The Smithdown Weekender music festival is set to return this October, offering two days of free live performances across multiple venues. The event, scheduled for Friday, October 10, and Saturday, October 11, aims to showcase local musical talent while raising essential funds for The Whitechapel Centre, a Liverpool-based charity dedicated to ending homelessness.
Key Takeaways
- Event Dates: Friday, October 10 and Saturday, October 11, with a closing party on Sunday.
- Cost: Entry to all performances is completely free of charge.
- Charity Partner: Donations will be collected for The Whitechapel Centre to support its work with the homeless community.
- Lineup: Over 21 performers, including bands and solo artists, will play across various Smithdown venues.
- Main Hub: The Handyman Bar and Brewery will serve as the main stage for the festival.
A Weekend of Live Music Supporting a Vital Cause
The Smithdown Weekender has become a staple in Liverpool's cultural calendar, known for its grassroots focus and community spirit. This year, the festival continues its tradition of providing a platform for both emerging and established local artists. With more than 21 acts scheduled to perform, attendees can expect a diverse range of musical styles throughout the weekend.
While all events are free to attend, the festival's core mission is to support The Whitechapel Centre. Donation points will be available at all participating venues, allowing the public to contribute to the charity's efforts. This model ensures the festival remains accessible to everyone while channeling community support towards a critical local issue.
The Whitechapel Centre's Role
The Whitechapel Centre has been the festival's charity partner since its inception. The Liverpool-based organization provides comprehensive services to help people find and maintain a home, offering everything from emergency shelter to skills training and resettlement support. Funds raised during the Smithdown Weekender directly contribute to these life-changing programs.
Lineup Highlights Across Key Venues
The festival's lineup is spread across several popular Smithdown locations, each offering a unique atmosphere. The Handyman Bar and Brewery will act as the central hub for many of the weekend's most anticipated band performances.
Main Stage at The Handyman Bar
The music kicks off on Friday, October 10, with a high-energy lineup designed to set the tone for the weekend. Festival favourites Silent-K will be joined by Boom Boom Womb! and Silvermoon, promising a powerful start to the event.
Saturday's schedule at The Handyman begins with a performance from the Sound Together Choir. The evening will build to a climax with the long-awaited return of Psycho Comedy, who are set to close the main stage. Following their set, renowned musician Edgar Jones will take over with a DJ set to continue the celebrations into the night.
Diverse Sounds at Black Cat
Black Cat will once again host a packed schedule featuring indie, jazz, and rock’n’roll acts. Manchester-based bands Ask My Bull and Sticky Lips are returning after well-received performances in the city earlier this year.
The venue will also introduce audiences to newcomers like Llama Llama, a band known for its psychedelic dance punk sound. Another notable performance will come from PasleighB, also known as the 'Chippy Queen' for her viral live streams from the Mei Sum takeaway. She will perform with her full band for a hometown audience.
Did You Know?
The Smithdown Weekender is designed to give local artists a platform to perform in front of large, engaged crowds, which is often a crucial step in their careers. The free-entry model encourages music discovery and supports the city's vibrant arts scene.
More Than Music: Food, Drink, and Community
The Smithdown Weekender extends beyond its musical offerings, creating a full-fledged community event. Several local businesses are participating to provide food, drink, and alternative entertainment throughout the weekend.
Venues such as The Beeswing, Luminous, and Penny Lane Wine Bar will host a variety of DJs and acoustic sets, offering more intimate and relaxed settings for attendees. This allows visitors to move between different atmospheres, from high-energy band rooms to laid-back lounges.
Local eateries are also getting involved. Big Lola’s and All Day Poke will be serving special menus crafted specifically for the festival weekend, providing attendees with unique food options to enjoy between performances. This collaboration highlights the strong community network in the Smithdown area.
The Closing Party
The festivities will conclude on Sunday with a special closing party at The Handyman Bar. The final day promises a lively send-off with performances from:
- The Jesse Janes: Bringing their signature blend of blues and country.
- Splintered Ukes: A group set to deliver a fun and energetic ukulele performance.
Organizers have stated that more acts are still to be announced in the weeks leading up to the festival. Those interested in the full lineup and venue details are encouraged to follow the Smithdown Weekender's official social media channels for the latest updates.