Liverpool music legend Holly Johnson has been announced as the first headline act for Salt and Tar Music Weekender 2027, with the popular Sefton festival returning to Lock and Quay in August.
Following a successful year on the road in 2026, Sefton Council’s Salt and Tar Music Weekender will return in August 2027, bringing another exciting programme of live music and entertainment to the borough.
The first headline act confirmed for the event is legendary singer, songwriter and former Frankie Goes to Hollywood frontman Holly Johnson, who will perform a special headline show on Saturday 14 August 2027.
Since its launch, Salt and Tar has attracted thousands of visitors and established itself as one of the region’s standout cultural events, welcoming major artists while supporting local businesses and boosting Sefton’s visitor economy.
Holly Johnson to headline Salt and Tar 2027
One of the most recognisable figures in British pop music, Holly Johnson rose to international fame as the frontman of Liverpool band Frankie Goes to Hollywood.
The group became one of the biggest musical acts of the 1980s, achieving worldwide success with chart-topping hits including Relax, Two Tribes and The Power of Love.
Following his success with the band, Johnson launched a hugely successful solo career, releasing memorable singles including Love Train, Americanos and Atomic City.
With a career spanning more than four decades, his headline appearance promises to be a major highlight of the 2027 festival, bringing some of pop music’s most celebrated songs to Sefton.
The announcement marks the first major reveal for Salt and Tar Music Weekender 2027, with further artists and events expected to be confirmed over the coming months.
Sefton Council welcomes Holly Johnson announcement
Councillor Marion Atkinson, Leader of Sefton Council, said:
“Salt and Tar has quickly become one of Sefton’s flagship events, attracting visitors from across the region and helping to showcase everything our borough has to offer.
“We are proud to deliver a programme that brings world-class live entertainment to Sefton while supporting our local economy and creating opportunities for businesses and communities.
“Securing Holly Johnson as our first headline act is a fantastic way to launch Salt and Tar 2027. His music has inspired generations of fans and we know this will be a memorable occasion for residents and visitors.
“This is just the beginning, and we’re looking forward to announcing more exciting acts and events over the coming months.”
Salt and Tar Music Weekender returns to Lock and Quay
Salt and Tar Music Weekender will once again take place at Lock and Quay while redevelopment work continues on The Strand.
The festival has become an important part of Sefton’s cultural calendar, combining major live music performances with opportunities for local businesses and communities to benefit from increased visitor numbers.
The return of the event in 2027 will continue that tradition, with organisers promising another programme of live entertainment following the success of previous years.
When will Salt and Tar 2027 tickets go on sale?
Holly Johnson will headline Salt and Tar Music Weekender on Saturday 14 August 2027, with tickets for his performance set to be released soon.
Further information about the festival, including additional artist announcements, ticket details and the wider programme of events, will be confirmed in the coming months.
