THE 35th annual Disability Awareness Day (DAD) will officially be held in Warrington on Sunday, 12 July 2026, opening its gates at 10:00 am to welcome thousands of visitors to the beautiful grounds of Walton Hall and Gardens.
Organised by the Warrington Disability Partnership (WDP), this year’s landmark event marks three and a half decades of promoting a positive “can-do” culture.
It stands proudly as the world’s largest voluntary-led, pan-disability exhibition and independent living expo.
The mammoth undertaking is made possible through the vital support of its principal sponsors, regional water supplier United Utilities who are supported by various corporate sponsors and supporters.
Dave Thomspon MBE DL, Co-founder of Warrington Disability Partnership, said: “The continued backing from United Utilities and our other generous sponsors ensures that the event remains entirely free to enter, providing a vital, accessible platform for the community.
“The corporate social responsibility from partners is more critical than ever, ” added Dave, who led the setting up the charity after breaking his neck playing American Football in1989. “This support directly aids families navigating independent living, health, and mobility needs.”
While the main exhibition takes place on Sunday, it serves as the grand finale to an entire week of complementary, fun-packed activities.
Starting days prior, the tented village at Walton Hall and Gardens will host a series of specialised events featuring events for carers, disabled children and young people, Dementia Awareness and two evening events showcasing inclusive talent.
“DAD Week” concludes on Friday evening with Queen tribute band “I Want It All” performing in the dedicated Arts Marquee.
When the main event starts on Sunday, visitors will find nearly 200 exhibitors spanning statutory services, local businesses, and voluntary organisations.
Together, they will offer expert advice on mobility equipment, vehicle adaptations, holidays, employment opportunities, support groups and services.
Beyond essential information, DAD 2026 promises a vibrant festival atmosphere featuring:
• The Main Aren for family entertainment and community performances.
• The Sports Zone provides opportunities to try scuba diving, wheelchair sports, and adapted games.
• The Arts & Performing Marquees provide live music, inclusive dance troupes, arts and crafts, plus a dedicated silent disco.
• A classic car show will include WDP’s Invacar AC70 and their disability timeline.
• New for 2026 is the Viking reenactment and the Viking village.
The exhibition runs from 10:00 am until 4:30 pm. To ensure maximum accessibility, organisers provide a free wheelchair and mobility scooter loan service on-site and British Sign Language interpreters.
A free accessible, complimentary park-and-ride bus service will be available from Wilderspool Park, and a free accessible bus service will run from the Warrington Bus Interchange provided courtesy of Warrington’s Own Buses (see website for times).
Come along to celebrate community togetherness, discover cutting-edge independent living aids, and support the incredible “DAD Army” of volunteers making it all happen.
For more detail visit www.disabilityawarenessday.org.uk
