Sheffield city centre will come alive this summer as The Fringe at Tramlines returns from 25 to 27 July, bringing a free weekend of live music, DJs and community celebration to more than 40 venues.
This year’s event, supported by Sheffield BID, Sheffield City Council and Tramlines Festival, builds on its status as one of South Yorkshire’s biggest cultural weekends. In 2024, The Fringe welcomed over 45,000 people and generated an estimated £1.86 million for the local economy.
At the heart of the festivities is the Devonshire Green stage, programmed by Tramlines co-founder Alan Deadman, also known as Papa Al. The main stage offers a space for all ages to gather, dance and soak in the atmosphere, with a packed schedule of live music across the weekend.
Saturday’s headline act is local ska orchestra Jungle Lion, returning with their high-energy brass and rhythm section. On Sunday, the stage belongs to Macka B and the Roots Ragga Band, marking 40 years since the release of his first record. The legendary UK reggae artist is known for his powerful lyrics, deep connection to Rastafarian culture and viral freestyles promoting healthy living. His hit “Cucumba” has been shared by global names including Alicia Keys and Naomi Campbell, and his Sheffield set promises to be a standout moment of the summer.
Papa Al said: “Macka B is an inspirational performer who mixes ska, reggae and ragga. He has a big following in Sheffield and we can’t wait for this totally free performance for people of all ages and backgrounds in the heart of the city.”
Saturday’s programme also features Shanghai Treason, The Tivolis (selected by WaterBear Music College), Blue Street Brass, and Highway Child, with DJ sets from DJ Myna, DJ Kom, and DJ Issa Dancer. Sunday includes Soul Battalion, a live dance performance by Ripton Lindsey, and sets from Tracks, a Sheffield music development project for 14 to 25-year-olds. Papa Al will also bring his signature global sounds to the decks across the weekend.
The Fringe extends beyond Devonshire Green, with events happening across pubs, bars, shops and public spaces citywide. New venues for 2025 include Department (formerly Kommune) and a large-scale event at New Era Square.
Diane Jarvis, Head of Business Operations at Sheffield BID, said:
“The Fringe at Tramlines plays a key role in our events calendar, driving footfall and spend into the city centre. As we mark a decade of Sheffield BID, we’re proud to continue supporting this vibrant and inclusive event.”
Councillor Mohammed Mahroof added:
“It’s fantastic to see The Fringe returning to the city centre. While Tramlines Festival in Hillsborough Park brings huge benefits, The Fringe offers free access to live music and culture for everyone and is a brilliant boost for our local businesses.”
Organisers are inviting venues to submit their events via the official Welcome to Sheffield website:
👉 www.welcometosheffield.co.uk/submit-your-event
For full details and updates, keep an eye on the official channels as Sheffield gets ready for another unforgettable summer.
