Liverpool city centre is set to come alive this summer with a programme of free weekly events designed to encourage people to get outside, explore new places and enjoy the city.

Celebrating Summer, organised and supported by Liverpool Business Improvement District, will run from 18 June until 27 August, with events taking place across key locations including Bold Street, the waterfront, Hope Street, St George’s Quarter, Derby Square, the Commercial District and more.

The programme will bring a mix of live music, sport, food, games and wellbeing activities to the city, offering something for workers, residents, visitors, families and friends to enjoy throughout the summer months.

Katie Bentley, director of strategic partnerships and communications at Liverpool Business Improvement District, says: “Celebrating Summer will add joy and activity for everyone in the city centre this summer. We want to keep this city centre accessible to everyone.

“Whether you want to dance to live music in the street, or have a quiet moment to chill and relax, there will be something for everyone and their family and friends. There will be animation and activity across the whole of the city.

“Our message is simple; get outside and relax, enjoy the city and everything it has to offer. And it’s all free.”

Pickleball at Williamson Square – Your chance to play the fun, fast-growing paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis. Easy to learn and suitable for all ages and abilities, pickleball will be popping up at Williamson Square from 12pm to 2pm on 28 May. Equipment will be provided, so people can drop in and play.

Tennis is in play! – Free pop-up tennis courts will appear at locations across the city centre ahead of the International Tennis Tournament at the end of June. Visitors can have a go at Castle Street on 23 May, Mann Island on 3 June, Williamson Square on 4 June, Exchange Flags on 5 June, Hilton Liverpool City Centre on 6 June and St Nicholas Parish Church Gardens on 11 June. At each location, people will be given a quick tutorial before hitting the court.

Get playing and learning chess – Following the success of the World Chess Championships last summer, chess events will return to the city as part of Celebrating Summer.

Working with Chess in Schools and Communities, the programme will offer people the chance to play against a grandmaster, learn from experts and enjoy games with colleagues during the Chess Weekender. A simul event will take place at Williamson Square on 26 June, while coaching sessions will be held at Exchange Flags on 28 June.

Golf at St Paul’s Square – Get ready for The Open with a pop-up golf course at St Paul’s Square. Visitors will be able to try six holes, compete with colleagues and friends, and have the chance to win prizes. The popup Open will be on site from 6-10 July.

Relaxing sound baths – For those looking for a quieter way to enjoy the city, a sound bath will take place on the rooftop at Tempest on Tithebarn in the Commercial District. The session takes place at 12.15pm on 18 June, with all equipment provided. Participants are advised to dress for the weather.

Pop-up play – Giveaways, live music, giant games and places to relax will appear across the city centre on Thursdays throughout the summer.

The Celebrating Summer pop-ups are funded and supported by Liverpool Business Improvement District to bring animation, footfall and fun to different areas during the summer months.

Confirmed dates include Exchange Flags on 18 June; Derby Square on 25 June; St Paul’s Square on 2 July; and Princes Dock at Liverpool Waters on 9 July.

More across the city – Other free events will include live music at Princes Dock and Williamson Square, street theatre on Bold Street, circus acts at the Pier Head, food giveaways at Exchange Flags and Derby Square, and a chill-out session with deckchairs along the waterfront.

Full Celebrating Summer events programme: liverpoolbidcompany.com/celebrating-summer

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