Chesterfield News

Chesterfield to be lit up once again this Christmas

Chesterfield Borough Council is once again hosting its spectacular Christmas Lights Switch On in the historic marketplace, marking the start of the festive season in the town.

Taking place on Sunday 20th November, the Christmas Lights Switch On is a firm favourite in the festive calendar, and it will include stage show entertainment from 3pm, festive market stalls and the lights switch on itself at 4.45pm.

Some of the Sleeping Beauty pantomime cast will be coming along to the stage show too, tickets are now on sale to see Sleeping Beauty at Chesterfield’s Winding Wheel Theatre. You can find out more and book tickets online.

Shrek will be making personal appearances at intervals between 12pm and 3pm outside the Visitor Information Centre in Rykneld Square ahead of the lights being turned on.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “This will be a magical event in the heart of Chesterfield, and everyone is welcome to come along. The Christmas lights switch on is one of our most popular events of the year, so please ensure you allow plenty of time to park or arrive by public transport, wrap up warm and enjoy the event.”

Elsewhere across Chesterfield, there is lots going on throughout the festive season for everyone to enjoy.

Meet Santa in the Market Hall

Bookings for Santa’s Grotto in the Market Hall are now open.

Santa will be welcoming visitors into his grotto from 20 November and tickets must be booked in advance either online or by contacting the Visitor Information Centre.

The price is £6.50p per person, which includes a present.

Markets

A number of markets will be taking place where you can pick up a unique gift or two from one of Chesterfield’s great selection of independent retailers. The traditional and speciality markets will take place on:

  • Vegan Market – 6 November and 4 December
  • Record Fair – 13 November and 11 December
  • Artisan Market – 27 November and 18 December

Visit Revolution House

If you are looking for a traditional family Christmas activity, why not take a trip to Revolution House.  The house will be open and decorated for Christmas with traditional greenery, including a kissing bough, and a flower festival with arrangements throughout the house, created by volunteers.

The house will be open from Thursday 8 December to Saturday 24 December, 11am to 3pm. Admission is free, but donations are gratefully accepted.

The house will also host a carol concert on Thursday 8 December at 6.30pm with members of Holymoorside Band. Carol sheets will be provided, and we suggest everyone attending wears appropriate clothing and brings a torch (although there will be some lighting on site).

Elf Trail

The Elf Trail is back for another year to provide fun for the whole family this Christmas.

They will be hiding in the windows of our local shops and venues waiting for you to find them from 21 November 2022 to 4 January 2023. Spot them all and you could win a fabulous family prize.

You can keep up to date with everything happening in Chesterfield this Christmas by visiting our festive web page. The page includes fabulous local gift guides, tips on getting the best food and drink from independent Chesterfield businesses, fun competitions, fesitive activities and much more!

Josh Marsh

Destination Chesterfield Coordinator (Investment and Marketing)

Email Josh
Christmas tree with a bauble showing the Crooked Spire

Put a twist on tradition this Christmas in Chesterfield

Many exciting events are happening across Chesterfield including spending time together at the family-friendly Christmas Lights Switch On, getting creative at crafting workshops, cruising the canal with Santa, laughing out loud at the Cinderella Pantomime.

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