Liverpool Celebrates – A Festival of Music, Culture, and Community
Over the August bank holiday weekend, the streets of Liverpool are alive with the sound of music.
Held for the first time in 2024, and integrating the Mathew Street Festival, Liverpool Celebrates is an unforgettable event full of music, culture and community spirit, the perfect celebration to enjoy with friends and family.
The weekend festival is a combination of big names in the music industry, dedicated tribute acts and a day celebrating the rich musical heritage of Liverpool, including the Beatles, Gerry and the Pacemakers, Echo & the Bunnymen and Elvis Costello.
What was the Mathew Street Festival?
In 1991, with new owners and after two years of closure, the Cavern Club was reopened and, with a determination to not only pay homage to its famous past but also celebrate contemporary bands just starting to make their name in the music industry. The Cavern Club was one of the first venues to feature Oasis in 1991, and Donovan in 1992.
It was the desire to celebrate the Cavern Club’s contribution to the Liverpool music scene that idea which led to the launching of the Mathew Street Festival in 1993, commemorating the club’s past and future.
In 2014 the festival took a temporary break, returning as part of the wider Liverpool Celebrates in 2024.
What to expect at Liverpool Celebrates?
Diverse Musical Acts
Live performances from popular acts across multiple musical genres from the past and present, plus DJs performing their most popular hits.
Tribute Bands Galore
A great highlight of the festival is the tribute bands. Many acts paying homage to iconic performers including The Beatles, Queen, David Bowie, and more. These performances are a nostalgic trip down memory lane and a testament to Liverpool’s enduring influence on global music.
Family-Friendly Activities
The festival isn’t just for adults; there are plenty of activities for families and children. From interactive workshops and musical instrument demos to street performances and craft stalls, the festival ensures that even the youngest attendees have a memorable time.
Cultural Showcases
Liverpool is a melting pot of cultures, and the festival celebrates this diversity with cultural showcases. Expect to see traditional dance performances, international cuisine stalls, and art exhibitions that reflect the city’s global connections.
Community Spirit
One of the most remarkable aspects of Liverpool Celebrates is the sense of community it fosters. The Mathew Street Festival focused on bringing together people from all walks of life, and this has been an element that has been carried over into the new festival, creating an atmosphere of unity and celebration. Local businesses, artists, and volunteers play a crucial role in making the festival a success, highlighting the collaborative spirit of Liverpool.
Tips for Visitors
Plan Ahead
With the festival attracting large crowds, it’s wise to plan your visit in advance.
Make the most of the event by planning in advance:
- Check the official festival website for the schedule
- Map out the stages you want to visit, and anything else you’re interested in seeing
- Book accommodations early if you’re travelling from out of town.
Explore the City
Liverpool Celebrates is taking over parts of the city, especially the Pier Head and Waterfront, while the final day of the event takes place in Mathew Street, home to the Cavern Club and a number of other music venues, pubs and the Beatles Museum.
Of course, if you’re looking for a few more things to do while in the city then there are plenty of places to visit and enjoy, including the Walker Art Gallery, the World Museum and the Liverpool Tate.
Support Local Artists and Businesses
Though Liverpool Celebrates has a focus on music, it’s also about celebrating local artists and craftspeople. Visiting the three day festival gives you the perfect opportunity to support local artists. Visit their stalls and stores, explore their merchandise, watch them create and purchase some of their incredible products. The city is filled with local shops, cafes, restaurants and boutiques where you can get a taste of Liverpool’s vibrant local culture.
Enjoy a Break in Liverpool and Stay Local
Liverpool Celebrates provides a spectacular celebration of music, culture and community lasting the whole of the August Bank Holiday weekend, and with so many places to visit in and around the city, it’s a great time to visit and enjoy everything that Liverpool has to offer.
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay close to the event with fantastic transport links, quick access to incredible restaurants, cafes and shops as well as all the comforts of home, a Charles Hope apartment has everything you need.
With spacious living areas, comfortable beds, invigorating showers and fully equipped kitchens, Charles Hope Liverpool provides the perfect retreat for relaxing and re-energising after a day out enjoying the festivities. Whether you’re visiting on your own, with friends or family we’ve got the ideal space for you to unpack your bags and rest your head.
