Matlock Bath Illuminations is a fun-packed family event featuring a spectacular parade of illuminated and decorated boats along the River Derwent.
Matlock Bath Illuminations is a fun-packed family event featuring a spectacular parade of illuminated and decorated boats along the River Derwent. We open in 2026 with a Preview Night on Saturday 12th September, followed by every weekend from 19th September to November 1st, plus Friday 30th October.
During the 8-week season Matlock Bath Venetian Boat Builders' Association decorate themed models with an array of coloured lights. The models are mounted on rowing boats and paraded on the River Derwent at the following times:
Non Firework nights:
Boats parade on Saturdays 12, 19 and 26 September between 7.30pm & 8.00pm (this is dependent on the light - the earlier dates starting nearer 8.00pm and the later dates moving closer to 7.30pm). The parade will finish at around 9.00pm.
Sundays 20, 27 September - The boat parade will last for 1 hour, the start time will be between 7.30pm & 8.00pm (this is dependent on light, the earlier dates starting nearer 8.00pm and the later dates moving closer to 7.30pm).
Sundays 4, 11, 18, 25 & Friday 30 October - the boat parade is 7.00pm - 8.00pm.
Firework nights: (Fireworks at 8.30pm)
Saturday Firework nights October 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31 - the boat parade is 7.00pm - 8.20pm.
Sunday Firework night (1 November) - the boat parade is 7.00pm - 8.20pm.
The October firework displays begin at 8.30pm with the best viewing positions being in the Bandstand area of Derwent Gardens. Numbers in the Gardens are restricted to a maximum of 4,000.
Each night there will be entertainment varying from stilt walkers, characters, jugglers plus the fabulous parade of decorated boats on the River Derwent.
For more information see our FAQs at www.derbyshiredales.gov.uk/illuminationsFAQs
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