Southport 2026 shortlisted for Liverpool City Region tourism award
Southport 2026: Elegantly Eccentric has been shortlisted for Event/Festival of the Year in the Liverpool City Region Tourism Awards 2026.
Boosting the local economy
Elegantly Eccentric is the landmark programme of 2026 cultural events that has attracted thousands of visitors, boosted the local economy and strengthened Southport's reputation as one of the region's leading visitor destinations.
Salt and Tar recognition
Its shortlisting is further recognition of the success of Sefton's growing visitor economy. Salt and Tar in Bootle has also been shortlisted as a finalist in the Regenerative Tourism category, with the winner to be decided by an expert judging panel.
Delivering a vibrant programme of major events
Visit Southport and Sefton Council's Tourism team promotes the borough to visitors as a premium coastal destination. They showcase the very best of Southport and Sefton’s 22 miles of coastline, attractions and visitor experiences, while delivering a vibrant programme of major events throughout the year.
In addition to its established calendar of flagship events, in 2026 the team introduced four major new cultural experiences - Lightport, Cristal Palace, Big Top Festival and Books Alive!
Held under the overall title of Elegantly Eccentric, these events brought immersive outdoor arts, spectacular street theatre, contemporary performance and family storytelling experiences to the town. And they complemented popular favourites including the Southport Food and Drink Festival, Southport Air Show and British Musical Fireworks Championship.
Increasing footfall across Sefton
Through its diverse, accessible and predominantly free programme of events, Visit Southport continues to increase footfall in the town and across Sefton. This supports local businesses and provides compelling reasons for residents and visitors to spend time in Southport throughout the year.
Councillor Marion Atkinson, Leader of Sefton Council, said:
"This recognition is fantastic news for Southport and for Sefton as a whole.
“Southport 2026: Elegantly Eccentric has showcased the creativity, ambition and welcoming spirit of our borough, bringing people together and attracting visitors from across the region and beyond.
"To also see Salt and Tar shortlisted for the Regenerative Tourism award demonstrates the breadth and quality of Sefton's visitor offer. These nominations reflect the hard work of our Tourism team, event organisers, partners, volunteers and local businesses who continue to help our destinations thrive.
"We are incredibly proud of what has been achieved and encourage everyone to support Southport 2026 by casting their vote."
Vote now!
If you've enjoyed the events, discovered Southport in a new way, or seen the positive impact they have had on our town, please vote for Southport 2026: Elegantly Eccentric as Event/Festival of the Year in the Liverpool City Region Tourism Awards 2026.
Place your votehere.
Voting closes on Monday 30th November.
