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Fab Five
July to September 2026 Events
Popular Places and Attractions
Eating and Drinking
July to September 2026 / English
Image Credit: Ash Stanley
There’s a real energy building in Derby as we move into the late summer and early autumn months. From vibrant exhibitions to a growing programme of events, the city is full of opportunities to explore, experience, and be inspired.
Derby’s creative scene is taking centre stage this season, with standout exhibitions including Lara Croft: 30 Years On – From Derby to Global Icon, celebrating the global impact of one of gaming’s most recognisable characters, and Wright of Derby: From the Shadows, which shines a light on the life and work of a master of light and shadow.
Alongside these highlights, you’ll find a packed calendar of cultural events, performances, and activities happening across the city, making it the perfect time to rediscover Derby or experience it for the first time.
Take a look at our interactive guide to discover what’s happening across Derby - just click on any listing for more details.
The Tourism Team at VisitDerby
Fab Five
July to September 2026 Events
Popular Places and Attractions
Eating and Drinking
Derby Sales and Information Centre
19 Chapel Street,
Derby, DE1 3GU.
Image Credit: AV-IT Media
Image Credit: Graham Whitmore
Image Credit: Seamus McKenna Photography
Top things to do and authentic experiences you can't miss in Derby
The Darley Park Weekender 2026
21 Aug 2026 - 23 Aug 2026
Darley Park, DE22 1EN
Derby’s summer highlight returns for 2026, bringing a star-studded line-up to the Darley Park Weekender stage.
Derby Festé
26 Sep 2026
Derby City Centre,
Leap into the extraordinary with Derby Festé 2026 on Saturday 26th September!
Derby Book Festival 2026
22 May 2026 - 31 May 2026, 13 Nov 2026 - 15 Nov 2026
Various Derby venues,
Derby Book Festival will returns in 2026 with Summer and Autumn editions.
Derby Folk Festival 2026
9 Oct 2026 - 11 Oct 2026
Various Derby locations,
Derby Folk Festival returns autumn 2026, celebrating folk music, dance, workshops and city centre community spirit.
Sadler Gate Night Market
26 Nov 2026
Sadler Gate, Derby DE1 3NQ
Late-night indie shopping, unique gifts, fashion, festive food, drink & entertainment in one sparkling evening.
Shop our historic market with changing product lines from our independent traders. Discover beautiful plants, hand-crafted gifts and artisan treasures, or pick up supplies and fresh local produce from our on-site grocer, bakery, fishmonger and deli counter.
Discover delicious food from award-winning independent businesses with an array of sweet and savoury flavours from around the world, including food from Asia, Europe, South America and the UK.
Enjoy expertly brewed speciality coffee, tea and more, paired with freshly baked pastries, artisanal cakes and sweet treats. Later on in the day, grab a drink from our bars with local craft beers, cocktails, wines, and premium soft drinks, or sample craft spirits made on-site at The Spirit Run, our very own distillery bar.
There’s plenty happening at Derby Market Hall over the next few months. Enjoy weekly live music and monthly Farmers’ Markets, plus supper cluns, artisan markets, summer activities and a miniature railway for families, Craft Beer, Wines & Spirits Festivals and Vintage Fairs.
Make Derby Market Hall your go-to spot this season. We can't wait to see you! See what’s on and find out more at derbymarkethall.co.uk.
Derby is a lively city of events. From July to September, you can enjoy a great mix of festivals, celebrations, exhibitions and cultural events. Find below a small selection of great events, there’s lots more, see visitderby.co.uk/whats-on
Wright of Derby: From the Shadows
13 Jun 2026 - 1 Nov 2026
Derby Museum & Art Gallery, The Strand, Derby DE1 1BS
Discover Wright of Derby’s ‘Candlelight’ masterpieces – drama, intrigue, and sublime art in From the Shadows!
Hot Goth Summer
3 Jul 2026 - 5 Jul 2026
Derby QUAD & Cinema, Market Place, Cathedral Quarter, Derby DE1 3AS
Escape the Summer sun with a Hot Goth Summer of dark, cult cinema and gothic vibes!
Lara Croft: 30 Years On - From Derby to Global Icon
24 Jul 2026 - 28 Nov 2026
Pickford's House, 41 Friar Gate, Derby DE1 1DA
Celebrate 30 years of Tomb Raider - step into Lara Croft’s world as Pickford’s House transforms into Croft Manor.
Invention Music Festival
19 Sep 2026
Various Derby venues,
Invention Music Festival is a one-day, multi-venue Derby event celebrating grassroots music and independent venues.
We Feed The UK
9 May 2026 - 4 Oct 2026
Derby QUAD & Cinema, Market Place, Cathedral Quarter, Derby DE1 3AS
Through photography and poetry, the exhibition celebrates collaboration with land, water and wildlife.
