Looking for a creative way to spend your weekend?
Then look no further than Liverpool Central Library, because this Saturday (29 June) it will be bursting with bright sparks and brilliant ideas.
The hugely popular MakeFest gathering is returning to the city and this time around it’s promising to be bigger and better than ever.
Now in its fifth year, MakeFest has grown from modest beginnings into a technological tour-de-force which attracts makers, creators, artists and musicians from all across the UK.
The event will take place across all floors of Central Library and will even spill outside, weather permitting.
Starting at 9am, the ‘Fest will see a free day of fun for all the family with workshops on everything from wand making to knitting and from robots to rockets.
In total, more than 100 makers will be showing their stuff across four floors of the library.
Top attractions will include – a world record-breaking attempt to create the tallest ever 3D printed rocket and a look into the future with a special session exploring life in the year 2049.
There will also be a chance to get up close and personal with everyone’s favourite galaxy-conquering dustbin – Doris the Dalek, who has been let out of BBC Radio Merseyside’s TARDIS for one day only.
Liverpool MakeFest 2019 will also see the launch of Liverpool’s-own iDEA Award. Part of the Liverpool Digital City initiative, the iDEA programme helps people develop digital, enterprise and employability skills for free through a series of online challenges and through attending events.
Those taking part can earn life-enhancing badges, which in turn can lead to industry-recognised awards. MakeFest will offer students, apprentices, entrepreneurs, business and community leaders the chance to sign up to the iDEAs programme and take up some of the challenges on the day.
Other attractions on the day include a Women in Science Exhibition in the Hornby Library as part of the Liverpool RISE programme and a Mission to the Moon showcase by Liverpool Astronomical society.
Liverpool’s MakeFest runs from 9am to 5pm on Saturday 29 June at the Central Library. You can find a full list of activities at www.liverpoolmakefest.org Liverpool’s MakeFest was the brainchild of TES Teacher of the Year Caroline Keep, Liverpool John Moores University Senior Lecturer Dr Mark Feltham and Denise Jones of Liverpool Libraries.
Denise said: “We originally had the idea to stage a small creative technology event and we are delighted to say that it has now become one of the biggest and brightest art, science, digital and technology fusion festivals around.
“MakeFest is all about de-mystifying the world of science and technology and making them accessible and fun for everyone.
Whatever your level of knowledge or skill, MakeFest is a completely inclusive event and there will be plenty for everyone to get involved with.”
Deputy Mayor of Liverpool and Cabinet Member for Business, Economy and Skills, Cllr Gary Millar added: “Events like MakeFest are extremely important for the future of our city. In fact, originally it was my fascination for computers that brought me to this great city. Therefore, I know first-hand that making technology interactive and fun can help ignite a spark in young and older. This could be the beginning of your very own journey of discovery and excitement.
“I believe that Liverpool is striving to be at the cutting-edge of growing and nurturing new talent in tech-related industries. We also want to attract the best and brightest from across the globe to come and do business in our city. The more local ‘makers’ we have, the better our city will fare. You will have the opportunity this weekend to find that MakeFest is your perfect introduction to the exciting world of technology, gadgets, games, robots, craft and advice.”
