10 Unmissable Things To Do In Liverpool And The City Region In November

10 Unmissable Things To Do In Liverpool And The City Region In November Philip Jeck
Philip Jeck

Wondering what exciting things to do in Liverpool and the city region this November? You’re in for a treat! From uncovering the secrets of ancient Egypt to enjoying incredible live music and festive fun, there’s something for everyone this month. Here’s our roundup of 10 must-see events that’ll make your November in Liverpool and the city region truly unforgettable.

 

Spotlight Day: Tutankhamun

1. Spotlight Day: Tutankhamun (2 November)

This spotlight day delves into the life of Tutankhamun, the famous “boy king” of Ancient Egypt. Though he ruled for only a decade, his almost intact tomb, discovered in 1922, made him a household name and sparked widespread fascination. The event will explore what is truly known about Tutankhamun, using primary sources and the latest research to examine his life, reign, and mysterious death, while debunking popular myths. Running from 11am-4pm with a lunch break, the event invites attendees to ask new questions about this enigmatic figure. Tickets are £25 and advance purchase is recommended.

 

Liverpool Irish Festival - Stolen

2. Liverpool Irish Festival: ‘Stolen’ – Film Screening and Q&A (2 November)

This special screening of Stolen is organised by Renewing Roots, with support from the Government of Ireland’s Commemorative Grant Scheme. The 2023 documentary examines Ireland’s institutional scandal involving the mistreatment of unmarried pregnant women in the 20th century, revealing cruelty, forced separations, and shocking conditions. Survivors, including mothers and witnesses, share their stories.

Stolen was nominated for the 2024 George Morrison Feature Documentary Award by the Irish Film and Television Academy. After the screening, director Margo Harkin will be interviewed, followed by a Q&A with producer Martha O’Neill and panellist Patricia Carey.

 

Favourite Days Festival 2024

3. Favourite Days Festival (6 – 10 November) 

The inaugural Favourite Days Festival features over 35 acts across multiple venues, including Yard Act, Somebody’s Child, Sprints, and Casisdead. The festival showcases a mix of emerging and established talent and supports the local music scene by reinvesting profits into funding opportunities for local bands and venues. Events will be held in venues like the Liverpool Olympia, Camp and Furnace, and Rough Trade Liverpool.

 

Woman-Women Rowena Gander

4. Woman | Women (15 November)

Woman | Women is a new stage production blending performance art and physical theatre to explore how lesbian relationships challenge traditional societal expectations. This comedic and academic show, created by international performance artist Rowena Gander, delves into the fast-paced nature of same-sex relationships between women. The autumn tour, visiting Ormskirk, Liverpool, and Prescot in November, includes pre-show discussions on sexuality and creativity. Each performance features a unique, real-time duet exploring themes of compatibility, attachment, and scarcity mindsets in lesbian relationships.

Philip Jeck

5. From The Grooves Of Vinyl: A Tribute to Philip Jeck (16 November)

The Bluecoat is hosting a tribute to composer and artist Philip Jeck, honouring his pioneering work in experimental turntablism. Jeck, known for creating immersive soundscapes from old records and vinyl, had a long association with the Bluecoat.  The event features a film screening by Gina Czarnecki, performances by Chandra Shukla, Benjamin Duvall, Andrew Hunt, and poets Patricia Farrell and Robert Sheppard and a DJ set from Bryan Biggs. A double CD tribute, collated by Touch, will also be launched.

 

An Inspector Calls Liverpool Empire

6. An Inspector Calls (19 – 23 November)

Stephen Daldry’s award-winning National Theatre production of JB Priestley’s An Inspector Calls returns after a record-breaking, sold-out tour in 2022. This classic thriller, written at the end of WWII and set before WWI, follows the mysterious Inspector Goole as he disrupts the Birling family’s dinner party with startling revelations about a young woman’s death. The play’s themes of capitalism’s cruelty, complacency, and hypocrisy remain powerfully relevant today. This epic production continues to challenge audiences to examine their consciences, making it a must-see for a new generation.

