Things To Do

Matlock Bath Illuminations

21 September 2024

Matlock Bath Illuminations is a fun-packed family event featuring a spectacular parade of illuminated and decorated boats along the River Derwent.

The 2024 Matlock Bath Illuminations will run every Saturday and Sunday night from 7 September to 27 October, with fireworks finales every Saturday in October and on Sunday 27 October.

During the 7-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 each Saturday (from around 7.45pm in September and from around 7pm in October) and Sundays (from around 7.30pm in September and 7pm in October) in Derwent Gardens, giving a unique and illuminous display. The boats can only be viewed on admission into the gardens.

There are fantastic firework displays every Saturday in October and the final night, Sunday 27 October. The fireworks light up the skies around Matlock Bath in multi-colours. The firework displays begin at 8.30pm (N.B, this is an earlier time than previous years).

Please note that on Saturdays in particular Matlock Bath can get extremely busy.

Both Saturdays and Sundays have themed nights and there’s also entertainment including stilt walkers plus the fabulous parade of decorated boats on the River Derwent. Sundays are a “family night”, entertainment starts and finishes earlier, running from 6.00pm-8.30pm to take account of the fact that younger visitors have school the following morning.

Address

Derwent Gardens
Off South Parade
Matlock Bath
Derwent Gardens are located behind The Grand Pavilion, a ten minute-walk along North and South Parade from Matlock Bath station.

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Opening Times

The models are mounted on rowing boats and paraded on the River Derwent each Saturday from around 7.45pm in September. Gates open at 6pm for the event. Opening times may vary, please check with the attraction for the latest information.

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