chesterfield events

Chesterfield Christmas Lights Switch On promises fun for the whole family

Residents and visitors can get into the festive spirit as Chesterfield’s annual Christmas Lights Switch On returns for 2021.

There will be a variety of entertainers performing throughout the day and a market that will allow shoppers to grab a Christmas bargain. The event takes place on Sunday 21 November from 12 noon to early evening, with the switch on happening at 4.45pm.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “The Christmas Lights Switch On is one of our most popular events attracting thousands of people each year and for many families it is a Christmas tradition.

“We’ve got lots planned this year to keep the whole family entertained throughout the day. I am delighted that it could return this year, and I hope lots of people will come along and have a great day out whilst shopping local and supporting local businesses.”

The stage show will be held in New Square and there will be a variety of different performers including choirs, dancing robots and children’s characters.

A market will run alongside this event in the Market Square and the Market Hall will be open so shoppers can start picking up presents from local businesses.

Market stalls are available to book for this event, these can be booked for £15 by visiting:  www.chesterfield.gov.uk/markettrading

The Christmas Lights Switch On is a key element of the Christmas in Chesterfield campaign which aims to encourage people to visit Chesterfield town centre and support local businesses this Christmas.

Other activities planned include the return of the Amazing Magical Santa House and Elf Trail which were very popular last year. A series of walkabout entertainers including stilt walkers, carol singers and tap-dancing turkeys. The Crooked Spire will also be hosting its Christmas Tree Festival and Beauty and the Beast pantomime will be at the Pomegranate Theatre.

More details on the entertainment schedule will be released closer to the event. Find out more at:http://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-christmas-market-and-lights-switch-on/

 

Chesterfield Christmas Market and Lights Switch on

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Inaugural Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k hailed a success  

The first-ever Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k has been hailed a great success by organisers, event partners and participants after more than 1,300 runners took part in the event on Sunday 17 October.

Thomas Shaw was the first to cross the 10k finish line with a time of 00:33:32 with Emma Holt the first female to finish in a time of 00:41:12

The oldest participant in the event was David Onion, aged 81, and Daniel Greatorex was the youngest at 15.

Max Taylor (10), and Sophie Bramley (12), were the winners of the City Taxi’s Fun Run, which took place within the boundaries of Queen’s Park in tandem with the main event.

Around 15 organisations also took part in the first Pronto Paints Wellbeing Challenge, a team entry into the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k’s events.

The event also helped raise thousands for good causes across the region, with £59,000 pledged for charities including main charity partners – Redbrik Community Foundation, Chesterfield-based Ashgate Hospicecare and North Anston-based Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, along with many other charities selected by the runners from across the region.

Following the event, John Timms, Event Director of the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k said: “We launched the 10k event in 2020 with a view to providing a fantastic experience for both participants and the local community, and as a way of generating revenue for the event’s charity partners.

“It was truly amazing to see how many people turned out to support the event, both in Queen’s Park at the start/finish line and out on route.

“We are extremely grateful to everyone who contributed to making the event a success once more – including event partners and sponsors, and of course all those who took part.

“A special mention must go to all the volunteers who helped out on race day – who gave up their Sunday morning to help keep everything running smoothly, to assist runners and to help the general public. Without them, this event simply would not be possible, so a big thank you to everyone who helped out.

“I also want to thank anyone who was affected by the road disruptions across Chesterfield for their understanding throughout the day.

“Most importantly, however, the money raised by this event will go a long way to helping good causes like the Redbrik Community Foundation, Ashgate Hospicecare and Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, and other charities all of which do so much fantastic work in the local community.”

David Cooper, Trustee of headline sponsor the Redbrik Community Foundation and a participant in the 10k said: “We are very proud to support this event, which has so much goodwill from all involved. It has been great to give something back to the town, who have continually supported our estate agency business, Redbrik, since we opened nearly nine years ago.

“The course really showcased what a beautiful town chesterfield is and when I was running it felt like the entire town had come out to support all the runners. It was wonderful.

“We love this town and we want to see it thrive. Events such as this help to do that, with huge numbers of people coming to Chesterfield from all parts of the country to support, contribute or take part. We can’t wait until 2022 already!”

Redbrik Estate Agents and Ashgate Hospicecare support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Road closures confirmed ahead of Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k

Organisers of this year’s Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k race have confirmed road closures for the event, which takes place this Sunday, 17th October.

