Families are being invited to step right into the magic of the circus as Southport’s Big Top Festival takes over the town centre for a dazzling, free two-day celebration this May Bank Holiday.
Taking place on Saturday 2 May and Sunday 3 May, the festival will transform Lord Street and surrounding areas into a vibrant circus playground, packed with world-class performances, hands-on workshops and immersive street theatre.
A global line-up comes to Southport
Visitors can expect jaw-dropping entertainment across five performance stages, featuring internationally renowned acts alongside talented local performers.
Among the highlights are:
- Circa, described by The Guardian as “masters at what they do”
- Gandini Juggling, bringing their signature mix of humour and high-skill performance
- Circumstances, performing their acclaimed show Beyond
These acts will be joined by local favourites including Egg People and Seeing Doobla, helping to create a truly unique mix of global and homegrown talent.
Get involved with circus skills
It’s not just about watching – festivalgoers will be encouraged to join in the fun. A programme of interactive workshopswill give families the chance to try their hand at:
- Juggling
- Clowning
- Stilt walking
- Circus performance techniques
Perfect for all ages, the festival is designed to be a fully immersive experience where visitors can explore, play and learn new skills.
A celebration of Southport’s circus heritage
The festival also shines a spotlight on Southport’s rich entertainment history with new commissions, including “Wild Laughter: Fun on the Prom.”
This specially created production tells the story of legendary touring comedian Albert ‘Jimmy the Jester’ James, brought to life by his great granddaughter, local performer Ellie Lybeck. Developed by Sidelong Glance and CutToTheChase Productions, the show offers a heartfelt tribute to the town’s long-standing connection to circus and performance.
Free, family-friendly and easy to get to
Running from 11am to 6pm on both days, the Big Top Festival is completely free to attend and aimed at all ages.
To make things even easier, visitors can take advantage of the Merseyrail £2 travel offer on event days, with return journeys to Southport costing just:
- £2 for adults
- £1 for children
With breathtaking acrobatics, street theatre, and hands-on fun around every corner, Southport’s Big Top Festival promises to be one of the standout family events of the Bank Holiday weekend.
Phil Porter, Chief Executive of Sefton Council, said:
“To see some of the acts who are performing in other parts of the UK would cost you over £30 a ticket. In Southport everything at our amazing Big Top Festival is completely free, once again reiterating our commitment to providing top class awe inspiring family friendly shows that are accessible and affordable to all.
“Events like this are yet another reason for people to visit Southport as part of our Southport 2026: Elegantly Eccentric programme, showcasing the town’s unique character and cultural offer. It’s also incredible to see our local businesses fully engaging with the festival, benefitting from the increased footfall and contributing to the atmosphere that makes Southport such a special place to visit and spend time.”
Yaron Lifschitz, Artistic Director, Circa said:
“Wolf is a raw and elemental work. The first half explores the lone wolf, the force that disrupts. The second, the pack. How we gather, survive, and collide. It’s a piece pulsing with instinct, longing, and the kind of ferocious physicality that defines our work. Circa are excited for Southport audiences to experience our acrobatic thrill ride next month.”
Ellie Lybeck, Sidelong Glance, said:
“We can’t wait for Big Top Festival. Southport has long been a mecca for some spectacular clowning, so to bring our Albert and his company of fools to the town is super exciting. And Big Top Festival itself is right up our street: inclusive, accessible, and above all, a lot of fun!”
Serena Silcock-Prince, Silcock Leisure Group said:
“Big Top Festival is set to be one of the highlights of 2026. We can’t wait to welcome all of the acts as they take over the town centre, transforming Southport into the centre of the circus universe once again. It’s also fantastic to see so many Southport businesses opening later and backing Big Top Festival and the Elegantly Eccentric programme of events, and of course, Silcock’s Funland and Carousel will be open late for the weekend too.”
You can find out more here.
READ MORE: Victoria Park Announces Packed Programme of Events for Exciting 2026 in Southport
