Rainbow Toffee Awards 2026 Moves to Larger Venue Due to Popularity

The Rainbow Toffee Awards, hosted by Everton FC's LGBTQ+ supporters group, will return on Friday, August 28, 2026, at a new venue—BOXPARK Liverpool in the Baltic Triangle—after outgrowing its previous location at Liverpool Central Library.

Award Ceremony Moves to Larger Venue

Organisers cited the event's continued growth as the reason for the move. Paul Hession, from Toxteth and representing Rainbow Toffees, told the ECHO: “The Rainbow Toffees Awards is now celebrating its fifth successful year and what an incredible journey it has been. Previous ceremonies have taken place in the remarkable Liverpool Central Library, one of the city’s most iconic and beautiful venues. But thanks to the continued growth and support of our community, this year we’re moving to an even bigger stage at BoxPark Liverpool.”

Host and Entertainment

Trans activist and TV personality India Willoughby will return as host. Entertainment will be provided by Katie Bell, performing a Cilla Black tribute. A charity raffle will raise funds for the Mental Health Days Out Initiative.

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Unique Awards Philosophy

Hession emphasised the awards' inclusive approach: “What makes our awards different is simple kindness isn’t a competition. Unlike many awards ceremonies where winners find out on the night, our award recipients are informed in advance. We believe recognition should be about celebrating people, not creating suspense. These awards were never created to make money. Too often, people are expected to pay extortionate prices just to attend events that celebrate good deeds and community spirit. We believe acts of kindness, inclusion and support deserve recognition without a huge price tag attached.”

Winners Announced

The Queens Arms, a neighbourhood pub on Admiral Street, is among the winners. Co-owner Becky Evans said: “It might not mean a lot to some people, but to us this is an amazing award. It's not just for me, Leah and the team at The Queens, but also for all of our regulars and customers, both old and new, who come in day after day to support their local pub and make it what it is today. We get all walks of life in this pub, and nobody bats an eye. So, once again, thank you to every one of you for making everyone feel welcome, no matter what. We couldn't have done it without you all.”