Southport’s best-loved venues including Southport Market, Coopers Bar, Coast in Birkdale, The Grand, the Bijou Cinema and the bandstand on Lord Street.
There will also be a ‘Gallery Trail’ celebrating the outstanding and diverse visual arts that are in the town.
Co-director Suzy Walker said:
“This festival is all about creating connections. We want to celebrate the incredible artistic talent we have locally, and give people a reason to come together, be inspired and enjoy what Southport has to offer.
“This is just the beginning, with plans already underway to make the Southport Arts Festival a much-anticipated annual event, growing in scale and ambition each year.”
A key focus for the organisers has been to champion local talent, with the majority of performers hailing from Southport and surrounding areas.
The festival also incorporates a special performance from Southport Learning Trust Choir and Southport Young Musicians’ Festival, directed and organised by Claire Kelly, with its grand final taking place during the festival week.
Full event listings will be announced in the coming days and will be published on the festival’s social media pages.
The organisers are keen to hear from anyone who would like to get involved and people can get in touch by emailing southportartsinitiative@gmail.com
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