Everything you need to know about the Christmas lights switch-on in Chesterfield this weekend

Chesterfield’s annual Christmas Lights Switch-On is taking place on Sunday 21 November and everyone is invited to come along.

Residents and visitors will be able to see a variety of entertainment throughout the day, as well as having the opportunity to enjoy a market to do some Christmas shopping.

The event begins at 12 noon and will run on into the 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 event is one of the most popular events that we organise locally for residents and visitors to enjoy.

“This year there is lots going on throughout the day, as well as stage entertainment to get everyone in the festive spirt.

“There is something for the whole family to enjoy at the event so everyone is welcome to join us for what will be a great afternoon of entertainment.”

What can you see at the event?

• Visit the Market Hall to see The Rose Choir from 2pm to 2.25pm
• Watch performances on Central Pavement from the Sheffield Brass Band at 12.50pm to 1.10pm and 2.10pm to 2.30pm and see the Gospel Choir from 3pm to 3.20pm
• Visit Burlington Street to see the Pantonic All Stars Steel Orchestra from 12pm to 12.30pm, 1.30pm to 2pm and 3.30pm to 4pm

There will also be a range of walkabout entertainment around Chesterfield’s market from 12pm including Band Baja, the Glow Jugglers, a Christmas Tree Stilt Walker, Dancing Robots, a Winged Angel and LED Drummers.

Visitors can also go along to the Parish Church of St. Mary and All Saints (Crooked Spire) to see the festival of Christmas trees from 12pm to 5.30pm. The church will be filled with Christmas trees decorated by local people, groups and shops.

Families will also be able to meet the Minions, Bob and Kevin at Rykneld Square at 12pm, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm.  No booking is needed, but please be mindful that there may be a short wait to see the characters if it is busy.

Stage entertainment

The stage entertainment will begin from 3pm hosted by Becky and Laura from Peak Radio.

The Rose Choir, Band Baja, the Glow Jugglers and The Gospel Choir will all be performing on the stage, as well as visitors being able to see some of this year’s pantomime cast from Beauty and the Beast that is on at the Pomegranate Theatre.

There will also be a chance to see Santa Claus.

The Christmas lights will be switched on at 4.45pm.

Markets

A festive market will take place on the day of the Christmas lights switch on. All available stalls have been snapped up for this event, providing visitors with the perfect chance to start their Christmas shopping and get their hands on some unique gifts. Vinyl lovers are in for a treat with the Chesterfield Record Fair taking place on the same day.

Makers, craftsmen, and independent retailers have been invited to book a stall on Chesterfield Market on other days in the build up to Christmas. Casual traders and local creatives are now invited to trade on these days. More information on dates and how to secure a space can be found at: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/markettrading

Please help us to keep everyone as safe as possible during the event by not attending if you are feeling unwell, have COVID-19 symptoms or have tested positive for the virus.