chesterfield events

Chesterfield to be lit up for Christmas this weekend

Residents and visitors are invited to attend the Chesterfield Christmas Lights Switch On and Market on Sunday 19 November.

The event is being held in Chesterfield’s town centre, and crowds can enjoy a range of street entertainment from 12pm.

This is a fantastic free event for all the family to enjoy – whether you want to sing along to some Christmas carols, listen to a steel band, be entertained by the National Elf Service, or simply see the festive lights being turned on across the town, there is something for everyone.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “If you want to get into the festive spirit, what better way to do this than to attend our Christmas Lights Switch On event. Come along with your family and friends to enjoy all of the free street entertainment, as well as having the opportunity to do some shopping in the town centre and by visiting our festive market stalls.

“Shopping local is a fantastic way to support our local economy and there are some incredible independent traders across the town centre.”

This year’s special guest appearing in Rykneld Square is Paddington™. He will be appearing outside the Visitor Information Centre at intervals between 12pm and 3.30pm check the website for more information. Don’t forget to bring your phones or cameras to take photos of Paddington during your visit.

The stage show will be held in New Square from 3.30pm with carol singing Christmas Crackers, Directions Theatre Arts dance school and a stunning light show with juggling and hula-hoops.

Stars of the Aladdin Pantomime including Anne Hegerty, Nigel Clarke, Tony Rudd and more will also be taking to the stage to join the celebration and host a ticket giveaway. The lights will be officially switched on at 4.45pm.

A market will be held alongside the event and the Market Hall will be open – making it a fantastic opportunity to support local independent businesses and start preparing for Christmas. Chesterfield residents will be able to park for free with their free resident’s pass.

What’s happening when and where?

Location: Rykneld Square (Outside Visitor Information Centre)

  • Paddington 12pm – 12.30pm, 1pm – 1.30pm, 2pm – 2.30pm, 3pm – 3.30pm.

Location: Market Place

  • Chesterfield Studios (festive singers)1.05pm – 1.30pm and 2.20pm – 2.45pm.

Location: Central Pavement

  • Phoenix Concert Band 12.30pm – 12.50pm, 2pm – 2.20pm and 3pm – 3.20pm.

Location: New Square

Jon Hicks (Artist in action) 12pm – 12.15pm, 12.45pm – 1pm, 1.30pm – 1.45pm and 2.15pm – 2.30pm

Location: Walkabout Entertainment Around the Market Area

  • The Halo Glow Show 2pm – 2.20pm and 3.30pm – 3.50pm.
  • Carol Singing Christmas Crackers 12.40pm – 1.10pm and 4.50pm – 5.20pm.
  • Jacks of Frost 12pm – 12.30pm, 1.30pm – 2pm and 3pm – 3.30pm.
  • Sid Bowfin’s Christmas Classics 1.50pm – 2.20pm and 4pm – 4.30pm.
  • National Elf Service 1pm – 1.30pm, 2.30pm – 3pm and 4.30pm – 5pm.

Location: Pavements Shopping Centre

  • Chesterfield Museum – 12pm – 4.30 pm (Old Massarella’s Unit)

Location: Outside old Marks & Spencer

  • Pantonic All Stars Steel Band 12pm – 12.30pm, 1.30pm – 2pm  and 3.30pm – 4pm.

Location: Crooked Spire Church

  • A Festival of Christmas Trees 12pm – 5.30pm.

Please note: this programme is subject to last minute changes.

For more information, activities and guides to your perfect Christmas, visit our Christmas in Chesterfield page. 

Christmas Lights Switch On Chesterfield

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Everything for the perfect Christmas in Chesterfield

Chesterfield is set to provide a magical festive period for families across the area, with a programme of packed events and activities – everything you need for the perfect Christmas.

Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield have once again partnered to launch the annual Christmas in Chesterfield campaign, promoting the exciting festive fun, delightful dining, and unique gifts which can be found in the local area.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, portfolio holder for the town centre and visitor economy, said: “We have a packed entertainment schedule organised in Chesterfield this winter, with many of the events being free or low-cost to come along to.  We understand that the cost of living is still affecting everyone, particularly as the colder months are upon us, so as a council, we want to do all we can to provide you with things to do over the festive season that won’t cost a fortune.”

