Christmas events in Derbyshire 2024

A guide to the festive Christmas events in Derbyshire and the Peak District 2024

As the air turns crisp and the days grow shorter, Derbyshire and the Peak District transform into a festive haven, offering an array of magical events to celebrate the 2024 festive season. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the region promises a Christmas to remember, with twinkling lights, historic markets, winter walks, and enchanting celebrations set against the stunning backdrop of rolling hills and rugged peaks. Here’s a guide to some of the most captivating Christmas events in 2024 happening in Derbyshire and the Peak District this holiday season.

1. Chatsworth House Christmas

This year, Chatsworth’s theme for their Christmas displays revolves around the magic of a Christmas feast from the 9th November. The house itself will be adorned with elaborate decorations, including a towering Christmas tree in the Painted Hall and hundreds of lights illuminating the grounds. For those who want to experience the full magic of Chatsworth, don’t miss the evening illuminations, where the gardens and fountains are lit up, offering a breathtaking winter spectacle.

2. Chatsworth Christmas Market

One of the highlights of the festive season in Derbyshire is the Christmas Market at Chatsworth House, a majestic stately home known for its grandeur and historic significance. From mid-November to early December, the market comes alive with over 100 stalls offering unique gifts, artisanal crafts, local food, and festive drinks. The smell of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine fills the air, adding to the traditional Christmas atmosphere.

3. Matlock Victorian Christmas Market

Matlock transforms into a winter wonderland for its annual Victorian Christmas Market, which will be held from December 6th to 8th December this year. Matlock’s market features more than just shopping, with live entertainment, brass bands, and carol singing adding to the festive cheer. The weekend includes a parade, where Santa makes a special appearance. On the final evening, the market ends, followed by a stunning firework display that lights up the town’s historic skyline. The market is a family-friendly event, and the atmosphere is joyous, making it a perfect way to kick off the festive season.

4. Bakewell Christmas Weekend

Known for its picturesque streets and famous Bakewell pudding, the town of Bakewell hosts its annual Christmas Weekend on the 16th and 17th November and the market runs from the 13th to the 20th November. This event is a wonderful blend of festive cheer and local tradition, with stalls selling festive gifts, crafts, and regional delicacies. There are also performances from local choirs, brass bands, and folk singers, ensuring the sounds of Christmas fill the air. The Bakewell Christmas Weekend is a fantastic opportunity to explore the town’s unique shops and enjoy a festive day out with family and friends.

5. Festival of Christmas Trees at the Crooked Spire Church: A Festive Tradition in Chesterfield

One of the most beloved and heartwarming events in Derbyshire during the festive season is the Festival of Christmas Trees at the Crooked Spire Church in Chesterfield. Officially known as St Mary and All Saints Church, this iconic landmark is famous for its twisting spire and rich history. During the Christmas season, the church opens its doors for the annual Christmas tree festival, a cherished local tradition that runs from November 16th to 1st December.

Visitors can stroll through the church’s aisles, admiring the stunning Christmas trees while soaking in the beauty of the church’s grand Gothic architecture. The soft glow of fairy lights and the rich decorations set against the backdrop of the church’s towering columns and stained-glass windows create a magical and serene atmosphere that truly captures the spirit of the season. The event is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s also an opportunity to support local causes. Many of the trees are sponsored by charitable organizations, and visitors can make donations to support these causes while they enjoy the festival. The community focus of the event makes it a special way to give back during the holiday season. Whether you’re visiting to admire the creativity of the tree decorations or to enjoy the peaceful ambience of this historic church, the festival is a perfect reminder of the joy and community spirit that Christmas brings.

6. Christmas at Hardwick Hall: A Historic Festive Celebration

This year, slip through time and enter the Elizabethan dream world of the Lord of Misrule and take part in the Wintertide celebrations as his esteemed party guests. As part of this, the season of Elizabethan magic will be at Harwick from the 17th of through to the New Year. Hardwick Wintertide is brimming with holiday joy, twinkly lights, and the spirit of togetherness. Whether it’s exploring the handmade decorations by the Hardwick team, following the mischievous Lord of Misrule around the mansion, or interacting with the enchanting displays, our festive experience is crafted to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. The hall also has late-night opening on selected dates. As well as the opening of the Hall in the festive season, there are also a range of seasonal workshops in the run-up to Christmas.

7. Peak District Winter Walks and Wildlife

The Peak District is renowned for its stunning landscapes, and during the winter months, it becomes a magical place for a scenic walk. For those seeking a peaceful way to enjoy the festive season, several guided winter walks are available throughout December and January, where you can explore the region’s picturesque scenery dusted in frost and snow.

One of the most popular walks is the Dovedale Winter Wonderland Trail, where you can wander along the River Dove and admire the limestone cliffs and frosty meadows. The more adventurous might want to tackle Kinder Scout, the highest point in the Peak District, for sweeping views of the snow-covered countryside. Keep an eye out for the region’s wildlife, as deer and birds of prey are often spotted during these winter walks.

8. Lights of Abraham: A Magical Christmas at the Heights of Abraham

One of the most enchanting experiences in Derbyshire during the festive season is the Lights of Abraham event at the Heights of Abraham, a popular hilltop park in Matlock Bath. Running from mid-November through December, the Heights of Abraham offers a unique blend of stunning views, historical attractions, and a festive light display that makes it a must-visit during the holiday period. The adventure begins with a ride in a cable car that soars above the beautiful Derwent Valley, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, often blanketed in frost or snow. As you ascend, the valley below begins to twinkle with Christmas lights, creating a magical scene. Once at the top, the entire summit is illuminated with thousands of festive lights, transforming the area into a Christmas wonderland.

The new light installation will take visitors on a walk through illuminated pathways, showcasing the natural beauty of the area in a festive glow. The caverns, for which the site is famous, will also be decked out in lights, offering guided tours where you can learn about the fascinating history of the area, all while basking in the magical ambience of the twinkling lights. In addition to the lights, there will be festive food stalls at the summit offering mulled wine, hot chocolate, and seasonal treats. You can also warm up by the fires in the summit café, while taking in the sweeping views of the Peak District below. The event runs from 22nd November to 30th December.

9. Christmas at Haddon Hall

For those seeking a truly magical and historical Christmas shopping experience, the Haddon Hall Christmas Market is a must-visit event in Derbyshire this festive season. Held in the grounds of Haddon Hall, one of the most well-preserved medieval manor houses in England, the market runs from 13th -17th, 20th- 24th November, 27th November – 1st December, 4th-8th December and provides a unique blend of history, tradition, and festive cheer.

Set against the backdrop of the hall’s stunning medieval architecture, this market offers a charming and intimate atmosphere. As you wander through the ancient stone courtyards and rooms, beautifully decorated with wreaths, garlands, and twinkling lights, you’ll find a broad selection of local artisans and makers selling an array of items. The warm scent of mulled wine, freshly baked mince pies, and other festive treats fill the air, adding to the cozy festive atmosphere.

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