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An independent report released today has revealed that the Liverpool Biennial 2025 contributed an economic boost of £17.4 million to the city. The festival, under the curation of Marie-Anne McQuay and titled ‘BEDROCK’, ran from 7 June to 14 September 2025. It showcased contemporary art exhibitions across a variety of prominent venues including the Bluecoat, FACT Liverpool, Open Eye Gallery, Liverpool Cathedral, Liverpool Central Library, Tate Liverpool alongside RIBA North, The Black-E, and the Walker Art Gallery.
In addition to these core locations, artworks were displayed throughout diverse city sites such as Liverpool ONE, Mann Island, Eurochemist, Pine Court, SEVENSTORE, and 20 Jordan Street. The event featured contributions from 30 artists and collectives, each responding creatively to the central theme of the festival. As the UK’s largest free contemporary visual arts festival, Liverpool Biennial has a longstanding history of revitalizing the city’s cultural landscape by filling historic buildings, unconventional spaces, and established galleries with innovative art.
According to research conducted by the Audience Agency, the 2025 edition attracted approximately 154,569 individuals, amounting to around 1,391,730 visits overall. Nearly half of the visitors came from outside the Northwest region, including 23% from international locations and 26% from other parts of the UK. In total, attendees represented 26 different countries, with over one-third staying overnight—primarily in hotels—resulting in significant economic benefit for the local hospitality sector. Beyond economics, the social effects were notable: 72% of respondents said the festival provided valuable time with friends and family, and 66% felt it positively influenced their wellbeing.
The cultural importance of Liverpool Biennial was strongly affirmed by survey participants. A high proportion—97%—supported the continuation of such events in the city, and 95% believed the festival enhances Liverpool’s cultural offerings. Moreover, 70% of those who attended indicated that their experience increased the likelihood of future visits to Liverpool. The festival is made possible through the support of Arts Council England, Liverpool City Council, and founding funder James Moores. Looking ahead, the 14th edition of Liverpool Biennial is scheduled to take place in 2027.
Dr Samantha Lackey, Director of Liverpool Biennial, expressed gratitude and satisfaction with the evaluation’s outcome, highlighting the extensive impacts of the festival on both the city and its audiences. She commended Marie-Anne McQuay, the participating artists, and the entire team and partners involved in bringing ‘BEDROCK’ to fruition. Dr Lackey also acknowledged the continued support from core funders Arts Council England and Liverpool City Council, which enables the festival to maintain its exceptional artistic offerings. Cathryn Wright, Chair of Liverpool Biennial, emphasized that this assessment reinforces the festival’s vital contribution to Liverpool’s cultural identity, as well as its considerable economic advantages. She expressed enthusiasm for building on the successes of 2025 as plans progress for the 2027 edition
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