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, commented: “Christmas provides the perfect opportunity to spend time with friends and family, and I highly recommend people enjoy those precious moments whilst discovering our town’s superb bars, restaurants, and attractions. Once again, Destination Chesterfield has produced several blogs, articles, and guides for your perfect Christmas, and I would urge everyone to take a look and see what our town has to offer.”


Save the date for these great festive events

A Festival of Christmas Trees – at St Mary’s and All Saints Church (Crooked Spire) from Saturday 18 November to Sunday 3 December.

Visitors are invited to come and see over 100 colourful Christmas trees decorated by local people, community groups and businesses, including WI, scout and guide groups, schools and high street stores and venues. This is a free event, and one not to be missed.

Find out more about the event: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/a-festival-of-christmas-trees/


Chesterfield Pantomime, Aladdin – at The Winding Wheel Theatre from Friday 1 December to Tuesday 2 January.

Join the hero Aladdin on the journey of a lifetime as he soars through the skies in his quest for fortune and true love. A family extravaganza that’s simply Genie-us!

The Chase star Anne Hegerty is to headline the Chesterfield Pantomime this Christmas. Instantly recognisable as The Governess from ITV’s long-running, multi-award-winning teatime TV programme.

See the full list of performance dates at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-pantomime/


Santa’s Grotto at the Assembly Rooms, Market Hall from Sunday 19 November to Sunday 24 December – at various times (see website for more details on dates, times and how to book).

Families are invited to visit Santa in his Chesterfield Grotto and share their Christmas wishes. Each child will be given a wrapped gift. Tickets are on sale now and are priced at £7.50 per child.

There will also be six relaxed sessions for children with learning disabilities or sensory and communication disorders. The flashing lights will be off,  background lighting will be increased and children will have a little longer to meet with Santa.

Find out more about the venues where you can meet Santa in Chesterfield this festive season: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/christmas/meet-santa-in-chesterfield/


Chesterfield Christmas Lights Switch On and Market – Sunday 19 November, from noon to 6pm in Chesterfield town centre.

Join us to turn on the Christmas lights across the town centre. There will be a stage show to entertain the crowds, market stalls to visit and the opportunity to meet this year’s special guest – Paddington™.

Paddington™ will be appearing in Rykneld Square at 12noon, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm.

Get more information about the event at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-christmas-market-and-lights-switch-on/


Revolution House, open Thursday 7 to Wednesday 24 December – from 11am to 3pm (Thursday to Sunday). Revolution House High Street, Old Whittington, S41 9JZ.

There will be a Christmas exhibition titled ‘The 12 Days of Christmas’ which uses whimsical objects from the museum collection to illustrate the famous Christmas song.

You can also see Revolution House decorated for a 17th Century Christmas with displays of greenery, a kissing bough, and colourful flower arrangements provided by our volunteers.

A Christmas Carol Concert will be taking place outside Revolution House on Thursday 7 December at 6.30pm where you will be able to see the Holymoorside Brass Band in the garden for traditional, festive carol singing.

Find out more: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/christmas-at-revolution-house/


Chesterfield Canal – Santa cruises, various dates

The John Varley ll will be sailing from Tapton Lock (S41 7JB) and the Madeline from Hollingwood Hub (S43 2PF). Here you can take to the water this Christmas to meet Santa on Chesterfield Canal. There will be two different boats in operation.

More information on the cruises can be found at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/santa-special-trips-at-chesterfield-canal/


Santa Fun Run at Queen’s Park – Sunday 24 December (Christmas Eve), starting at 10am (1.5km) and 10:30am (5km)

The Chesterfield Santa Fun Run features participants dressed in Santa suits running around the park, with a 1500m race and another one of 5k. Chesterfield Santa Fun Run is Supporting local charities, Ashgate Hospice and CSALS.

More information can be found online: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-santa-fun-run/


Chesterfield Escape Rooms – ‘Elves on the Shelves.’ Available to book between 10 November – 31 December.

The popular Escape Rooms on Soresby Steet has a brand-new Christmas game this year. Can you find all six elves in a game of hide and seek? Prices range from £55 for 2 players to £120 for 6 players.

See more things to do in Chesterfield here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/christmas/festive-things-to-do/


Christmas at Barrow Hill Roundhouse – From Saturday 9 December to Sunday 10 December.

Enjoy a family day with a difference at the Barrow Hill Roundhouse this Christmas. Activities include visits from Santa and Christmas Songs. Plus, join in with Christmas Crafts such as making a festive train lantern and funny festive masks.

