Christmas in Chesterfield: Celebrate old traditions and start new ones
Christmas is such a magical time of year, especially when you have a young family. For me, Christmas means cosy markets, the sound of carols drifting through the town centre, the sweet aroma of hot chocolate and festive treats, and making special memories with family. This year I’m looking forward to celebrating old traditions, as well as starting new traditions for Christmas with my young daughter in Chesterfield.
I am really looking forward to visiting the newly renovated 1435 Theatre to see the Christmas pantomime Beauty and the Beast that stars television actor Jake Canuso from the hit series Benidorm and award-nominated Dame Matthew Siveter. I was a regular visitor to both the Pomegranate Theatre and Chesterfield Museum, but my daughter has never had the opportunity to experience either of them. I can’t wait to see her face light up as the curtain rises, the theatre fills with laughter and festive music, and she experiences the magic of pantomime for the very first time.
The Festival of Christmas Trees at the Crooked Spire is already becoming one of our Christmas traditions. My daughter’s nursery previously had a Christmas tree there. It is wonderful to see so many local businesses, schools and community groups come together in one of our town’s landmarks.
I always enjoy spending time at Chesterfield Market in the run-up to Christmas, browsing artisan stalls, picking up unique gifts and soaking up the festive atmosphere. There’s something special about strolling through the market with the scent of freshly baked treats in the air, hearing traders chat with shoppers and discovering handcrafted gifts you won’t find anywhere else.
Did you know? Chesterfield Market will be hosting Tipi Christmas again this year. After a morning of Christmas shopping, it will be lovely to step inside the cosy tipi, warm up beside the crackling fire pit and enjoy a festive drink while watching the town centre bustle outside.
I really like to explore and support local independent businesses in Chesterfield, such as The Griffin’s Library and Board & Bean. It makes Christmas shopping feel like an experience we can enjoy together.
We are very excited about attending Chesterfield Christmas Lights Switch On on Sunday 22nd November. I’m looking forward to standing among the crowds, hearing the excitement build as everyone counts down together before thousands of lights illuminate the town centre.
I can’t wait to take my daughter to visit Santa’s new cosy cabin grotto in New Square. There’s something so magical about watching her step inside, meet Santa, and share her Christmas wishes with him.
I would love to experience one of the Santa Special Cruises organised by the Chesterfield Canal Trust. It’s something I’ve never done before, and it sounds like such a magical festive adventure!
One of the great things about living in Chesterfield is how many exciting activities there are to discover over the festive period. I can’t wait to experience them with my daughter and make special memories this Christmas.
Find more unique events, activities and places to visit this Christmas in Chesterfield at: www.chesterfield.co.uk/christmas/


