The big names headling Bolton Food and Drink Festival’s music stage this year

Pop sensation Liberty X are coming to Bolton.
Hot on the heels of East 17, the group, which came runners-up in Popstars, a TV show to find the next big thing, will be headlining the Bolton Food and Drink Festival.
Liberty X, with original members Jessica, Michelle and Kelli, will bring their iconic hits and high-energy performance to the main stage in Bolton town centre on the Sunday evening.
Known for chart-topping singles including Just a Little, Got to Have Your Love, and Holding On for You, their headline performance will give festival goers an unforgettable night of free live music in the heart of Bolton.
The Real Thing at the Sage Gatehead on the 30th September 2018 : Photo Credit Martin Bone (Scotland) (Image: Martin Bone)
Topping the bill on Saturday night is one of the UK’s most iconic and enduring soul groups, The Real Thing.
Festival goers can expect an energetic, feel good show packed with timeless hits including You to Me Are Everything, Can’t Get By Without You, and Can You Feel the Force?
This year’s festival, now in its 21st year, is set to be a huge celebration with organisers preparing one of the biggest line ups to date. Visitors can look forward to:
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Hundreds of food and drink traders offering local, regional, and international flavours
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Live cooking demonstrations from celebrity and regional chefs
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Two live music stages, family entertainment, and special ticketed events
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Activities and performances spread across Bolton town centre
A spokesperson for Bolton Council said: “We’re delighted to welcome Liberty X to headline our 21st Bolton Food and Drink Festival.
“The Real Thing will also be a fantastic addition to what is already shaping up to be one of our most exciting programmes yet.
“The festival continues to be a major highlight for Bolton, boosting our local economy, showcasing our traders, and bringing communities together.”
The Bolton Food and Drink Festival is free to attend, with some events requiring advance booking.
All live music performances are free to attend and do not require advance booking.
Tickets are on sale for the ever-popular James Martin cookery demonstrations and the Faulty Towers The Dining Experience which both take place on the Saturday.
Bolton Food and Drink Festival takes place across the August Bank Holiday weekend from Friday 28 to Monday 31 August 2026.