Find out more: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/christmas-at-barrow-hill-roundhouse/


Everything you need for the perfect Christmas

Gifts galore and delicious food and drink available in Chesterfield’s independent shops

Find perfect gifts for all the family with Christmas shopping opportunities in Chesterfield.

Check out our guides to the best gifts, hampers, food, and drink – all from local businesses: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/christmas/christmas-gift-ideas/

Looking for inspiration? Check out our guide to 50 retailers you should know in Chesterfield – containing lots of great ideas for sourcing that special gift. https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/2023/05/50-independent-retailers-in-chesterfield/


Magical Markets in Chesterfield town centre

Chesterfield Borough Council has lots of speciality markets planned from November onwards including the Record Fair, the Artisan Market, and the Vegan Market, as well as the Market Hall, which is open Monday to Saturday 8.30 am to 5 pm where you can pick up a range of foods and gifts for the Christmas festivities.

The general market will also be trading every day from Thursday 14 to Sunday 24 December.

More information can be found at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/christmas/chesterfield-market-at-christmas/


Delicious festive food & drink in Chesterfield’s bars and restaurants

From street food to fine dining, and cocktail bars to cosy cafés – you will find a perfect venue for your festive parties and get-togethers in Chesterfield.

Here is a list of 50 fabulous food and drink businesses you should experience: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/2023/10/50-food-and-drink-businesses-to-try-in-chesterfield/

To find out more and keep up to date with the latest events, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/christmas

Christmas in Chesterfield 873x466

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Date confirmed for return of Redbrik Chesterfield 10K in 2024

Organisers of the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K have confirmed the event is set to come back to the town next year and will take place on its new Spring date of Sunday 24th March 2024.

The route will start and finish in Queens Park and will be centred on the heart of Chesterfield, taking in major landmarks such as the town’s famous crooked spire. It will also feature service and cheer stations on the course and start at 10 am.

Full entry into the 2024 Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k will cost £25, with Early Bird entry priced at £20 and available until 30 November.

As its name suggests, the Redbrik Foundation is once again the title partner of the 10k event, alongside other charity partners Ashgate Hospice, Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice and Cavendish Cancer Care. To date, the event has raised over £220,000 for a number of charities and good causes.

The Redbrik Foundation is a charitable trust which supports a number of local organisations each year, primarily seeking to enhance the lives of children and young people, the elderly or vulnerable and those with disabilities.

John Timms, Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k Event Director, said: “We are delighted to be bringing the event back to Chesterfield for a third time in Spring next year.

“When we launched the 10k event back in 2021 it was with a view to deliver a fantastic race for both participants and the local community to engage with and enjoy. To have raised so much money for local charities is a wonderful legacy for the event and one that we are really proud of.

“As event organisers, we once again want to thank event sponsors and partners, and the wider community for their support.

“We also wish to thank our key partners, including Redbrik, as well as Chesterfield Borough Council.”

David Cooper, Trustee of the Redbrik Foundation, said: “We are very proud to support this event, which has so much goodwill from all involved. It has been great to give something back to the town, which has continually supported our estate agency business, Redbrik, since we opened over ten years ago.

“We love this town and we want to see it thrive. Events such as this help to do that, with huge numbers of people coming to Chesterfield from all parts of the country to support, contribute or take part. We can’t wait until 2024 already!”

Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, Councillor Tricia Gilby, added: “We are delighted that the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K is being held next year. It is wonderful that the 10K has previously raised so much money for many great causes and we are proud to partner with the event in order to support the delivery of such a brilliant, community focussed event.

“I am very much looking forward to seeing the streets of our town filled with runners and supporters on 24 March 2024.”

To enter the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K visit www.chesterfield10k.com

Keep in touch with the latest updates and announcements on the Redbrik 10K, including the route and road closures in the build-up to the event here.

Redbrik supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Redbrik Chesterfield 10k 2021 873

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Events to mark remembrance in Chesterfield this weekend

Residents are being invited to attend Chesterfield’s annual service of Remembrance.

The service will remember all those who have sacrificed their lives in service for our country. It will be on Sunday 12 November, at 2.30pm at St Mary and All Saints’ Church, the ‘Crooked Spire’.

Councillor Mick Brady, the Mayor of Chesterfield, said: “Remembering those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country is one of the most important civic duties that we all have. Every year lots of residents turn out to show their support and remember together as a community, I’m proud to be leading the parade this year and I look forward to seeing the many members of our community turning out to pay their respects.”

