Free event celebrating Derby International Women’s Day includes giant puppet march and musical extravaganza

International Women’s Day Derby have announced a full schedule of events where people can enjoy celebrations in the city next month.

The event is a real celebration of cultural diversity in the city which features performances by Surtal Arts Choir, Rebel Women’s Choir and Anansi Theatre Drama Club for Girls of Colour. 

There will be singing, dancing and a musical extravaganza with an international flavour taking place in March. 

You can enjoy toe-tapping performances by Hoverla Ukrainian Dance Ensemble who will bring a flavour of Eastern Europe to the city of Derby. 

If you get itchy feet and want to have a go at dancing bhangra, then keep an eye out for Shakti Bhangra Dancers, who have a special audience dance-along planned, so you can practise your ‘lightbulb’ moves.

Read more: What's On in Derby?

If learning more about drumming is more your musical preference, then make time to watch Hands On Skin.

This leading West African outfit will be hosting a drumming and percussion session with audience participation, so you can get involved and have bucket loads of fun in the process.

When is International Women’s Day?

International Women's Day is on Friday, March 8, 2024.

It is a day where people celebrate cultural, economic, social and political achievements of women across the world.

In Derby, celebrations span two days covering Friday, March 8, and Saturday, March 9.

People can join in the free community celebrations in the very spot where Suffragettes spoke to large crowds to call for votes for women.

How you can get involved with International Women’s Day Derby celebrations

You can help make puppets that you can take along to the march. 

Join Spiral Arts, a collective of visual arts educators on the coming dates to get creative.

Chair of International Women’s Day Derby, Vanessa Boon said: “This is a heritage event that dates back to Suffragettes in the city.

“On Saturday there will be a huge marquee built overnight where live entertainment, stalls and more will be hosted in the city.

“There will also be a fire engine crewed by women who are local firefighters, which is an important visual, especially for young people who could be inspired by these positive role models.”

International Women's Day Derby is a volunteer-led award-winning non-profit community association working for a safer, fairer, brighter future for women and girls.

Full line up of events at Derby International Women’s Day

Friday March 8

Speakers throughout the day, both in-person and online.

7.30pm - 10.30pm Open mic night at Déda 

Listen to powerful poetry, songs of protest and affirmation including performances by International Women's Day Derby Rebel Women’s Choir.

This is a ticketed event, more information can be found by clicking here.

Saturday March 9

11am Market Place Marquee

The day starts with a neuro-divergent-friendly Quiet Hour that will feature changemakers and trailblazers.

This is perfect for anyone seeking a gentle experience before amplified music begins from 12pm. 

There will be over 30 stalls highlighting causes and campaigns, Derby Speaks Up project, a fire engine crewed by women who are local firefighters and more.

11am Women’s Rights March - The Spot

March with the giant protest puppet HERoes and placards for women worldwide. 

The group will march, chalk, chant and sing around the city centre, heading to the Market Place Marquee for 12pm.

12pm - 4pm the space will be buzzing with live multicultural performances, crafts, activities, sports demos, inspiring role models, family fun, food stalls and more.

For more information about International Women’s Day Derby visit their website by clicking here.