The Summer Strum Ukulele Festival, a beloved free community event, is making its return to Hoylake this weekend, bringing together hundreds of musicians and live performances. The festival will take place at Hoylake Rugby Club on Carham Road on Friday, July 18, and Saturday, July 19, featuring more than 70 bands from across the UK and overseas.
A Festival with a Heart for Charity
Now in its 13th year, the volunteer-run festival has raised over £30,000 for local charities since its inception. This year, all proceeds from the event will support Wirral Mind, a mental health charity. Festival organiser Sara Cassidy highlighted the community spirit, stating: "Summer Strum has grown into something far bigger than we ever imagined. What started as a gathering for people who loved playing the ukulele has become a real community festival where thousands of people come together every year to enjoy music, make friends and be part of something special."
Line-Up and Activities
The festival boasts a diverse line-up, including crowd favourites such as The Splintered Ukes, D'Ukes of Hazzard, and Ukulele Club Liverpool. Headlining the Saturday night event is The Sisters of Mersey, a group that originally formed through the festival. Visitors can participate in strum-alongs suitable for all ages and abilities, as well as open mic sessions. The programme also includes beginner ukulele workshops, a mouth organ workshop, and lino-printing sessions.
Families will enjoy inflatables, face painting, food stalls, and a fancy dress theme of "At the Musicals." Additionally, Yin Yan Wellbeing CIC will lead an energetic Power Ballad Workout. Cassidy emphasised the inclusive nature of the festival: "The amazing thing about the ukulele is that everyone can join in. You don’t need to be an experienced musician – people can pick up an instrument, come along to a strum-along and immediately feel part of the festival."
Community Impact and Gratitude
Cassidy expressed pride in the festival's charitable contributions: "We’re so proud that alongside creating such a joyful weekend for visitors, Summer Strum has raised more than £30,000 for local charities. This year we’re supporting Wirral Mind, and we’re so grateful to our volunteers, sponsors, performers and everyone who helps make the festival happen." She also noted the social bonds formed at the event: "Every year we see people arrive as strangers and leave with new friends. That sense of welcome and belonging is what makes Summer Strum so special."
Event Details
- Date: Friday, July 18 and Saturday, July 19
- Location: Hoylake Rugby Club, Carham Road, Hoylake, CH47 4FF
- Cost: Free entry
- Full programme and visitor information: www.summerstrum.co.uk
The festival is a testament to community-driven entertainment, offering a weekend of music, creativity, and togetherness in Hoylake.
