Independent Street's First Food & Drink Special Proves a Huge Success
What a day, St Helens! ❤️
July 2026 marked an exciting new chapter for Independent Street Artisan Markets as we transformed our popular monthly market into the very first St Helens Artisan Market Food & Drink Edition.
From the moment visitors arrived in Church Square, the atmosphere was incredible. The town centre was buzzing with people enjoying delicious food, artisan shopping, live entertainment, family activities and interactive demonstrations throughout the day.
The response from shoppers, families and local businesses was nothing short of amazing, making this one of our most memorable events to date.
A Celebration of Independent Food, Drink and Artisan Businesses
Independent Street Artisan Markets are all about championing small businesses, creating vibrant town centres and giving people a reason to shop local.
Our first Food & Drink Edition took that vision even further.
Visitors spent the day discovering talented artisan producers, sampling local food and drink, browsing handmade products and supporting dozens of independent businesses that are the heart of our communities.
Every purchase made helped a small business continue doing what they love, while bringing valuable footfall into St Helens town centre.
Events like these demonstrate just how powerful local markets can be in supporting independent retailers, cafés, restaurants and neighbouring businesses.
Interactive Experiences Added Something Special
One of the highlights of the day was the fantastic programme of live demonstrations and tasting experiences that gave visitors even more reasons to spend the day in St Helens.
A huge thank you goes to Cafe Laziz, who delivered two brilliant live cookery demonstrations, inspiring visitors with delicious recipes and expert cooking tips.
We were also delighted to welcome CAMRA, whose fascinating beer talk gave attendees the opportunity to learn more about traditional brewing and real ale culture.
Meanwhile, The Wine Chambers hosted a hugely popular wine tasting session, allowing visitors to discover new wines while learning from knowledgeable experts.
These interactive experiences brought a completely new dimension to the artisan market and were enjoyed by visitors throughout the day.
Family Fun Throughout the Day
Independent Street events are designed to be enjoyed by all ages, and families once again played a huge part in creating the wonderful atmosphere across Church Square.
Our free children’s workshops kept younger visitors entertained while encouraging creativity, giving parents plenty of time to explore the market and support local traders.
A special thank you goes to Shane Hurst Events, Mila, and Just Face Painting, whose fantastic activities helped create smiles throughout the day and added to the welcoming, community feel that Independent Street is known f
Live Entertainment and Community Spirit
The event also featured fantastic live entertainment, helping create an atmosphere that encouraged visitors to stay longer, explore more stalls and enjoy everything the market had to offer.
A huge thank you to In Demand Radio, who broadcast live from the event and helped shine a spotlight on our incredible independent traders throughout the day.
We were also honoured to welcome Pete Waterman, who took time to visit the market and support what Independent Street and St Helens Borough Council are creating together.
A special mention also goes to the brilliant Graeme White, whose energy, enthusiasm and excellent hosting kept visitors entertained from start to finish.
Working Together to Support St Helens
None of this would be possible without the continued support of St Helens Borough Council.
From the very beginning, the Council has shared our vision of creating vibrant, welcoming town centre events that support independent businesses while encouraging more people to visit St Helens.
Their enthusiasm, commitment and belief in the project have helped make the St Helens Artisan Market one of the town’s most exciting regular events.
Together, we’re creating something that benefits traders, local businesses, residents and visitors alike.
Thank You to Our Incredible Team
Behind every Independent Street Artisan Market is a dedicated team working long before the first stall arrives and long after the final visitor heads home.
A heartfelt thank you goes to our amazing Independent Street event managers, whose hard work, professionalism and passion ensure every event runs smoothly from start to finish.
Their commitment often goes unseen, but events like this simply wouldn’t happen without them.
Supporting Local Makes a Difference
Days like this are a reminder of why supporting independent businesses matters.
Every coffee purchased.
Every handmade gift bought.
Every artisan food producer discovered.
Every conversation with a local maker.
Each one helps strengthen our local economy and supports passionate entrepreneurs who put their heart into everything they create.
Shopping local isn’t just about buying something unique—it’s about investing in the future of our town centres and helping independent businesses thrive.
Join Us Next Month
We’ll be returning to Church Square, St Helens, on Saturday 15th August 2026 for another fantastic Independent Street Artisan Market.
Expect more artisan shopping, delicious food, talented makers, family entertainment and a brilliant atmosphere as we continue to celebrate the very best independent businesses our region has to offer.
Whether you’re searching for unique gifts, artisan food, local produce or simply a great family day out, we’d love to welcome you.
Thank you once again to everyone who attended, every trader who joined us, our partners, entertainers, volunteers and supporters who helped make the first St Helens Artisan Market Food & Drink Edition such an incredible success.
We’ll see you again soon, St Helens. ❤️