Welcome to our October Half Term Issue, offering you a full array of autumnal events and activities to keep you and your family entertained during this colourful season. As the leaves change tones and schools break for a week, take some time to enjoy a seasonal trail, or a trip to pick some pumpkins. Those wheelbarrow moments are always a lot of fun! These pages have plenty of ideas of things to do and places to go for some friendly spooky fun or a fantastic fireworks show to enjoy in November.
Once you have planned your half term fun, head to the back for a list of what shows are taking to the stage over the next few weeks and in the festive season, so that you can book some in advance.
In November we will be back with our Winter Issue, which we can guarantee will be full of magic and sparkle!
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LOCAL NEWS
The latest news from in and around Merseyside
AUTUMN HALF TERM
WOW BOX OFFICE
An array of theatre, arts and films near you A huge selection of activities to choose from over half term
What’s on Where! A variety of places to visit this autumn
Local NEWS
Snippets on the latest news from in and around Merseyside; with information on vaccines, a free performing arts trial, gigs for kids and some Christmas shows to look forward to.
Mosh Tots - Gigs for Kids at Future Yard!
Mosh Tots is the hippest, hottest party in town! On Sunday mornings during term time, these hugely popular gigs for kids shows take over Future Yard music venue in Birkenhead. Aimed at children aged 1-8, Mosh Tots introduces young people to the rockin’ world of live music in a safe and fun environment. “We believe that live music should be for everyone, no matter your age,” say the Future Yard team behind the events. “Mosh Tots is an opportunity for children and well-behaved parents to come together and share the joy of live music together as a family.”
Shows start at 11am, the next one is on Sunday 13th October and then Sunday 27th October is the Halloween Special! Tickets are available online now.
W: www.futureyeard.org
Liverpool Philharmonic has Christmas all wrapped up…
Get ready for a real extravaganza as the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra brings you Santa Comes to Town! Joined by Father Christmas himself, they’ll deliver festive tales of Gaspard the Fox and other favourite Christmassy critters through seasonal songs and surprises on Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd December (the 2.30pm performance on Sunday will be BSL interpreted). Then, join Kermit and friends for The Muppet Christmas Carol on 24th December, before filling the Hall with musical magic in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets™ in Concert - the Orchestra performing its captivating score alongside a screening of the film on 28th and 29th December. Head online to book your tickets.
W: www.liverpoolphil.com
Experience Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts
At the Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts, you’ll experience more than just your usual musical theatre classes. Your child will get hands-on with professional filmmaking equipment in their Film & TV classes, write their own monologues and comedy sketches in their Comedy & Drama module. You’ll also get so much more than just performing arts training. PQA’s ethos is all about building a child’s inner confidence, nurturing and developing them so that they can become grounded, resilient and happy adults. PQA offer everyone the chance to try a full academy session for FREE. Find your local academy to book your free session!
W: www.pqacademy.com
Try a full academy session for FREE!
It’s not too late to protect your child from flu
Flu can be a very unpleasant illness, and cases increase in December and January. You can still get your child vaccinated. For most children, the vaccine is given as a nasal spray. It is quick, effective and painless. The vaccine has been used for over ten years in schools and GP practices in the UK where millions of children have been vaccinated.
The nasal spray vaccine contains a highly processed form of porcine gelatine. If this is not acceptable, please ask for the injectable alternative.
W: www.nhs.uk/child-flu
Autumn HALF TERM
Of all the week-long half terms, this one has got to be our favourite; with so many events and activities taking place around the county, from race days to pumpkin picking and colourful seasonal trails, with spectacular fireworks to top it off!
Visit Aintree Racecourse for a thrilling Halloween Family Fun Day!
Prepare for a day packed with spooky delights and entertainment for the whole family on Sunday 27th October. With FREE entry and activities for children, it’s a day you won’t want to miss! Let skilled face painters turn your little ones into their favourite Halloween characters, while spooky figures wander the grounds, bringing extra chills and surprises. Don’t forget to wear your best Halloween costume for a day full of magic and wonder! Get your tickets at the best price now by searching ‘Aintree Racecourse Halloween’ online!
