See the town sparkle with fantastic entertainment and shop for unique treasures as Chesterfield’s annual Christmas Lights Switch On and Market returns on Sunday 22nd November 2026.
2026’s information and entertainment is yet to be confirmed. More details to be announced soon. Keep an eye on this page and our Facebook and Instagram accounts.
See 2025’s entertainment below.
Event timings:
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Street entertainment: from 12:00pm throughout the town centre. Keep reading for specific timings and locations.
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Bluey meet-and-greet: 12:00pm – 3:00pm (early arrival recommended for photos).
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Stage show: 4:30pm outside the Town Hall on Rose Hill.
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Lights switch on: 5:15pm, followed by a musical procession featuring LED drummers into the town centre.
What to expect
Head to the town centre for the wonderful annual festive celebration of the Christmas Light Switch On and Market.
There will be street entertainment throughout the town centre, and due to the Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield works in New Square, the stage show will be outside the Town Hall on Rose Hill this year.
The stage show will take place at 4:30pm outside the Town Hall and the lights will be switched on at 5.15pm. Following this, a musical procession will play, featuring LED drummers, guiding people back into the town centre.
Along the way, you’re encouraged to visit Tipi Christmas, as well as other local bars and restaurants.
In the town centre, a funfair will be based in the Market Square, often a popular attraction for many visitors.
Also, back by popular demand, Bluey will be returning to meet and greet fans at the Light Switch On at intervals from 12:00pm to 3:00pm. The later meet-and-greet slots are expected to be busy, so it’s advised that you come early to prevent missing out. Don’t forget to bring your camera if you’d like to grab a photo of your favourite Blue Heeler!
Whilst in town make sure to visit the Crooked Spire to see A Festival of Christmas Trees and take part in in our Winter Windows trail. Take the opportunity to pick up presents for loved ones from our independent retailers.
Entertainment timings
New Square (in front of Grace Chapel)
Bluey
- 12 noon to 12.30pm
- 1pm to 1.30pm
- 2pm to 2.30pm
- 3pm to 3.30pm
Market Place (near NatWest bank)
Chesterfield Studios
- 1.05pm to 1.30pm
- 2.20pm to 2.45pm
Central Pavement
Phoenix Concert Band
- 12.30pm to 12.50pm
- 2pm to 2.20pm
- 3pm to 3.20pm
Walkabout entertainment around the market area
Jacks of Frost
- 12.30pm to 1pm
- 2pm to 2.30pm
- 3.15pm to 3.45pm
Polar Pip
- 12.15pm to 12.45pm
- 1.45pm to 2.15pm
- 3.30pm to 4pm
LED Drummers
- 3pm to 3.30pm
- 4pm to 4.30pm ending at the stage show
- 5.30pm to 6pm beginning at the stage show
Bubble Beat Elves
- 2pm to 2.30pm
- 3.30pm to 4pm
- 5.30pm to 6pm
Christmas Time Travellers
- 1.30pm to 2pm
- 3.15pm to 3.45pm
- 5.30pm to 6pm
Ebor N Gum
- 1.15pm to 1.45pm
- 3pm to 3.30pm
Stocking Up
- 1pm to 1.30pm
- 2.30pm to 3pm
- 4pm to 4.30pm
Find details of where you can park in Chesterfield here
Chesterfield town centre is accessible by bus and train
Chesterfield Christmas Lights Switch on and Market is organised by Chesterfield Borough Council and is funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).
Discover Christmas in Chesterfield
Curious about what’s happening this Christmas in Chesterfield? Browse our experiences, events, gift ideas, and even enter our “Best of Chesterfield” competition.
