Join us for a celebration of all things seasonal, as Derby gets festive this year. We’ve put on a series of events to get you into the festive spirit, ranging from family delights with an Elf Encounter, a Dickens of a time with A Christmas Carol, the magical sounds of Christmas Brass or sample the delights of Festive Markets in Derby Market Place. We have planned all activities so that they can be enjoyed in a COVID compliant manner and within current government restrictions so please help us by following your local guidelines.
Around the city, on various days, you'll also find ice sculptors, street entertainers, light displays and more. There's lots of central parking, Covid-secure measures, food and drinks, and a really warm welcome.
Capacity for markets and events will be limited to allow for social distancing but there will be plenty to do and see, so please be patient, queue respectfully or come back later when its quieter. We look forward to welcoming you into Festive Derby city centre this Christmas – Yule Love It!
Whilst you explore the festive season in Derby use MiPermit to pay for your parking stay. MiPermit allows you to either:
MiPermit is a contactless and cashless payment method with exclusive parking offers.
Derby City Council, Derby Museums, Derby Cathedral, Derby Theatre, Sinfonia Viva, Quad, Cathedral Quarter and St Peter’s Quarter Business Improvement Districts (BIDs), and Intu are among the partners involved in bringing Christmas to the city.
You'll find the best Christmas events and festive activities, great shopping and much more!
Let's Make Christmas - 3 - 24 Dec
Christmas
Following on from the success of previous year’s event, and back by popular demand, this autumn sees the return of Let’s MAKE Ch... read more
Santa’s Winter Woodland Experience - 4 Dec - 24 Dec
Christmas, Family Fun
Wander through Santa’s Winter Woodland this Christmas.... read more
We’re bringing city centre streets alive with some fantastic festive street entertainers... read more
Tree of Light - 5 December onwards
Christmas, Family Fun
Write a message of love, hope or memory to be hung on the Christmas tree inside the Cathedral to mark this special time of year, for a sugge... read more
The Little Mermaid Online Performances - 8 Dec - 2 Jan
Christmas, Don't Miss, Family Fun
The Little Mermaid weaves a magical tale of love, loss and adventure where two fish characters take us on a journey with the ever-curious li... read more
Virtual Peak District & Derbyshire Christmas Market - 5 Nov - 24 Dec
Christmas, Markets & Fairs
Get into the festive spirit, start your Christmas shopping and step inside the Peak District & Derbyshire Christmas Market, brought to y... read more
The 2020 Chatsworth Christmas market has been cancelled, but you can still shop a virtual Christmas market. View our trader list today.... read more
Santa's Sleigh School - 5 - 24 Dec
Christmas, Family Fun
Learn to pass your Sleigh Proficiency Test this year with the help of Jingle and Jangles the Elves, Mother Christmas and Betsy Bakewell and ... read more
Christmas Cracker - 5 - 24 Dec
Christmas, Family Fun
Have a cracking Christmas celebration at the Adventure Farm!... read more
Winter Wonderland Forest Walk and Santa Visits - 5 - 24 Dec
Christmas, Don't Miss, Family Fun, School Holidays
Wrap up warm and get ready for a silly Elf adventure as you arrive at Waterside Winter Wonderland, where Santa's Chief Elf and his team will... read more
Twycross Zoo’s Christmas Spectacular - 5 - 24 Dec
Christmas, Don't Miss, Family Fun
Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland at Twycross Zoo’s Christmas Spectacular Event this December!... read more
Darley Dance Productions are proud to bring to you The Christmas Show Online. A fun, festive variety show that you can enjoy from home.... read more
Christmas at Chatsworth - 16 Dec - 3 Jan
Christmas, Family Fun
Discover the magic of Christmas at Chatsworth.... read more
Santa’s Sleepover - 17 - 23 Dec
Christmas, Family Fun
A Santa’s Sleepover is the most magical, wonderful Christmassy Escape.... read more
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Information relating to Coronavirus.
As of 4 January 2021, England is in a National lockdown: Stay at Home. Please be aware of the restrictions and comply with government guidance. Keep visiting the Visit Derby website for regular updates. Thank you.
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