Music and Entertainment...
This page will be updated as and when attractions, events and acts are confirmed. Please keep visiting this page for up-to-date information.
Although the management will do its best to ensure all the acts perform as agreed, the management cannot accept responsibility for late cancellation or alteration of performance times and reserves the right to change the acts featured without prior notice.
Thursday 15th May 2025 - Day Session
12noon-6.00pm
A day out for the real ale connoisseur – the first opportunity to sample the vast range of beers on offer at this year’s Festival. The Beer of the Festival and other category winners will be announced during the session.
Please note - there will be no train rides.
Thursday 15th May 2025 - Trade & VIP Session
12noon-6.00pm
An opportunity to meet other brewers, publicans and suppliers to the trade in the unique atmosphere of the Rail Ale Festival. Applications for trade session tickets should be emailed to tradesession@railalefestival.com.
If you would enjoy a chance to judge some of our competition beers please indicate this in your email. We would value your judgement and hope you will consider joining a panel.
VIP Rail Ale Lunch
Please email VIPevents@railalefestival.com for more information.
Thursday 15th May 2025 - Evening Session
6.30pm to 11.00pm
Rail Ale Rock Night with Flash
Flash has earned its place as the UK’s premier live Queen tribute band, dedicated to replicating the magic of Queen's iconic live performances. Endorsed by the BBC as "as close as it gets," Flash has mastered the art of capturing the raw energy and passion that defined Queen's legendary shows. No other tribute band comes close to emulating the musical prowess and stage presence that made Queen a global phenomenon.
Flash goes beyond the musical experience, offering a pure visual feast with authentic costumes and identical instruments, making every performance not just a musical treat but a visual spectacle.
Flash has headlined some of the UK’s largest festivals, including the annual Fake Festival Tour, Marvellous Festival, and GlastonBarry. The band has headlined at Glastonbudget, one of the UK's biggest tribute band festivals, and they have taken their tribute to Queen to international stages, regularly performing in Europe and captivating audiences around the world.
Supported by Brüde, taking you on a classic Rock ‘n Roll ride.
Please note this is an all-standing event.
Timings - TBC
Friday 16th May 2025
In the Marquee
Rocks and Frocks - Good time dance band playing classics from the 50s and 60s, always smart and always happy.
Main Stage
Jungle Lion – a10-piece SKA and Reggae covers band based in Sheffield, playing a wide variety of material including vintage 1960s SKA, 2Tone hits, Reggae classics and much more.
The full music line up will be confirmed in early 2025.
Saturday 17th May 2025
In the Marquee
Ashover Brass Band - A great local band that never fail to please the Rail Ale crowd!
Main Stage
The Crossroads Band – popular local classic rock band who drew quite a crowd at last year’s Rail Ale Festival.
Let’s ABBA Party – a fabulous tribute to the Swedish super group. A "smorgasboard" of entertainment with a sprinkling of humour and lots of fun!
The full music line up will be confirmed in early 2025.
Sunday 18th May 2025
Join us for a celebration of 25 years of the iconic and unique Rail Ale Festival with an afternoon session featuring some of the best country bands and artists in the UK. This very special event will bring Rail Ale’s 25th birthday party to a close with a celebration of the best of everything country.
Featuring:
Adam Harding – the UK’s top solo artist and member of the 21st Century Nashville Touring show
Saguaro – the East Midlands Number One country band
Shania and Friends – the UK’s leading tribute to Shania Twain This is a must not miss event for all lovers of Country music. It is also very much a family event – under 18s go free – so get your tickets booked today!
The full music line up will be confirmed in early 2025.