The route starts and finishes in Queens Park and will be centered on the heart of Chesterfield, taking in major landmarks such as the town’s famous crooked spire. It will also feature service and cheer stations on the course and will have a later 10am start.

Runners can sign up to the City Taxis Fun Run on the day at the Race Information Point in Queens Park.

In accordance with traffic authority regulations for Derbyshire County Council, an order has been made prohibiting and restricting the use of certain roads and road junctions by vehicles in order to facilitate the safe holding of the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K.

The event will require the closure of roads and road junctions, car parking restrictions as well as the suspension of a number of Traffic Regulation Orders between 07:00 until 13:00 on Sunday 17th October 2021.

A full list of closures, including approximate times, is provided below. You can find out more about the event and how you can get involved on the day at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-10k/

Chesterfield 10K Road Closures

Chesterfield 10K Parking Restrictions

Meanwhile, event organisers are set to launch the Pronto Paints Schools Wellbeing Challenge 2021 on Friday 15 October.

School children from across Chesterfield are set to take part in the event at Queen’s Park which promotes health and wellbeing among young people in our area.

Daniel Thompson, Head of Physical Education at Brookfield Community School, one of the schools taking part, said: “As a community school, when we were given the opportunity to be part of the first ever running festival to link with the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K, we did not hesitate.

“We are excited to be able to give our students the chance to participate in an event that not only challenges them, but is great for their health and well-being.  The fact that it is supporting such a worthwhile charitable event that such as the Chesterfield 10K that lots of our school community will be engaging in is even more reason to take part.  MLS have been amazing in the support they have provided and in setting up.  I can’t thank them enough.”

David Beckford, Managing Director of Pronto Paints, added: “We are very proud to sponsor this event. Anything which encourages children to focus on exercise and wellbeing is fantastic.

“In addition to this event, we are headline sponsors of the Pronto Paints Wellbeing Challenge, which is a great way for local businesses to join together and raise money for local charities.

“We are hoping to make the schools challenge an annual event and hopefully it will even bigger and better next year.”

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Comic-Con returns to Chesterfield this October

Chesterfield Comic-Con is back at Queens Park Sports Centre this October, with organisers promising yet another geeky, fun-filled event.

The Dark Lord, Darth Vader aka Spencer Wilding will be available for guests to meet on the day and he is sure to entice you over to the Dark Side of the comic-con galaxy. This will be Spencer’s first convention appearance in nearly two years.

Spencer is an actor, special creature performer and a martial artist. Although, he is well known for his role as Darth Vader in Star Wars Rogue One, Spencer has also appeared in so many other great movies and TV programs such as Doctor Who, Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw, Men in Black: International, Guardians of the Galaxy, Green Street 3: Never Back Down, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2, Game of Thrones andbBatman Begins.

Joining Spencer will be Phill Martin and Billy Mansell. Phill Martin is a giant of an actor, standing at 7ft tall, and he has used this to his advantage gaining roles as a ‘Ghost Engineer’ for Ridley Scott in Prometheus, he then quickly went on to secure roles in Jack the Giant Slayer and Joe Wright’s Pan. Phill has also worked in TV playing ‘Thomas Garlic’ in ITV Encore production The Frankenstein Chronicles and also ‘Lanky John’ in the BBC comedy production Mountain Goats. His other experience has included short films ‘Joe Wilkinson & David Earles Summer : Giddy up Gunty’ for the Sky comedy shorts summer season and also competition winning short ‘The Confession’.

Billy Mansell started his acting career after attending comic-cons as a cosplayer. Billy is a huge fan of Alien and had a dream come true when he secured a role on set playing an iconic engineer. Billy’s film roles didn’t stop there and he landed parts in big films such as Jurassic World 2, Fantastic Beasts 2 (Crimes of Grindelwald) Detective Pikachu and king of Thieves Mission Impossible Fallout, plus had roles in some major TV programmes like Eastenders, League of Gentlemen and most recently Outlander S5. All three actors are available to meet as well as to sign photos or memorabilia as well as offer advice to any budding Chesterfield actors.

Other displays on offer for visitors include a photo opportunity inside the mouth of Jaws from Steven Spielberg’s classic movie series, or even the Gremlins cinema set. There’s also the massive Transformers Bumblebee, the Superheroes Cosplay Group, The Mos Eisley Misfits in their Star Wars costumes and even Daleks for any timelords in the town.