Dracula’s Bazaar: Alternative Market
3 Jul 2026 - 5 Jul 2026
Derby QUAD & Cinema, Market Place, Cathedral Quarter, Derby DE1 3AS
Dracula’s Bazaar returns to Derby Quad for Hot Goth Summer - gothic traders, art, fashion & dark delights await.
An Evening with Elizabeth I
10 Jul 2026
The Old Bell Hotel, 51 Sadler Gate, Derby DE1 3NQ
Held at Grand Regency Ballroom, this show transports audiences to Renaissance England with Drake, Raleigh, Shakespeare.
Japan Fest 2026
11 Jul 2026
Derby QUAD & Cinema, Market Place, Cathedral Quarter, Derby DE1 3AS
Japan Fest Derby brings a celebration of Japanese culture to the city this July!
A Jurassic Day Out 2026
18 Jul 2026
Cathedral Quarter Derby, Derby DE1 3FJ
The Dinosaurs return to Derby’s Cathedral Quarter - meet Zeus T-Rex, Emily Bronty and Tank Triceratops.
In the Night Garden Live
23 Jul 2026
Derby Theatre, 15 Theatre Walk, St Peter's Quarter, Derby DE1 2NF
In the Night Garden Live is coming to Derby Theatre - don’t miss this magical show for little ones.
The Music of Coldplay By Candlelight
24 Jul 2026
Derby Cathedral, 18-19 Iron Gate, Derby DE1 3GP
Coldplay by Candlelight comes to Derby Cathedral - live West End cast, band & hits Yellow, Viva La Vida, Fix You!
Derbion Get Active
27 Jul 2026 - 2 Aug 2026
Derbion, London Road, Derby DE1 2PQ
Derbion’s Get Active brings a week of free, hands-on sports and activities for families.
CBeebies House Party
15 Aug 2026
Vaillant Live, 2 Colyear Street, Derby DE1 1LA
CBeebies favourites Mr Tumble, Mister Maker, Rebecca, Nigel and Hey Duggee bring a family party to Vaillant Live.
Markeaton Park Food Festival 2026
15 Aug 2026 - 16 Aug 2026
Markeaton Park, Markeaton Park, Derby DE22 4AA
A relaxed, family-friendly food festival takes over Markeaton Park - great food, fun, and a perfect day out.
Derby History Festival
22 Aug 2026 - 23 Aug 2026
Derby Market Hall, Market Place, Derby DE1 2DB
Step into Derby History Festival - where storytellers and historians bring the city’s past vividly to life.
RNB MANIA | Derby's R&B Festival (August)
30 Aug 2026
Ultra Warehouse, 9 Downing Road, Derby DE21 6HA
Derby, get ready for RNB MANIA - an epic 90s & 00s R&B showcase hitting Ultra Warehouse!
Jimmy Carr
4 Sep 2026
Vaillant Live, 2 Colyear Street, Derby DE1 1LA
One of the world’s best-loved comedians, Jimmy Carr, brings his new show Laughs Funny to Derby.
Whooverville 17
5 Sep 2026
Derby QUAD & Cinema, Market Place, Cathedral Quarter, Derby DE1 3AS
The Whoovers & Derby Quad return with the East Midlands’ favourite Doctor Who fan convention for its 17th year.
Neverland: The Peter Pan Drone Light Show
12 Sep 2026
Derbyshire County Cricket Club, The OurCoop County Ground, Nottingham Road, Derby DE21 6DA
A spectacular drone light show lights up Derby’s night sky, bringing Neverland to life with light, music and story.
DEKA FIT East Midlands 2026
12 Sep 2026 - 13 Sep 2026
Derby Arena, Royal Way, Pride Park, Derby DE24 8JB
DEKA FIT returns to Derby Arena - an intense fitness event of functional challenges and endurance.
Shrek the Musical
17 Sep 2026 - 20 Sep 2026
Derby Theatre, 15 Theatre Walk, St Peter's Quarter, Derby DE1 2NF
Join Shrek, Donkey and friends on a spectacular, laugh-filled musical adventure you won’t want to miss.
Edge-Lit 12
19 Sep 2026
Derby QUAD & Cinema, Market Place, Cathedral Quarter, Derby DE1 3AS
Edge-Lit returns for its 12th year with interviews, talks, workshops and more for genre fiction fans.
On Derby’s doorstep is the stunning Peak District and Derbyshire. There is always a great selection of events, whatever time of year you visit. Find out more at visitderby.co.uk/whats-on
Wearing Feelings: Childhood in Black and Bright
12 Jun 2026 - 7 Sep 2026
The Children's Country House at Sudbury, Sudbury, Ashbourne, DE6 5HT
Exploring 150 years of children’s fashion, this exhibition reveals how clothing reflects growing freedom and expression.
