Sefton Council took to social media this afternoon to let people know the sad news
12:14, 04 Apr 2026Updated 12:14, 04 Apr 2026
Spectacular open air ballroom Cristal Palace outside The Atkinson in Southport.
The Cristal Palace event which was due to take place in Southport across the weekend has been cancelled, according to Sefton Council. The decision was taken because of the impending arrival of Storm Dave in the UK.
The official council Facebook page posted this afternoon stated: “We can confirm after extensive discussions, tonight’s free Cristal Palace showcase will not go ahead due to the expected serious impact of Storm David.
“This decision has been taken not only due to the effects it will have on the crane & chandelier but more importantly to protect the safety of our audiences, staff, performers and volunteers on the ground.
“This is hugely disappointing for all involved. Performers have travelled from France with hundreds of people behind the scenes working incredibly hard for months to try and deliver this show for everybody to enjoy. We would like to thank them for their tireless efforts.
“We’d especially like to send a huge thank you to the dozens of local young dancers and brilliant volunteer performers who still had a chance to share their talent in front of their hometown yesterday evening.
“Finally thank you to everyone who travelled into Southport to show their support for the event and especially those who showed such understanding and kindness to our staff for the safety decisions taken. Your support for Southport and its local businesses is invaluable.
“We are already working hard to bring some aspects of the show back later this year and further details will be provided in due course.”
The chandelier at Cristal Palace outside The Atkinson in Southport
Southport’s Town Hall Gardens had been transformed into a glittering open-air ballroom for the spectacular Cristal Palace. Which was due to take place during the Easter holidays across April 3 and 4.
Storm Dave is expected to bring damage and travel disruption this Easter weekend, as strong winds are forecast. Earlier this week, the Met Office issued a yellow weather warning for the region, which also covers Scotland, Northern Ireland, and North Wales.
Across all warning areas, gusts of 50-60mph are expected widely, with 60-70mph gusts possible in exposed locations.
People replying to the council thanked them for the warning and for trying to put the event on in the first place, while others queried why it wasn’t held inside to guard against poor weather.
Kathleen Strandring said: “Thank you Sefton Council. For putting it out there and letting the public know it’s not going ahead and for attempting to put it on in the first place. Feel for the cast, crew and everyone involved. I’m sure you can make it happen again later in the year or even next year. The full event would have been amazing.”
Sefton council added: “Of course there’s even more to look forward to this year as part of the Southport 2026: Elegantly Eccentric programme. Next up is Big Top Festival, taking place on 2–3 May, bringing world class circus performers to Southport for the May Bank Holiday.
“This brand new two day celebration of circus, clowning, colour and creativity will be a celebration of the arts suitable for all ages and is once again completely free of charge. And yes, we will be checking the weather. We look forward to welcoming you back to Southport throughout the year.”