 

1984

7. 1984 (19 – 23 November)

This stage adaptation of George Orwell’s 1984, written by Ryan Craig, follows Winston Smith, who risks everything by starting a diary in a dystopian world controlled by constant surveillance and the Thought Police. His secret relationship with Julia draws further scrutiny, and the mysterious figure O’Brien may either aid their rebellion or betray them. First published in 1949, Orwell’s novel remains a chilling and prescient portrayal of government control and societal oppression, making this new adaptation more relevant than ever.

 

Liverpool Story - Film Premiere

8. Liverpool Story – Film Premiere (21 November)

Liverpool Story is a new documentary by the filmmakers behind Almost Liverpool 8, premiering on 21st November at Philharmonic Hall. This film captures a year in the life of Liverpool, finding beauty in the city’s daily life and its people. It offers a fresh perspective on the communities and events that shape the city, mirroring the ebb and flow of the River Mersey. The premiere is supported by Williams Liverpool in celebration of their 50th anniversary.

 

Danny Elfman - Tim Burton concert

9. Danny Elfman’s Music from the Films of Tim Burton (23 November)

This event is a magical tribute to the inventive collaboration between filmmaker Tim Burton and composer Danny Elfman. Featuring performances of Elfman’s iconic scores from films like Beetlejuice, Batman, The Nightmare Before Christmas, Alice in Wonderland, and Edward Scissorhands, the evening celebrates both music and storytelling. The orchestra’s performance is enhanced by visuals of original sketches, drawings, and storyboards from the films, bringing Burton’s captivating worlds to life in a uniquely immersive experience.

 

Bluecoat Festive Wreath Workshop

10. Bluecoat Festive Workshops (24 & 28 November)

Join Bluecoat for two festive workshops this November. On 28 November, personalise eco-friendly Christmas cards using collage in a fun, hands-on session perfect for all skill levels. Later, learn to craft your own seasonal wreath with fresh foliage and decorations, guided by professional upcycler Gemma Longworth. Both workshops encourage creativity and sustainability, with materials provided and an invitation to bring old Christmas items to recycle. Spaces are limited, so booking is required for these enjoyable, beginner-friendly experiences.

November in Liverpool is brimming with cultural and festive things to do that promise to make your visit unforgettable. Whether you’re into history, theatre, live music, or art, there’s an event for everyone. From the Tutankhamun spotlight to Danny Elfman’s Music from Tim Burton’s Films, the month is packed with unmissable events.

To discover 150+ events check out our What’s On Listings.

Culture Radar – Sam Avery (The Comedy Trust)

Culture Radar - Sam Avery of The Comedy Trust

This week’s Culture Radar guest is Stand up comic & Artistic Director of The Comedy Trust, Sam Avery.

Loved: I’m obviously biased but I’ve loved working on Liverpool Comedy Festival, specifically Doddy Day which celebrates the life and legacy of the late, great Sir Ken Dodd. Getting to know Lady Dodd throughout the process has been an absolute privilege – she has some of the best stories I’ve ever heard!

Looking forward to: I can’t wait for Christmas! The markets, the pantos, the cheeky afternoon pints down Dale Street. This city is so cosy in December.

Trivia: As a teenager I was the bass player in a nu-metal band. We toured with Motorhead and Napalm Death and even went on Top of the Pops 2. I had more hair then.

Culture Radar – Jackie Pease (DoES Liverpool)

Jackie Pease - DoES Liverpool

This week’s Culture Radar guest Jackie Pease, one of the (all volunteer) organisers and members of the DoES Liverpool community for almost eleven years.

Loved: I really enjoyed Transition Liverpool’s “Retrofitting Liverpool” event on 5th October. There was a wide range of knowledge and people, and it was good to look at realistic ways we can move from where we are now to a more sustainable future. You can read about it here and I believe they’re organising more events. I also recently went to the R.I.P. Germain Masterclass in the Studio/Lab at FACT. He was a great speaker and gave some good advice for people considering immersive works themselves. I managed to see the exhibition before it closed and I think I gained a lot by going to the talk first.

Looking forward to: I can hardly wait for River of Light. I love light installations! I know some people at DoES are creating light effects for a mass cycle ride during this year’s event.

Trivia: DoES Liverpool is a co-working, maker and event space. It’s been around for 13 and a half years and based in the Tapestry Building in Kempston Street for more than 6 years. We’ve got all sorts of kit, including laser cutters, CNC routers, 3D printers, sewing machines, embroidery machine, pen plotter, an electronics workbench and lots of electronics testing equipment.

