City’s festive celebrations set to get underway

Derby’s festive celebrations are set to get officially underway tonight, marking the start of a series of events involving a number of Marketing Derby Bondholders.

The festivities officially launch at 5pm with the Christmas Light Switch-On, presented in partnership with Smooth Radio, and a vibrant Lantern Parade led by Surtal Arts.

The main stage show kicks off the evening outside Riverside Chambers, across the road from QUAD and the Council House.

The show will culminate with the official Christmas Lights Switch On at 6.30pm, illuminating the city for the festive season.

The event ties in with Love Sadler Gate’s annual Sadler Gate Night Market, where the historic street will be brimming with over 60 artisan stalls, and the independent shops will also be open late.

Derby Market Hall will be open too, with food, drink, shopping and free live entertainment.

The Nordic Bar and Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink, in the Market Place, will offer an exclusive preview during the Switch On event before their official opening on Saturday 29 November.

The Switch On will also illuminate the city’s Festive Derby Light Trail, a dazzling display brought to you by the Cathedral Quarter and St Peter’s Quarter Business Improvement District and Derby City Council.

Derby Market Hall will be welcoming Father Christmas and his elves for the festive season.

Families can meet Santa at The Cathedral Quarter Santa’s Grotto, sponsored by the Cathedral Quarter BID from Saturday 29 November.

Each child will receive a special gift, and families can take their own photographs with Santa and his elves.

The Market Hall will also host speciality pop-up markets and free festive live entertainment.

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, city council leader and cabinet member for city centre, regeneration, strategy and policy, said: “Festive Derby just gets better and better each year and what’s more exciting than celebrating the countdown to Christmas with our official start to the festive season?

“From the excitement of the Christmas Light Switch-On and the beautiful Lantern Parade, to the return of the Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink and the refurbished Derby Market Hall, there truly is something for everyone to enjoy.

“These celebrations showcase the very best of Derby’s retail, culture, and community spirit.

“I encourage all our residents and visitors to come out, support our local businesses, and experience the joy and warmth of the festive season here in Derby.”

Brad Worley, manager for both the Cathedral Quarter and St Peters Quarter BIDs, said: “There is so much to enjoy in Derby this Christmas.

“We always work hard to create a family-friendly Christmas atmosphere in Derby, and this year is no exception. All these events are a great way to get into the Christmas spirit.”

For a full list of events taking place as part of Festive Derby click here.