New market to head to iconic Chinatown

A brand new market is to take place in the heart of Liverpool’s famous Chinatown.  

The trial of the market is set to take place on Sunday 28 September and will start at the iconic arch (the largest outside of China) and stretch along Nelson Street.

Operating from 10am to 4pm, around 40 stalls offering a mix of delicious street food, handmade crafts, curated goods, and community activities will take over the area. Visitors can expect a lively atmosphere with something for everyone, including family-friendly entertainment and local makers. There’s even a state-of-the-art pop-up ‘Roboshop’ which will showcase some cutting-edge Chinese technology, thanks to PIX Moving Co., Ltd – a global business with a proven track record internationally.

The event also aims to spotlight Chinatown’s existing businesses and restaurants, encouraging visitors to explore the area and perhaps discover some local gems for the first time. The pilot is part of a wider initiative to support and reinvigorate Liverpool Chinatown and enhance the area’s visitor economy and cultural heritage offer. If it’s successful, it’s hoped it will become a regular fixture in the area.

The market will take place at the same time as the two-day African Routes 2025: Equal Measures festival is being held at the Black-E – a free event dedicated to celebrating and exploring the rich traditions and future of Black dance, while also considering and reflecting on how living in an unequal society affects our wellbeing. Find out more on the Black-E’s website.

For more information on Liverpool Markets, visit liverpool.gov.uk/markets.

Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing & Culture, Councillor Harry Doyle, said:

“Chinatown is one of the most culturally significant and visually iconic areas of our city and we’re delighted to trialling a new market there.

“This is about more than just stalls – it’s about creating a space where people can come together, celebrate community, and enjoy everything the area has to offer.

“We want to support the businesses already based here while also drawing new footfall into the area. If this trial is successful, it could pave the way for a regular market that becomes a real fixture in the city’s cultural calendar. It’s a great example of how we’re using public space creatively to bring people together and support local enterprise.”

Ming Wang, Secretary General, Liverpool Chinese Business Association, said: 

“Liverpool’s Chinatown has always been a place where heritage, enterprise, and community spirit converge. We are proud to welcome and support the first Chinatown Market, organised by the council. This event showcases the vibrancy of our local businesses, cultural traditions, and collaborative spirit. We look forward to welcoming visitors from across the city to experience the energy and diversity that make Chinatown so special.”

Cathy Guo, owner of China City on Nelson Street, said:

“We are delighted to welcome the new market in Chinatown and we would like to have it more regularly. We hope the market will bring the community closer together and attract more and more people to come and enjoy our Chinatown.”

Liverpool Waterfront