We have all sorts of people at DoES from translators and sign language interpreters to economists and electronics specialists. Artists have been involved from the start, and it’s that mix that brings out new ideas and makes DoES what it is.

Culture Radar – Emma Smith (Liverpool Irish Festival)

Culture Radar - Emma Smith - Liverpool Irish Festival

This week’s Culture Radar guest the Artistic Director and CEO of Liverpool Irish Festival, Emma Smith.

Loved: I certainly jumped at the gunshots — and laughed hard at Cameron McKendrink’s ‘drip-of-shame’ jeans, before he got covered in gunk — in The Lieutenant of Inishmore at The Everyman. I took the Brickworks exhibit at Tate Liverpool + RIBA North a little more seriously (on ’til January and well worth a look)!

Looking forward to: I’m not really allowed to say the Liverpool Irish Festival (17-27 Oct) am I? That covered, John Grant at The Philharmonic and The People’s Pyramid/Day of the Dead have both been in my diary for some time. No doubt the city’s River of Light will draw plenty of people down to the waterfront, too. Being from Leicester originally, I am a bit of a sucker for Diwali.

Trivia: People who know me well know: I love nothing more that getting in to a pottery class (Lark Lane and Altar Pottery are both brilliant) and making a mess of myself. I throw pots mainly and have not long completed a collection plate for the Liverpool Irish Famine memorial. If I don’t go for a while I start to miss the clay!

Halloween Events In Liverpool And The City Region 2024

Halloween Events In Liverpool And The City Region 2024

Get ready for a fright-filled October with a host of Halloween events in Liverpool and the city region guaranteed to send shivers down your down your spine. From eerie live performances and immersive murder mysteries to candlelit concerts and chilling book launches, the city is bursting with spooky experiences for all ages. Whether you’re looking to dive into gothic literature, get creative with family-friendly crafts, or catch classic horror films on the big screen, this guide has all the hauntingly good happenings you won’t want to miss.

 

Halloween Events In Liverpool - Spooky Welly Walk

Spooky Welly Walk at Sefton Park (19 October)

Spooky Welly Walk returns and is casting spells over Sefton Park this October. Their family fun day will feature approximately 25 awesome attractions and activities to bewitch and bedazzle your little monsters.

Whether it’s Creepy Crafts, Freaky Funfair, Bugfest Beauty Parlour or Menacing Mask Making your little one is interested in, there’s something for everyone!

 

Halloween Events In Liverpool - A Nightmare on Elm Street Screening at Picturehouse at FACT

Picturehouse at FACT Halloween Film Screenings (19 – 31 October)

Don’t miss the chance to catch iconic horror classics Carrie (4K Restoration), Shaun of The Dead (re-release), Halloween (4K Restoration), A Nightmare On Elm Street (40th Anniversary) and The Shining (Original Cut) on the big screen at Picturehouse at FACT this spooky season – perfect for horror fans who crave the thrill of these timeless chillers in a cinematic setting.

 

Halloween Events in Liverpool - Modern Gothic

Dead Ink Books: Modern Gothic launch with Lauren Archer & Alyssa Lloyd at Bluecoat (23 October)

Modern Gothic (Fly On The Wall Press, Oct ’24) invites ghoulish readers on a chilling journey through captivating, nightmarish tales with contributing author Lauren Archer and friend of the shop / pro-goth Alyssa Lloyd. Lauren is a writer of the gothic, surreal and strange based in Liverpool. Alyssa hosts Book Club in the Pub and – along with Lauren – the small-press focused inclusive book club Feminist Fiction. Join them for this seasonally-appropriate spookfest where Lauren and Alyssa will dive deeply into what constitutes modern gothic literature.

 

The Book of Horror Volume II

Book of Horror II at The Hope Street Theatre (24 – 26 October)

4AM Productions are back with another edition of their Halloween spectacular. The Curator and his faithful minion reads more from his fabled “Book of Horror”. Get ready for six terrifying short plays in one spooky night.

 

Candlelight - A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics

Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics (26 October)

Fever’s Candlelight concert series is set to light up Sefton Park Palm House in Liverpool with special Halloween-themed shows. This is one of the most unique Halloween events in Liverpool, combining live music with haunting atmospheres. The evening will feature favourite film soundtracks, including The Addams FamilyBeetlejuiceGhostbusersThe ExorcistThriller, and many more.