W: www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/aintree
Visit The Pumpkin Patch Hightown this season
Find your perfect pumpkins across acres of home-grown fields for a wholesome family outing this October. Open 9am to 6pm daily until Thursday 31st October, with no booking necessary. Pick your own pumpkins and sweetcorn, get lost in the free maize maze and enjoy many photo opportunities! The Pumpkin Patch are famous for their giant pumpkins, so borrow a wheelbarrow, wear your wellies and see what amazing pumpkins you can find. Best of all, there is no admission charge. Find The Pumpkin Patch on Orrell Hill Lane, L38 5DA. Instagram: @thepumpkinpatchhightown
NEW for 2024 - Introducing Twig or Treat at the Glorious Glowing Lantern Parade
Experience BeWILDerwood’s special twist on trick-or-treating this Halloween. Dress up in your best Halloween costume and follow the magical light trail. Spot different doors along the way and say “Twig or Treat” to your favourite BeWILDerwood characters! Watch a new 10-minute Twig or Treat Tales show at the Storytelling Stage too! Enjoy a safe, fun-filled trick-ortreating experience like no other! Psst! It’s spooooky not scary! All children will receive one glowing lantern at the beginning at the event and one small, sweet treat before they head home. Tickets are just £14.50.
W: www.bewilderwood.co.uk
Fill your half term at The Atkinson with plenty of free activities
This season at The Atkinson in Southport, families can take part in a variety of FREE and exciting activities including craft workshops, LEGO construction sessions, and interactive story telling. These events promise a variety of fun experiences for all ages. Entry into the Egyptology Museum is also free, with plenty of interactive displays and dressing up clothes! In the theatre, a magical retelling of ‘There Was An Old Lady Who Swallowed A Fly’ at 2pm on Thursday 31st October is guaranteed to surprise and delight children and nostalgic adults in equal measure. Plan your visit online today.
W: www.theatkinson.co.uk
St Helens’ spellbinding half term panto… Sleeping Beauty!
Regal Entertainments proudly presents the most magical pantomime of all, Sleeping Beauty, from Saturday 26th October until Sunday 3rd November at St Helens Theatre Royal. This enchanting tale follows Princess Aurora, who is cursed by the wicked fairy Carabosse. When Aurora pricks her finger on a spinning wheel, she falls into an eternal sleep. The only hope for breaking the spell lies in the kiss of a brave and handsome prince. Enjoy a spellbinding adventure filled with laughter, wonder, and unforgettable moments. Don’t miss this fantastic family treat during the October half term!
W: www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com
Don’t miss out on Fright Fiesta at Gulliver’s!
Get ready for a spooktacular October with Fright Fiesta at Gulliver’s. This year’s event is bursting with colour, costume, and music, creating a vibrant celebration of Halloween like never before. For 2024, they’ve added exciting new activities and entertainment, including the thrilling Ghost House Live experience and the action-packed Silver Mine Zombie Shootout. Plus, don’t forget to enjoy the many theme park rides, open throughout the event! Book your tickets early to save more and secure your spot at this unforgettable Halloween adventure. Fright Fiesta is perfect for all agesdon’t miss out!
Plus, join for their Fireworks Spectacular on Saturday 2nd November, open 12 midday until 7.30pm for this very special event!
W: www.gulliversfun.co.uk
Find entertainment on every corner of Liverpool ONE this autumn break
Liverpool ONE is looking forward to the season of celebration with Halloween half term fun, and Christmas on the horizon! There’s entertainment on every corner this autumn break, with loads of activities and just about everything that keeps children busy and having fun. Upside Down House is a laugh for the whole family, with magical selfie opportunities in what is quite literally an upside-down house! With shops, restaurants and loads of entertainment venues, shake up the routine and get the family back together this half term, for a bit of quality time in the heart of the city. Plus, the Halloween Street Party returns to Liverpool ONE on Sunday 27th October! Enjoy a FREE party full of spooky fun street performances and ghoulish characters and enter the fancy dress competition, where children of all ages can join in to see who can scare the judges the most!
W: www.liverpool-one.com
FUN THINGS TO DO LOCALLYWOW WHAT’S ON WHERE
in Merseyside
THIS AUTUMN
Twig or Treat
BeWILDerwood, Bickley Moss
www.bewilderwood.co.uk
Dress up in your best Halloween costume and follow the magical light trail. Spot different doors along the way and say “Twig or Treat” to your favourite BeWILDerwood characters! Watch a new 10-minute Twig or Treat Tales show at the Storytelling Stage too! Running on selected evenings during October and November between 5.30-7pm.
