Musical powerhouse Nile Rodgers and his iconic band CHIC are set to bring their unrivalled energy to Bootle next summer, headlining the Salt & Tar Music Weekender on Sunday 16 August.
With a career that spans more than five decades, Rodgers has shaped the soundtrack of modern music. As a guitarist, songwriter, producer and creative visionary, his influence runs from global chart-toppers to era-defining albums, and now he’s bringing that unmistakable groove to Merseyside.
Fans can expect CHIC’s legendary live experience: hit after hit, flawless musicianship and the feel-good disco spirit that has made them one of the most celebrated live acts on the planet.
The Salt & Tar Music Weekender has welcomed an impressive roll-call of artists in recent years, from Sir Tom Jones, Sugababes and Ocean Colour Scene to Billy Ocean, Status Quo, Red Rum Club and The K’s. For 2026, The Waterboys and The Saw Doctors have already been confirmed as additional headliners.
Since launching in 2023, the Weekender has grown into one of Merseyside’s most exciting music events, attracting close to 12,000 visitors in 2025 and firmly establishing Salt & Tar as a major destination for live entertainment and culture.
Cllr Paulette Lappin, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Skills and Employment, said:
“Nile Rodger and Chic? C’est fantastique. People are gonna freak when they hear this news.
“It’s so exciting to be announcing yet another world class headliner for the Salt and Tar Music Weekender.”
Owing to the work to regenerate the Bootle Strand area, which includes an expansion of the permanent Salt and Tar venue, the Music Weekender take up a temporary residence for 2026. The nearby Lock & Quay, Bootle’s much-loved, community-owned pub and canalside venue, will host the event. Its large garden and green space adjoining the canal, which will be transformed into a vibrant festival site for next year.
Cllr Lappin added:
“By becoming a thriving cultural hub Salt and Tar is key to our vision for transforming the Bootle Strand area and revitalising Bootle’s town centre, its communities and its economy.
“It’ll be great to take the Music Weekender ‘on tour’ for 2026, and great to take it back to its bigger and better home in 2027.”
The Music Weekender forms part of Sefton Council’s wider regeneration programme for Bootle, supporting local businesses, attracting visitors and creating new opportunities for residents.
Tickets go on general sale at 10am on Friday 5 December via Live Nation.
Mastercard presale also opens at 10am on Friday 5 December here.
READ MORE: Lewis Capaldi to Headline In the Park 2026 as Festival Returns to Sefton Park
