Bootle was alive with energy and excitement this weekend as the Salt and Tar Music Weekender drew thousands to the town for four spectacular nights of live music, food and community spirit.

Four Nights of Live Music in Bootle 

Running from Thursday 7th to Sunday 10th August, the Music Weekender kicked off in style on Thursday with soul legend Billy Ocean and Liverpool’s own The Real Thing. Friday saw indie favourites The K’s on Friday night, whose energetic set had the Salt and Tar crowd in full voice.

On Saturday Sugababes electrified the open-air venue with a performance of chart-topping hits, while the weekend closed on a high with Ocean Colour Scene delivering a phenomenal finale. They were supported by Cast, Keyside, and The Solaas, bringing the curtain down on what is fast becoming one of the UK’s most exciting emerging music festivals.

More Than Just Music

Festivalgoers were treated not just to music, but to a food and drink village, featuring everything from Gourmet Burgers to Greek street food and Indian vegan delights. Live street performers and glitter stalls added to the carnival atmosphere, making Salt and Tar Music Weekender an unmissable summer highlight.

Cllr Marion Atkinson, Leader of Sefton Council, said: “This weekend has truly shown what Bootle is capable of.

“Once again Salt and Tar has delivered a world-class experience and has brought a huge boost to our local economy and energy to our streets.”

Cllr Paulette Lappin, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Skills and Employment, said: “The Salt and Tar Music Weekender proves what can be achieved when culture and regeneration come together.

“Events like this support our long-term vision for Bootle as a vibrant, sustainable and welcoming town centre.”

Football Fever Adds to the Weekend

The weekend also saw Everton FC hosted AS Roma in a sell-out pre-season clash at the newly completed Hill Dickinson Stadium, which drew tens of thousands to the area. Bootle played a crucial role in accommodating fans, with Bootle New Strand train station and the Bootle Strand multi-storey car park acting as key hubs for those travelling to and from the waterfront stadium.

With enhanced transport links, secure parking and shuttle services in place, the town’s infrastructure rose to the occasion, supporting matchday operations and the festival crowds.

Bootle Positioned for a Bright Future

Cllr Marion Atkinson added; “With the Hill Dickinson Stadium now open, Bootle is perfectly positioned to grow as a key travel and entertainment hub as well as being a thriving destination for sport, culture and entertainment.”

Salt and Tar is set to play an increasingly important role in the future matchday experience, with plans to link the venue more closely with Everton fixtures through live screenings, food and drink events and community-focused programming.

The success of this past weekend marks a major step forward for Bootle’s regeneration journey and sets a high standard for what’s to come.

You can find out more about Salt and Tar here.