Southport is about to step into one of the most exciting chapters in its modern story.
With worldwide attention landing on the Birkdale Open Golf (BOG) and a full calendar of cultural, creative and community-led events, 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for residents, businesses and visitors alike.
Whether you’re planning a weekend break, scoping out the biggest events, or simply want to feel part of the local buzz, this guide covers everything you need to know — and everything worth getting excited about.
Want to get to know the town download the magazine here.
A Year Stacked With Signature Events
2026 isn’t just busy — it’s transformative. Southport will host major attractions, returning favourites, and newly-created experiences that place our town on the map.
Here are the headline moments:
⭐ 1. The Birkdale Open Golf (BOG) 2026
Southport will welcome thousands of global visitors as The Open returns to Royal Birkdale — one of the world’s most iconic courses. Expect all eyes to be on the town as we extend our hospitality, show off new local food offerings, with pop-up exhibitions, family zones and lots of unique places to explore for visitors from far and wide.
⭐ 2. LightPort 2026
Never before seen in Southport. This neon light trail & installations will wow audiences, blending art, technology and storytelling. Expect incredible installations and immersive experiences.
⭐ 3. Cristal Palace Southport
This will be a spectacular event with a giant chandelier floating above the town hall gardens, with dancers and music. The idea to turn Lord Street in a an elegant ballroom. Another first for the town.
⭐ 4. Big Top Southport Festival
A celebration of circus arts, theatre, comedy, cabaret and family entertainment all with traditional Big Top vibe — bringing nostalgia, spectacle and a whole lot of fun.
⭐ 5. The Southport Flower Show 2026
Four days of horticultural magic featuring celebrity gardeners, specialist growers, artisan markets, food theatres, crafts and hundreds of exhibitors.
⭐ 6. The Southport Air Show
Jets, stunts and displays that transform our iconic coastline into the most thrilling outdoor theatre imaginable.
⭐7. Books Alive
Celebrating creativity, literacy, imagination and community, the Books Alive Festival brings together authors, storytellers, families and schools for an event of book-inspired joy.
⭐8. Food & Drink Festival
A celebration of flavours, independents, and the region’s food scene, the Food & Drink Festival is one of the most vibrant weekends of the year.
⭐9. The British Musical Fireworks Championships
One of Southport’s most iconic events, the British Musical Fireworks Championships transforms Victoria Park into a stage set beneath the night sky. This pyro-musical competition blends world-class firework displays to choreographed music!
More Than Events: A Year That Celebrates Our Stories
2026 also brings:
- Independent markets
- Community arts projects
- Music festivals
- Heritage tours
- Waterfront walks
- Family trails
- Wellbeing and creative workshops
- Restaurant, hotel and retail showcases
Southport is stepping confidently into a new era—one that champions its people, creatives, places and growing identity.
Where to Stay for Southport 2026
With tens of thousands of additional visitors expected throughout the year, accommodation will book up fast.
This includes:
- Boutique hotels
- Seafront stays
- B&Bs
- Self-catering apartments
- Family-friendly options
We’ll be publishing full accommodation guides — keep an eye on our “Where to Stay” series.
Where to Eat & Drink
From independents along Lord Street to Churchtown and Birkdale favourites, coffee hotspots and hidden gems around the backstreets, 2026 will highlight the very best of Southport’s food scene.
Expect:
- Event-themed specials
- Local produce menus
- New openings
- Pop-up dining
- Extended hours during peak periods
We’ll be spotlighting them all.
Insider Tips for Visiting Southport in 2026
- Book early. Hotels will fill fast.
- Find your car parks the town centre can get busy.
- Walk the seafront to avoid traffic during LightPort and Air Show weekends.
- Support independents — they’re the heart of the town.
- Pick up a physical copy of Southport’s Journey for maps, local stories and recommended spots.
A Town Ready to Welcome the World
With its iconic coastline, independent spirit, creative boom and renewed energy, Southport is ready to shine.
2026 isn’t just a year of events — it’s a once-in-a-generation moment for the whole community.
And Southport’s Journey will be here every step of the way, covering the stories, the people, the sights and the moments that make this place unforgettable.
Southport is changing fast, and 2026 is our biggest year yet.
If you want to stay ahead of everything happening — from major events to hidden gems and local stories — keep following Southport’s Journey for weekly guides and updates.
Enjoyed this article? Share it with a friend, visitor or fellow Southport lover, and explore even more stories at southportsjourney.com. 💛
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