Summer of Punch and Judy
18 Jul 2026 - 1 Sep 2026
Heights of Abraham, Matlock Bath, Derbyshire DE4 3NT
The hilarious Punch and Judy show returns for another summer of laughter at the Heights.
Farmarama
18 Jul 2026 - 1 Sep 2026
National Forest Adventure Farm, Postern Road, Tatenhill, Burton on Trent DE13 9SJ
A huge summer beach party comes to Burton - bigger than ever, packed with fun and seaside vibes!
Live at Melbourne Hall
24 Jul 2026 - 26 Jul 2026
Melbourne Hall & Gardens, Church Square, Melbourne, DE73 8EN
Live At Melbourne Hall hosts a 3-day summer extravaganza at the South Derbyshire stately home beyond its gardens.
Y Not Festival 2026
30 Jul 2026 - 2 Aug 2026
Pikehall, Derbyshire
Join Y Not Festival in the stunning Peak District at Pikehall, Derbyshire for an unforgettable weekend of music and fun.
Pride & Prejudice (U) at Calke Abbey
31 Jul 2026
Calke Abbey, Ticknall, Derbyshire DE73 7LE
Open-air Pride & Prejudice screening at Calke Abbey with live music beforehand - romance, wit, drama under the stars.
Bloodstock 25th Anniversary 2026
6 Aug 2026 - 9 Aug 2026
Catton Park, Derbyshire
Bloodstock Open Air marks its 25th anniversary at Catton Park, Derbyshire with four days of metal and live music.
Dog Lovers Festival 2026
21 Aug 2026 - 23 Aug 2026
Elvaston Castle Country Park, Borrowash Road , Elvaston , Derby DE72 3EP
Dog Lovers Festival is a feel-good day of dogs, live music, great food and fun for families and their furry friends.
Chatsworth Country Fair 2026
4 Sep 2026 - 6 Sep 2026
Chatsworth, Bakewell, Derbyshire DE45 1PP
Featuring grand ring displays in the air and on land, demos from celebrity chefs, plus family entertainment
Derby is a vibrant city with lots of events throughout the year. Many events take place within our award winning attractions. There are always lots of things to see and do, particularly around celebrations and holidays. Here are a few of our attractions where there is always something to see and do.
Artcore
8 Albert Street, Osnabruck Square, Derby DE1 2DS
Derby’s vibrant international centre for contemporary art and creativity, gallery, artist studios, shop, and café.
Bluebells
Brunswood Farm, Locko Road, Derby DE21 7AR
A fun-filled family day out, Bluebell Dairy offers hands-on animal experiences, exciting events and countryside charm.
Derby Cathedral
Derby Cathedral, 18-19 Iron Gate, Derby DE1 3GP
A fascinating place to visit and a venue for musical and cultural excellence in the heart of the city.
Derby Market Hall
Derby Market Hall, Market Place, Derby DE1 2DB
A treasure trove of unique finds and delicious treats, perfect for a day of shopping, dining and entertainment.
Derby Museum & Art Gallery
Derby Museum & Art Gallery, The Strand, Derby DE1 1BS
Lots of treasures to explore and lots of activities for families to enjoy together at Derby Museums.
Electric Daisy
1 - 4 Bold Lane, Derby DE1 3NT
A vibrant space where people connect, culture blooms, and nature takes the spotlight with great events happening.
Great Northern Classics
274 – 278 Osmaston Road, Derby DE24 8AE
Welcome to Great Northern Classics A landmark destination where classic motor culture meets modern hospitality.
Museum of Making at Derby Silk Mill
Silk Mill Lane, Derby DE1 3AF
Explore Derby’s 300-year history of making and enjoy events and activities for families to enjoy together.
Pickford's House
Pickford's House, 41 Friar Gate, Derby DE1 1DA
Come and experience our unique museum in the show home of the Enlightenment architect Joseph Pickford.
Indulge in a culinary adventure in Derby's vibrant food and drink scene. From cosy cafes and traditional pubs to award-winning restaurants and international cuisines.
Image Credit: AV-IT Media
The Spice Lounge
10 Friar Gate, Cathedral Quarter, Derby DE1 1BU
Offering a stimulating range of Bangladeshi and Southern Asian dishes with a creative twist to appeal to the western…
Houseboat
89 - 91 St Peters Street, Derby DE1 2AB
Authentic Kerala flavours, enjoy South Indian dishes in a cosy houseboat-inspired setting.
