Excitement is building for the traditional Darley Park Concert, the grand finale of The Darley Park Weekender 2026.
BBC Radio Derby Daytime presenter Ian Skye will host this unforgettable evening of music on Sunday 23 August, in the scenic surroundings of Darley Park.
At the heart of the performance is Derby’s own award-winning orchestra, Sinfonia Viva. Based in the East Midlands, the ensemble has been the cornerstone of the concert for over three decades, consistently delivering joyful and inspiring performances.
The 2026 concert marks the return of esteemed British conductor Stephen Bell. Currently serving as the Principal Guest Conductor of the RTÉ Concert Orchestra and Associate Conductor of the Hallé, Stephen is internationally renowned for his work across the BBC Proms, the Queen’s Jubilee, and various royal galas.
Joining him on stage will be soloist Juliette Crosbie, who will showcase her superb vocals, bringing to life famous pieces such as John Barry’s Goldfinger, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Memory and many more.
Also on the bill is Red, a powerhouse vocalist who has captivated millions worldwide with her soul-stirring voice, racking up over 250 million video views and a two-million-strong online following.
Having shared the stage with icons such as Diana Ross, Ed Sheeran, Alicia Keys, Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, and Zara Larsson, as well as touring Europe last year with maestro Andrea Bocelli, Red brings immense energy to the stage ahead of her debut EP release in late 2026.
Local talent will also take centre stage. Formed in 2021 as part of the Air Arts programme supported by Derby and Burton Hospitals Charity, the UHDB Staff Wellbeing Choir brings community spirit, joy, and five years of harmony back to the Darley Park Concert.
Derby Harp Ensemble, led by local professional harpist Lucy Nolan, are a unique group of young musicians aged six to 18 who will showcase a diverse repertoire, ranging from South American toe-tappers to beloved classics and even pop hits by Justin Bieber.
This year’s musical programme promises something for everyone, featuring dramatic film scores and musical hits from the main theme of Apollo 13 to the soaring melodies of Defying Gravity from the hit musical Wicked. There will also be timeless classical masterpieces by Mozart and Tchaikovsky and the evening will culminate in a spectacular pyrotechnic display illuminating the night sky.
Councillor Gurkiran Kaur, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for City Centre, Culture and Tourism, said:
The Sunday Darley Park Concert is the crown jewel of our summer celebrations, bringing families and friends together for a magical evening.
From the incredible Sinfonia Viva and international guest artists to our wonderful local community performers and BBC Radio Derby’s Ian Skye hosting, Sunday promises a spectacular mix of music, local pride, and unforgettable pyrotechnic and laser light display.
It’s an extraordinary event for our city, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone to Darley Park.
We would also like to thank the official sponsors of The Darley Park Weekender 2026 for their incredible support in bringing the event to life; HUUB, Sami Tipi, WARD, AVIT Media, WDS and Don Amott Leisure Group.
The Darley Park Concert wraps up an incredible weekend of live entertainment, which kicks off on Friday 21 August with Billy Ocean and special guest Marti Pellow, followed by headliners JLS on Saturday 22 August.
Gates open at 4pm on Sunday 23 August, with the event commencing at 6pm. Advance tickets are priced at £8 for adults and £5 for under-16s, while tickets bought on the gate will be £11 for adults and £6 for under-16s. VIP Darley Garden Experience tickets are available for £30, which includes fast-track entry, access to an exclusive VIP area with a private bar, dedicated flushing toilets, and prime views of the main stage.
Tickets for all Darley Park Weekender events are available to book now via the Derby LIVE website.