Entertainment on Every Corner
Liverpool ONE
www.liverpool-one.com
Something for everyone, from Gravity MAX with crazy golf, VR simulators and e-kart tracks, to The Upside Down House, all alongside great shops and restaurants.
Upside Down House
Liverpool ONE
www.liverpool-one.com
Let your imagination run wild and enjoy this unique photo experience that defies gravity! Kids and adults alike will giggle throughout this attraction, which simulates a house literally flipped upside down. Upside Down House is also home to the spinning house, and has rooms exclusive to Liverpool including the clouds of Candy Land, and a retro PacMan arcade game.
We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip …or promise!
Autumn at the Atkinson
The Atkinson, Southport
www.theatkinson.co.uk
Families can take part in a variety of free and exciting activities including craft workshops, LEGO construction sessions, and interactive story telling. These events promise a variety of fun experiences for all ages. Entry into the Egyptology Museum is also free, with plenty of interactive displays and dressing up clothes!
NEW Attraction
Eureka! Science + Discovery www.eureka.org.uk
Merseyside’s newest visitor attraction. Explore the all-new interactive science venue on the Wirral, designed for curious young minds and fun-loving grown-ups!
The Old Dock Tour
www.liverpool-one.com
Curious about Liverpool’s history? This 60-minute tour takes visitors back in time as they discover how a bright mind and creativity shaped the city’s destiny forever. The tour includes a visit to a part of the original Old Dock underneath Liverpool ONE. Kids under five go free and it starts from the Maritime Museum.
Giant Pumpkins!
The Pumpkin Patch, Hightown @thepumpkinpatchhightown Famous for their giant pumpkins, you can pick your own with thousands to choose from, and sweetcorn too! Plus, there is a FREE maize maze and no need to book, just turn up. Located on Orrell Hill Lane, Hightown. Running daily 9am-6pm until Thursday 31st October.
Autumn Nature Trail
Liverpool ONE www.liverpool-one.com
This free Nature Trail is the perfect excuse to get some fresh air on those bright autumn days and explore Chavasse Park’s resident plants and wildlife. Nature doesn’t stop for the changing season, with plenty to explore and discover, like crunching leaves and changing landscapes. Mini explorers will love following the trail map, available from the Tourist Information Centre.
OCTOBER
Saturday 12th October
Relaxed ScreeningsPlanetarium Show
World Museum, Liverpool www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Relaxed shows have adjustments to be more inviting for visitors with sensory needs and their friends and families. These adjustments include low level lighting left on during the shows, lower volume levels, and reduced capacity to provide more choices in where to sit. People may like to chat or respond to shows while they are running. There will be a small number of sensory toys and objects available for visitors to borrow on request.
Saturday 12th & Sunday 13th
October
Quince and Apple Weekend
Norton Priory www.nortonpriory.org
A fun event for all the family. Produce from the walled garden will be on sale as well as craft activities, music, storytelling and more.
Saturday 12th - Thursday 31st
October
Fright Fiesta
Gulliver’s World Resort, Warrington www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk
Join in the freaky festivities at Gulliver’s this Halloween with Fright Fiesta - a lively, festivalstyle atmosphere brimming with colour, costumes, and music. New experiences for this year include Trick or Treat Train, Ghost House Live, and Temple Raider: Cursed.
Book at least two days in advance for best prices.
Sunday 13th October & Sunday 17th November
Mosh Tots
Future Yard, Birkenhead www.futureyard.org
Aimed at children aged 1-8, these shows introduce young people to the rockin’ world of live music in a safe and fun environment. Starts at 11am.
Wednesday 16th OctoberSunday 3rd November
Halloween Spooktacular
Gandeys Circus, Trentham www.gandeyscircus.com
A specially selected international cast of skeletons, vampires, Jack o’lanterns, and not forgetting Circus Artistes, have been brought together for this year’s sensational extravaganza.
Use code PT5 for a discount when booking!
Saturday 19th October
Spooky Welly Walk Sefton Park www.roycastle.org/spooky Frightening fun for all the family. Take on as many of the trick or treat stations as you dare. Creepy crafts, Spooky storytelling, menacing mask making, and cackling cup cake decorating to name a few.
