Whatever the weather, this year’s Darley Park Weekender was dazzling!

Come rain or shine, Derby knows how to party! Pop superstars from across the decades and the cream of classical performers took to the stage for a fabulous Darley Park Weekender – and the rain showers failed to dampen the spirits.

The three-day music extravaganza saw the crowds thoroughly entertained by acts including Bananarama, Heather Small, East 17 and Sinfonia Viva, all in the beautiful surroundings of Darley Park.

The Weekender kicked off on Friday with 80s Mix Tape, hosted by Radio Derby breakfast presenter Becky Measures and headlined by legendary duo Bananarama. They were joined by The Fizz, featuring members of the original Eurovision-winning group Bucks Fizz, and Haircut 100, while BBC Radio 2’s Gary Davies’ Sounds of the 80s went down a storm!

Saturday’s Ultimate 90s event, hosted by Radio Derby’s daytime presenter Ian Skye, saw the crowds defy the downpours and dance their socks off to some of the decade’s best pop hits. From M People’s Heather Small, ‘bad boys’ of pop East 17, fellow boy-band 911, the R&B grooves of Damage and tunes from DJ Mark Angels, there was something for everyone. Local band Cassette Roulette put on a fabulous show on both Friday and Saturday.

Sunday was, of course, the ever-popular Darley Park Concert which featured incredible musical talent from East Midlands orchestra, Sinfonia Viva, conducted by Timothy Redmond and with soloist Juliette Crosbie. Their stunning programme had a movie soundtrack theme, featuring music from films including ET, James Bond and Star Wars, culminating in a dazzling laser and pyrotechnic display.

The Darley Park Weekender was staged by Derby LIVE, Derby City Council’s arts and events team, with support from Bloc Digital, Circulayo, HUUB, Sami Tipi, Bar2Go and Ward Recycling.

The Derby LIVE team listened to feedback from last year’s event and made changes to improve the experience and ensure everyone had a fantastic time. Feedback about this year’s event has been overwhelmingly positive:

80s Mix Tape

“What a fantastic day/night this was our first time and definitely not be the last”

“Never seen so many happy faces. Super line up from start to finish”

Ultimate 90s

“Great night! We had a brilliant time, even in the rain”

“True British spirit all enjoyed tonight at Darley Park, come rain or shine”

Darley Park Concert

“Well done, you clearly took on board the comments from last year. Tonight’s programme was tremendous, and the laser, fire and fireworks were fabulous. Thank you”

“Brilliant evening of music, fantastic fireworks. Well done, Derby LIVE”

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council and Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Culture and Tourism, said: “What a fantastic weekend! We had sunshine and showers but there was no way the great British weather was going to spoil the party! Thank you to everyone who made the Darley Park Weekender such a special event.

“The whole weekend is a highlight of Derby’s calendar and we’re very excited to announce details of next year’s event.”

Keep an eye out for news of next year’s event – scheduled for 21-23 August 2026 – which will be coming soon!