Salt and Tar announces programme for 2025 Fringe Festival

Bootle venue Salt and Tar has announced an exciting programme of events for the 2025 Fringe Festival, which will take place from Friday 23rd to Monday 26^th May.

The festival is a weekend of music, comedy and arts and will offer activities ranging from high-energy fitness sessions and family-friendly entertainment to craft beer experiences and live comedy performances.

Salt and Tar’s Fringe Festival will play a significant role in the ongoing regeneration of Bootle. It will support the area’s cultural growth and strengthen community engagement through creative and inclusive events.

The programme for the Salt and tar Fringe Festival events is as follows:

Comedy Night – Clinton Baptiste, Maisie Adam, Dan Nightingale with Host Brendan Riley

The festival will commence on Friday 23rd May with a stand-up comedy night featuring a well-established line-up of performers. Hosted by Brendan Riley, the event will include Clinton Baptiste, alongside comedians Maisie Adam and Dan Nightingale.

Ravin’ Fit with Billie Clements

A high-energy fitness session led by DJ Billie Clements on Saturday 24th May will combine music and exercise, encouraging attendees of all ages to engage in physical activity in a fun and interactive environment. This session forms part of the festival’s commitment to promoting health and wellbeing within the community.

Big Fish Little Fish – Family Rave

Families are invited to take part in a family friendly rave led by DJ Paul Bleasdale on Saturday 24th May, the event will feature a range of interactive elements, including bubble and snow machines, craft stations, and giant balloons. Designed with younger children in mind, this session remains open to family members of all ages.

Quadrant Park 35th Anniversary: Back to Bootle

A special event celebrating the legacy of Quadrant Park will take place on the evening of Saturday 24th May, welcoming back original DJs Andy Carroll, John Kelly, Mike Knowler, DJ Pluto, and Paul Rimmer. Featuring special guests, including FPI Project and Suddi/Together, this event will celebrate Bootle’s musical heritage with a night of nostalgia and classic anthems.

Wellness Morning

On the Sunday morning of the Fringe Festival attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a wellness-focused morning featuring yoga, dance kundalini, and a sound bath session. Designed to be accessible for all abilities, this event supports mental and physical wellbeing.

Salt and Tar Beer School in Association with Neptune Brewery

The Sunday afternoon session will host renowned beer expert and author Melissa Cole, leading a guided tasting session, introducing attendees to six craft beers from Neptune Brewery. The event aims to offer an educational insight into craft brewing, catering to both casual beer enthusiasts and connoisseurs.

Comedy Night – Mick Miller, Nina Gilligan, Ignacio Lopez with Host Brendan Riley

Sunday night provides another evening of headline comedy featuring a line-up of performers, including Mick Miller, Nina Gilligan, and Ignacio Lopez, hosted by Brendan Riley.

Bootle International Festival & Teenage Market

The festival will conclude on Bank Holiday Monday with Bootle International Festival, a free afternoon celebrating the rich cultural diversity and local talent within the area. Involving over 20 different community group, the festival, in its second year will provide a platform to local and international grass root talent.

The Teenage Market is returning providing a full indoor craft stall market set up in the entertainment tent. The Teenage Market open to 10-25-year-olds gives young people a free platform to showcase their creative talents, providing an opportunity for them to be entrepreneurial, trial new business ideas and sell creative products.

Bootle’s own comedy scene takes centre stage in the grand finale of the Salt and Tar Fringe Festival, with Bootle Stands up – an evening celebrating the area’s funniest locals. The event will feature performers who have recently completed a free, six-week comedy course, provided by Big Comedy UK.

Sponsored by Dowhigh, this exciting evening promises to be a highlight of the festival, offering a fantastic opportunity to enjoy homegrown talent while supporting Bootle Tool Shed, an initiative dedicated to supporting the local community.

Salt and Tar is committed to delivering events that contribute to Bootle’s regeneration. The Salt and Tar Fringe Festival aims to bring communities together and enhance the area’s cultural identity.

Cllr Paulette Lappin, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Skills and Employment said:

“The Salt and Tar Fringe Festival is a fantastic addition to Bootle’s cultural landscape that will bring together residents and visitors to celebrate creativity, music, comedy, and wellbeing.

“Events like this play a crucial role in the ongoing regeneration of the town, promoting a sense of community pride and supporting local businesses.

“We’re excited to see Salt and Tar continue to grow and establish Bootle as a vibrant destination for arts and entertainment.”

In addition to the entertainment tent, the food and drink village at Salt and Tar will remain open and free to attend over the course of the Fringe Festival weekend including street food, bars, stalls, workshops and local live music.