DAY FEVER, the early-evening disco format that has been drawing multi-generational crowds across the UK, is to hold its first Leicester event later this month at the Athena venue.
The visit, on January 31, marks the latest stop on a tour that has expanded steadily since the concept was launched in Sheffield in 2024.
Picture credit: DAY FEVER
The project was founded by actress Vicky McClure, filmmaker and broadcaster Jonny Owen, and Jon McClure, frontman of Reverend & The Makers, working with brothers Chris and Jon McClure and businessman James O’Hara. Originally conceived as an informal idea shared between friends, the format centres on events running from mid-afternoon to 8pm, using historic ballrooms and town-centre venues more commonly associated with weddings and live performances.
Speaking about the Leicester date, Jon McClure recalled how the scheme began. “It started as a WhatsApp idea,” he said. “Jonny just said, ‘A daytime disco, how good would that be?’ We’re all a bit nuts, so we just said, ‘Come on then!’”
Athena, on Queen Street, will host the five-hour programme in its art-deco main hall. Local DJs are expected to lead the music selection, reflecting the tastes of Leicester audiences in a mix of Northern Soul, disco, indie and 1990s tracks. McClure noted that the atmosphere had been shaped largely by the crowds themselves rather than organisers. “It feels like a massive house party at your nan’s,” she said. “No drama, no egos, just people acting daft, getting dressed up, and having the best time.”
Venue managers in Leicester say the model has allowed sites such as Athena to attract new visitors while continuing their established night-time schedules. McClure added: “We’re out by 8, and then they’ve got a full night to run. It’s been a game-changer.”
Picture credit: DAY FEVER
Organisers believe the Leicester debut illustrates the broader appeal the movement has developed, with families and friendship groups attending together. Jon McClure said: “We’ve had people in remission, people grieving, people celebrating life. That’s powerful.”
The Leicester event takes place at Athena on Friday 31 January from 3pm to 8pm, with further dates planned in other Midlands cities during 2026.