As well as guests and attractions there are comic creators, authors and loads of geeky traders with tons of geeky toys, comics, collectables, art, jewellery, VR gaming and more…

Attendees are also encouraged to dress-up as a TV, movie, game or anime character and entering the cosplay competition with a chance to win prizes on the day.

Sharon Hall of Unleashed Events said: “Our previous events in Chesterfield have always been so popular and it is great to be back!

“As usual there is loads of geeky stuff going on for you to see and do as well as geeky traders where you can purchase items that you simply won’t find on the high street. Our events are not just for the ‘geeky’ they are for people of all ages who want to come along and enjoy a great day out, something that all the family can enjoy with loads of photo opportunities to be had!”

Find out more about the event here: Chesterfield Unleashed comic-con – Destination Chesterfield | Destination Chesterfield

 

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See the sparks fly at annual fireworks event

Chesterfield is set to be lit up as Chesterfield Borough Council’s fireworks extravaganza returns.

The council have partnered with Chesterfield Football Club to deliver the entertainment at this year’s fireworks extravaganza.

The event takes place at Stand Road Park on Friday 5 November, the gates will open at 4.30pm and close at 9pm.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “Our fireworks event is one of the most popular in the calendar with thousands of people coming along each year.

“It’s fantastic to be partnering with the football club to deliver this year’s event and I’m sure they will make it a great evening for everyone. Please wrap up warm, wear suitable footwear and come along to join in the fun.”

Bridget Ball, marketing manager at Chesterfield FC, said: “We are delighted to have been given the opportunity to organise and host this event, which is very popular.

“As a football club owned by a Community Trust, we are always looking at ways of engaging with the local community and this is an ideal opportunity to do that.”

The fireworks display will begin at the family-friendly time of 7pm and there will also be a selection of fairground rides and food vendors. There will be live entertainment for crowds to enjoy both before and after the fireworks.

Entry to the event is £2 per person – free for children under five. Visitors are asked to have the exact money ready as change cannot be given.

Parking for the event will be available at Chesterfield FC’s Technique Stadium for a donation of £3 per car, which will help cover the cost of stewards with any excess being given to charity.

There is also a bus stop on Sheffield Road which is less than a two-minute walk from the park, find more details about bus services that stop here on the Stagecoach website.

Visitors are reminded that they should not attend this event if they are experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms, including a high temperature, a new or continuous cough or a loss of their sense of smell or taste. There will also be plenty of space at Stand Road to ensure visitors can maintain social distancing.

The fireworks extravaganza is one of a series of events organised by Chesterfield Borough Council.

More information about entertainment and safety at the event will be released soon.

Chesterfield Football Club and Chesterfield Borough Council  support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Vicar Lane Shopping Centre to host spooktacular Halloween

Visitors to Vicar Lane Shopping Centre in Chesterfield should prepare themselves for a right howl this Halloween as the Centre is set to celebrate the spookiest night of the year.

Families are encouraged to head to Vicar Lane’s pumpkin patch from 10am – 4pm on Saturday 23rd October, where they’ll be able to take their pick of a great collection of pumpkins and get a menacing makeover from the face painter. All completely free.

Vicar Lane has also teamed up with fellow Chesterfield Champion, Salute Prosecco to offer customers the chance to celebrate with a special outdoor screening of Hocus Pocus on the big screen on Saturday 23rd October at 6:30pm.

Spaces are limited and are expected to go fast, so anyone interested in the event is being advised to book early to avoid disappointment: https://www.salute-prosecco.com/open-air-cinema-packages.

Food and drink packages are also available to purchase from Salute, including pizzas and cheeseboards.

Shaun Brown, Operations Manager, Vicar Lane said, “We’re really looking forward to welcoming the people of Chesterfield to Vicar Lane to help us celebrate Halloween. We’re sure it will be a spooktacular day of fun!’’

Based in the heart of Chesterfield, Vicar Lane Shopping Centre is  home to a range of popular high-street retailers and a mix of unique independent stores. It is also the home to popular independent cafes, such as The Vintage Tearooms and Qoozies.

