Mersey Reporter - #Merseybites #News

AS the May bank holiday approaches, the Liverpool City Region is preparing to do what it does best; play host to some of the biggest cultural moments in the country. Next weekend, the region will take centre stage with not one, but three major events that promise to showcase the best of its spirit, story, and skyline.

From the beats of BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend, to the sea of red expected for Liverpool FC’s Premier League victory parade, and the majestic arrival of Cunard’s new cruise liner Queen Anne on the Mersey, this is shaping up to be a celebration unlike any other.

Together, the events are expected to draw hundreds of thousands of visitors, with an economic impact running into the millions. They will provide a significant boost to the Region's £6.25bn a year visitor economy, which supports more than 59,000 jobs across tourism, hospitality, and events; a sector that has grown rapidly in the years since Liverpool’s reign as European Capital of Culture in 2008.

That milestone year was a turning point for the region, kickstarting a renaissance in arts, culture and tourism. Since then, the Liverpool City Region has established itself as a global events powerhouse, staging world-famous spectacles including the Giant Spectaculars, River of Light, The Good Business Festival, Africa Oye, and the unforgettable party for Eurovision 2023, which drew worldwide acclaim for its creativity and character.

Mayor of the Liverpool City Region Steve Rotheram said:- "Only the Liverpool City Region could stage a weekend like this. From football to music, and a touch of maritime magic, we're pulling out all the stops for a cultural celebration like no other. We're proud to be hosting Radio 1's Big Weekend, welcoming thousands of music fans from across the UK. We'll be marking Cunard’s 185th birthday in true style, with majestic cruise liners and maritime festivities. And, of course, the City will be turning red as we celebrate Liverpool FC's Premier League Parade; a chance for fans to come together and celebrate England's most successful football team. We've built a reputation for staging world class moments; from putting on a Eurovision show the world will never forget on behalf of Ukraine, to the Giant Spectaculars that have captured imaginations worldwide, to the breathtaking River of Light displays that continue to dazzle year after year. This weekend is another moment to come together, to celebrate what makes us unique: our creativity, our community spirit, and our capacity to surprise and delight on a global scale. So, whether you're local or just fancy a visit, come and join the party. There’s truly nowhere better to be than right here in the UK’s cultural capital!"