Yuletide fun aplenty as Festive Derby returns

Derby LIVE has announced details of this year’s Festive Derby – a programme of fun events, which will take place in the run up to Christmas.

Starting on Saturday 2 December, it will begin with the Christmas Lights Switch On and a city lantern parade by Surtal Arts.

The Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink will return to the Market Place, alongside three new Festive Tipis, featuring a cosy Nordic Bar and roaring Fire Pit and entertainment including music, comedy, quiz nights and more.

There will also be entertainment for younger visitors in the tipis, with Winter Stories by AVP Theatre and a book reading with local author Kat Quarmby.

There will be an array of outdoor entertainment from acts, including Invisible Friends, the Duffield Singers, Derby Concert Band, Shannon Elmore and the Derwent Valley Wind Band.

And there will be lots of tasty treats to indulge in, including German sausage, donuts and crepes, plus fairground rides for the children.

The Christmas Elf Trail will return as will the Nordic Express – Derby’s very own land train.

And there will be a chance to meet Santa at the Cathedral Quarter Christmas Grotto at QUAD.

There will also be more festive-themed events and attractions taking place across the Cathedral Quarter, St Peters Quarter, Derby Museums, Derbion, Artcore, Déda, Derby Theatre, Derby Arena and Derby Cathedral.

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, the city council’s cabinet member for city centre, regeneration, culture and tourism, said: “We’re delighted to be bringing Festive Derby back to the city this year.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the work of local artists, entertainers and business owners, and bring the local community together at such a special time of year.

“We really look forward to welcoming everyone into the city for the season’s celebrations.”

To see the full line-up of Festive Derby events visit https://www.festivederby.co.uk/ .