There’s plenty happening across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire throughout the October half-term and during Halloween. Find out more about what’s on in the town on our half-term page here: Half Term in Chesterfield | Destination Chesterfield

For more activities taking place across Chesterfield, head over to our events page: Chesterfield Events | Destination Chesterfield

Salute and Vicar Lane support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Volunteers required for the 2021 Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k

Charity partners of the 2021 Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k are on the lookout for volunteers to get involved with this year’s event, which takes place on 17th October, beginning at 10am from Queen’s Park, Chesterfield.

Volunteer marshals will help to play a key role in the success of the event and will be stationed at various points around the 10k course, assisting and supporting participants, local residents and spectators.

John Timms, Event Director, said: “Due to the pandemic cancelling the 2020 event, we are eager to make this year’s 10k memorable whilst fundraising in support of the local charities; Ashgate Hospicecare, Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice and The Redbrik Foundation.

“We are calling on volunteers to support Ashgate Hospicecare and Bluebell Wood and all the runners, cheer them on and get them around the course safely.

“The 10k is also a great way to gather the local communities back together again after a difficult past year during the pandemic and what better way to come together than supporting these charities that provide extremely valuable services.”

Carl Jones, Fundraising Manager at Ashgate Hospicecare, added: “I would like to personally encourage individuals to take the opportunity to get involved.

“If you can spare a few hours, it’s such a rewarding experience to witness the determination of the runners, as well as the amazing community spirit of the supporting locals.

“Access to marshal points is very straightforward and all volunteers are well looked after before and during the race.”

If you are aged 18 or older and are interested in volunteering at the 2021 Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k, contact the events team at Ashgate Hospicecare on 01246 233404 or email events@ashgatehospicecare.org.uk.

The Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k will take in some of Chesterfield’s most prominent landmarks, starting and finishing in the famous Queen’s Park.

You can find out more about the event in a conversation with Event Director, John Timms and The Redbrik Foundation’s David Cooper on the latest episode of The Chesterfield Show Podcast, now available on Spotify.

Redbrik  supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

competition

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Ashgate Hospicecare appeals for volunteers to help with Sparkle Night Walk

Ashgate Hospicecare is appealing for volunteers to come forward and support one of the biggest fundraising events of the year, the Sparkle Night Walk 2021.

The popular event is set to return this weekend, Saturday, 25th September, after being cancelled in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The route comprises of a 10km course down the A61 bypass, past the iconic Crooked Spire and through the streets of Chesterfield, beginning and ending at Chesterfield FC’s Technique Stadium.

Peter Stone, Ashgate Hospicecare’s Director of Income Generation said: “We need more volunteers than ever before to help more than 1,600 Sparkler Walkers hit our target of £150,000 for the event.

“The funds the Sparkle Walk raises are vital for our work – although it isn’t just about the money as people take part to remember someone they have lost.

“It’s a hugely significant event for many families of people who the Hospice has cared for and when those bunny-ear clad folk are winding their way through Chesterfield through the night and then start to turn again towards the morning, it’s a sight not to be missed!”

“We need volunteer marshals on the route to cheer everybody on and help them remember why they’re taking part.”

Marshals would need to arrive at 8pm and will be needed until between midnight and 1.30am. Anyone who would like to help but can’t stay for the whole event is able to marshal at an early post, or the organisers can find another role for you.

Any volunteers wishing to bring along family or friends to help, they will be very welcome. All volunteers will be fully briefed and placed with an experienced volunteer where possible.

Volunteers will also receive a free hot drink and a free bacon roll (or a vegan alternative) – and a chance to make Chesterfield really sparkle!

If you can volunteer on Saturday, Contact events@ashgatehospicecare.org.uk or call on 01246 233404.

Ashgate Hospicecare supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

sparkle night walk

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Popular 1940s market set to return in Chesterfield

Residents and visitors to Chesterfield can enjoy themselves during half term as the annual 1940s market returns for 2021.

Taking place on Thursday 28 October between 10am and 4pm, visitors can enjoy 40s music, entertainment, exhibits and meet the stall holders in period dress.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “The 1940s Market is one of the most popular events in our calendar and I’m delighted that we’ve managed to bring it back this year.

“I hope lots of people will come along and support our local businesses and traders, there will be lots to see and it will be fun for all ages.”

Kalamazoo dance band will make their return to Chesterfield and will be performing throughout the day in New Square.

A replica Spitfire will be on display outside the Visitor Information Centre and visitors can learn more about the role of these planes in World War Two.

There will also be a display of vintage vehicles including cars, military vehicles, and a classic fire engine.

