NewsHail
25 May 2025
Thousands of music fans have come to Liverpool for Radio 1's Big Weekend.
The festival is in Sefton Park. Visitors have come from all over the country. Local businesses say they are doing well because more people are around.
Sophie Peers and Eve Mansfield opened Gran Caffé on Lark Lane last year. They said it was their "best business move" because of the park events.
They bought a new coffee machine for this weekend.
"It's very busy. When people walk by and see the cakes, they come in," they said.
"These big events help us a lot. People come from all over. Some said they had to book hotels in Manchester because Liverpool was full."
"It's very good for us to have this many people."
Kiera Bowe from Doogles Donuts said festival visitors come to her shop for sweets before or after the event.
"You can tell when something is on because it gets much busier," she said.
She said the event makes the area feel lively and happy.
"Lark Lane is a nice place. It feels like a good community. It’s very positive."
Sellers at the Lark Lane farmers' market also say they benefit from the festival crowd.
Peter Gill makes custom pop culture dolls. He sells them online and at the market.
He said the market is busy when events happen.
"It's been very good. Lots of people come. They love the music," he said.
"I watched some on TV last night. Tom Grennan was great. I’m working today, but I’ll check out the park later."
