As the 2023-24 PDC World Darts Championships draw to a close, Alexandra Palace has once again become a stage for extravagant fancy dress. Fans flock to the venue not only for the arrows but also for the chance to don creative costumes and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Photographer Tom Jenkins set up a makeshift studio at Ally Pally to capture the sartorial choices of attendees. Among them, Lucas Wehenger from Austria dressed as the Pope, attending for the fifth time, calling it 'perfect'. Fred Nathan from Finchley came as a chicken, continuing a seven-year tradition with his group, which has previously dressed as bowling balls and Mario characters.
First-timers also embraced the spirit: Thomas Russell from Essex chose a shark costume, noting it was 'nice and warm', while Kyle Healy from Cork came as Ali G, inspired by childhood TV. Ryan Morgan from Bristol dressed as a lobster to raise awareness for the endangered species, travelling from Bristol by train in costume.
Other highlights included Jack Sherwood as a crayon, Dave Hailey as Ronald McDonald, and John Kerslake-Smith as Donkey Kong. Mirko Spieker from Germany chose Eddie the Eagle as 'the stupidest' option for his 40th birthday. Dan Terry, dressed as a penguin, summed up the event: 'It's a brilliant night out.' The consensus is that while the drama of darts is unmatched, the banter and beer make the experience truly special.