Everyone is welcome to attend but residents are politely asked to be seated by 2pm as the Church can become very full.

The service will be followed by a parade from St Mary and All Saints’ Church, through Burlington Street, High Street, Glumangate onto Rose Hill.

Residents and visitors are welcome to watch the parade which will be led by Chesterfield’s Mayor and Mayoress and other local dignitaries. They will be joined by members of the Armed Forces, ex-services organisations and uniformed youth organisations from Chesterfield.

Members of the public are also welcome to attend the wreath laying ceremony at the war memorial from approximately 3.30pm with the poppy cascade featuring 16,000 poppies donated by people from across the world as a backdrop.

The poppy cascade was installed on the front of the Town Hall on Tuesday 31 October by members of The Royal Engineers Association, who are the custodians of the poppies. Each year the Royal Engineers Association ensure the poppy fall’s safekeeping, making sure it is dry and safely stored and any repairs are carried out prior to their next outing.

On Friday 10 November children from schools across Chesterfield will join the Mayor and Mayoress in holding a minute silence at 11am outside the Town Hall and laying a wreath of remembrance.

Staveley Town Council will hold their annual Remembrance parade and service in Staveley on Sunday 12 November. The parade will leave Staveley Market Place at 10.30am and head for the Garden of Remembrance, where the service will take place come rain or shine at 10.45am.

Brimington Parish Council will hold their annual Remembrance parade and service in Brimington on Sunday 12 November. The parade will leave the Recreation Ground on Station Road at 1.45pm before a service in St Michael and All Angels Church at 2pm. The parade will then head to the Memorial Gates in Broom Gardens on Manor Road where there will be wreath laying and the Last Post at 3pm.

Poppy Cascades 873

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Spectacular new light show announced to mark 30 years of the Bolsover Lantern Parade

The Bolsover Lantern Parade is set to return for its 30th year, and a new light show is coming to Bolsover Castle to mark the milestone this December.

Bright Winter Nights is an immersive light experience that will take place within the castle’s walls on Friday 1st December, the day before the lantern parade. Light projections, images and sounds from the last three decades will bring the castle walls to life, featuring the stories of local people and their lantern parade experiences.

Visitors can also view a newly commissioned community film as part of the magical evening, which has been created using stories and memories from local people.

The event is being organised in partnership with local Bolsover-based charity, the Freedom Project and English Heritage.

There will be 750 tickets available, costing £2 per child and £3 for adults.

Emily Bowman, Managing Director at Junction Arts said: “Bolsover is very close to our hearts and so we’re delighted to be bringing another exciting event to the town, to mark the 30th year of the lantern parade.

“Bright Winter Nights promises to shine a light on the amazing community spirit and creativity that exists in Bolsover, telling the story of the last three decades within the walls of the famous Bolsover Castle.”

Mark North, Freedom Founder and CEO said: “The Lantern Parade has been an important part of our community for the last 30 years. It has given us a sense of togetherness and excitement and we look forward to Bright Winter Nights and taking in the memories of other members of the Bolsover Community and beyond”.

A spokesperson for Bolsover Castle said: “We always love playing a part in the Lantern Parade so when Junction Arts asked us to work with them to celebrate its 30th anniversary, we jumped at the chance. We want the Castle to be at the centre of the community in Bolsover, for residents to really connect with their heritage and to use the space to celebrate the amazing talent we have in the town.

“It will be a night to remember as the Castle comes to life not only with our fantastic illuminations but the creativity and passion of the Bolsover community.”

The first Bolsover Lantern Parade took place on Saturday 26th November 1994 as part of the Bolsover Victorian Festival. Organised by Junction Arts in partnership with community partners, the event has become a cultural tradition for generations of people. Growing year-on-year, the Bolsover Lantern Parade is now one of the UK’s biggest and oldest light parades.

Bright Winter Nights, The Bolsover Christmas Market and the Bolsover Lantern Parade are all part of the NEW Bolsover Winter Festival – a weekend of festive fun that marks the start of the winter season. More information about all the events taking place can be found on the Visit Bolsover website: https://www.visitbolsover.co.uk/events/bwf/

You can view the light show event listing here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/bright-winter-nights-light-show/ and the lantern parade here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-lantern-parade-2021/

To book tickets for the event: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/bolsover-castle-bright-winter-nights-1-dec-23/

Find out more about the wide range of local events for all ages and interests taking place across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Junction Arts supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

bolsover lantern parade junction arts

 

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Fully booked Chesterfield Investment Summit to showcase town’s huge potential

Destination Chesterfield’s annual Investment Summit is now fully booked, with more than 200 guests expected to attend the event at Casa Hotel on 18 October 2023.

