Liverpool's Groundbreaking Inclusive Sport & Culture Festival: A Historic Celebration Awaits!
From 2-8 May 2027, Liverpool will shine as the host of the UK’s first-ever Inclusive Sport & Culture Festival (ISCF), a pioneering event that unites elite Paralympic athletes and a dynamic arts and culture program. This remarkable festival aims to transform Liverpool into a vibrant hub of energy, creativity, and exceptional performance, heralding a new era in how sport and culture intersect.
A Vibrant Showcase of Talent
The week-long festival will take place across notable locations in the city, including the M&S Bank Arena, the Exhibition Centre, and the scenic waterfront at Salthouse and Albert Docks. It promises to feature international competitions in Boccia, Para Athletics, Wheelchair Rugby, and Paracanoe, while also showcasing a unique arts program led by diverse and talented artists from the disabled community.
Unforgettable Sporting Competitions
Attendees can expect thrilling competitions, with Wheelchair Rugby highlighting the festival from 2-7 May, featuring six international teams vying for victory in an electric atmosphere. The World Boccia Cup will follow, serving as a Paralympic qualifying event, while Paracanoe will push speed and skill to the limits at Salthouse Dock. Concluding the festival on 8 May, the Para Athletics event will invite spectators to witness the highest levels of athleticism in a free open-air setting along Liverpool’s iconic Waterfront.
A Community Celebrating Diversity and Excellence
At the heart of the festival will be the Athletes’ and Artists’ Village, designed to foster community and celebrate the shared experiences of athletes and artists. The festival is not merely a series of events; it embodies a commitment to inclusivity and aims to elevate visibility of disabled talent on a global platform. With funding from the National Lottery and Arts Council England, the festival seeks to set a standard for inclusive events worldwide.
An Inspiring Legacy for the Future
Commenting on the festival, Emma Wiggs MBE, five-time Paralympic Medallist, expressed excitement about the opportunity it presents for visibility and inclusion in sports and the arts. Darren Henley, Chief Executive of Arts Council England, emphasized the importance of showcasing the extraordinary talents of disabled artists and athletes, inspiring the next generation through this landmark event.
In partnership with UK Sport, ParalympicsGB, and Liverpool City Council, this festival is poised to create a significant legacy, inviting everyone to come celebrate diversity and excellence in sport and culture. Liverpool is ready to lead the way, setting an unparalleled example for future events.
