August is one of the best times to experience Liverpool and the surrounding region. The school holidays are in full swing, outdoor events are taking centre stage and there is quite literally something happening every weekend.
Whether you’re desperately searching for family adventures, live music, outdoor theatre, wellness experiences or a reason to escape the house for a few hours, August delivers.
From waterfront festivals and woodland adventures to sunflower fields, spectacular air shows and open-air performances, we’ve narrowed down some of the very best events taking place across Liverpool and beyond this month.
Magic on the Mersey
14 August 2026
Liverpool Town Hall
If you’re looking to experience something a little different this August, Magic on the Mersey promises an evening filled with mystery, illusion and unforgettable entertainment.
Hosted inside the magnificent crypt beneath Liverpool Town Hall, award-winning magician Steve Price will perform an intimate evening of close-up magic where the impossible happens just inches from the audience.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan of magic or simply curious to uncover how the impossible can appear so real, this is one of Liverpool’s most unique nights out.
Best for: Couples, families with older children and anyone who enjoys live entertainment with a touch of mystery.
Moulin Rouge! The Musical
Until 8 August 2026
Liverpool Empire
One of the world’s biggest musicals arrives in Liverpool this summer.
Winner of multiple Tony Awards, Moulin Rouge! The Musical brings Baz Luhrmann’s spectacular film to the stage with breathtaking choreography, lavish costumes and a soundtrack packed with modern pop classics.
Expect dazzling performances, stunning set design and an atmosphere that transports audiences straight into the famous Parisian nightclub.
Whether you’ve seen the film countless times or are discovering the story for the first time, this is one of the hottest theatre tickets of the summer.
Best for: Musical lovers, date nights and anyone looking for a memorable evening in Liverpool.
Man in the Mirror: A Tribute to Michael Jackson
16 August 2026
Liverpool Empire
Celebrate the music of one of pop’s greatest performers as Man in the Mirror arrives at the Liverpool Empire.
Packed with spectacular choreography, live musicians and all the biggest hits including Billie Jean, Thriller, Beat It, Smooth Criminal and Man in the Mirror, the production recreates the energy and excitement of a Michael Jackson concert.
It’s a high-energy evening that promises to have audiences singing and dancing from start to finish.
Best for: Pop music fans, groups and anyone who wants a feel-good night out this summer.
Liverpool ONE Beach Fest
Until 31 August
Liverpool ONE
Liverpool’s city centre has once again been transformed into a beach for the summer.
Beach Fest returns with giant sand pits, fairground rides, children’s activities and plenty of family entertainment throughout August. Combined with Liverpool ONE’s restaurants and shops, it makes for one of the easiest family days out in the city.
Tickle the Ivories
Until 11 September
Liverpool ONE
One of Liverpool’s most loved summer traditions is back.
Pianos are once again dotted around Liverpool ONE, inviting talented musicians and complete beginners alike to sit down and play.
You’ll often stumble across incredible performances completely by chance, making every visit feel a little different.
Dino Takeover at World Museum
Until 27 August
World Museum Liverpool
Dinosaurs have taken over Liverpool this summer.
Families can enjoy dinosaur trails, interactive activities and themed experiences throughout August as World Museum transforms into a prehistoric adventure for younger visitors.
It’s also one of the more affordable family attractions in the city, making it ideal during the school holidays.
National Children’s Orchestras American Concert
1 August 2026
Liverpool Philharmonic Hall
Some of Britain’s most talented young musicians come together this August for an inspiring afternoon at Liverpool Philharmonic Hall.
The National Children’s Orchestras will perform alongside In Harmony Liverpool Philharmonic, celebrating some of America’s greatest composers including George Gershwin, Aaron Copland and Leonard Bernstein.
The programme features iconic pieces including music from West Side Story, making it an accessible concert for seasoned classical music fans and newcomers alike.
Best for: Families, music lovers and anyone wanting to experience Liverpool’s world-famous Philharmonic Hall.
Knowsley Safari Sleepovers
Selected dates throughout August
Knowsley Safari
Would you spend the night inside a safari park?
Knowsley Safari’s famous Safari Sleepovers are back, giving families the chance to sleep in luxury bell tents, enjoy exclusive animal encounters, campfire activities and an early morning safari before the park opens.
