Celebrate the town’s formidable making heritage through a series of free events, coming to Chesterfield on Saturday 18th April.

What to expect

Derbyshire Makes is a countywide celebration of making in all its forms – from heritage craft and industry to contemporary creativity and future skills.

Inspired by Derbyshire’s extraordinary history of invention and manufacturing, the programme is designed and delivered here. By the people, places and communities that make this county what it is.

Headlining at Chesterfield is the Great Chesterfield Make Off, where 40 local artists create brand-new work live in Chesterfield Market, turning the space into a buzzing hub of creativity.

Plus, enjoy an inventive street performance from internationally-renowned artist Matt Pang.

Extending into the library and town centre exhibition spaces, the festival also explores the endangered local heritage craft of lace making. See the people currently working to preserve it and celebrate today’s cultural leaders through an exhibition of photographs.

Taking place across six Derbyshire towns, expect to see:

• Hands-on workshops for families, young people and adults. From textiles and traditional craft to digital making and future-facing skills.
• Showcase performances and interactive experiences from nationally renowned arts organisations, bringing energy and inspiration to our Festival Hubs.
• Creative and heritage displays in libraries across the county, celebrating local talent and stories.
• An extended tour of Derby Museums’ mobile makerspace, the Makory, plus an exhibition spotlighting Derbyshire’s inventors and inventions, past and present.
• Grant-supported activities through Derbyshire Makes, new projects and public events created and delivered by groups and organisations during the festival period.

How to attend

Derbyshire Makes Chesterfield takes place on Saturday 18th April, at the following locations:

• New Square
• Pavements Shopping Centre
• Chesterfield Town Hall
• Sorbo Lounge
• Chesterfield Library

Five more Derbyshire towns will host festivals from 11 April to 16 May. Click each location’s link to see the various locations involved.

Tickets

Derbyshire Makes is free to attend.

There may be workshops and updates announced in the future.

For the latest information, visit the Derbyshire Makes website.

This event is organised by Junction Arts and part funded by Derbyshire County Council and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Image taken by Richard Tymon.