Book now for Matlock Bath Illuminations 2013

Four firework nights will be staged this coming year – all in October – and the famous decorated boats parade will happen twice on these special nights, rather than just once as in previous years, starting at 7.45pm.

The 2013 Illuminations season runs until October 26, and on non-firework nights the boats will also parade slightly earlier at 7.45pm.

Additional entertainment in and around the bandstand in Derwent Gardens will happen only on Saturdays. Sundays will see a “quieter” presentation led by the Illuminations and the boats.

Prices are being adjusted accordingly in 2013. On Saturdays, with additional entertainment, it’s £5 adults and £4.50 over 60s. Accompanied children are free. On Sundays, with no additional entertainment, adults pay £4.50, over 60s £4.00 and children free.

Every year the famous Illuminations attract around 100,000 visitors to the village – at no cost to Derbyshire Dales Council Tax payers – and it’s advisable to book early to beat the queues.

Advance tickets are available from the Peak District Mining Museum and online at www.derbyshiredales.gov.uk/illuminations. Tickets are available on the night from the Ticket Office behind the Grand Pavilion in Matlock Bath.

The district council approved changes to the 2013 festival – the 116th Illuminations - at a meeting in February.

Environment Committee chairman Councillor Steve Bull said: “We are always looking at ways to improve how this fantastic tradition operates. The District Council’s key aim again this year will be to run the Illuminations at no cost to Council Tax payers while delivering another terrific boost to the local economy.

“The introduction of a second ticket office has significantly reduced queuing times, but it really does make sense to book in advance to beat the queues.

“What is undeniable also is that for a family of four including two young children, a night out for £10 represents excellent value for money.”

Regular Facebook updates as this year’s Illuminations approach are posted at www.facebook.com/matlockbathilluminations