Bluebells Ice Cream Parlour
Brunswood Farm, Locko Road, Derby DE21 7AR
Award-winning farm-made ice cream, shakes and sweet treats at Bluebell Dairy near Derby.
Good Thai Derby
34 Victoria Street, Derby DE1 1ES
Authentic Thai cuisine in Derby with classic dishes, street food favourites and vegan options.
Hickory's Smokehouse Derby
166 Swarkestone Road , Derbyshire DE73 5UE
Discover the flavours & hospitality of the Southern States in this family-friendly restaurant.
Cast Iron Bar & Grill
Breadsall Priory Marriott Hotel & Country Club, Moor Road, Morley, Derby DE7 6DL
If you find yourself in Derby, make sure to pay a visit to Cast Iron Bar & Grill situated in the recently refurbished…
Bistrot Pierre
18 Friar Gate, Cathedral Quarter, Derby DE1 1BX
Offering the charm and warmth of a Parisian restaurant, unwind and indulge in French-inspired dishes.
BEAR Derbion
Derbion, Level 2, Derby DE1 2PL
BEAR Derbion is a snug little haven that you can use to escape all that retail hustle. Come and make yourself at home.
Lotus Indian Kitchen
Mercia Marina, Findern Lane, Willington, Derby DE65 6DW
The first Indian tapas restaurant in Derby, bringing a casual, relaxed tapas vibe of Indian food.
The Engine Room
Riverlights, Morledge, Derby DE1 2BB
The Engine Room is a bold new addition to Derby city centre, serving inventive dishes in a stylish industrial-chic…
The River Kitchen
Museum of Making, Silk Mill Lane, Derby DE1 3AF
The River Kitchen is all about community. Their delicious food is locally sourced, homemade, always within season and…
The Pepperpot
Nightingale Quarter, London Road, Derby DE1 2UH
Exceptional dishes using the finest locally sourced produce. Awarded AA Rosette for Culinary Excellence 2024-2025.
BEAR Derby Irongate
7 Iron Gate, Derby, DE1 3FJ
Offering all-day dining from a locally-sourced menu, including an abundance of fresh seasonal treats.
The Elephant and Peacock
Derby Road, Milford, Belper DE56 0QW
The city's first Indian Gastropub. A warm and inviting space where tradition meets comfort.
Lorentes Darley Abbey
The Cotton Yard, Darley Abbey Mills, Derby DE22 1DZ
The flavours of Madrid and Barcelona, set in a riverside bistro within the World Heritage site of Darley Abbey Mills.
Café 42
Derby Arena, Royal Way, Pride Park, , Derby DE24 8JB
A range of delicious and nutritious food and hot and cold drinks, enjoy a coffee or refuel after a workout.
Unlock a world of unforgettable experiences, plan your next thrilling adventure in Derby and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Image Credit: Diane Jackson
Derby Riverboat Trips
Various dates until October 2026
Museum of Making at Derby Silk Mill, Silk Mill Lane, Derby DE1 3AF
Eco river cruises along the Derwent – with onboard café, kids’ activities & David Suchet commentary.
Highland Cow Afternoon Tea
18 Apr 2026 - 27 Sep 2026
Bluebells, Brunswood Farm, Locko Road, Derby DE21 7AR
Experience the charm of farm life with a relaxed small group visit in the heart of the countryside.
Letterpress Workshops
The Smallprint Co, 2-3 Friary Street, Derby DE1 1JF
Learn the intricacies of letterpress printing, typography, and bookbinding at our heritage print and design studio.
Spa Treatments at Breadsall Priory
Delta Hotels by Marriott Breadsall Priory Country Club, Moor Road, Morley, Derby DE7 6DL
Relax on a spa day and enjoy access to a leisure centre with gym, classes, pool and jacuzzi.
The Escape Room Guys
1-5 Iron Gate, Derby DE1 3FJ
Try a range of immersive escape rooms, perfect for team-building and family outings.
Craftcore - The City’s First Public Ceramic Studio
5 Osnabruck Square, Derby DE1 2DS
Craftcore, the city’s first fully equipped public ceramic studio, offering an immersive and hands-on experience in the…
Introduction to Track Cycling at Derby Arena
Available Sundays
Derby Arena, Royal Way, Pride Park, Derby DE24 8JB
This could be your first go at track cycling and can be a one-off taster session just for fun or to see if it’s for you…
Afternoon Tea at Breadsall Priory
Delta Hotels by Marriott Breadsall Priory Country Club, Moor Road, Morley, Derby DE7 6DL
Spoil someone special with a quintessentially British afternoon tea experience, surrounded by serene and rolling…
All details correct at time of going to print, October 2025.
All details correct at time of going to print, October 2025.
Image Credit: Pictorai Pictures