Top Derby changemaker’s Re:Imagine gig aims to be ‘unique festival with purpose’

A free festival that aims to unite the people of Derby in a wave of positivity is set to take place over the summer.

Organisers say Re:Imagine Festival is ‘more than a festival and start of a movement’.

On Saturday, September 21, 2024, people will gather at Electric Daisy, one of the city’s leading communal gardens and events space. 

The day will be filled with family-friendly events, engaging workshops and sustainability-focused projects, all free of charge.

Live entertainment which will start in the evening will include music from local artists, plus a headline act.

A brass band will lead a river parade and there will also be interactive events such as Pimp My Wheelbarrow competition on Sadler Gate, and Chalk Play, taking over the entire Market Square.

Re:Imagine Derby is a collaboration between Down To Earth and the University of Derby.

Speaking to Derby World, founder of Down To Earth Derby, Jamie Quince-Starkey - who is also one of the city’s influential changemakers, said: “The festival is a starting point to bring people together to see the city centre in a different light, in a different way.

“We all know what local cultural organisations, and wider Derby, is going through.

“We’ve all seen it, our high street isn’t what it used to be, and hearing Derby ranked as one of the worst places to visit stings. 

“Our city’s been through some tough times, and it’s easy to feel like the heart’s gone out of it. 

“But let’s be clear - Derby’s not done yet. 

“The power to bring our city back lies within us, its people. 

“With the right spark, we can reimagine our streets, our culture, and our community.

“What if we could bring the city together to imagine what this would look like? Change isn’t just possible—it’s coming.

“The thing we need to do is come together and reimagine, create vibes for people to realise what Derby is all about.

“We are a nature-based organisation, things we’ll be exploring is the regeneration journey, because it needs to happen. 

“There’s going to be a couple of surprises. We’re in the process of getting a headline act, there will be local talent platformed and much more.

“Interactive and engagement activities means people will be able to see what Derby can be in the future, and how we can make that happen.

“There will be food, our bar will be open so it is set to be a great day out.”

Here is everything you need to Re:Imagine Derby 2024

Date: Saturday, September 21, 2024, from 10am - 10.30pm

Location: Electric Daisy, 1-4 Bold Lane, Derby DE1 3NT

There will be a range of activities to engage and inspire people of all ages.

10am - 5pm: Electric Daisy will host an action packed day of interactive workshops, family-friendly events, and sustainability-focused projects, all free of charge.

3pm: Parade to River Derwent led by modern brass band King Brasstards

5pm - 10.30pm: Live music performances, including headline act, that is yet to be confirmed. 

People are invited by Electric Daisy to ‘join the movement’, come together, support local businesses and enjoy delicious food. 

For more information click here.