May promises to be a fun-packed month, with plenty of the Spring buzz to soak up. There’s plenty of wonderful activities to enjoy, including new exhibitions and lots of lovely Candlelight Concerts. There are lots of things to do this May in Liverpool!
1. Dance away at BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend
That’s right, the BBC Radio 1 Big Weekend is coming to Liverpool’s Sefton Park this year! The BBC Radio 1 Big Weekend is taking place at Sefton Park in Liverpool between May 23 and 25, bringing over 100,000 music lovers into one place and featuring around 100 artists. Expect Sam Fender, Biffy Clyro, James Hype, Tom Grennan, The Wombats and more.
2. Marvel at Candlelight Spring: Ed Sheeran Meets Coldplay
On May 10, a talented string quartet will perform the music of Ed Sheeran and Coldplay, surrounded by the light of hundreds of flickering candles and flowers. The 60-minute show will begin at 8.30pm and the venue is wheelchair accessible.
You can expect to hear songs like ‘Coldplay – Clocks’, ‘Ed Sheeran – Photograph’ and ‘Coldplay – Sky Full of Stars’ performed by professionals in a stunning concert. The grand St. George’s Hall will make the perfect venue for this unmissable event.
3. Run for the 97
The annual Run for the 97 will commence on May 24 at 9.30 am in Stanley Park. This will be the ninth run to date – a testament to Liverpool’s dedication to its people.
This 5K run is in memory of the 97 people who died in the Hillsborough Disaster back in 1989 and the event raises money for charities supporting survivors and the families of those who died. It also supports charities providing support to those living in Everton.
You can’t sign up for a dedicated number anymore but generic numbers will be assigned to those who turn up to participate on the day. Check out the website for more information.
4. See a giant floating Sun
May is your last chance to see Luke Jerram’s Helios at the Liverpool Cathedral, as the artwork will move to another city on May 9. It’s already toured many cities in the UK and you simply have to see it. This huge piece of artwork floats in the air, lighting up from the inside.
5. Explore this free star-studded Hollywood-inspired trail
There is is an art trail popping up between the Royal Albert Dock and Liverpool ONE ahead of Radio 1’s Big Weekend. ‘The Walk of Stars’ is open between May 2 and 26, having the names of the artists performing at Radio 1’s Big Weekend in May featured on stars on the street from Liverpool ONE to Royal Albert Dock, boasting more than 70 stars in total.
6. Go to this heart-warming cafe
Strawberry Field is a must-visit attraction for most visitors, exploring the grounds where John Lennon came to play and take respite from war-torn Woolton back in the day. Strawberry Field is now home to Imagine More Cafe, still run by The Salvation Army. The spot provides sustainable employment opportunities, giving people the chance to gain experience and the skills needed to advance in the hospitality and catering sector.
7. Go to the new Sephora store opening
Sephora is opening a new shop at Liverpool ONE on May 22, 2025, bringing its newest (and a very welcome) addition to Liverpool’s beauty scene. So, why not head down for its opening day to enjoy all the excitement and promotions available throughout.
8.
See ‘Bees: A Story of Survival’
Science and art enthusiasts should go see ‘Bees: A Story of Survival’ by Wolfgang Buttress Studio at the World Museum this May, as the exhibition has been extended until September. Explore the intricacies of a live beehive, its evolution and why bees are essential to the environment, as well as immersive installations, sculptures and projections.
You can buy tickets on the website or at the front desk and they cost, and members and kids under 17 go free.
9. Explore the city’s libraries
Libraries are one of the little public spaces left in our society where you are not required to spend money. They’re free, they’re safe, they’re quiet, and, most importantly, they are filled with thousands of books. You can find our guide to the very best libraries around town here.
10. Tuck into this fantastic sunday roast
Guests can indulge in a two-course Sunday Roast for £35 at Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen starting from 12pm, with options like Roast Rare Breed Beef, Roast Cornfed Chicken, Celeriac Wellington and Gordon Ramsay Fish and Chips. Plus, guests just HAVE to try the Black Forest Cheesecake with Pistachio ice cream.
11. Enjoy Italian-American cuisine with live jazz
Guests can indulge in a three-course meal for £18, including small plates, sliders, Pizzettes or desserts at Frederiks for a midweek lunch or dinner, as the spot just launched its new menu. What is more, Hope Street Jazz runs at the venue four nights a week, being the perfect spot for music lovers.Plus, visitors can enjoy a drinks deal between Tuesday and Thursday, with two Classic Fred’s cocktails for £15, pints of Frederiks Lager being £3.95 and bottles of house Wine at £19.50. You can book a table here.
12. Play retro video games and enjoy themed cocktails at this gaming bar
Pixel Bar boasts a chill vibe with gaming, where guests can sip themed cocktails while “destroying” their mates at games such as Mario Kart and Mortal Kombat. The concept has proven popular with everyone looking for a venue to switch up their night out, and you don’t have to be a die-hard gamer to have a wonderful time.