Derby's vibrant St George's Day celebrations draw enthusiastic crowds

Published: 23 April 2024

The legend of St George was brought to life on the streets of Derby at the weekend. Hundreds of people enjoyed the free St George’s Day celebrations held in the city centre.

The event on Saturday 20 April featured a feast of entertainment at the Waterfall in Derby Market Place, with performances and activities for all the family.

The Lost Boys took to the stage in front of a great crowd to perform their short tongue-in-cheek re-telling of St George and the Dragon battle. Families gathered as we welcomed AVP Theatre for a recreation of the St George and the Dragon story as a family friendly fairytale.

Families had the chance to try their hand at sword fighting in the Market Place before medieval re-enactors Team Falchion took over with more skills to further enhance the knights in training. They also provided a display of battle armour, swords, shields and chain mail to inspect and gave a greater understanding what it would have been like to wield this equipment in battle.

Meanwhile at St Peters Cross, Scaggy Moo provided environmentally friendly family craft activities, including making dragons and flags, sponsored and working in partnership with the St Peter’s Quarter BID. The Dragon appeared throughout the event moving between St Peters Cross and the Waterfall for all families to capture photos.

Clog dancers brought their ancient traditions to other parts of the city centre, with music and dance in St Peters Cross.
The event was produced by Derby LIVE, Derby City Council’s arts and events team, in conjunction with The Lost Boys and St Peters Quarter BID.

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Culture and Tourism, said:

It was truly uplifting to see the community come together to celebrate Derby’s St George’s Day, as people enjoyed the lively entertainment and engaging activities. From the dancing dragon to the knights’ battle demonstrations, it was a lovely atmosphere with everyone involved helping to create an unforgettable family event.

Brad Worley, Business Improvement District (BID) Manager for St Peters Quarter BID, said:

This year's St George’s Day festivities in St. Peters Quarter saw crowds relishing an array of captivating dance performances at St. Peters Cross, generously sponsored by St. Peters Quarter BID. It was great to see an enthusiastic turnout for this free event. A big thank you to Derby LIVE, all attendees who contributed to the event’s success, and the talented performers whose contributions enriched the celebration.

Events