Live music after racing each day on Derby weekend

QWEEN will rock the Curragh on ‘Funky Friday’ next weekend with their brilliant authentic and much acclaimed show after racing. They have wowed audiences with a theatrical show that brings the audience right back in time to the front row of a classic Queen gig, performing all their best known songs.

Newbridge native Lea Heart will headline the post-race party on Saturday in the new Festival Quarter, while the fabulous Spring Break will continue the Irish Derby day celebrations on Sunday, playing hits of the 80s and 90s.

The Newbridge Gospel Choir will welcome racegoers on Saturday and Sunday, while the Naas Hospital Choir will perform on Friday. A variety of other local musicians will entertain racegoers throughout the venue over all three days.

Curragh launch new Festival Quarter beside parade ring

A NEW lively entertainment zone will be opened to all racegoers at the Curragh next weekend. Located close to the parade ring and pre-parade ring, the Festival Quarter has great views overlooking the parade ring and it will be the base for the ‘most stylish’ competitions on Saturday and Sunday. The area will also feature live music from Lea Heart on Saturday and Spring Break on Sunday after racing.

New Derby Lawn family area

THERE will be a variety of free activities for younger racegoers on Saturday and Sunday available on the Derby Lawn located in the west end of the venue.

More food and drink options

THE Derby Festival will feature a wide variety of food and beverage options throughout the venue including Orbys by Lucy, Shoda, Sweet Cheeses, Kildare Farm Foods and The Beanery, all in partnership with Fitzers Catering.

Free shuttle bus to races

THE Curragh offers a free shuttle bus service from Newbridge, picking up at the train station and outside Riverbank Theatre and Eddie Rockets in the Main Street. From Kildare, the shuttles pick up at the train station and in the Square at the bus stop. A free service from Naas collects at Poplar Square. This initiative is sponsored by Manguard Plus. Expressway offer a direct bus return service from Dublin to the Curragh on Saturday and Sunday only – collecting at Busaras and Red Cow (Luas). To reserve your place see expressway.ie

There is plenty of free car parking at the venue.