Celebrations planned for Vale Park bandstand's 100th birthday
Residents and visitors are being invited to join three days of celebrations to mark the 100th anniversary of the iconic bandstand in New Brighton's Vale Park.
The neoclassical-style bandstand was officially opened on 21 August 1926 by Councillor F. Stanley Atkin, Chair of the County Borough of Wallasey's Parks Committee.
More than 3,000 people attended the opening day celebrations, which featured a performance by His Majesty's Royal Air Force Band. It was the first of thousands of brass band and other performances to take place at the venue over the following century, entertaining generations of local people and visitors. Over the years, the bandstand has welcomed a wide range of performers, including household names such as Janice Long, Keith Chegwin and Sonia.
(all images courtesy of Wirral Archives)
For a hundred years, this beautiful bandstand has provided the backdrop to countless happy memories. From summer concerts and dancing to children's entertainment and community celebrations, it has been a place where generations of local people have come together.
The Joytime talent showcase has been a key part of that story since 1953 – an incredible 73 years. Children who once sat wide-eyed before the stage have grown up to bring their own children and grandchildren, passing on a lovely local tradition from one generation to the next.
It is wonderful to see local volunteers coming together to celebrate this important milestone and ensure the bandstand continues to play a central role in community life for many years to come.
The Vale Park bandstand is one of around 1,500 bandstands built in parks and seaside resorts across Britain during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They were created to provide affordable entertainment, encourage healthier lifestyles and offer opportunities for communities to come together.
Determined to ensure the centenary did not pass without a proper celebration, a group of New Brighton residents formed the not-for-profit organisation Vale Park Volunteers 2026. The group has organised a programme of free events throughout the anniversary weekend and is working to protect, enhance and celebrate the park and its heritage.
We're incredibly proud of what our community has achieved in such a short space of time. Vale Park means so much to so many people, and the bandstand's 100th anniversary is a moment worth celebrating together.
We've put together a fantastic programme of events and activities for all ages and we're inviting everyone to come along and be part of this special occasion.
The park will be specially decorated throughout, and visitors can enjoy community stalls with tombolas and raffles, giant sensory bubbles, and a fancy dress competition on both Saturday and Sunday starting 12 noon.
Vale Park Volunteers 2026 is also keen to hear from residents and businesses who would like to support its work or get involved with future activities.
For more information, visit the group's Facebook page or email valeparkvolunteers2026@gmail.com.
Centenary Celebrations Programme
Friday 21 August:
Joytime, believed to be the UK's longest-running children's show of its kind, will mark the centenary with a special anniversary performance.
11am to 3pm Celebrations with Aaron Hayes and the Joytime Crew (£1 entry)
Saturday 22 August (Free entry):
12 noon to 12.30pm Welcome by host Jason T Richardson
12.30pm Address by the Mayor of Wirral, Cllr Mary Jordan
1pm to 1.50pm Live Band: Hard to Handle
2pm to 3pm Elvis Tribute Show
3pm to 3.20pm Maypole Dancing (Have-a-Go Session)
3.20pm to 4pm Live Band: Stolen Property
4pm to 4.20pm Freedom Dance Movement
4.20pm to 5pm Live Band: Stolen Property
Sunday 23 August (Free entry):
12 noon to 12.10pm Welcome by host Jason T Richardson
12.10pm to 12.40pm Live Music: Tom George
12.40pm to 1pm Stage and Dance Group
1pm to 1.30pm Four Poets
1.30pm to 2pm Poetry by Jason T Richardson
2pm to 3.50pm A Celebration of Swing Music
4.10pm to 5pm Connected Voices Choir
