The annual Treetops Hospice Moonlight Walk is returning this autumn, promising to be bigger and brighter than ever. The evening fundraiser will see hundreds of supporters light up Derby as they walk in memory of loved ones while raising funds for the hospice.
New Route and Entertainment
Participants will follow a brand new, fully-marshalled route, choosing between 6km or 11km distances. The walk begins at Derby Market Hall and passes several of the city's best-known landmarks. This year's walk features a refreshed line-up of entertainment, including choirs, drummers, circus performers and more. The theme is 'cowboy and western', with prizes to be won for best accessories and best team name.
The event is one of the most successful annual fundraisers for the charity. Last year it raised more than £40,000 for the community-based palliative care for adults and its counselling services for people who are bereaved.
Fundraising Impact
Alicja Sankowski, relationships manager for key events at Treetops Hospice, said: "We can’t wait to welcome everyone back for this year’s refreshed Moonlight Walk. It’s an uplifting event where friends, families and the wider community come together in celebration and remembrance, and we’ve added lots of new elements to make this year’s walk feel even more special. This event is such an important fundraiser for Treetops. The money raised helps us provide crucial care and emotional support for families across the region, from counselling and wellbeing services to specialist end-of-life at home."
Partnership with Hotpod Yoga
Another new addition for 2026 is a partnership with Derby-based Hotpod Yoga, which has chosen Treetops Hospice as its local charity partner. The collaboration was inspired by owner Leah McLaren’s personal experience of losing her father. Now settled into its new home at The Cube in Allestree, Hotpod Yoga runs its classes inside a striking purple pod, heated to a natural body temperature of 37 degrees.
As part of the partnership, the studio will be hosting a cool-down taster session during the walk and offering a free relaxation and recovery class for all participants to book at a time that suits them afterwards. Leah commented: "From the very beginning, my wonderful Dad was one of Hotpod Yoga’s biggest supporters. He sadly died in hospital without ever having the chance to receive hospice care. If raising awareness means even one more family can receive the incredible, essential support that Treetops offers, then that’s what matters most."
Event Details
The evening event will take place on Friday, September 18, 2026. To sign up for the Treetops Moonlight Walk, visit the Treetops Hospice website.
