City leaders, policymakers and nighttime economy professionals from around the world will head to Liverpool this February to attend the Night Time Economy Summit 2026.
Taking place on 11 and 12 February 2026 at Blackstock Market in Liverpool, the two-day summit will bring together thousands of delegates from more than 30 countries, positioning Liverpool at the centre of an international conversation about the future of cities after dark.
Delivered by the Night Time Industries Association in partnership with the International Nightlife Association and Global Cities After Dark, the summit is recognised as the largest event of its kind, attracting operators, local authorities, cultural leaders, academics and national decision makers.
WHAT IS HAPPENING AND WHY IT MATTERS
The Night Time Economy Summit is designed to explore how cities can better plan, support and grow their nighttime economies in ways that are vibrant, safe, inclusive and sustainable.
Across two packed days, the programme will focus on practical challenges and opportunities facing cities, including nighttime governance, public safety, transport after dark, cultural expression, youth engagement and the role of nightlife in economic growth and place making.
As towns and cities continue to rethink how spaces are used beyond the traditional nine to five, the summit provides a timely platform for sharing real world solutions, policy insight and international best practice.
Liverpool’s role as host reflects the city’s long standing cultural identity, its globally recognised music and nightlife heritage and its ambition to lead on progressive and safe approaches to nighttime visitor economy growth.
Nightime Economty Summit Programme 2026 – Click to vierw full programme online.
WHERE AND WHEN
The summit will be held at Blackstock Market, Liverpool, a venue that reflects the city’s evolving food, drink and entertainment offer.
Dates are Tuesday 11 February and Wednesday 12 February 2026, with a full programme of talks, panels, interviews and networking opportunities running across both days.
BENEFITS OF ATTENDING
Attendees can expect to gain insight into how other cities are responding to shared challenges, learn from successful nighttime strategies from across the world and connect with peers working across policy, policing, transport, hospitality, culture and the creative industries.
The event offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from international city leaders and night mayors, while building meaningful connections that can influence local action long after the summit ends.
The summit is designed for anyone with a stake in the nighttime economy, from venue operators and promoters to local government, community organisations, students and cultural producers.
John Hughes, Liverpool City Region Destination Partnership board member and Chair and Founder of Liverpool Nightlife CIC.
LOCAL LEADERSHIP ON A GLOBAL STAGE
Among the speakers confirmed for the summit is John Hughes, Liverpool City Region Destination Partnership board member and Chair and Founder of Liverpool Nightlife CIC.
John has worked in Liverpool’s nighttime economy for more than 40 years, taking on a leadership role over the last five years to ensure the sector is well represented. He helped establish the city’s multi stakeholder Pub Watch committee, aligning business and community goals, and co-founded #Nomoreknives, an anti-knife campaign focused on awareness, prevention and partnership working across the city.
Speaking ahead of the event, John said,
“Liverpool has always understood that what happens after dark is about far more than entertainment. It is about culture, community, safety and opportunity. This summit is a chance to show the world how cities can work together, listen to local voices and build nighttime economies that people are proud of. I am excited to be part of an event that puts Liverpool’s experience, passion and leadership right at the heart of a global conversation.”
GET INVOLVED
With strong international interest already confirmed, early registration is encouraged for anyone keen to be part of this landmark event.
To find out more about the programme, speakers and how to attend, and to RSVP, click HERE.