 

Halloween Events In Liverpool - Halloween Print Party at Bluecoat

Halloween Print Party at Bluecoat (26 October)

Join Bluecoat for this family-friendly screen printing party – one of the most creative Halloween events in Liverpool. Creating your own cotton trick or treat bags, kids be able to choose from a variety of fun spooky trick or treat designs, where they will be able to pull the screens themselves with a facilitator supervising if they choose to, or a parent/guardian can help. Suitable for ages 5+ (must be accompanied by an adult).

 

Halloween Party at Liverpool ONE

Halloween Party at Liverpool ONE (27 October)

Get ready for a spooky Halloween celebration at Liverpool ONE! From 11am to 5pm on 27 October, enjoy family-friendly entertainment, including ghostly characters, live performances, and the popular children’s Halloween competition. For a spooky twist, join Katumba’s Halloween drumming performance, a highlight of the Halloween events in Liverpool. The much-loved local drumming group will bring a Halloween twist to their performance, as well as holding special workshops for visitors to learn their moves and even join in during a performance. Zombie dancers from MD Productions will be on hand to run dance masterclasses with party-goers, before entertaining everyone throughout the day with hauntingly good performances.

 

Halloween Events In Liverpool - Room On The Broom

Room On The Broom at the Playhouse (29 October – 2 November)

Join the witch and her cat on a magical adventure as they pick up hitchhikers and face a hungry dragon. Based on the popular children’s book by Julia Donaldson, the Olivier Award-nominated Room on The Broom is perfect for families with children aged three and over. Families can enjoy Room On The Broom at the Playhouse, one of the must-see theatre-based Halloween events in Liverpool for young audiences.

 

Halloween Events In Liverpool - Williamson Scare

Williamson Scare (30 – 31 October)

The oldest square in the city centre, Williamson Square will turn into Williamson Scare on Wednesday 30th and Thursday 31st October from 12-4pm. On the 30th, enjoy a selfie at the spooky selfie-spots, and meet some ghoulish goblins and wicked witches on stilts. On the 31st, for those who want to get their pumpkins perfect, get design tips from a professional carver, with decorations and dressings will get you in the mood.

Additionally, St John’s will have a spooktacular Halloween trail, giveaways and decorations galore. From their spooktacular Halloween trail to exciting giveaways and scarily good deals from a selection of stores, St Johns will host the haunting of the season.

Craft and Create: Halloween NML 2024

Craft and Create: Halloween at the Walker Art Gallery (31 October – 1 November)

Join the Walker Art Gallery for a frightfully fun time at their two-day spooktacular Halloween make and take craft sessions. Create your own creepy creations to take home and decorate your house with.

 

Halloween Plaza Cinema Crosby 2024

Plaza Cinema Halloween Screenings (26 & 31 October)

The Plaza Community Cinema are celebrating with Halloween Screenings this year of two special events which will cater for everyone.

Horror film fans will love their Plaza 80s Halloween Special with ‘A Nightmare On Elm Street’ (15) on Saturday 26th October (7pm) which has just celebrated it’s 40th anniversary.

The family will love their Plaza Halloween Family Special with ‘The Nightmare Before Christmas’ (PG) on Thursday 31st October (6pm).

 

Halloween Events in Liverpool - Haunted Tunnel Tour and Craft at The World of Glass

Halloween Events at The World of Glass (30 – 31 October)

The World of Glass in St Helens is gearing up for A Haunting Halloween Bash on the eve of Halloween! Brave souls can explore their eerie haunted tunnels (if you dare!), join in spine-chilling party games, and dance the night away to the Monster Mash. Don’t forget to don your scariest attire for a chance to win their thrilling Halloween costume contest.

Then, on Halloween join them for their Haunted Tunnel Tour and Craft event creating your very own spooky creations! Both events are recommended for age 4 – 10yrs.

 

Nightmare Before Christmas at Liverpool Philharmonic

The Nightmare Before Christmas at Liverpool Philharmonic (31 October)

Join the fun and step into Halloween Town with a screening of The Nightmare Before Christmas at Liverpool Philharmonic Hall. This Academy Award nominated stop-motion musical fantasy tells the story of Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King, who plots to take charge of the festive season.

