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Darlington’s free Rhythm & Tunes weekend celebrates 30 years of town-centre music

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Darlington’s Rhythm & Tunes Festival returns across 11 to 13 September, with free live music in Market Square and performances in town-centre venues.

By The Tees Editorial Desk · 2 September 2026

Rhythm & Tunes Festival artwork supplied by Darlington Borough Council Image: Darlington Borough CouncilImage source

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Darlington’s town centre is getting a full weekend of live music as Rhythm & Tunes returns from Friday 11 to Sunday 13 September.

The free festival marks 30 years since the first incarnation of the town’s Rhythm ’n’ Blues event. What began as a festival for blues fans has broadened over the years, while keeping live performance at the heart of the weekend.

Friday night spreads performances across town-centre venues before the main outdoor programme moves into Market Square. Saturday includes Blondied, Fu Fighters and Chilifornication, while Sunday’s line-up features The Boneshakers, The Addiction, John Verity Band and Band of Friends.

Darlington Borough Council lists the festival as free, with the Market Square programme supported by performances in venues around the town centre.

: Darlington Borough Council. Full timings and the downloadable festival programme are available through the source page.

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