Salt and Tar Fringe
A Festival of Comedy, Music and Arts
Salt and Tar’s Fringe Festival plays a significant role in the ongoing regeneration of Bootle and will supports the area’s cultural growth while strengthening community engagement through creative and inclusive events
A Look back at our 2025 Fringe Programme:
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 Steve Weaver
A high-energy fitness session led by DJ Steve Weaver 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
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.
Teenage Market
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 Stands Up
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, with all proceeds going to local charity, Bootle Tool Shed.
Fantastic addition to Bootle’s cultural landscape
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.”
Free programme of Activity and Entertainment
As well as the entertainment tent, the weekend will be jam packed full of family friendly, free-to-attend entertainment and activities, including circus skills, fire performances, live music and printing workshops