Featuring a magical soundtrack by Danny Elfman and with an organ introduction from resident organist Dave Nicholas, who performs as their unique Walturdaw cinema screen rises from the stage.

 

BBY The Bodysnatchers, Everyman Theatre 2024

Murder Mystery: The Body Snatchers Halloween Special (31 October)

Join DBY interactive in this interactive theatrical Halloween Special Murder Mystery Show Downstairs at the Everyman Theatre. A night of secrets, deceit, missing bodies and murder. A Halloween Special not to be missed.

Theme : crime solving fictional story based on the dark history of the body snatchers of Liverpool linked to Hope Street and the Everyman. Period drama. Puzzle solving. Crime solving. Mature drama. Not for the faint hearted.

 

Discover more events happening across the Liverpool city region with our What’s On Listings.

 

Culture Radar – Gillian Miller (Liverpool’s Royal Court)

Gillian Miller Pic
Gillian with Monty who’s sadly with us no longer – he was one of the theatre dogs and is sadly missed.

This week’s Culture Radar guest is Gillian Miller, the Chief Executive, of Liverpool’s Royal Court TheatreChair, St George’s Quarter CIC and Director, The Culture Network LCR CIC.

Loved: Recent favourites include Art Friends Merseyside event to discover The John Entwistle Collection at Liverpool John Moores University. In particular Goose Girl by Donald McKinlay which is on loan to LJMU from Liverpool University Hospital. You can see it in the Student Life Building on Copperas Hill. Also, Romeo & Juliet at Shakespeare North Playhouse another vibrant, accessible and uplifting version of a classic piece of theatre at the fabulous SNP.

Looking forward to: Count Arthur Strong at the Playhouse at the beginning of November for one night only. I’ve been a fan of The Count for years first seeing him at the Edinburgh Festival with the fabulous Terry Titter. I believe this is Arthur’s last outing in Liverpool before he retires. Also, Christmas starts early for us in theatreland and I’ll definitely be dropping in to see It’s A Wonderful Life by Old Fruit Jar one of the companies we support in our Studio from 19th-30th November before they take the show onto St George’s Hall concert Room.

Trivia: The first theatre on this site was built by John Cooke when he came to Liverpool with his circus in 1826. The theatre that he was booked into turned him away so he decided to build his own to spite the owner of the other venue. John Cooke eventually died of dropsy in a debtors jail, which is a valuable lesson for all of us who work in theatre!

From Kitchen Rehearsals To Edinburgh Fringe – Gritty Gaze’s Journey

By Grace Stokoe

Gritty Gaze theatre group shot

In this guest feature by Grace Stokoe, we’re given an insight into the journey of Gritty Gaze, a theatre company formed by a group of young creatives determined to carve their own path in the arts. Grace, a Student Engagement Officer and creative writer, shares how this dynamic group of university students took their passion from university projects to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival stage.

The Liverpool institution where Grace works has been intentionally left unnamed to keep the focus solely on the journey of Gritty Gaze.

The journey of young creatives in their 20s is often marked by uncertainty, passion, and resilience. For the theatre company Gritty Gaze, this journey has transformed their ambitions into a reality at the Edinburgh Fringe.

I took my job as a Student Engagement Officer in November 2023, five years after graduating with a degree in Creative Writing. Since then, I’d worked as a retail supervisor and a gym manager. Two contrasting roles, neither of which particularly set my soul on fire. Arriving in my new position, I felt I’d finally landed somewhere that I belonged, surrounded by wacky and wonderful people in a creative university. Everybody was up to something, and the energy was so refreshing to be around.

In January 2024, I assisted in running a huge networking event we had organised for the students, led by industry professionals. It was here that The Space UK offered our third year actors the chance to perform at Edinburgh Fringe Festival. They were searching for talented fresh faces, and we had them under our wing. The opportunity was awarded to Gritty Gaze, a theatre company made up of nine friends – Tyler, Joel, Luke, John, Amy, Jemma, Tom, Fin and Emery – formed during their second year of university.

