Everything you need to know about the Darley Park Weekender 2023
Published: 22 August 2023
The Darley Park Weekender is back
The Darley Park Weekender is back with a bang this Bank Holiday Weekend. The three-day musical extravaganza has something for everyone this year.
It kicks off on Friday 25 August with the brand new Ultimate 90s event, which joins the line up for the first time this year. Hosted by Radio Derby’s daytime presenter Ian Skye, it will feature performances from the poptastic Peter Andre, East 17, Liberty X and Five, plus DJ Mark Angels on the decks.
On Saturday 26 August, the 80s Mix Tape returns with 80s icons ABC, Hue and Cry and Martin Kemp, with his DJ set. Four-piece tribute act 80s Reunion will also recreate some of the very best chart-topping hits from legendary acts including Duran Duran, The Human League, Madonna, Eurythmics and more. The night will be presented by Radio Derby’s afternoon presenter Sally Pepper.
The weekend ends with the popular Darley Park Concert, which will again delight the audience with classical music and fireworks in one of the UK’s biggest outdoor classical concerts, hosted by Radio Derby’s breakfast presenter Andy Twigge. Sinfonia Viva, supported by Rolls-Royce PLC, will provide the stunning music in the beautiful surroundings of Darley Park, making it the perfect event for family and friends to enjoy together.
The Darley Park Weekender is staged by Derby LIVE, Derby City Council’s arts and events arm, with support from sponsors HUUB, WDS and Circulayo.
You can find full details of the line-up and running order for all the weekend’s festivities on the Derby LIVE website.
This year’s Darley Park Weekender will be improved to enhance the audience experience and enable Derby City Council to keep ticket prices low. This year’s event will be held towards the Derby Rowing Club end of Darley Park, making the event more accessible – and better for dancing!
To bring the Darley Park Weekender in line with other large events across the country, such as Y Not Festival and Splendour, a personal allowance of four cans of larger/beer/mixed spirits/cider and 750ml of wine has been introduced this year – and the entire weekend will be glass free.
Bar capacity onsite will be significantly increased with a range of lager, beer, spirits, wine and more will be available at number of outlets. There will also be a range of food outlets offering a choice of delicious refreshments, including gourmet burgers, noodles, wood-fired pizzas, Mediterranean kebabs, churros, coffee and ice cream.
There will also be lots to keep the children entertained. A ‘sparkle station’ will offer face painting and hair braiding, plus the Glitter Bar with festival face glitter. There will also be an inflatable penalty shoot out and a bouncy castle.
The weekend weather forecast is looking good. While there may be an odd shower around, there should be plenty of sunny spells and temperatures are set to be pleasant.
We recommend you walk to the concert or use public transport to get to the park, as parking is limited near the site. For details of what parking will be available in the surrounding area, see the Customer Information page. There are measures in place to ensure the events can be enjoyed by all, including accessible viewing points, toilets and entrance, plus BSL interpretation and a hearing loop system. Full details are on the Customer Information page.
Tickets are available until the day before each event on the Derby LIVE website or at the Sales and Information Centre, Guildhall Theatre, Market Place, Derby, DE1 3AE, or by calling 01332 255 800. Subject to availability, tickets will be available to buy on the day of each event, at the park.
Tickets for Ultimate 90s or 80s Mix Tape tickets are £25 per adult – book for both at the same time and save £5 – or £28 on the day. Tickets are £15 for children aged 5-16, with under 5s going free. Tickets for The Darley Park Concert are £6.50 per adult and £4 for under 16s. Buy on the day prices are £9 per adult and £4 for under-16s.
You can find out more about security measures, accessibility, food and drink, what to bring and answers to other FAQs on the Darley Park Weekender Customer Information page. Please check this out before attending the event to help you plan your day and ensure you have the best time possible. The webpage also includes information for nearby residents.