Following the buzz of its initial announcement earlier this year, Art After Dark has reached a major milestone today with the confirmation of all 16 venues taking part in the town-wide creative trail on Friday 20 March 2026.
What began as a successful pilot has grown into a full-scale cultural takeover. From the industrial energy of the docks to the heart of the high street, Art After Dark will transform Birkenhead into a late-night hub of creativity, bringing together exhibitions, interactive workshops and open studios for one unmissable evening.
16 Venues. One Town-Wide Takeover.
This year’s expanded programme sees the return of much-loved local favourites alongside an exciting line-up of first-time participants. While the official walking map is being kept under wraps until closer to the event, the scale and ambition of Art After Dark 2026 promises a full evening of exploration, discovery and creativity across the town.
Confirmed venues include:
- Creative Hubs: Key stops including Make CIC, Future Yard, Start-Yard, and the Williamson Art Gallery & Museum.
- The Working Studios: Rare “behind the curtain” access to see where the magic happens at Play Play Play, Make, Rathbone Studio, and Hamilton Vaults.
- Independent Gems & Workshop Spaces: A variety of independent shops, cafes, and creative spaces like Green Jam Creatives, bringing art and activity directly to the street level.
A Movement for the Town
Organised by Make CIC, Art After Dark is a strategic effort to celebrate the high street as a destination for culture and community engagement.
A spokesperson for Make CIC commented:
“To have 16 venues on board this year – including exciting newcomers like Play Play Play and the brilliant team at Start-Yard – is a massive achievement. With under two months to go, the momentum is building. We’re excited to show how these spaces, from the working studios at Hamilton Vaults to the workshop sessions at Green Jam Creatives, are working together to inject new life into Birkenhead.”
Chris Torpey from Future Yard added:
“There’s a real creative spirit bubbling away behind the grand facades of Birkenhead. Art After Dark is the night we throw the doors open and invite everyone in to see it. It’s about discovering what’s happening right now and making art accessible to everyone.”
How to Join
Art After Dark is a free, town-wide event open to all ages. Registration is now open, ensuring attendees stay updated with further programme reveals and the upcoming map release.
- Date: Friday 20th March 2026
- Time: 5:00 PM – Late
- Location: 16 Venues across Birkenhead
More information and registration are available here.
Art After Dark is a free event open to all ages.
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