Families will be given a unique chance to clown around, stilt walk and juggle alongside world-class circuit acts when Southports hosts a spectacular two-day Big Top Festival this May Bank Holiday.
Suitable for all ages and completely free, the festival on Saturday, May 2 and Sunday, May 3 will see the town centre transformed like never before.
Visitors can expect breathtaking acrobatics and daring aerial displays at the event which will comprise five performance stages across Lord Street and the surrounding areas as it welcomes a line up of acts from across the globe as well as from the town itself.
And not only will Southport witness international performers such as Circa (‘Masters at what they do’ The Guardian), Gandini Juggling, (‘rib tickling, high skill silliness’ The Times) and Circumstances who will be bringing their widely acclaimed show ‘Beyond’ thanks to support from Global Streets, those attending can expect breathtaking acrobatics and daring aerial displays.
A series of contemporary clowning and hands-on workshops will be taking place allowing people to hone their circus skills.
The event, part of the Southport 2026 live events and cultural programme, will also bring immersive street theatre and brilliant local performers such as Egg People and Seeing Doobla as Southport turns into the centre of the circus world.
The Big Top Festival is also proud to present a number of new commissions including ‘Wild Laughter: Fun on the Prom’.
This unique story about world-class touring comedian Albert ‘Jimmy the Jester’ James, who worked with some of the biggest names in show business until his death in 1913, has been specially created for the festival by companies Sidelong Glance and CutToTheChase Productions.
It is being performed by Albert’s great granddaughter, Southport resident Ellie Lybeck: a perfect way to capture the legacy of both his performances and of circus from the town all the way to the present day.
Organisers say the festival is rooted in the rich heritage of circus and clowning in the town and will blend the nostalgia of classic circus with a bold, modern twist.
Designed to be fully family-friendly, the event’s packed schedule runs from 11am to 6pm both days and is aimed at all ages, allowing people to explore, play and be amazed.
As well as being free to attend, the event will also be part of the Merseyrail £2 deal where train travel from anywhere on the Merseyrail Network to Southport is only £2 for adults and £1 for children return on the event days.
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.”
To find out details around stage timings, please go to visitsouthport.com/bigtop