Putting a spotlight on the town’s wide range of ongoing and future regeneration projects, the Summit – sponsored by East Midlands Chamber and Turner & Townsend – will hear from companies which have recently invested in Chesterfield business premises.

Matt Close, from leading automation and engineering firm NeoDyne is confirmed to be speaking at the event. In addition, delegates will hear from Emily Smith, the developer of Holywell Hotel by Voeberg, which will see a grade II listed building in the town centre transformed into boutique short-stay accommodation.

Both businesses will explain how the town’s location, connectivity and business support packages have assisted their growth plans.

Dr Huw Bowen, CEO of Chesterfield Borough Council, will provide an update on several of the town’s regeneration sites, highlighting the opportunities available to potential investors looking to start up or grow their businesses in the area. Huw will also provide details on the exciting work taking place to regenerate Chesterfield Town Centre and the iconic Stephenson Memorial Hall, alongside the £6 million package of improvements planned for Staveley Town Centre, as part of the Staveley Town Deal project.

On top of that, attendees will hear the latest updates on the highly anticipated visitor development, The Gateway @Peak – with Tarah Gear, Head of Marketing at Milligan presenting exciting new plans for the project.

Another topic to be discussed at this year’s event will be new housing, with developments attracting new families to live and work in the area. Gemma Smith, Managing Director of Strata Homes, will update on the company’s latest sustainable projects in the area.

The Chesterfield Investment Summit 2023 is sponsored by East Midlands Chamber and Turner & Townsend. The Chamber’s CEO, Scott Knowles and Nick Jones, Strategic Lead and Director of Project Management at Turner & Townsend will be part of a panel discussing the current economic landscape and business support available for firms in our region.

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield commented: “We’re excited to be bringing you this year’s Chesterfield Investment Summit, showcasing the huge range of benefits our town has to offer to businesses and developers.

“It’s great to hear that the Casa Hotel will be packed out once again, with guests set to learn more about our superb strategic location, access to a skilled workforce, supportive business community and excellent quality of life.”

Hear more from Chesterfield investors by viewing the ‘Why Chesterfield, Why Now?’ videos, released by Destination Chesterfield as part of the town’s latest inward investment campaign.

Delegates interested in attending the Chesterfield Investment Summit are invited to join the waiting list, as spaces may become available in the run-up to the event. Those who wish to find out more about investment opportunities in Chesterfield can get in touch with the Destination Chesterfield team here.

Destination Chesterfield has received £180,000 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. It follows a successful funding bid by Chesterfield Borough Council, to secure £2.69 million worth of funding for local projects.

Huw Bowen, CEO of Chesterfield Borough Council on stage at Chesterfield Investment Summit 2022

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Family-friendly fireworks event to return to Chesterfield’s Stand Road Park

Chesterfield Borough Council is again working with Chesterfield Football Club to deliver the family-friendly fireworks event in Stand Road Park.

1866 Sport, Chesterfield FC’s in-house radio station, will deliver the entertainment at this year’s event with Becky Measures hosting on the night. Confirmed acts include the return of the Disney Princesses performing well-known songs. The fireworks theme will be decades, with the display set to popular sing-along songs from the 60s through to present day.

The event takes place on Friday 3 November, the gates will open at 4.30pm and the event ends at 9pm.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “It is fantastic to be working with Chesterfield Football Club and Becky Measures again to put on this popular family friendly event. We’re excited that some of the popular acts from last year are returning including the meet and greet with the Disney Princesses – come along early to make sure you don’t miss the chance to win Disney on Ice tickets. Please wrap up warm, wear suitable footwear and join in the family fun.”

Bridget Ball, Chesterfield FC’s marketing manager, said: “We are delighted to be working with Chesterfield Borough Council once again. We will be promoting the event via 1866 Sport in the build-up and then delivering some great entertainment on the night. We can’t wait to see everyone there!”

Becky Measures added: “I am so looking forward to hosting what is probably the biggest event in Chesterfield. I had a the pleasure of hosting this event for many years in my Peak FM days and I can’t wait to be back with the community of Chesterfield and my home town. The event at Stand Road has always been the one to look forward to and I’m honoured to be a part of it.”

