Taste the world in Chesterfield this summer
Chesterfield is set for an exciting summer in 2026, with a packed programme of food festivals, cultural events and family experiences taking place across the borough.
From international street food markets to immersive town centre events and outdoor activities, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy time together and discover something new.
These experiences are showcased on the Summer in Chesterfield website to encourage visitors and residents to make the most of the season. The programme celebrates global culture, with the return of much-loved events like Peddler Market and the Chesterfield Children’s Festival, alongside new additions, including Chesterfield on Safari and the Chesterfield Steampunk Weekend.
Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Town Centres and Visitor Economy, said:
“We’ve got something for everyone to experience this summer, from sampling fantastic street food and exploring different cultures to spending time with the people you love. Start planning your summer now because we’ve got lots of exciting events that will make it truly unforgettable.”
Andrew Byrne, Destination Chesterfield Chair, added:
“Chesterfield has so much to offer all year round, and the summer sunshine makes it even better. From tasty food and vibrant events to spending time with family and friends, it’s a chance to come together and support our welcoming local businesses.”
Discover family-friendly events and experiences
The Chesterfield Children’s Festival returns to Queen’s Park on Saturday, 18th and Sunday, 19th July, celebrating imagination and play with live music, theatre, storytelling, dance, and much more.
Chesterfield Markets will host a series of themed events throughout the summer, creating interactive experiences in the town centre. Highlights include the Steampunk Market Weekend on Saturday, 4th July and Sunday, 5th July, delivered in partnership with Newark Steampunk Society, featuring creative costumes, live entertainment and a colourful parade on the Sunday.
New for this year is Chesterfield on Safari on Saturday, 22nd August, where life-sized animatronic animals and interactive performances will take over the market area. Families can also enjoy an Emergency Services Day on Saturday, 15th August, offering hands-on activities, displays and demonstrations showcasing the work of local emergency services.
At Barrow Hill Roundhouse, visitors can explore the DPS Model Railway Show on Saturday, 11th and Sunday, 12th July, and Bricks in the Roundhouse on Saturday, 29th and Sunday, 30th August, bringing impressive Lego creations and interactive activities to the unique heritage venue.
The season will round off with the Tapton Lock Festival on Saturday, 5th September, set alongside the canal, featuring live performances, creative workshops and outdoor activities for all ages.
Alongside these events, visitors can enjoy Chesterfield’s outdoor attractions throughout the summer, including paddle sports and boat trips along the Chesterfield Canal, miniature train rides in Queen’s Park and guided tours of the iconic Crooked Spire.
Taste the world in Chesterfield
Chesterfield’s food and drink offer takes centre stage this summer, with a series of festivals celebrating global flavours and local produce.
The Chesterfield Food Festival launches the programme on Sunday, 7th June, bringing together a wide selection of street food, artisan produce and speciality drinks.
Later in June, the International Market will fill the town centre with traders from Friday, 19th to Sunday, 21st June, offering foods and goods from around the world, creating a vibrant atmosphere for visitors to explore.
The popular Peddler Market returns twice over the summer – in June and August – combining street food, craft drinks, independent traders and live music in a relaxed, social setting.
On Saturday 1st and Sunday, 2nd August, the Great Chesterfield Feast will showcase a diverse mix of global cuisine, sweet treats and handmade goods, providing another opportunity to enjoy the town centre.
Visitors can also experience Chesterfield’s independent food and drink scene throughout the season, with brewery tours and historic pub experiences offering a chance to discover local flavours and stories.
The Summer in Chesterfield campaign is brought together by Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield. To fill your summer with flavours and fun in Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer
