Everything you need to know before you dance, sing, quiz, bingo, and boogie your way through the day.
Where is SunsetFest held?
SunsetFest takes place in the pub garden of The Little Ship, Portland – right at the gateway to the island. You’re also welcome to perch on Dorset’s iconic Chesil Beach and soak up the sounds of the South West’s grassroots music scene.
What kind of entertainment is there?
A bit of everything! Expect a packed day of:
• Live DJs, bands, acoustic sets, choirs & tribute acts
• Silent disco, party games, raffle, quiz, bingo, and tombola
• Face painting, glow sticks, a merch stall,
• and plenty of good vibes... we just hope the weather holds out!
We’re all about community – so whether you’re 6 or 60, there’s something for you - from baton twirlers, to drum and bass DJs - Liam Gallagher tribute acts to live electronic dance music. Dorset's grassroots music scene is alive!
Is it family friendly?
Absolutely. SunsetFest is an all-ages event — and all ages will be performing too! Bring the kids, nan, or the whole crew. Just remember: it’s in a pub garden, so usual pub rules apply.
Can I bring my own drinks or food?
No need! The Little Ship has a fully stocked bar, a BBQ, an outdoor bar in a horse box, and serves food throughout the day in the kitchens. Please don’t bring your own alcohol or food – respectfully, please support the venue and the organisers.
Is there a ticket price?
Entry is completely free; SunsetFest is all about celebrating local music and bringing the community together. However, any donation – big or small – helps us cover costs, support grassroots talent, and keep events like this alive. Every performer and technician is being paid, but it’s worth noting that everyone involved is taking a small personal hit to help make this startup event a reality. No pressure at all – we just want you to enjoy the day and, with a bit of luck, help us do it all again next year.
Is there an after party?
The Official SunsetFest AfterParty is at The Closet, Weymouth. Wristband tickets will be available at the SunsetFest merch stall during the day. Barside, you have DJ Greg P with Karaoke until the early hours of the morning, and DJ Simon F closing the night in club side until the VERY early hours of the morning. Don't miss out!
How do I get there / is there parking?
Parking’s a little tight near the venue — so we suggest walking, lift-sharing, or using local transport if possible. We’ll update this section with more details closer to the day.
Want to play at SunsetFest?
We’re always looking for local talent to help make SunsetFest the vibrant, community-powered event it’s meant to be. Whether you’re a solo artist, full band, DJ, choir, or something completely out there, we want to hear from you.
SunsetFest champions grassroots music, and we welcome performers of all ages, genres, and experience levels. Every act is paid – and while this is a startup event, we believe in valuing your time and talent.
Here’s what we’re looking for:
• Live music (bands, solo acts, acoustic, covers, originals)
• DJs (all styles welcome)
• Unique performances (choirs, tribute acts, experimental sets, etc.)
• Community vibe – we love acts who engage, have fun, and support the scene.
• Reliability - because talent is everywhere, but showing up is what makes you stand out.
If you’re interested, get in touch here with links to your music, a short bio, and anything else we should know. Let’s make this year’s SunsetFest unforgettable – and maybe give you a new favourite festival to attend and perform at!
Where is SunsetFest held?
SunsetFest takes place in the pub garden of The Little Ship, Portland – right at the gateway to the island. You’re also welcome to perch on Dorset’s iconic Chesil Beach and soak up the sounds of the South West’s grassroots music scene.
What kind of entertainment is there?
A bit of everything! Expect a packed day of:
• Live DJs, bands, acoustic sets, choirs & tribute acts
• Silent disco, party games, raffle, quiz, bingo, and tombola
• Face painting, glow sticks, a merch stall,
• and plenty of good vibes... we just hope the weather holds out!
We’re all about community – so whether you’re 6 or 60, there’s something for you - from baton twirlers, to drum and bass DJs - Liam Gallagher tribute acts to live electronic dance music. Dorset's grassroots music scene is alive!
Is it family friendly?
Absolutely. SunsetFest is an all-ages event — and all ages will be performing too! Bring the kids, nan, or the whole crew. Just remember: it’s in a pub garden, so usual pub rules apply.
Can I bring my own drinks or food?
No need! The Little Ship has a fully stocked bar, a BBQ, an outdoor bar in a horse box, and serves food throughout the day in the kitchens. Please don’t bring your own alcohol or food – respectfully, please support the venue and the organisers.
Is there a ticket price?
Entry is completely free; SunsetFest is all about celebrating local music and bringing the community together. However, any donation – big or small – helps us cover costs, support grassroots talent, and keep events like this alive. Every performer and technician is being paid, but it’s worth noting that everyone involved is taking a small personal hit to help make this startup event a reality. No pressure at all – we just want you to enjoy the day and, with a bit of luck, help us do it all again next year.
Is there an after party?
The Official SunsetFest AfterParty is at The Closet, Weymouth. Wristband tickets will be available at the SunsetFest merch stall during the day. Barside, you have DJ Greg P with Karaoke until the early hours of the morning, and DJ Simon F closing the night in club side until the VERY early hours of the morning. Don't miss out!
How do I get there / is there parking?
Parking’s a little tight near the venue — so we suggest walking, lift-sharing, or using local transport if possible. We’ll update this section with more details closer to the day.
Want to play at SunsetFest?
We’re always looking for local talent to help make SunsetFest the vibrant, community-powered event it’s meant to be. Whether you’re a solo artist, full band, DJ, choir, or something completely out there, we want to hear from you.
SunsetFest champions grassroots music, and we welcome performers of all ages, genres, and experience levels. Every act is paid – and while this is a startup event, we believe in valuing your time and talent.
Here’s what we’re looking for:
• Live music (bands, solo acts, acoustic, covers, originals)
• DJs (all styles welcome)
• Unique performances (choirs, tribute acts, experimental sets, etc.)
• Community vibe – we love acts who engage, have fun, and support the scene.
• Reliability - because talent is everywhere, but showing up is what makes you stand out.
If you’re interested, get in touch here with links to your music, a short bio, and anything else we should know. Let’s make this year’s SunsetFest unforgettable – and maybe give you a new favourite festival to attend and perform at!
