This weekend was to see the City of Derry Jazz Festival return for another year of streets filled with the sound of jazz music, entertainment and locals/tourists soaking up the atmosphere - we're pretty gutted it couldn't go aheadr. It's also a BIG weekend of trade for many independent businesses in the city and unfortunately this year they can't open their doors to welcome you all. BUT... there are ways you can still make this weekend an enjoyable one from the your own home, here's our guide to Jazz Fest 2020 - lockdown style.
1. JAZZ FESTIVAL SOFA SESSIONS
The Jazz Fesitval has gone virtual, for one year only (we hope). You can still catch live sofa sessions from many of the fantastic acts who were due to arrive in the city and take to the jazz stage this weekend. Get all the info on who's playing and what time via the City of Derry Jazz Festival page.
2. CRAFT BEER & COCKTAILS TO YOUR DOORSTEP
Next up, once you've managed to get your live videos up and running and the jazz music is nice and loud, you're gonna need a cocktail or beer in your hand. And luckily for you, you can still enjoy your favourite cocktails and local beers, straight to your doorstep:
WALLED CITY BREWERY are delivering their very own tap fresh beer including the new addition 'Joe Exotic tropical pale ale.' They've also added a number of cocktails to the mix using their new Earhart premium gin. Orders can be made and paid for here.
GUILDHALL TAPHOUSE are delivering 5 cocktails for £25.00 incl delivery. Served in mason jars, all you gotta do is add ice and enjoy. Make your orders via their Facebook page here and get them in early to avoid disappointment.
GEE'S WINE SHOP are also open for collection orders and deliveries via iWantFed. These guys stock many local craft beers including Dopey Dick brewing co, Northbound brewery, Roughbrothers & more! Get all the info here.
3. TIME FOR FOOD
Jazz Festival calls for tasty food, and Panang curry sounds perfect. Mekong Street Food are offering a collection service from their restaurant on Magazine Street. Orders will be limited at busier times. If you would like to pre order you must message their Facebook page here with your name, address, contact no, your order and preferred collection time. Open 2pm-8pm.
And if collection of food is something you can't do, not to worry, many independents are also delivering including Nonna's Wood fired Pizza's. You can order your favourite pizza's online here.
4. SOMETHING SWEET
You're gonna need something sweet as your watch the big bands from your sofa, and it is a bank holiday after all. Primrose cafe are currently taking orders for their 9x9inch rocky roads, which look DREAMY. Chocolate brownie kits and scone kits also available. You can order yours here. Note: these may sell out fast.
5. THE COFFEE CURE
If you're heads feeling a little heavy tomorrow morning, make your way to 9ine Hostages Coffee on Waterloo Street and grab a coffee to go. They are also selling retail coffee, sourdough bread and other baked goods which will be sure to perk you up. Strict covid protocols in place, serving from 11am.
....
Then we suppose you gotta do it all over again! Jazz Festival Sofa Sessions are running all weekend until 10th May.
You can view our handy list of all the independent businesses who are operating a collection or delivery service during covid-19 HERE. Over 40 places you can still support during what would of been a busy weekend. Stay safe x