MORE than 2,000 music fans are expected to gather in Hoylake for one of the UK’s biggest free ukulele festivals this weekend.
The 13th annual Summer Strum Ukulele Festival returns to Hoylake Rugby Club on Friday and Saturday (July 18 and 19), promising a weekend of music and community fun.
The volunteer-led event will host more than 70 bands from across the UK and overseas, featuring live performances on three stages, workshops, open mic sessions, and family-friendly entertainment.
Sara Cassidy, festival organiser, said: "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."
The line-up includes acts such as The Splintered Ukes, D’Ukes of Hazzard, The Ukuladies, Midlife Crisis Club, Ukulele Club Liverpool, The Travelling Wannabes and The Secret Ukulele Band.
Also performing are the Pandemic Pluckers, born out of an on-line community set up during lockdown, and Brain Frog, a rare non-ukulele act for the festival, made up of the Summer Strum’s dedicated crew of volunteer sound engineers.
The Sisters of Mersey will headline on Saturday night following The Splintered Ukes’ main stage set.
The band formed through the festival, with members who had little or no previous performance experience.
They have since grown in confidence and musicianship, and now return as headliners for the first time.
The Sisters of Mersey includes performers from age 14 to those in their 60s, reflecting the festival’s inclusive spirit.
The Summer Strum encourages participation, with strum-alongs and open mic sessions designed for all ages and abilities.
Workshops include beginner ukulele sessions, a mouth organ workshop and lino printing activities.
The popular Power Ballad Workout from Yin Yan Wellbeing CIC also returns.
Families can enjoy inflatables, face painting, and a variety of stalls selling food, crafts, clothing, and jewellery.
There will also be raffle prizes and a fancy dress theme.
This year, the chosen theme is "At the Musicals."
The festival has grown 'significantly' since it began as a small gathering of ukulele enthusiasts.
It now attracts thousands each year, and has raised more than £30,000 for local charities.
This year’s fundraising efforts will support Wirral Mind, a charity that is focused on mental health services.
Festival organiser Sara Cassidy continued: "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.
"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.
"It’s a festival created by the community, for the community, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone to Hoylake."
"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."
The festival takes place at Hoylake Rugby Club, Carham Road, Hoylake, CH47 4FF.
Entry is free for all visitors.
A full programme and visitor information are available at www.summerstrum.co.uk.
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