One of Liverpool’s most popular festivals is to return for the first time since the 1990s.
Walton Festival is being re-launched this year on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 July in Walton Hall Park with support from Liverpool City Council, Walton Community Interest Company, County Road Regeneration and local housing associations.
It will include a Victorian themed funfair, live music, sports display, farmers market and dance and gymnastics displays.
A live music stage – ‘The Walton Hall Park Bandstand’ – will pay tribute to the park’s former art deco bandstand, while small pets and falconry displays will recreate the former Pet’s Corner – a hugely popular attraction enjoyed by many children and families at the park in past years.
Councillor Roy Gladden, Chair of the County High Street Innovation Group, said: “Many people have fond memories of the Walton Festival and there has long been a wish to see it return.
“We are putting together a packed two-day programme which will include the return of some festival favourites as well as showcasing fantastic local talent, all set within the park.
“We are consulting schools, community organisations, local businesses and residents about what else they would like to see at the festival as it’s very much their event.
“There is already a buzz in the local community about it, and all we need is for the sun to come out and we will be set for a great weekend.”
Brenda Cassidy, one of the organisers of the original festival, which launched back in 1978, said: “I am absolutely delighted. It’s a lot of hard work but there’s lots of support. It’s a great community, so in my opinion it’s brilliant that there’s a big thing going on in Walton.”
Clare Cassidy, who was Junior Princess of the Walton Festival in 1984, said: “I have absolutely fantastic memories of Walton Festival. Everybody used to be so excited and the community spirit beforehand was brilliant.”
For the latest about the event, search for Walton Festival on www.facebook.com