Saturday 19th - Thursday 31st October
Pumpkin Patch at the Farm Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk
Go down to the farm to meet all your farmyard favourites and then it’s off to search for your perfect pumpkin. You’ll choose your own pumpkin from the field, so prepare to get your hands dirty!
Friday 25th October
Home Ed Day
Eureka! Science + Discovery www.eureka.org.uk
A special day just for families who homeschool. A day at the attraction without the hustle and bustle of school groups (no school bookings allowed). Some extra fun activities tailored for children who would be in Years 1 to 9 if they were in school, with full access to the galleries. It’s like a field trip with a twist!
Friday 25th October - Tuesday
5th November
River of Light
Liverpool ONE
www.liverpool-one.com
River of Light illuminates the city to provide families with a stunning trail to follow right across town. At Liverpool ONE they’ll be host to one of the spectacular installations that forms part of the trail.
Saturday 26th OctoberSunday 3rd November
Fire and Light
Eureka! Science + Discovery www.eureka.org.uk
Celebrate Halloween and the autumnal season! ‘Fire and LightLet’s Glow Crazy!’ is a mesmerizing fusion of fire performances, light manipulation, and hands-on glow-in-the-dark fun! Witness phenomenal fire tricks performed by the awe-inspiring ‘Bring The Fire Project’ and explore the hidden glow in everyday items in the ‘Fluorescence Frenzy‘ workshop. All included in the admission cost!
Half Term Fun
Jodrell Bank www.jodrellbank.net
See extraterrestrial experiments at a Curious Kids science show, spot aliens on the free trail, tour the Solar System in a planetarium show, learn about Jodrell Bank’s fascinating history through hands-on exhibitions.
Skellies and Wellies in the Gardens
Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk
Head to the gardens and see them come alive with the rattling fun of Halloween.
Sunday 27th October
Halloween Street Party
Liverpool ONE www.liverpool-one.com
Enjoy a FREE party full of spooky fun street performances and ghoulish characters, plus a fancy dress competition.
Mosh Tots Halloween Special Future Yard, Birkenhead www.futureyard.org
A Halloween special at the hippest, hottest party in town! Starts at 11am.
Big Art Special: Art
Sparks
Walker Art Gallery www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Spark your creativity and have fun, amazing artistic adventures in the brilliant Big Art gallery.
Halloween Family Fun Day
Aintree Racecourse www.thejockeyclub.co.uk
Monday 28th - Wednesday 30th October
Half Term Fun
Liverpool Cathedral www.liverpoolcathedral.org.uk
Join the Education team for themed arts and crafts activities. Each family friendly session is free and lasts up to 45 minutes. All sessions must be prebooked and each person attending is required to have a ticket. Sessions start at 11am, 1pm and 2pm.
A Brooke Family
Halloween
Norton Priory www.nortonpriory.org
Enjoy Halloween in an historic setting. Venture into the eerie woodlands, encounter ghostly figures, and hear tales of the supernatural as you explore the atmospheric surroundings. Tickets required.
Thursday 31st October
Halloween Family Movie
Jodrell Bank www.jodrellbank.net
NOVEMBER
Saturday 2nd November
Fireworks Spectacular
Gulliver’s World Resort, Warrington www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk
Gulliver’s World will be open from 12 midday until 7.30pm for one very special event. Enjoy hours of theme park rides, attractions and entertainment, complete with a spectacular fireworks display in the evening. The fireworks display will be taking place at approximately 7.15pm (subject to weather conditions).
Friday 29th NovemberSaturday 7th December
The Light Before
Christmas: Starlight Liverpool Cathedral www.liverpoolcathedral.org.uk
KIDS GO FREE
Prepare for a day packed with spooky delights and entertainment for the whole family. With FREE entry and activities for children, it’s a day you won’t want to miss!
Protect your child against flu this autumn
Every year, all children from reception up to Year 6 are offered a flu vaccination by the NHS Immunisation Service. The vaccinations are usually given in schools, with most children being offered a flu nasal vaccination. Holding the vaccination sessions in school makes the vaccines more accessible. The vaccine is the best defence we have against flu, which causes many deaths each year. The vaccine not only protects your child from flu but reduces the transmission of flu in the community and to those most at risk of flu, like the elderly. To find out more visit www.nhs.uk/child-flu
Hotel Transylvania - a spooky special one-off showing of this family favourite to kick-off Halloween! Join the Van-Helsing family of Vampires in the Space Dome for a cinema-style showing.