Entry to the event is £3 per person but free for children under five. Entry is cash only and please make sure you bring the correct money as change cannot be given.

This is a family friendly event, alcohol, fireworks and sparklers are prohibited items and will be confiscated if found.

Parking for the event will be available at Chesterfield FC’s SMH Group Stadium for a donation of £5 per car, which will help cover the cost of stewards with any excess being given to Chesterfield FC Community Trust.

There is also a bus stop on Sheffield Road which is less than a two-minute walk from the park, find more details about bus services that stop here on the Stagecoach website.

The fireworks extravaganza is one of a series of events organised by Chesterfield Borough Council. Find out more about upcoming events taking place across the town here.

More information about entertainment and safety at the event will be available on the Chesterfield Borough Council website.

Chesterfield Football Club and Chesterfield Borough Council support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Stand Road Fireworks

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Replica spitfire, classic cars and military vehicles to go on display at Chesterfield’s 1940s market

The 1940s market is coming back to Chesterfield this half-term, promising music, fancy dress, classic cars and plenty of family fun.

Residents and visitors are invited to flock into the town centre on 2 November 2023 from 10am to 3.30pm to sing along to 1940s music, see classic cars and military vehicles and meet market stall holders who will be dressed in 1940s clothing.

There will be street performers in the town centre throughout the event, with the Kalamazoo dance band back again by popular demand, performing in New Square.

The event is taking place alongside the weekly flea market, and as always there will be a competition for the best dressed stall holders.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, portfolio holder for the town centre and visitor economy, said: “Visitors to the market are encouraged to get into the spirit and dress-up in traditional 40s outfits where possible, although this is not essential! This is a fantastic event, and everyone is welcome to attend. There are not many events you can go along to where you can see this much free entertainment, so why not give it a try if you haven’t been before.”

people dancing in new square at Chesterfield 1940s market

The must-see attraction at this year’s event is the replica spitfire which can be seen in Rykneld Square (opposite the Visitor Information Centre) throughout the event. There will also be a display of classic cars, a vintage fire engine and a variety of other entertainment around the town centre to see including an escapologist.

Chesterfield Museum staff will also be attending with handling objects from their World War Two education box, as well as doing a make-do and mend activity with Transition Chesterfield.

Those attending the event are encouraged to use public transport to travel into Chesterfield, if possible, but there is also lots of parking available around the town centre too. Check out our guides to visiting Chesterfield.

A full list of entertainment on the day will be shared closer to the time. Keep up-to-date on the event here.

To stay in touch with what’s on across Chesterfield, head over to our events page.

Replica spitfire on display at Chesterfield 1940s market

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Organisers celebrate record-breaking year for Tapton Lock Festival

Chesterfield’s Tapton Lock Festival celebrated a record-breaking attendance this month, with a host of new activities and performances for local families to enjoy.

Over 3,000 people attended the two-day festival at the Tapton Lock Visitor Centre, making it the most-attended year since it started in 2012.

The free annual event is organised by Junction Arts and Derbyshire County Council, bringing outdoor theatre, music and dance, arts and crafts workshops, stalls and activities to the banks of the Chesterfield Canal.  The aim is to encourage families and friends to come together to enjoy the outdoors and promote better health and well-being.

This year, visitors took part in a number of arts and crafts activities, music and dance workshops, ‘have a go’ canoes and boat rides.

Firm favourites, the bubbleologist, storytellers, circus skills and the climbing wall all returned, but there was also some new entertainment for 2023, which included performances from Bollywood dancers, African drummers, and the Babbling Vagabonds Magical Market Stall!

Visitors also tried their hand at Lego printing, clay sculpting, creating wire bubble wands and forest school activities.

tapton lock 2023 bubbles

Junction Arts Project Coordinator, Jane Wells said: “The Festival was a huge success and the nice weather encouraged even greater numbers this year!  We had a really varied programme, including amazing outdoor theatre from the Babbling Vagabond’s and their Wagon of Wonder, incredible performances by visitors of all ages who took part in Nisha Lall’s Bollywood dance workshops and lots of arts and crafts activities for people to take part in, and all for free.”

