Thousands of people arrived in Liverpool’s Sefton Park for the first live gig in front of a large audience since the pandemic led the country into lockdown.
After a year of restrictions, those in the crowd of 5,000 don’t have to adhere to social distancing rules, or wear face masks as the music festival is part of the government’s Events Research Programme.
This is aiming to provide scientific data to show how events can safely return as we move out of lockdown.
The gates to the mini festival opened at 4.30pm and there were no queues to get in, with people arriving in relaxed spirits and feeling excited about the night ahead.
Gig goer Vinny Riozzi, 25, from Huyton told the ECHO: “I’m proud of my city for trying to bring a bit of normality to our lives.”
Jack Robertson, 25, from Childwall added: "“I feel nostalgic being here but also a bit apprehensive.”
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While Mollie Edwards, 25, from Maghull said: "I’m so excited to be out and put a cute outfit on and to hear live music again, it’s my favourite thing ever.”
Tonight’s line up includes chart topping band Blossoms, The Lathums and Liverpool singer-songwriter Zuzu.
ECHO reporter Jess Flaherty was at the event and spoke to people who were lucky enough to get a ticket. Each had to show proof of a negative Covid test result in order to gain entry and will have to take another test after the event.
As the music got underway, Jess tracked down stylish gig goers to find out how they felt being back in a crowd and free of the social restrictions we’ve all had to stick to for much of the last year.
Best dressed people spotted in the crowds at Blossoms
Abbie Whitehead, 25, from Liverpool
Wearing: Trousers are from Rixo, Fleetwood Mac tee from ASOS, jacket from Next, bag from Kurt Geiger. Trainers are Converse.
“I’m excited but nervous to be here. I’m excited to get the music scene back on the go but nervous because of COVID”.
Mollie Edwards, 25, from Maghull
Wearing: Dress is Topshop, Converse shoes, jacket from Grin on Bold Street, bag is Kate Spade.
Mollie said: “I’m so excited to be out and put a cute outfit on and to hear live music again, it’s my favourite thing ever.”
Taylor Kerwin, 24, from West Derby
Wearing: Shein floral co-ord. Blazer from M&S, bag from River Island, shoes Primark.
Taylor said: “I’m really excited about today. I’m looking forward to spending time with my friends and being able to enjoy ourselves without worrying.”
Tim West, 19, originally from Preston
Wearing: Craghoppers walking trousers, Pretty Green t-shirt, ASOS patterned shirt, Nike bag, trainers Adidas and bucket hat from Amazon
Tim said: “I’m buzzing to be here - finally some live music and it’s much needed.”
Cody Rehe-Morrison, 22, originally from Manchester
Wearing: Top and skirt from Shein, shoes Airforce Ones custom made. Bag and hat from Primark.
Cody said: “I’m excited, it’s better than I thought it was going to be. It’s really nice to be here.”
Jessica Gagen, 25, originally from Skelmersdale
Wearing: Top, boots and shorts from Zara. Jacket from Miss Selfridge, bag is Kate Spade, headband from H&M.
Jessica said: “I’m ecstatic to be here.”
What do you think of Liverpool being part of the live audience trial? Let us know in the comments below
Vinny Riozzi, 25, from Huyton
Wearing: Shirt and tee from Arket, jeans from Cos, trainers from Adidas, Rayban glasses.
Vinny said: “I’m proud of my city for trying to bring a bit of normality to our lives.”
Annemarie Rowley, 25, from Liverpool
Wearing: Shirt from Primark, sweater vest from New Look, trousers from ASOS, boots also ASOS and bag from Lulu Guinness.
Annemarie said: “I’m excited to be here. I’m really looking forward to normality coming back.”
Sophie Whittle, 25, from Widnes
Wearing: Top from ASOS, jacket from Urban Outfitters, skirt from Topshop, boots from Zara.
Sophie said: “It’s really good to have a bit of normality. I tried every outfit on in my wardrobe before coming here but I’m so excited to be here.”
Jack Robertson, 25, from Childwall
Wearing: Primark over shirt, tee shirt from Zara, jeans from ASOS, high tops from Vans. Rayban sunnies.
Jack said: “I feel nostalgic being here but also a bit apprehensive.”
Joe Poole, 38, originally from Manchester
Wearing: Jacket and tee from Pretty Green, jeans H&M, shoes from Pretty Green.
Joe said: “Unbelievably excited to be here, this is amazing, I’ve missed live music. During lockdown, my friends and family have all been fine and we’ve adapted but this [live music] is part of my identity and I didn’t realise how much I missed it.”
Lewis Macdonald, 30, from Wirral
Wearing: Top from Fred Perry, jeans from Very, Converse trainers, jacket from Levi, hat from Stetson.
Lewis said: “I feel rejuvenated and connected to people being here.”