It’s easily one of the North West’s most unique family experiences this summer.
Liverpool Indoor Funfair
14 to 24 August
Exhibition Centre Liverpool
Weather-proof family fun returns to Liverpool’s waterfront.
Liverpool Indoor Funfair brings together dozens of rides, inflatables and attractions under one roof, making it the perfect rainy-day activity during the school holidays.
Unlimited ride wristbands are available, and quieter sessions are also scheduled.
Family Escape Rooms at The Ice Cream Farm
Throughout August
The Ice Cream Farm, Cheshire
The Ice Cream Farm has launched brand-new family escape rooms for the summer.
Choose between pirate, prison or funfair-themed challenges before enjoying everything else the attraction has to offer, including one of the UK’s largest outdoor play areas and, of course, plenty of ice cream.
Summer Savings at The Ice Cream Farm
Visitors can also take advantage of discounted summer admission throughout August.
Reduced entry prices and family bundles make this one of the best-value days out just outside Liverpool.
WYLD Sauna
Open throughout August
Princes Dock, Liverpool
Looking for something a little more relaxing?
WYLD Sauna combines Scandinavian-style sauna sessions with cold water immersion, all overlooking Liverpool’s waterfront.
It’s become one of the city’s most talked-about wellness experiences and offers the perfect escape from the busy summer crowds.
Kenyon Hall Farm Sunflower Experience
Expected throughout August
Warrington
If summer had an official flower, it would surely be the sunflower.
Kenyon Hall Farm’s sunflower fields are expected to return during August, creating one of the North West’s most photographed seasonal attractions.
Alongside the flowers, visitors can enjoy the farm shop, café and pick-your-own experiences.
Salt and Tar Music Weekender
14 to 17 August
Bootle
Bootle welcomes one of the region’s biggest music weekends as Salt and Tar returns.
This year’s line-up includes Nile Rodgers & Chic, The Waterboys and The Saw Doctors, bringing four days of live music to the Liverpool City Region.
Southport Flower Show
20 to 23 August
Victoria Park, Southport
The UK’s largest independent flower show returns with spectacular displays, celebrity guests, gardening inspiration, food, shopping and entertainment.
You don’t need to be a keen gardener whatsoever to appreciate the colourful displays and quintessentially English atmosphere.
International Beatleweek
26 August to 1 September
Liverpool
One of Liverpool’s biggest annual events returns.
Beatleweek welcomes fans and tribute bands from across the world, with performances taking place at The Cavern Club and venues throughout the city.
Special concerts also take place at Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, while the Museum of Liverpool hosts its own Beatleweek showcase.
For Beatles fans, there is nowhere better to be.
Blackpool Air Show
8 and 9 August
Blackpool Promenade
A short drive from Liverpool, Blackpool Air Show offers spectacular aerial displays over the famous seafront.
It’s free to attend and regularly attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors.
Southport Air Show
29 and 30 August
Southport Beach
The skies above Southport will once again come alive with breathtaking flying displays.
Expect military aircraft, aerobatic teams and plenty of family entertainment across the final weekend of August.
Outlaws: A Robin Hood Story
Until 23 August
Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre, Chester
Robin Hood returns in this fresh open-air retelling of the classic legend.
Packed with action, humour, romance and a lively folk soundtrack, it’s one of the highlights of Storyhouse’s summer theatre season.
Twinkle Sound Bath at Liverpool Anglican Cathedral (22 August)
Experience one of Liverpool’s most peaceful evenings beneath the magnificent ceiling of Liverpool Anglican Cathedral. The Twinkle Sound Bath combines soothing sound therapy with the calming glow of hundreds of twinkling lights, creating an immersive relaxation experience unlike anything else in the city. Guests are invited to lie back, switch off from everyday life and allow the gentle sounds of crystal singing bowls, chimes and other therapeutic instruments to wash over them in one of Liverpool’s most iconic buildings.
Perfect for anyone looking to unwind, this unique wellness event has become increasingly popular, so advance booking is recommended.
