Ground-Breaking Festival Set to Celebrate Inclusivity, Sport, and Culture in Liverpool

In an exciting development for the city of Liverpool, a pioneering inclusive sport and culture event is set to take place in May 2027. This groundbreaking festival is designed to unite international athletes and artists, emphasizing the themes of unity, sport, and creativity. As part of a broader strategy to promote major international sporting events in the UK, this initiative highlights the importance of elite competition while seeking to deliver meaningful social impacts.

A Collaborative Effort

The event, organized by UKEL, an independent company dedicated to hosting significant international sporting events, reflects a commitment outlined in UK Sport's strategy, "Making Live Sport Matter." This partnership aims to not only showcase sporting talent but also drive performance benefits and community engagement across Liverpool. Notably, the festival is set to feature work from leading disabled and neurodivergent artists, a collaboration made possible by the Arts Council England.

An Exciting Lineup

The week-long festival will include four international sports competitions, serving as a precursor to the LA 2028 Paralympic Games. What sets this event apart is its inclusive nature, integrating a cultural programme led by deaf, disabled, and neurodivergent artists. These pioneering creatives will showcase their talents through performances, exhibitions, and collaborative experiences, offering unique perspectives that celebrate diversity and inclusion.

Community and Opportunity

To ensure the successful execution of strategic goals, recruitment for a specialist Stakeholder Board has already begun. This board will consist of representatives from Liverpool City Council, UK Sport, Arts Council England, and Paralympics GB, along with experienced para sport athletes and disabled artists. Additionally, a Creative Producer will be hired to shape the artistic direction of the cultural programme, ensuring it remains bold, inclusive, and centered on the needs and experiences of the disabled community.

Funded by key organizations including UK Sport and Liverpool City Council, this festival is a significant step towards greater opportunity and representation for disabled individuals in the UK. As we look forward to May 2027, it’s evident that Liverpool is positioning itself as a beacon of inclusivity and celebration of diverse talent.