“We were also thrilled that visitors could experience the rich cultural heritage of Chesterfield with representation from the Chesterfield Asian Association, the African Caribbean Community Association, Polonia Chesterfield and Verba, the Ukrainian Social Group.  Lastly, we would like to take this opportunity to thank all the volunteers who helped make this such a successful event and to all our funders and sponsors.”

Find out more about events and activities for the whole family taking place in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

Junction Arts supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

tapton lock festival 2023 families

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Chair’s blog: “It has been delightful to see so many people attending events”

As summer draws to a close, I wanted to reflect on some of the fantastic activities which have happened in our town over the last few months…

It has been delightful to see so many people attending events, bringing local communities together and supporting our independent businesses.

Back in June, we saw some fantastic cricket as Derbyshire played host to Yorkshire at Queen’s Park, with Derbyshire coming out victorious in front of a fifth successive sell-out crowd.

The Chesterfield Canal Festival also saw more than 8,000 people visiting Staveley. It is brilliant to hear of the work Chesterfield Canal Trust is carrying out with partners to restore the canal and the Staveley basin.

Elsewhere, Chesterfield’s reputation for having one of the biggest and best Pride festivals in the region was once again showcased, with more than 5,000 attendees enjoying ‘90s boyband, A1 and rapper Tinchy Stryder.

The first-ever Chesterfield Children’s Festival proved a hit with youngsters, with silent discos, comedy clubs, theatre workshops, and more. It is wonderful to see that our town is providing a quality leisure offer for people of all ages.

One of the events which really stirred emotions was the Sparkle Night Walk, in aid of Ashgate Hospice. A record 3,100 people took part, raising over £150,000 for a charity which I know is dear to so many in our area. A big well done to everyone who got involved.

We also saw the first-ever Peddler Market in Chesterfield, which was welcomed to the town centre with resounding success. It was great to see people enjoying quality food and drink from the traders, including Chesterfield’s own Pizza Pi! I can’t wait to see its return on the 15th and 16th of September.

I’m excited to see how Chesterfield’s programme of events continues to develop in the coming years, with upcoming regeneration in our marketplace set to create a more communal and social space in the heart of the town. Somewhere you will enjoy sitting and chatting with family and friends.

Plans for next year include a new market layout with modern stalls, more seating, better lighting, and refreshed paving. This will all provide the flexibility needed to host events regularly in the town centre, providing that much-needed footfall for our independent shops, bars, and restaurants. The regeneration will go ahead thanks to £25m of funding, secured by Chesterfield Borough Council, with the market being just part of a major project that will see several improvements to our town centre, including the Stephenson Memorial Hall. Who knows what fun awaits once all the work is completed!?

I hope that we can all continue to support our local events, businesses, and people. By doing so, we can make a huge impact on the future economic growth of our area by attracting more visitors to stay here, more families to live here and more businesses to invest here.

Peddler Market

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , ,

Date confirmed for next year’s Chesterfield Pride following successful 2023 event

The date for next summer’s Chesterfield Pride festival has been confirmed, following another successful event which saw more than 5,000 people attend last month.

July’s celebration saw huge names performing including A1, Tinchy Stryder, Baga Chipz, Stooshe and many more. The event also saw the launch of its hugely successful “Kids Zone” which had lots of arts and crafts and Drag Queen story time. Chesterfield Pride has cemented itself as one of the country’s favourite LGBTQ Pride events.

Organisers say planning for 2024 has already begun for next year’s celebration, which will take place on Sunday, 21st July. Tickets are now on sale for the event.

Dan Walker, Organiser of Chesterfield Pride commented: “I love Chesterfield as a Town. The Town has seen some fantastic growth in recent years and is a great place to live and work. We have had amazing support from local businesses and the community for the event and this has helped us push the event to become really successful.

“We are so proud how far the event has come in a relatively short space of time. To think there was nothing before 2015 to now have an event that attracts over 5000 people is unbelievable. We are passionate about the event and look forward to growing it even further.

“2023 was a huge success and we can’t thank everyone that attended enough. The weather was less than perfect, however the atmosphere made up for this. The whole event was a sea of colour and smiles. We had so many areas of the community attend. We are proud to be a community event.

Dan added: “We are passionate about keeping the event entry costs low making it more accessible to everyone including families (under 16’s go free) The event is run not for profit and by volunteers.”

Secure your tickets for Chesterfield Pride 2024 here.

Find out more about the range of events taking place in Chesterfield throughout the summer at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer/

Chesterfield Pride 2023

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , ,

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