20 Sep 2025
As the city settles into the rhythm of autumn, The Pioneer Club is turning up the volume with a dynamic and diverse programme of events that promises to entertain, inspire, and bring the community together.
From grassroots music events to nostalgic club nights and quizzes, the historic venue – known for its deep roots in youth culture and live music – is once again proving why it’s
one of Hertfordshire’s most beloved cultural hubs.
The season kicks off tonight with Escape to the City, a one-day independent music festival showcasing 13 alternative/indie artists across two stages. Acts include alt-rock powerhouse
Dear Tash, local indie favourites Kodi, and BBC-supported rising star Kynsy. Expect a vibrant mix of alt-pop, folk, and experimental sounds — all under one roof.
Next Wednesday sees the return of their popular Young Pioneers U18 Open Mic night.
Commercial director Jon Prayer said: “We know the open mic scene can feel a bit intimidating when you’re just starting out – so we’re creating a chilled, welcoming space for young performers aged 14-18 to share their music in front of a supportive crowd. This event they are joined by local DJ, producer and singer songwriter 1111 who will be talking through her journey and offering tips and advice for the aspiring young artists.
Wednesday October 1 sees a rare treat for fans of The Zombies, with an intimate event featuring a full playback of Odessey and Oracle, followed by a conversation with band members Colin Blunstone and Chris White discussing the album.
In a major coup for the venue, and fresh from his tour of North America, Mark Webber – guitarist with the band PULP – will be at Pioneer on Sunday October 12 to discuss his new book ‘I’m with PULP are you?’ and his life and times in one of the biggest bands around right now.
Club nights are also big on the agenda! It’s A Sin, the alternative to 80s pop nights returns for another installment of the best in electro, indie, punk and new wave. If you prefer your Depeche Mode to your Rick Astley then this is the night for you!
If quizzes are more your thing then there are two coming up. Firstly there is Book Club Battle a quiz for anyone interested in books. This edition sees local authors Rachael Block
and Clare Swatman hosting as teams battle it out for first place!
Keeping the music side alive there is also the second Empire Records music quiz. This event is always good fun and
offers rounds played out live on vinyl by the Empire team, and with an encyclopedic knowledge of all genres of music this really is one for fans of all music.
Chair of trustees Matt Bigg said: “We are a charity, a live music venue, and the oldest indoor skatepark in the UK, all of these combine to create an incredible community space. With this diverse range of events there really is something for everyone, and with the profits from these events we are able to keep the doors open and keep serving the community through our charity work including our EBSA support group.”
Tickets for all events are available via the Pioneer Club website www.pioneerclub.co.uk/pioneer-events.
