Strawberry Field’s iconic Summer Fete returns this July to celebrate the anniversary of The Salvation Army children’s home opening.
The Salvation Army’s award-winning visitor attraction has announced the return of its iconic Summer Fete to celebrate the anniversary of the opening in 1936 of the former children’s home, which once stood on the site. The summer fete, which was regularly attended by a young John Lennon and his Aunt Mimi in the 40s and 50s, is a free event on 5 July 2025 showcasing all that Strawberry Field has to offer, including live music, arts and crafts and family fun activities. As well as music and play, there will be stalls from local makers and summer specials from the Imagine More cafe.
Visitors are invited to celebrate the work of The Salvation Army at Strawberry Field within the local community, from its history of providing care to vulnerable children to its current ‘Steps at Strawberry Field’ programmes. There will be a chance to find out about Steps to Work, which supports young adults with barriers to employment, as well as information on ways anyone can get involved through volunteering and community activities. Recycles Merseyside, a Salvation Army bicycle repair, sale and training project run through Strawberry Field, will be on hand for essential bike maintenance and to give information on the refurbished bikes they have for sale.
Throughout the day, there will be free live music including performances from Wall of Sound and SingMe Merseyside Choir, local musicians Northern Li9ht and There’s Moo, as well as Strawberry Field’s Ukulele band and Steps to Music group, made up of young people within the Strawberry Field community.
Visitors can also explore the history of The Salvation Army’s former children’s home which opened on the site on 7 July 1936 and find out about John Lennon’s early years and inspiration through the Strawberry Field visitor exhibition and garden tour, which will be open throughout the day for a small additional charge.
Sue Harvey, commercial manager, said:
“Strawberry Field has a long history of hosting summer fetes in the famous gardens, and they were often frequented by John Lennon and his Aunt Mimi so it seemed a perfect way to remember the heritage of Strawberry Field. The weekend also marks the anniversary of the famous fete at St Peter’s Church, when John Lennon and Paul McCartney first met in 1957, so it is a wonderful moment to come together to celebrate the part Woolton played in making musical history. We’re looking forward to welcoming visitors to the Strawberry Field garden for a fantastic day of family fun and community spirit.”
The Summer Fete runs from 10am to 4pm with free entry to the grounds and summer fete (an additional entry fee applies for the exhibition). For music schedules, check Strawberry Field’s social media and website.
For more information about Strawberry Field, visit their website.
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