Festive attractions to return to Market Place

Derby City Council has confirmed that two of the city’s favourite festive attractions will return to the Market Place this year.

The Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink and the Nordic Bar will be back in their established home for Festive Derby 2024.

They will open on Saturday 30 November, as Festive Derby is officially launched at the Christmas Lights Switch-On event.

The ice rink and festive tipis were due to be located at Cathedral Green this year, to accommodate the demolition of the former Assembly Rooms.

However, following a decision to reorder key milestones in the transformation of the city’s Cultural Heart, they will now be back in the same location as last year, on the Market Place.

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, leader of Derby City Council, said: “One of the positive outcomes of our recent amendment to the Assembly Rooms demolition plans is that we get to welcome the Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink and Nordic Bar back to the Market Place, enhancing the Festive Derby experience for visitors while supporting local businesses and our cultural partners.

“We’re working with our partners to ensure Cathedral Green and the surrounding area continues to be an important part of Festive Derby and we’re all excited to reveal the full programme of events very soon.”