The weekly flea market will take place in the market place with traders in 1940s costume. There will be a competition for the best dressed trader and visitors are encouraged to get into the 40s spirit by dressing in period costumes.

Chesterfield Museum will also be open as usual from 10am to 4pm where visitors can learn more about the town’s history, including a final chance to visit the Put That Light Out exhibition, which finishes on 30 October.

The exhibition looks at life in Chesterfield during World War Two, featuring displays and objects that will help visitors learn more about rationing, holidays at home, the Women’s Voluntary Service and the Home Guard. Entry to the Museum is free but donations are welcome.

More activities and entertainers are still being confirmed, find out more about the event by visiting: www.visitchesterfield.info/40s

The 1940s Market is a free event that aims to bring more visitors and shoppers to the town centre to support local businesses and market traders.

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City Taxis unveiled as latest partner of Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k

City Taxis have become the newest partner of the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K becoming the Title sponsor of the City Taxis Fun Run which takes place on the 10K race day 17th October 2021.

The Fun Run forms part of the race day activity and anyone can take part on the 1Km course around Queens Park and will start after the 10K race has left the park at 10am.

Sacha Skinner, Marketing Manager of City Taxis, said: “We’re delighted to be supporting The Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k.

“It will be a fantastic day and we are so proud to be supporting an event that is not only beneficial to those taking part but that is helping so many local, worthy charities along the way.

“Giving back to the communities we serve is important to us and we are committed to helping charities and fundraising. Helping raise the profile of such a fantastic, local event like the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k is important to us.

“We will also be sponsoring the event’s Fun Run which invites families and children to get involved.”

John Timms, Event Director, added: “We are so pleased to have City Taxis join us as a sponsor and have their support for the event.

“The City Taxis Fun run is an important part of the race day activity and is open to all, young and old and everyone will receive a specially designed medal.

Runners in this year’s 10K are fundraising in support of local charities; Ashgate Hospicecare, Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice and The Redbrik Foundation.

Entry is just £5 for the City Taxi Fun Run on race day at the race information point. You can find out more about the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-10k/

Redbrik Estate Agents and City Taxis support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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All Systems Go for The Peak District Highland Games 2021

Matlock Farm Park has confirmed the return of the popular Strongman event, The Peak District Highland Games on Sunday, 29th August.

Now in its fifth year, this key Peak District event will see a team of some of the country’s strongest men take part in a schedule of six events throughout the day, including the Eight Tonne Tractor Pull, the Giant Stone Throw, Log Press and the Tossing of the Caber.

This year sees the introduction of women competing in their own Strongwoman event on the day.

Man Beast Strongman Events co-founder Andy Picken said: “It’s great for the guys to be back doing what they do best, bringing the strongman sport to audiences to witness some awesome feats of strength. With women competing this year too, they can demonstrate the same dedication to training and some amazing strength skills, as well as highlighting the diversity in rapidly growing strength sport.”

Abi Bradbury, General Manager of Matlock Farm Park, added: “We’re thrilled to once again be hosting this fantastic outdoor event, which has always been so popular with visitors of all ages. Along with watching the strongman and strongwoman events, and even having the chance to take part in a Tug of War, there’s so much else to do around the farm park, including small animal handling, wallaby encounters and children’s pony rides. We have great play areas and Kimmo the children’s entertainer is with us throughout the day too.”

The day will begin with a Scottish Piper band playing to lead the competitors into the arena, with representatives from the region’s official tourism board Visit Peak District & Derbyshire officially opening the event. On site there will also be food and craft stalls, Thornbridge beer tent and a gin garden.

The athletes themselves come from all over the country holding local, regional and even some world records, with a variety of work backgrounds from tradesmen to a train driver!

Andy Picken, who is also Master of Ceremonies on the big day, explained how the athletes feel about a return to competing: “It’s been such a hard time for the Nation and Lockdown has provided extra challenges to the athletes who have had limited home equipment to maintain strength. But with restrictions easing, they’ve been hitting the gym again with a renewed fire in the belly and they’re feeling very excited at the prospect of The Peak District Highland Games. Some have even got their own Caber to train with!

“With some new faces in the line-up, we have shaken up the competitors which gives some hungry fringe contenders a chance to shine and take on the established athletes. It’s certainly going to be a day to remember to those spectating!”

Tickets on sale now – Find out more about the event here.

Matlock Farm Park supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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