Dean Friedman Live at Epstein Theatre (30 August)
American singer-songwriter Dean Friedman returns to Liverpool for an intimate evening at the Epstein Theatre. Best known for classics including Lucky Stars and Ariel, Friedman has enjoyed a career spanning more than four decades and continues to captivate audiences with his storytelling, humour and timeless songwriting.
Fans can expect an evening of well-loved favourites alongside stories from his remarkable career in music.
A Life Less Ordinary
Head to RiptideNew Brighton, for A Life Less Ordinary, an inspiring evening celebrating courage, adventure and extraordinary personal journeys.
Blending powerful storytelling with live conversation, the event brings together speakers who have challenged convention and embraced remarkable life experiences. Expect an uplifting evening filled with thought-provoking discussion.
Open-Air Theatre at Calderstones Park (6 & 23 August)
Few summer evenings are more enjoyable than live theatre beneath the trees at Calderstones Park.
The Reader once again brings open-air performances to the beautiful Mansion House Garden, beginning with The Three Musketeers by Illyria on 6 August. Packed with sword fights, comedy and adventure, it’s a fresh take on Alexandre Dumas’ classic tale.
Returning on 23 August, the HandleBards present their hugely entertaining production of Macbeth. Performed by the energetic cycling theatre company, expect Shakespeare with plenty of humour, audience interaction and inventive staging.
Bring a picnic blanket, settle into the gardens and enjoy one of Liverpool’s most atmospheric summer traditions.
The Great Race – New York to Paris at Liverpool’s Royal Court (21–22 August)
Prepare for a whirlwind theatrical adventure as The Great Race – New York to Paris arrives at Liverpool’s Royal Court.
Inspired by the extraordinary true story of the 1908 New York to Paris motor race, the production follows an unforgettable journey across three continents filled with breakdowns, disasters and eccentric characters. Featuring just five actors portraying more than forty-five roles, an original ragtime soundtrack and plenty of comedy, it’s a fast-paced evening packed with energy and imagination.
Punch & Judy Returns to Royal Albert Dock
A much-loved summer tradition returns to Royal Albert Dock throughout August with free family-friendly Punch & Judy performances in Anchor Courtyard.
Inspired by the classic seaside puppet show but given a modern twist, audiences can expect slapstick comedy, familiar catchphrases and plenty of audience participation.
Shows take place at:
- 11:45am
- 1:00pm
- 2:15pm
- 3:30pm
Selected August dates include:
- Monday: 10 & 24 August
- Thursday: 6 August
- Friday: 7, 14 & 28 August
- Saturday: 8 & 22 August
- Sunday: 9, 16 & 30 August
Entry is completely free, making it one of the best family activities taking place on Liverpool’s waterfront this summer.
Dance Around the Yellow Submarine Sound Station (Bank Holiday Weekend)
Liverpool’s famous Yellow Submarine takes centre stage over the August Bank Holiday weekend as it transforms into an outdoor sound station on the Martin Luther King Jr. Plateau at Royal Albert Dock.
Complete with colour-changing lights, bubbles, DJs and live performances, the installation creates a vibrant open-air dance floor celebrating Liverpool’s music heritage.
Saturday
- 12pm–2pm: SuRu
- 2pm–4pm: Rhythm Sport
- 4pm–5pm: Shenice
- 5pm–6pm: Motormouf
- 6pm–7pm: Rhythm Sport
Sunday
- 1pm–3pm: WMNKND
- 3pm–5pm: Sam Crombie
- 5pm–6pm: WMNKND
With music, street entertainment and one of Liverpool’s most recognisable landmarks as the backdrop, it’s an ideal way to spend the Bank Holiday weekend.
Make the Most of August
August always carries a slightly bittersweet feeling. Summer is still in full swing, but the arrival of September is beginning to appear on the horizon.
Now is the perfect opportunity to experience everything Liverpool and the surrounding region have to offer.
Whether you’re watching aircraft soar above Southport, sleeping beside lions at Knowsley Safari, wandering through sunflower fields, discovering live music during Beatleweek or simply enjoying an ice cream in the sunshine, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences waiting this month.
As always, event details and timings can change, so it’s worth checking with organisers before travelling. Whatever you choose, August 2026 is shaping up to be one of the busiest and most exciting months of the year for Liverpool and beyond.