Experience a twist on tradition this Christmas in Chesterfield
We’re putting a twist on tradition this Christmas in Chesterfield to bring you a unique fix of festive fun.
Discover something new. Highlights this year include an impressive light experience at our Crooked Spire, storytelling with Santa, a cosy tipi to share a drink with friends, and a new, temporary location for our Christmas Lights Switch On.
Mix it up with our list of 10 memorable festive things to do. From discovering our local flavours to an unusual Christmas walk!
Looking to skip mass-produced products and give something special this year? Check out our gift guide to discover unique gifts to really show you care. We’ve even got a dedicated section for your teenagers and furry friends.
With a mix of independent retailers, high-street favourites, and lively markets, shopping locally becomes a joyful festive experience. Our friendly retailers are ready to lend a hand.
To make your Christmas more memorable, we have some exciting prizes. Make sure to enter our Christmas Stocking Competition.
Keep reading for plenty of ideas to help you plan your festive diary.
Explore our town centre
Kick off your festivities at our annual Christmas Lights Switch On and Market. Make memories at Chesterfield Pantomime: Jack and the Beanstalk and marvel at Festival of Christmas Trees. Or for something completely different, immerse yourself in a new light and sound display at our iconic Crooked Spire.
Our town is full of festive cheer. Be entertained by street entertainment every weekend. Look out for juggling elves, mischievous penguins, singing crackers AND a life-sized polar bear. Take on our Winter Window Trail and see who can find the most decorated baubles in town.
For those with little ones wondering where you can meet Santa. You can see him in unique spots including on a Santa Special Canal Cruise. Or why not tuck into breakfast with him or enjoy stories read by the jolly man himself?
Discover our flavours and fun
Meeting up with friends and family is a must. Whether you’re planning a Friendsmas get-together, a long-overdue family meal, or a romantic night out, you’ll find plenty of flavours and laughter around town.
Eat, drink and be merry at our amazing restaurants, cosy cafés, and lively bars. From hearty festive feasts to creative cocktails and delicious non-alcoholic options for the designated driver.
Soak up the atmosphere at Tipi Christmas, where you can gather around a roaring fire with a drink in hand.
Try something new from Axe Throwing and Chesterfield Escape Rooms to a relaxed game night at Board and Bean Café. Or why not participate in our annual Santa Fun Run and Walk? Enjoy the action with live music, comedy, and vibrant evening events at venues like Real Time Live and SMH Group Stadium.
Unwrap our heritage
Step into history and festive magic at our heritage sites. From twinkling lights and handmade decorations to enchanting workshops and markets.
Experience the festive spirit at Hardwick Hall, where twinkling lights illuminate the historic mansion. Join the mischievous Lord of Misrule as he guides you through the house, sharing tales from centuries past. Try your hand at Elizabethan-inspired crafts, including willow and rag wreath-making, historic blackwork embroidery, and natural woad dyeing.
Wander through Chatsworth House, transformed into a magical celebration of nature and hidden beauty. Visit the Christmas market at dusk to shop over 100 stalls offering gifts, decorations and festive treats.
Explore our famous Crooked Spire while enjoying new light and sound display or this year’s Festival of Christmas Trees.
Discover locomotives at Barrow Hill Roundhouse. Did you know the centre houses one of the largest collections of diesel, electric and, of course, steam locomotives in the country?
Find medieval charm at Dronfield Hall Barn’s artisan and producer’s market. Over 40 local vendors will be selling the best in food, drink, produce and crafts. Afterwards, explore the restored medieval barn and former chapel.
Our Christmas in Chesterfield Campaign is delivered by Destination Chesterfield in partnership with Chesterfield Borough Council.