When I was younger, I thought it was all about “catching a break” and “making it big”, but now I realise earning a living as a creative doesn’t have to be defined by monetary or social extremes. What I’ve noticed is the students are taught, from the moment they arrive, that they can’t wait for chances – they have to make work for themselves. Why wait for your agent to arrange an audition, when you could devise your own play? And that’s exactly what they did.

Gritty Gaze Theatre Production Company Members in Edinburgh for the Edinburgh Fringe 2024
Gritty Gaze in Edinburgh for the Edinburgh Fringe 2024

Tyler Kane had always wanted to start a theatre company, but didn’t know how (at the end of the day, aren’t we all just winging it?). It wasn’t until he was coupled with Joel Cousins for a university module to devise a 15 minute piece of work, that the pair began to flourish as not only actors, but artistic directors. Their wit and shared passion for LGBTQIA+ issues led them to produce a dry, queer comedy which shone a light on their promising futures. Knowing they wanted to continue along this journey of creative freedom, the two recruited more friends, and Gritty Gaze was born.

Creatives, when surrounded by (as my filmmaker friend would say), copy-and-paste-people, can often feel like (to be blunt) weirdos. It’s not until you find your people that things start to make sense, and the buzz from bouncing ideas off one another sparks something in you. It’s easy to dull this part of yourself as the responsibilities of adult life start trickling in – or hit you in the face like a sack of bricks – but it’s important that we keep it alive. We have to seek inspiration and collaboration.

Gritty Gaze, having only a student accommodation kitchen to rehearse in, came together during summer 2023 to create a short film about a charming puppet named Gongle. Joining forces with local filmmakers and music composers, they brought their vision to life. The concept was ‘Individuality’ – a very fitting theme. They submitted this to the ‘Unnamed Project Exhibition’ and fell in love with puppetry during the process. When the Edinburgh Fringe opportunity arose, they knew exactly which direction they would take.

Gritty Graze’s headshots
HoarderZ headshots

Tyler and Luke Male took them to the next level when they wrote ‘HoarderZ’, “an intriguing exploration of societal isolation in parr to its developments upon the human psyche”, using Gongle once again. But as serious as it may sound, the play is hilariously out-of-the-box, following distinct and eccentric characters who you’re bound to form a soft spot for.

While they were preparing for Edinburgh Fringe Festival in our studios, I watched Gritty Gaze’s rehearsals every chance I got, witnessing their story evolve as the actors all pitched in. Not only had they written and devised this play to a professional standard before graduating, but it was truly a collaborative effort. I felt inspired seeing them in action, while they were humbly oblivious of their impact.

We all know social media is the key to success these days, for any kind of business, but this group had me in awe of their unique content. Their dedication to the world they had created was enough to pull anybody down the rabbit hole with them. @grittygaze posted in-character headshots, depicting each unique personality in just one shot. They worked with fellow Film and TV students, shooting a series of short films, set in their “radioactive dystopia”. These “entries”, filmed in a friend’s basement on a very tight budget, felt so organic, as if they had been plucked straight from the alternate universe. They proved that with the creativity, passion and drive, you don’t need money to make art.

Gritty Gaze Theatre Production Leaflets at the Edinburgh Fringe

As final rehearsals took place, they invited their fellow students and staff to watch HoarderZ in the studio. We were blown away by the play’s originality and how well they commanded the stage. I found it interesting to see the extra jobs the actors had appointed themselves. Emery Scriven, sound designer and composer, didn’t miss a beat on their tech behind the scenes. The others stepped up as directors, stage managers, producers and puppeteers. This opened my eyes to the breadth of artistic career paths available, which is reassuring for young creatives.

Their spirit was contagious as I left the show. I had barely written anything since achieving my degree, but watching the students turn their ideas into reality reignited something. For the first time in years, I couldn’t wait to sit in a café and put pen to paper. It only seemed right to write about the people who had encouraged me to do so, Gritty Gaze. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for them.

Culture Radar – Greg Lynall (University of Liverpool)

This week’s Culture Radar guest is the Head of English at the University of Liverpool, Greg Lynall.

Loved: The illuminating Creatures of the Nile exhibition at the University of Liverpool’s Garstang Museum.

Looking forward to: There will be a great new season of concerts starting this month at The Tung Auditorium, the University of Liverpool’s state-of-the-art concert Hall. In October I’m looking forward to the Liverpool Literary Festival featuring an eclectic line up of best-selling novelists, poets, and critically-acclaimed screenwriters and actors!

