Families across Knowsley are invited to make the most of the school holidays as a packed programme of free events comes to Huyton, Prescot and Kirkby this summer.
From dinosaurs and circus performers to magical storybook characters, live entertainment and interactive workshops, the Summer of Fun line-up promises weeks of family-friendly activities in all three of Knowsley’s town centres.
Whether you’re looking for hands-on activities, spectacular performances or unforgettable photo opportunities, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Huyton Village Centre Summer Fun
Themed events will transform Huyton Village Centre throughout August, offering free entertainment, crafts, trails and family activities.
Saturday 1 August, 11am – 3pm
Marvellous Markets
Browse unique handcrafted products, support talented local makers and enjoy a vibrant market atmosphere in the heart of Huyton.
Saturday 1 August, 11am – 3pm
Come Alive Spectacular
Step right up for thrilling performances, stilt walkers, jugglers and show-stopping acts inspired by The Greatest Showman. Join circus workshops, meet the unforgettable Mr Business the orangutan and Captain Jon Voyage, and enjoy free face painting.
Saturday 15 August, 11am – 3pm
Dinosaur Takeover
A prehistoric adventure awaits as dinosaurs take over Huyton. Meet roaming dino rangers and lifelike creatures, enjoy storytelling sessions, fossil digging and sit-on dinosaurs.
Explore the Dinosaur Trail, take part in themed crafts at Huyton Village Green, dress up as a dino ranger, enjoy face painting and help to Name the Dino.
Saturday 29 August, 11am – 3pm
Somewhere Over the Rainbow
Join Dorothy, the Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow for a magical journey through the Land of Oz. Featuring enchanting performances, storytelling and appearances from Glinda and Elphaba, this spellbinding event will delight visitors of all ages.
Don’t miss the stilt walkers, Oz-themed crafts at Huyton Village Green, a Yellow Brick Road trail, face painting and plenty of Emerald City-inspired fun.
Prescot Town Centre Summer Fun
Prescot town centre will host three exciting events this summer, combining immersive experiences, family activities and fantastic entertainment.
Saturday 18 July, 10.20am – 3pm
Marvellous Markets
Browse unique handcrafted products, support talented local makers and enjoy a vibrant market atmosphere in the heart of Prescot.
Saturday 25 July, 11am – 3pm
Dinosaur Takeover
Dinosaurs are stomping into Prescot for a roar-some day of adventure. Meet dino rangers and incredible prehistoric creatures, listen to storytelling sessions and get hands-on in fossil digging pits.
Follow the dinosaur trail, enjoy themed crafts at The Arc, dress up as junior explorers, have your face painted and enter the competition to Name the Dino.
Saturday 8 August, 11am – 3pm
Somewhere Over the Rainbow
Experience the magic of Oz with performances from Dorothy, the Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow, alongside Glinda and Elphaba.
Discover emerald wonders with stilt walkers, enjoy creative activities at Shakespeare North Playhouse, follow the Yellow Brick Road trail and take part in face painting and family-friendly fun.
Friday 21 – Saturday 22 August
Serious Nonsense Festival
Prescot will become a playground of imagination as the much-loved Serious Nonsense Festival returns.
Across two days, families can enjoy a spectacular programme of free entertainment, activities, performances and fantastical fun throughout the town centre. More details coming soon!
Summer of Fun in Kirkby Town Centre
Businesses in Kirkby town centre have joined forces with the Kirkby Neighbourhood Board to deliver an expanded programme of activities featuring themed events, live entertainment, workshops, festivals and family experiences.
Saturday 18 July, 11am – 3pm
World Cup Finale
Celebrate the end of the international tournament with freestyle footballers, interactive workshops, live performances, rodeo football, footpool and much more.
Saturday 25 July and Saturday 29 August, 9am – 4pm
Marvellous Markets
Browse unique handcrafted products, support talented local makers and enjoy a vibrant market atmosphere in the heart of Kirkby.
Saturday 1 August, 11am – 3pm
Circus Spectacular
Enjoy free family entertainment featuring specialist performers, circus acts and interactive workshops inspired by the worlds of circus and carnival.
Expect stilt walkers, live music, a pianist and a spectacular roller-skating performance from Paul Curran and Kirkby’s own Louise Dutton.
Friday 7 August and Saturday 8 August, 11am – 3pm
Kirkby Fan Fest
A two-day celebration of film, books and popular culture. Meet favourite characters including cosplay heroes, giant autobots, movie-inspired characters and fairytale favourites.
Families can also enjoy storytelling sessions, workshops and immersive experiences.
Saturday 15 August, 11am – 3pm
Carnival Spectacular
The sounds and colour of carnival will arrive in Kirkby with a 12-piece samba band, carnival stilt walkers and a host of interactive activities.
Visitors can try circus skills workshops, including hula hooping and juggling, enjoy bubble workshops and get creative with family crafts.
Saturday 22 August, 11am – 3pm
Tribute Takeover Day
Bring your singing voice and join a day of live music and family entertainment featuring popular tribute acts and sing-along performances celebrating music from across the decades.
Cllr Tony Brennan, Knowsley’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development commented:
“Our town centres are at the heart of our communities, and we’re delighted to once again bring a fantastic programme of free summer activities for families to enjoy. Our Summer of Fun programme will create a lively atmosphere in Huyton, Prescot and Kirkby while showcasing everything our town centres have to offer. We’re looking forward to welcoming residents and visitors for what promises to be a fantastic summer.”
