Over 40,000 visited Derry for the annual City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival, according to organisers Derry City and Strabane District Council.
The five-day event, which came to a close last night, has been a major success with record numbers flocking to the city to enjoy the eclectic mix of jazz, soul, funk and rhythm and blues.
Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Councillor Elisha McCallion, said she was delighted at the fantastic turnout.
She added: “There’s no doubt that Derry is the place to be for music lovers over the May Bank Holiday weekend.
“The atmosphere is just fantastic and I think you would struggle to find a more diverse music event anywhere in the world.
“The Jazz Festival is just as popular among the bands as the listeners and we have a dedicated following of artists who return time and again because they get such a warm reception.
“Once again we’ve seen upwards of 40,000 people out and about in the city over the weekend, and hotel occupancy was great this year – there wasn’t a bed to be had on Saturday night with accommodation at full capacity.
“The event has a major impact on the local economy and venues right across the city have benefitted from a big jump in business over recent days. It’s events like these which continue to boost the city’s reputation as a fantastic visitor destination.”
Events organiser with Derry City and Strabane District Council, Andrea Campbell, said she was delighted that the Festival had been so well attended.
“We spend all year planning the Festival and it’s so fantastic to see it all come together and the people here turning out in force once again to support it. Derry people are always ready to enjoy themselves, and the atmosphere over the weekend has just been amazing.
“It was great to see so many international visitors here enjoying the craic and seeing the city at its very best.
“We’ve had some great feedback from the local venues, and from the bands who we know love the Derry crowds. It’s been an amazing success – now it’s back to the drawing board to plan something even better for next year.”
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