Trivia: My department has teamed up with Collective Encounters, the arts charity who use theatre for social change, to create Voices on the Streets, a sound journey that you can download to your phone and use to explore the city.

10 Unmissable Things To Do In Liverpool And The City Region In October

October in Liverpool and the city region promises an exciting lineup of cultural events. Whether you’re drawn to literature, art, or live performances, there’s plenty of things to do in Liverpool and the region this month.

From celebrating Black History Month to the immersive River of Light and spine-chilling Halloween productions, the city comes alive with creativity. Iconic music, dazzling light displays, and theatre performances are just a few of the unmissable highlights. Don’t miss out on these 10 exciting events happening across the Liverpool city region this October.

Things To Do In Liverpool and the City Region in October - Black History Month 2024

Things To Do In Liverpool & The City Region This October

1. Black History Month with Writing On The Wall (Throughout October)

Reclaiming Narratives, the national theme for Black History Month, highlights the ongoing need to offer a platform for black and ethnic minority writers, artists and communities, and celebrates their contribution to British cultural, social and political life. The Writing On The Wall festival aims to offer a contrast to the insular world view of far right groups and populist politicians.

Black History Month events are held across Liverpool City Centre and L8. Highlights for 2024 include: a Dorothy Kuya Walking Tour – exploring the impact of her anti-racism activism, Stories of the Blues: A Celebration of Liverpool’s Sound System Culture and a film screening of The Rise and Rise of 2-Tone, the 1980s music phenomenon and record label.

Things To Do In Liverpool and the City Region in October - Liverpool Literary Festival 2024

2. Liverpool Literary Festival (4 – 6 October)

The Liverpool Literary Festival is returning for its 9th year this October, with events being held at Liverpool University’s Eleanor Rathbone Building.This annual celebration brings together writers, poets, and storytellers for a weekend of engaging discussions, thought-provoking readings, and a shared love of literature in the heart of Liverpool.

Events this year include: an in-conversation with The Essex Serpent author Sarah Perry, an evening with Liverpool performer and writer Levi Tafari, plus Booker Prize winner Alan Hollinghurst discusses his latest novel Our Evenings.

Things To Do In Liverpool and the City Region in October - Stitching Souls: Threads of Silence

3. Stitching Souls: Threads of Silence (Until 2 March 2025)

Stitching Souls: Threads of Silence is an installation by British Trinidadian artist Karen McLean.The display, at Walker Art Gallery, explores Liverpool’s colonial legacies, looking at the city’s role as a major UK port during the 19th century.

The city’s wealth was made from the profits of the transatlantic slave trade, its associated economies and the forced labour of enslaved African people. The display uses African fabrics and traditional quilting techniques to reflect on the cotton trade drawing connections between Liverpool, Africa and the Americas. Through the act of stitching and sewing, McLean creates a platform for healing through dialogue, reflection and recovery.

The Walker Art Gallery also have their Conversations exhibition (19 October – 9 March) opening this month. The ambitious exhibition brings together work by nearly 40 leading Black women and non-binary artists who are transforming contemporary British art today.

Birdsong

4. Birdsong (8 – 12 October)

Sebastian Faulks’s epic story of love and loss at Liverpool Playhouse, Birdsong, returns to the stage marking the 30th anniversary of the international best-selling novel.

The critically acclaimed show returns in a brand-new production for 2024. Telling the story of one man’s journey through an all-consuming love affair and into the horror of the First World War. The show stars award-winning actor Max Bowden, best known for the role of Ben Mitchell in EastEnders, James Esler (Litvinenko) and Charlie Russell ( BBC’s And Then There Were None).

Things To Do In Liverpool and the City Region in October - Celebrating Irish Makers

5. Celebrating Irish Makers (10 October – 2 November)

Bluecoat Display Centre hosts Celebrating Irish Makers for Liverpool Irish Festival 2024, a retrospective of previously showcased artisans, including more that are seen through their annual portfolio of creatives.

With silver, ceramics, glass, paintings, textiles and more besides, there is something to suit every budding creative, interest and price point. Whether you’re just looking for the sheer fun of it or searching for a unique gift, this is an exceptional display of contemporary talent in one of the longest serving display centres in the country.

