From 20 to 26 August, Beatlemaniacs from across the globe will flock to Liverpool to celebrate the incredible legacy and timeless melodies of John, Paul, George, and Ringo.
The city that gave birth to the Fab Four once again hosts the International Beatleweek, an iconic festival brimming with electrifying live performances, engaging exhibitions, and unforgettable tribute acts.
Held at legendary venues such as The Cavern Club, the Royal Court Theatre, and numerous vibrant outdoor stages throughout Liverpool, this event is a must-see for any Beatles enthusiast.
The Origins of International Beatleweek
International Beatleweek has evolved from humble beginnings into a globally recognised celebration of the Beatles’ enduring legacy.
The festival’s roots date back to October 1977, when Liverpool hosted its inaugural Beatles Convention at Mr Pickwick’s club on Fraser Street.
This two-day event, organised by legendary Cavern Club DJ Bob Wooler and the Beatles’ early manager Allan Williams, featured live music, guest speakers, and special film screenings.
In 1981, Liz and Jim Hughes, founders of the Cavern Mecca—a pioneering Beatles attraction in Liverpool—took the initiative to organise the First Annual Mersey Beatle Extravaganza at the Adelphi Hotel.
This one-day event on 29 August featured esteemed Beatles authors Philip Norman, Brian Southall, and Tony Tyler as special guests.
The festival continued to grow, moving to St George’s Hall in 1984, with notable attendees such as former Cavern Club owner Ray McFall and the Beatles’ press officer Tony Barrow.
After Cavern Mecca’s closure that year, the Liverpool City Council briefly managed the event before entrusting its organisation to Cavern City Tours in 1986—a role they have maintained ever since.
The late 1980s saw the festival embrace international participation, welcoming bands like Girl from the USA and the USSR’s Beatle Club.
In 1990, the Merseyside Tourism Board recognised the Beatles Convention as the city’s second most important annual attraction after the Grand National.
By 1993, the event had expanded into a week-long festival, incorporating venues along Mathew Street and attracting 25,000 attendees to an open-air stage near the Cavern Club.
Over the years, International Beatleweek has featured a diverse array of guests connected to the Beatles’ history, including The Quarrymen, Pete Best, Donovan, and family members like John Lennon’s sister Julia Baird.
What is Planned for 2025
Here’s a sneak peek into the exciting lineup of events planned for this year’s festivities:
Wednesday, 20 August 2025
- Cavern Club General Admission: Kick off the festival at the legendary Cavern Club and Cavern Pub, where live music will fill the air across three stages from 11:00 AM.
Thursday, 21 August 2025
- Cavern Club General Admission: Continue the celebration with another day of non-stop live performances starting at 11:00 AM.
Friday, 22 August 2025
- Hope Street Festival – Featuring Mark McGann – In His Life: At 12:00 PM, experience Mark McGann’s new production at the Everyman Theatre, accompanied by live music at Ye Cracke and the Philharmonic Pub.
- John & Paul – Beyond The Beatles: At 8:00 PM, Adam Hastings and Tony Coburn, renowned for their portrayals of John Lennon and Paul McCartney, perform at the Philharmonic Hall, highlighting the solo careers of these music legends.
- Late Night Party: From 11:00 PM, the festivities continue at the Adelphi Wave Bar with shows into the early hours.
Saturday, 23 August 2025
- P.S. I Love You: At 12:00 PM, enjoy a ‘Mad Day Out’ in the picturesque village of Port Sunlight, celebrating the Beatles’ history.
- The Beatles Variety Show: At 8:00 PM, the Philharmonic Hall hosts performances by festival favourites Pepperland, newcomers Grammophon Jazzband, and The Quarrymen.
- Late Night Party: From 11:00 PM, return to the Adelphi Wave Bar for another night of live music until 3:00 AM.
Sunday, 24 August 2025
- Convention Day: Starting at 11:00 AM at the Adelphi Hotel, this must-attend event features shows, films, guest speakers, and a vast memorabilia market.
- Prellie All-Nighter: From 11:59 PM, continue the celebration at the Adelphi Hotel with late-night performances.
Monday, 25 August 2025
- Tribute to the Mathew Street Festival: At 12:00 PM at the Pier Head, enjoy an outdoor event commemorating the best of the Mathew Street Festival.
- The Bootleg Beatles with their Orchestra: At 8:00 PM, experience the iconic Bootleg Beatles accompanied by an eight-piece classical ensemble at the Philharmonic Hall.
- Late Night Party: From 11:00 PM, the final late-night celebration takes place at the Adelphi Wave Bar.
Tuesday, 26 August 2025
- The Beatles v Elvis: At 2:00 PM and 8:00 PM in the Cavern Club Live Lounge, enjoy performances exploring the legacies of these music icons.
Throughout the festival, the Cavern Club and Cavern Pub will host live music daily from 11:00 AM, featuring bands from around the world.
Tickets for different events and concerts are available online, with options ranging from single-show entries to full passes.
Enhance Your Beatleweek Experience
To truly immerse yourself in the spirit of International Beatleweek 2025, why not embark on the Beatles Explorer Tour? This journey offers an intimate glimpse into the lives and landmarks that shaped the Fab Four.
Highlights of the Beatles Explorer Tour:
- Penny Lane: Stroll down the street that inspired the famous song, capturing photos at the renowned signpost.
- Strawberry Field: Visit the gates of this historic site, immortalised in the classic track “Strawberry Fields Forever”.
- Childhood Homes: See the residences where John Lennon and Paul McCartney grew up, gaining insight into their early lives.
- Cavern Club: Explore the legendary venue where the Beatles’ journey began, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Tour Details:
- Departure Point: Royal Albert Dock Liverpool, a hub of culture and history.
- Live Guide: Knowledgeable guides provide engaging narratives, blending facts with humour.
- Click here to buy your Beatles Explorer ticket.
For those seeking a more extensive experience, the Golden Ticket offers a three-day pass that includes:
- City Explorer: Discover Liverpool’s landmarks on an open-top bus tour.
- Beatles Explorer: Immerse yourself in the band’s rich history by visiting iconic landmarks that shaped their journey.
- River Explorer Cruise: Enjoy scenic views of Liverpool’s waterfront on a Mersey Ferry.
- Click here to buy your Golden Ticket.
Embark on this unforgettable journey and walk in the footsteps of the Fab Four, making your International Beatleweek 2025 experience truly exceptional.
