River of Light is back this October, giving families a free activity in Liverpool city centre this half term. This outdoor light trail runs from 23 October to 1 November 2026, with illuminated artworks lighting up the city every evening from 5pm to 9pm.
But why stop at the lights? With theatres, museums, creative venues and family-friendly experiences nearby, you can turn your visit into a full October half-term day out. Here are 10 family-friendly ideas to make the most of your River of Light visit with the little ones.
Catch a Family Show at Liverpool Playhouse
If you’re visiting Williamson Square to see POP! by Gentilhomme, an interactive installation featuring colourful characters, you can also ‘pop’ by the Liverpool Playhouse!
This half term, the Playhouse is showing the fully interactive and fast-paced family show Sir Charlie Stinky Socks and the Really Big Adventure. This historic theatre sits directly on Williamson Square, making it easy to combine a daytime or afternoon performance with River of Light.
Head to Ropewalks for a Family-Friendly Food Stop
If you’re looking to fill your boots before or after exploring River of Light, Ropewalks is packed with family-friendly places to eat. Grab Neapolitan pizza at Rudy’s, tuck into Indian street food at Bundobust, or head to Duke Street Market if everyone in the family fancies something different.
Explore World Museum
World Museum is the perfect half-term destination for curious kids, with five floors of free, family-friendly fun to explore. Discover the aquarium, dinosaur galleries and hands-on natural history exhibits, or check out the new Wings of the Sea exhibition.
Take a Break at Metquarter
Enjoy a little retail therapy? Head to Metquarter for a browse around the shops, catch a film at Everyman Cinema or stop for a coffee at 200 Degrees.
Get Creative at FACT Liverpool
Discover more art beyond River of Light. Head up Wood Street to FACT Liverpool, a creative hub with galleries, a cinema and café making a great stop for families. You can also explore current exhibitions by Rae-Yen Song 宋瑞渊 and Seema Mattu, featuring installation, sculpture, film and sound, on display until 14 February 2027.
Explore Liverpool’s Iconic St George’s Quarter
Take a trip through one of Liverpool’s most historic corners, with plenty to see around St George’s Hall, Liverpool Empire, Central Library and Walker Art Gallery. For families with older children, why not combine an evening River of Light walk with a musical experience? A Candlelight concert celebrating the music of Tim Burton takes place at St George’s Hall on 30 October, featuring iconic film soundtracks.
Discover Bluecoat
On Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 October, Bluecoat is hosting a Family Weekend packed with free, family-friendly activities celebrating its fascinating archive. It’s a great city-centre stop for families looking for something creative to do before heading out to discover the River of Light artworks.
Get Hands-On at the British Music Experience
British Music Experience, located in the Cunard Building on the Liverpool waterfront, is a fantastic, highly interactive and family-friendly destination for all ages. Families can play real instruments, dance through the decades and even record their own singing. And with the waterfront also home to some of the River of Light installations, it’s a great place to start your family day.
Step Back in Time at Western Approaches
For something a little different, head underground at Western Approaches, a secret WWII bunker just off Old Hall Street. Families can explore the original rooms, artefacts and hidden tunnels while discovering the fascinating stories of Liverpool’s wartime past. It’s a great option for older children and curious families.
Finish Your Day with River of Light
After a full day exploring Liverpool, finish your family adventure with River of Light. This year’s theme, ‘Together’, celebrates the way light can bring people closer, with 13 illuminated artworks transforming the city centre. Best of all, the trail is completely free, making it the perfect way to round off a fun-filled October half-term day out. Find out more here.