Things To Do In Liverpool and the City Region in October - Ian Prowse & Amsterdam

6. Ian Prowse & Amsterdam (18 October)

Raised on the rallying cry of protest songs and influenced by the celtic sounds that make Liverpool so unique, Ian Prowse & Amsterdam play a special show at Southport’s Atkinson Gallery. The singer/songwriter, who is renowned for his incendiary live shows, has cemented his cult following over twenty five years with indie bands Pele and Amsterdam.

Prowse’s ability to wow a live crowd is legendary, he has previously rocked national tours with Elvis Costello, The Pogues, and The Wonderstuff. Earlier this decade, he also released a career-spanning retrospective, The Story of Ian Prowse, with Soho-based label, Kitchen Disco Records.

Things To Do In Liverpool and the City Region in October - River of Light 2024

7. River of Light (24 October – 5 November)

River of Light is an annual free event that provides an outdoor illuminated gallery on Liverpool Waterfront, a loop, featuring light and sound from local, national and international artists.

This year, 12 large scale installations will be presented by some of the best light artists in the world, all inspired by the theme of ‘Play’. Some of the works will help turn the waterfront into a playground, while others offer a deeper question around play and what it can mean for individuals, communities and the city as a whole.

Things To Do In Liverpool and the City Region in October - Book of Horror Volume II

8. Book of Horror Volume II

4AM Productions are back with another edition of their Halloween spectacular after the huge success of the show last year. Join the Curator and his faithful minion at Hope Street Theatre, as he reads more from his fabled Book of Horror Volume II.

Six terrifying short plays in one spooky evening, with thrills and chills for all. There will be scares aplenty so the question is, dare you enter and join them?

Plays written and directed by: Sab Muthusamy, Phil Halfpenny, Luke Bennet & Rachel Louise Clark.

Things To Do In Liverpool and the City Region in October - PVTV Fringe Flicks: Viy (1967) and Short Films

9. PVTV Fringe Flicks: Viy (1967) and Short Films (18 October)

Get ready for a spine-chilling evening with Fringe Flicks! They’re presenting Viy (1967) at DoES Liverpool. The film is a Soviet horror classic based on Nikolai Gogol’s eerie novella. Known for its groundbreaking visual effects and atmospheric storytelling, Viy is a must-see for fans of supernatural cinema.

In addition to their feature film, they’ve curated a line-up of stunning short films from around the world that will take you on a journey through the bizarre, the unsettling, and the thought-provoking. Expect a mix of genres and styles, all with that unique Fringe Flicks twist.

Things To Do In Liverpool and the City Region in September - The Planets

10. The Planets (26 October)

At this Philharmonic Hall concert of Holst’s The Planets, you’ll hear so much more than the famous suite Jupiter, as Principal Guest Conductor Andrew Manze takes the Orchestra on a voyage to infinity and beyond.

They’ll join William Walton in a Spitfire over wartime London, and soloist Guy Johnston will take on Bliss’ Cello Concerto. The concert will also travel to 1939 New York, where the young British firebrand Arthur Bliss brings the house down with a volcano of a piano concerto played by Mark Bebbington.

To find even more events happening in October and beyond check out our What’s On Listings.

Culture Radar – Patrick Kirk-Smith (Art In Liverpool)

Patrick Kirk-Smith - Art In Liverpool

This week’s Culture Radar guest is Director, Art in Liverpool CIC, Patrick Kirk-Smith.

Loved: Material Matters have the perfect blend of gettable and critical thinking. Into The Wyld, which re-draws the tale of Sir Gawain for modern day Wirral, is their latest unmissable exhibition at the Williamson. 

Looking forward to: There’s a lot to look forward to over the next few months. FACT’s Art Play Games looks exciting; Open Eye’s The Flowers Still Grow looks joyful; and there’s a rare chance for the public to see inside The Athenaeum with their collaborative show with Smithdown Social… and it’s a way off, and I’m biased, but keep your eyes peeled for Independents Biennial next summer. 

Trivia: Art in Liverpool turns twenty this month. Twenty! It started out as a Liverpool Biennial fan-blog, and has documented most visual art events in Liverpool ever since. You can grab a commemorative 20th birthday issue of our newspaper around LCR this month.