A look at Darlington's summer events 2023
Darlington is home to a fantastic array of events for the family across the summer and school holidays. Whether you’ve got little ones who need entertaining, teens who want to do something trendy, or you just fancy taking yourself to an event for a day out, there’s something for everyone.
Take a look at the full list of Darlington’s summer events on our What's On page or take a look below for a quick rundown!
Darlington Arts Festival – From 10am-4pm on Saturday 20 May at Friends Meeting House, Skinnergate - Get creative this May with the Darlington Arts Festival hosted by Darlington 4 Culture. This is a showcase for arts organisations, individuals, groups, activities and venues across the area. Explore a wide range of stalls, a community hub and a programme of workshops.
Darlington Community Carnival – From 10am-5pm on Saturday 24 June - Are you ready to fill the town with sound and colour? The community carnival will be parading from the town centre to Stanhope Park with local groups in full costumes. There’ll also be plenty of stalls to browse, and lots of fun and games for the whole family.
Emergency Services Day – From 10am-4pm on Saturday 1 July - Honour our emergency services by paying them a visit in the Market Square. First responders will be there to demonstrate their skills, equipment and vehicles, as well as stalls and fun for the family.
Proms in the Park – From 3pm-7pm on Sunday 2 July - South Park will be filled with music for Proms In The Park and you’re invited! Join the crowds at the bandstand for music for all ages and tastes. Why not bring a picnic and settle in for a relaxed afternoon of fantastic live music?
Darlington by the Sea – From 11am-4pm on Monday 24 to Friday 28 July - We’re bringing the beach to Darlington’s Market Square again, so join us for five days of sun, sea and sand at this ever-popular annual event. Enjoy free sandcastle building in the giant sandpit, crafts, activities and more.
Darlington 10k – All held on Sunday 6 August - Join runners from across the country as they pound the town centre streets. There are several runs to get involved in: family fun run at 9am, junior 3k run at 9:45am, and the Darlington 10k at 10:30am. Find more info about entering the runs at www.enjoydarlington.co.uk/10k.
Darlington Pride – Get ready for a three-day Pride extravaganza across Darlington. There’ll be a Pride march, live music and street theatre on Saturday 12 August, our relaxed Pride in the Park picnic event on Sunday 13 August, and MonGay in the town centre bars on Monday 14 August. The bolder the outfit, the better!
Darlington R&B Festival – Friday 8 to Sunday 10 September - Now in its 27th year, this popular free music event will hit the town centre with another huge schedule of live bands over three days. Visit the Market Square for this year’s headliner and check out the new stage beside St. Cuthbert’s church.