A second, annual Music Weekender features prominently in a packed events calendar for Bootle’s Salt and Tar in 2024.

Music icons Tom Jones and Status Quo are booked to star in the weekend event, which will run from Friday 16^th to Sunday 18^th August.

Official opening

To get the year’s entertainment underway there will be a free launch weekend running from Friday 26^th to Sunday 28^th April.

It will include a curtain-raising acoustic set with a surprise guest on the Friday 26th while on Saturday 27^th there will be a celebration of all things Bootle for the Bootle International Festival. Among the star attractions will be an array of worldwide cuisine and entertainment. A Live Lounge on Sunday 28^th will give centre stage to local talent. All three launch weekend events will be open to all, with entry free of charge.

Something for everyone

After a successful first run in 2023, the Salt and Tar Comedy weekend returns for a 2024 encore from Friday 24^th to Sunday 26^th May. With tickets starting from just £5, guests can see top comedians such as Gary Delaney and Seann Walsh. A special addition this year is Bootle Stands Up, on Thursday 23^rd May, when local residents will be able to test their comedy chops on the big stage, with all proceeds going to the YKids children's charity.

Over the summer Salt and Tar will give residents and visitors plenty of reasons to head to Bootle. The Summer Soiree will see a range of events take place during the summer holidays. Fun for all the family will come in the form of craft stalls, live music, and much more. The summer of fun culminates in Jones and company entertaining what will be a record crowd for the events space.

And on Saturday 26^th October, Salt and Tar will join forces with the Lock and Quay and the Canal and River Trust to illuminate the Leeds & Liverpool Canal in a Flotilla of Light event.

Plans for a busy winter schedule are already well underway. Last year’s successful winter market will be revived, with other attractions to be announced closer to the time.

Big ambitions

Cllr Christine Howard, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Skills, said: “Last year was an incredible success for Salt and Tar, and judging by the plans for 2024, this year will be even bigger and better.

“The Music Weekender has rightly caused a real buzz, but there is so much to look forward to across the year. Salt and Tar’s important role in our wider Bootle regeneration plan will only continue to grow as we welcome more visitors to the Borough.

“I’m looking forward to seeing as many people as possible coming to enjoy the events space and entertainment, starting with April’s launch event.”

For more information, people should visit www.saltandtarbootle.com .