[AD – contains sponsored links and content created at PR invites] Spectacularly seasonal Christmas events in Derbyshire. From South Derbyshire to the very north of the county, via the Peak District and Derby city centre, here’s my carefully curated guide to the best festive things to do in Derbyshire in 2023 click here for the 2024 version of the best Christmas Events in Derbyshire. Most events are family friendly but there’s also plenty for couples and groups of friends (maybe ideas for work Christmas parties?). I’ve also tried to include lots of free and low-cost Christmas activities.
All details provided in good faith. Please double check details directly with organisers before making a special journey – particularly in adverse weather conditions. It would be amazing if you could mention Lovely Local Indie when booking events.
I’ll keep this updated as I see more events so bookmark this page and keep coming back. If you find it useful, please share the post with friends/family/work colleagues. And if you’re the organiser of an event that you’d like to promote please get in touch.
Wishing you the most magical festive season!
Looking for ideas over Twixmas? Here’s 11 ways to beat Chrimbo Limbo boredom.
Derbyshire Christmas Events
Christmas at Chatsworth
Now until 7th January 2024
If Chatsworth is the jewel of the Peak District, its Christmas events are the crème de la crème of the festive calendar. The House is spectacularly dressed for the season (read about the 2023 theme here), as is the garden. Note that their Christmas market is now finished for the season, but head ead to Chatsworth’s website for full details and booking.
Hardwick Wintertide
Now until 7th January 2024
Tour by lantern light and tiptoe around the decadent tapestries, friezes and portraits. Marvel at the festive displays which highlight the very best of Elizabethan winter celebrations, from lavish banquets to the importance of gift giving. These bespoke displays have been designed by Pedro, a local performance designer and lovingly created with our team of volunteers. Find out more, including about the family friendly activities or read my previous review.
Santa’s Enchanted Christmas at Bluebell Dairy Farm, Derby
Various dates
Meet real reindeer, unleash your creativity at the Create-a-Bear workshop, meet our friendly and happy Elves and receive a gift from the magical chimney! This heart warming adventure promises unforgettable moments of joy and togetherness for the whole family. Find out more or read our previous review of Bluebells.
Christmas at Matlock Farm Park
Open daily
Book a Festive Village Santa Experience for plenty of seasonal fun including Christmas Crafts with Mrs Claus and one of her elves, hear a Christmas Story, and then chance to to write the most important letter of the year to Santa, ready to hand over to him in his Grotto. Then warm up with a hot chocolate with marshmallows and cream for the children and mulled wine for the adults before meeting Santa. Tickets include a gift from Santa and entry to Matlock Farm Park with all the usual animal and playtime activities. Book here. The same link can also be used for Breakfast with Santa.
Christmas at Denby Pottery Village
Various dates
There’s a huge choice of choice festive experiences for everyone at Denby Pottery Village. From wreath workshops to family-friendly activities that all ages will enjoy, browse the full selection here. Last year we loved visiting Santa in his grotto, the craft workshops and the free to visit Christmas market (now finished). Save 10% on afternoon tea with Santa using code “MOLLY10” (midweek bookings between 18th – 21st December).
Christmas at Kedleston Hall
Various dates
Various festive activities at Kedleston Hall including a free advent trail (normal admission prices apply), wreath workshops and Santa Paws dog walk. See the full line up.
Festive Derby
Various dates
A huge range of entertainment across the city centre to celebrate Festive Derby – lots of free activities and events including a free Elf Trail and free Nordic Express land train. Read my blog post for more information.
Festive Derby: Make Magical Memories
[AD] Festive Derby is back and bigger than ever, bursting with family-friendly festive fun, including the return of the Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink, children’s fairground rides and plenty of opportunities to meet Santa. There’s grown-up fun to be had too. Tick off your gift list with a range of festive shopping experiences and sensational seasonal…
See the Festive Derby website for full information.
Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink 2023, Derby
Until 31st December
Twirl (or totter) around Derby’s real ice rink complete with twinkling lights and festive playlist. then warm up with a hot chocolate or mulled wine. Book here.
Nordic Bar
Until 31st December 2023
Seriously stylish festive tipi with roaring fire pit. Indulge in a range of festive tipples under fairy-lit canvas. Read my review.
Mother Goose at Derby Arena
Until 31st December 2023
An action-packed adventure featuring Coronation Street’s Todd Boyce and Derby’s award-winning dame, Morgan Brind. Expect “s-peck-tacular sets, breath-taking special effects, egg-squisite costumes and mountains of mayhem… guaranteed to have the whole family honking with laughter.” Book tickets or read my review of Mother Goose at Derby Arena
Northern Lights at QUAD Derby
Until 9th January, 11am – 6pm each day
Free immersive experience in the QUAD Gallery based on the Aurora Borealis (‘Northern Lights’). Lighting, projection, and sound will transport you across the globe for an ethereal experience. Take Insta-worthy snaps or sit enjoy a peaceful moment amidst the magic. Read my previous review of QUAD.
One reply on “Derbyshire Christmas Events 2023”
I would absolutely love to go to all of these events, they all sound fantastic and perfect for this season! I also love anything to do with The Snowman; how wonderful!