Shop Local Festival: A dream becomes a reality in Cleethorpes
SHOP LOCAL
After years of dreaming and months of planning, Shop Local is finally stepping into the spotlight as one of the region’s most anticipated new music festivals. Set for Sunday 24th August 2025, this grassroots celebration is all about homegrown talent, local collaboration, and community spirit.
The vision behind Shop Local began more than five years ago. Long-time Cricket Club member and local music supporter Tippers had long believed the club could do more to champion the area’s vibrant music scene. That vision came closer to reality in the summer of 2024 when he got the green light to bring the idea to life.
“The goal was simple,” Tippers says.
“Showcase the incredible talent we have right here on our doorstep. And believe me—we’ve only scratched the surface with our 2025 lineup.”
With the concept taking shape, there was one person Tippers knew he had to call: Rob Cross. As frontman of local indie legends Orphan Boy, co-founder of post-punk outfit Shines, teacher at Humberston Academy and a respected figure in the local scene, Rob was the perfect collaborator.
“I was a little nervous asking, knowing how busy Rob is,” Tippers admits.
“But he jumped in straight away—not just to get Orphan Boy and Shines on the bill, but to help shape the whole event.”
Rob’s deep connections, experience, and commitment have helped define the direction of the festival, including refining the lineup, shaping logistics, and even coining the name Shop Local, a perfect fit that nods both to the festival’s ethos and the title of Orphan Boy’s first album.
The event is being brought to life with the support of local talent and businesses, from sound and lighting to food and drinks, every element is locally sourced. Headline sponsors Holidays by Design came on board early and food will be provided by community favorites like Dough Bros, Greek Shack and Pour and Ice Cocktails.
“Our local scene thrives because of where we are,” says Tippers.
“We’re not a place people pass through. We’ve built our own identity, and that’s something worth celebrating.”
Importantly, Shop Local isn’t trying to compete with other events in the area, it’s part of a wider movement of community-led festivals, including shout-outs to Scarthofest, which features rising stars The Kairos and Casino. Docksfest, whose 2025 lineup boasts The Charlatans, Ash, and Maximo Park alongside local acts.
With tickets already selling fast, music lovers can still grab theirs online, at the Cricket Club, or through local independent record stores Howling Jacks (Cleethorpes) and Replay Records (Freeman Street, Grimsby), just remember it’s cash only at the shops.
Follow Shop Local on social media (coming soon) for artist spotlights, behind-the-scenes stories and a link to their official Spotify playlist.
Whether you’re into indie, punk, or just passionate about supporting your local scene, this is one event you won’t want to miss. Mark your calendars for Sunday 24th August and come be part of something special.
Read Tippers previous review of Shines here:
https://theindiemasterplan.co.uk/live-review-rats-shines-docks-academy-grimsby
