Crowds enjoy Derby’s St George’s Day celebrations

Dragons roared, knights clashed, and medieval games delighted crowds in Derby as the city celebrated St George's Day.

The annual festivities featured live performances, engaging workshops, and creative crafts that brought the legend of St George to life.

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 Business Improvement District (BID).

St George and The Mayor of Derby launched the festivities before one of the highlights of the day, The Lost Boys’ spectacular and tongue-in-cheek reenactment of St George's legendary battle with the dragon, which drew enthusiastic cheers from the audience.

Families gathered to enjoy AVP Theatre’s delightful puppet show, a family-friendly fairytale retelling of the St George and the Dragon story, and aspiring knights had the chance to train in hands-on workshops led by The Lost Boys and Team Falchion, learning about chivalry and trying their hand at sword skills.

Team Falchion also provided fascinating showcases of medieval armour and combat, alongside engaging medieval games and blanket weaving activities. Throughout the afternoon, roaming dragons added an extra element of surprise and delight for young adventurers.

St Peter’s Cross was also a hub of creativity, with Scraggy Moo’s environmentally-friendly family crafts proving a hit. In partnership with St Peter’s Quarter BID, children were able to create their own dragons and flags, adding their colourful creations to the St George's Day celebrations.

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council and Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Culture and Tourism, said:

Derby once again embraced the spirit of St George’s Day with a fantastic array of free family activities. It was wonderful to see so many people coming together to enjoy the entertainment and have a go at the activities.

The atmosphere was really special so thank you to everyone who made the event happen.

Brad Worley, Manager for the Derby Cathedral Quarter and St Peters Quarter BIDs, said:

St George’s Day celebrations are always a fantastic event in Derby and this year was no exception. St Peters Quarter and Cathedral Quarter BIDs were excited to help support the wide variety of performances on offer, and we hope that everybody had a wonderful time.

When events like this happen, the city comes to life, and it’s wonderful to see.