Salt and Tar will once again play host to a vibrant celebration of global culture as The Bootle International Festival returns on Monday 26th May.

This year’s festival promises a dynamic day of international music, dance, food and creative workshops, all delivered by the diverse communities who call Sefton home.

A hub for culture and community 

Organised through Sefton Performers Network with two lead organisations, Sefton CVS and In Another Place. The festival builds on the success of 2023’s Eurovision celebration. It also marks Salt and Tar’s growing reputation as a hub for culture and community.

Vibrant performances

Among the highlights are performances from Luma Creations, The Ukrainian Choir, Queen Lilas and the Congolese Association band, Waterloo Drummers, Chinese Dragon Dancers. The In Another Place Choir, who will be performing alongside People First and Mencap. Poetry and language performances, and a community catwalk will further showcase the rich tapestry of cultures within Bootle.

Interactive workshops and family fun

A range of interactive workshops and displays will run throughout the day, including Ukrainian crafts, language activities, Congolese arts, storytelling with Ykids, and a creative map of the world. Visitors can also enjoy giant board games, a musical “busker bus stop”, and craft stations hosted by local organisations including Living Well Sefton and the Kindfulness Coffee Club.

Of course, no festival is complete without food, and guests can indulge in global flavours from street food vendors, offering cuisine from around the world and local favourites.

Bringing together a diverse and vibrant community 

Maggi Aslet, Group Development Officer at Sefton CVS said:

“We’re really excited about the launch of the Bootle International Music Festival on the 26^th of May. It will be such a brilliant opportunity to bring together our diverse and vibrant community, and to celebrate the many cultures we have here in Sefton. The festival is about unity, inclusion, and creating a shared space where everyone feels welcome. We’re proud to be hosting an event that not only entertains but also educates, connects people, and highlights the strength we draw from our cultural diversity. It’s going to be a celebration of everything that makes Sefton such a special place to live.”

Annie Spiers, Creative Director at In Another Place said:

“We are so excited to be involved in hosting the Bootle International Festival again this year in the Salt and Tar.  We love working with so many different nationalities dancing, drumming, singing, or teaching and exhibiting handicrafts.  Last year was a feast of colour and celebration of the increasing diversity in Bootle.  We look forward this year to some returning acts, and some new ones as we continue to learn from each other and have a fun festival together."

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

“We’re really excited about the return of the Bootle International Festival.

“It will be a fantastic opportunity to bring together our diverse and vibrant community and to celebrate the many cultures that make Sefton such a unique place.

“The festival will play a key role in the wider regeneration of Bootle, breathing new life into the town and showcasing the potential of exciting new spaces like Salt and Tar. With performances and influences from around the world, the event will highlight the creativity and rich cultural identity of our residents. It’s a powerful step forward in building a brighter, more connected future for everyone in the area.”

Plan your visit 

The Bootle International Festival takes place on Monday 26th of May at Salt and Tar, Bootle, as part of the wider Fringe Festival line-up of events.

For more information on events at Salt and tar you should visit the website here.