Halloween Party
Xplore! Science Centre, Wrexham www.xplorescience.co.uk Halloween is a time of year when the boundary between the known and unknown feels thinner, and at Xplore! they’re embracing that sense of wonder and mystery.
Prepare to be captivated this festive season as the renowned artistic collective, Luxmuralis, returns for a Christmas experience like no other. As you explore, the Cathedral will be reimagined through contemporary light and sound, offering a truly immersive experience that honours the beauty of the iconic architecture. This is a magical opportunity to see Liverpool Cathedral in a whole new light - literally. Tickets are expected to sell out quickly, so be sure to secure your spot early.
LOOKING AHEAD
Experience Lapland Lapland Liverpool
www.laplandliverpool.co.uk
Bringing the magic of the North Pole to us! A three hour fully immersive experience not to be missed this festive season. Book now from just £29.99 per person.
Box OFFICE
All the very best theatre, arts and films near you. Book some half term entertainment and plan ahead for Christmas too!
The Atkinson Southport www.theatkinson.co.uk
Friday 31st October
THERE WAS AN OLD LADY THAT SWALLOWED A FLY
A classic guaranteed to surprise and delight children and adults.
Friday 6th-Tuesday 31st December
SLEEPING BEAUTY
This traditional family panto will captivate audiences of all ages. In the kingdom of ‘Southportopia’ far, far away, a beautiful princess awaits her true love’s kiss to awaken her from a deep slumber. But beware! The wicked fairy Carabosse has cast a spell, and only the bravest heroes can break it. Will the valiant prince triumph over evil and save the day? Get ready to boo, hiss, and cheer as the talented cast takes you on a magical ride through panto land. A variety of matinee and evening performances are available.
This classic pantomime promises a magical journey down the yellow brick road, where Dorothy, Toto, and her iconic friends face exciting adventures in the Land of Oz.
Saturday 6th December5th January
JACK AND THE BEANSTALK
A traditional pantomime packed with laughter, thrilling chases, and plenty of audience participation.
Liverpool Empire www.atgtickets.com
Tuesday 8th-Sunday 20th October
CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG
This musical flies into Liverpool Empire for two weeks only!
Liverpool Everyman www.everymanplayhouse.com
Tuesday 29th OctoberSaturday 2nd November
ROOM ON THE BROOM
Based on the best-selling book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.
The Lowry www.thelowry.com
Friday 18th-Sunday 20th October
DINOSAUR WORLD LIVE
Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World Live in this roarsome interactive show for all the family!
We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip …or promise!
Tuesday 22nd-Saturday 26th October
THE ELMER ADVENTURE
Join three friends on a joyful jungle adventure in Tall Stories’ magical, musical adaptation of the much-loved Elmer books by David McKee.
Royal Liverpool Philharmonic www.liverpoolphil.com
Thursday 31st October
THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS
A screening of The Nightmare Before Christmas. This Academy Award nominated stop-motion musical fantasy tells the story of Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King, who discovers Christmas Town and plots to take charge of the festive season.
Saturday 21st-Sunday 22nd December
FAMILY CONCERT: SANTA COMES TO TOWN!
Join the merry musicians of the Orchestra for a stocking-full of sensational seasonal songs, and an appearance from Santa himself!
Tuesday 24th December
THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL
Join Kermit and friends for this classic Christmas film.
Saturday 28th-Sunday 29th December
HARRY POTTER AND THE CHAMBER OF SECRETS
The Orchestra performing its captivating score alongside a screening of the film.
YOU SAW IT IN
St Helens Theatre
Royal www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com
Saturday 26th OctoberSunday 3rd November
SLEEPING BEAUTY
This enchanting tale follows Princess Aurora, who is cursed by the wicked fairy Carabosse. When Aurora pricks her finger on a spinning wheel, she falls into an eternal sleep. The only hope for breaking the spell lies in the kiss of a brave and handsome prince. Book for a spellbinding adventure filled with laughter, wonder, and unforgettable moments.
