From parades, historic competitions and a 148-year rivalry, there’s plenty going on in Denbigh on Boxing Day and Lock Stock Self Storage will be in the heart of the action as the primary sponsor.

Here’s everything you need to know about one of Denbigh’s biggest days.

What’s going on?

Boxing Day is one of the biggest days in Denbigh and we’re proud to be involved with proceedings. This year the traditional Roll the Barrel event will take place at the top of town along with a parade of tractors and horses, all followed by a Vale of Clwyd Derby between Denbigh Town and Ruthin Town.

What time is it on?

The day begins with the vintage tractor run beginning at the top of Vale Street and moving down at 10am, crowds can gather along Vale Street to watch the parade where machines of old will showcase themselves to those in attendance. After this, a parade of horses and hounds will come up the other way.

The historic Roll the Barrell competition begins at 11am where there is a junior competition followed by the adults. This is set to conclude after midday. Those looking to get involved can sign up on the day at the command centre in the square.

A short walk down town to Central Park will take you to the crucial Vale of Clwyd Derby between Denbigh Town and Ruthin. The match will kick-off at 1pm in what will be a tightly contested affair. Extra bars and food will be on site for a bumper crowd of unmissable action.

Denbigh Town score a late winner in the Vale of Clwyd Derby against Ruthin Town – December 2023

Timeline:

  • 10am: Vintage Tractor Run
  • 11am:  Lock Stock All Wales Welsh Barrell Championship
  • 1pm: Denbigh Town v Ruthin Town at Central Park

How much does it cost?

The morning events are completely free whilst admission for adults to the Derby is £7.

Will there be food and drink?

Yes, food and drink will be available at the top of town on the morning including tea, coffee, breakfast baps and more. 

What is Roll the Barrel?

Roll the Barrell is a 70+ year tradition that has taken place in Denbigh with the unique event drawing thousands to the town. The event aims to bring people together for this time-honoured tradition that brings people back every year. Competitors race to roll beer casks around a square course to determine the champion of Wales. It is open to both adults and juniors in their respective classes and anyone can enter.

Denbigh’s Annual Roll the Barrel competition – December 2023

What is the Vale of Clwyd Derby?

The Vale of Clwyd Derby is a football match played between Denbigh Town and Ruthin Town. The two sides are separated by just seven miles and both compete in the JD Cymru North, the second division in Wales. This will be the 78th league match between the two sides with teams from the two towns competing against each other for 148 years.  

Can I Make a Donation?

Bucket collections will be held with proceedings going to Denbigh Rotary Club, we encourage anyone who can to donate and bring change with them. Prizes can also be won on the day for spectators.