Music legends are heading to Bootle as Salt and Tar’s Music Weekender returns

The countdown is officially on, and excitement is buzzing across Bootle as Salt and Tar’s Music Weekender returns next week with a stellar lineup that promises to be even bigger and better than ever before.

From Thursday 7th to Sunday 10th August, Salt and Tar’s Music Weekender will transform the venue into a live music paradise, bringing four consecutive nights of top-tier acts, iconic headliners, and festival vibes to the heart of Bootle. After a massive 2024 debut, this year’s event is shaping up to be one of the standout weekends on the summer calendar — not just for Sefton, but for music fans across the whole Liverpool City Region.

Kicking things off on Thursday night is none other than soul and R&B legend Billy Ocean, who’ll be lighting up the Salt and Tar stage with a back-catalogue of timeless hits. He’ll be joined by special guests and Liverpool music royalty The Real Thing, adding even more soul and swagger to the opening night.

Friday 8th August sees The K’s take the reins — one of the UK’s hottest indie bands right now, known for their electric live sets and a rapidly growing fan base. Expect singalong anthems, bouncing crowds and an atmosphere that’ll be hard to top.

Then on Saturday night, Sugababes step into the spotlight. With more than two decades of hits and an ever-growing fan following, the trio promise a pop masterclass that’ll have Salt and Tar dancing from start to finish. It’s the ultimate girls’ night out — but one the lads will love too.

And bringing the weekend to a huge close on Sunday 10th August are Ocean Colour Scene, Britpop icons whose live shows never disappoint. With support from fellow 90s legends Cast, rising Liverpool favourites Keyside, and Bootle’s own The Solaas, Sunday is guaranteed to be a feel-good finale for the ages.

If you’re new to Salt and Tar, get ready for something a bit different to your usual festival set-up. The site opens each day at 4pm and the vibe is relaxed, friendly, and packed with personality. You’ll find a buzzing food and drink villageserving up everything from burgers and fried chicken to veggie and vegan Indian street food courtesy of Bundobust. There’ll be drinks flowing from a well-stocked bar and live street performers warming things up as you make your way through to the gates.

While you’re there, grab some official festival merch, get glittered up, and if the unpredictable British weather decides to make an appearance, ponchos will be on sale so the party doesn’t stop.

Each night wraps up at 10pm, with plenty of time to head back via Bootle Strand train station just a three-minute walk away, or pick up your car from the Strand’s multi-storey car park, which stays open until 11pm.

And for those who’ve left it late — don’t panic just yet. A limited number of tickets are still available for Saturday and Sunday’s shows, but they’re expected to sell out fast.

To find out more or book your tickets, visit their website.

Check out what happened at last years Music Weekender here.

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