Illustration of a christmas market scene (Chesterfield Christmas Lights Switch On and Market)
Christmas Markets

Chesterfield Christmas Lights Switch On and Market

Visitors can browse a festive market filled with stalls from local independent traders, artisan makers, and craft producers offering unique gifts and seasonal treats. The event features festive lighting, seasonal food and drink, live entertainment, and fairground rides. Guests can also stop for a drink in the Après Ski-style bar area.

What to Expect

Three-day festive market featuring artisan stalls and an Après Ski-style bar.

Event Details

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Town Centre

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Chesterfield Borough Council

Food & Drink

Food and drink vendors offer festive treats and seasonal options, and visitors can have a tipple in the Après Ski-style bar area.

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Christmas shoppers and families

Vibe

Festive and welcoming

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Location

Market Place and New Square
Chesterfield, ENG

Know Before You Go

  • Hours: 11:00am - 7:00pm; special guest switches on the Christmas lights from 4:45pm.
  • Parking: The page directs visitors to a linked page for parking details in Chesterfield.

Tips & Advice

  • Travel by bus or train if convenient, as Chesterfield town centre is accessible by both and this can avoid finding town-centre parking.
  • If driving, use the linked Chesterfield parking information to choose a parking option before setting off.
  • Go on Friday or Saturday for the market's live entertainment; on Sunday, the market coincides with the Christmas Lights Switch On.
  • Check online for entertainment updates closer to the event, as the full programme is still being confirmed.
  • Wear warm, weather-appropriate layers for browsing the town-centre market and spending time among the stalls.

Special Events & Promotions

  • New for 2026: the Christmas Market runs for three days, Friday to Sunday
  • Sunday 22 November: Christmas Lights Switch On, hosted by Becky Measures, with a special guest turning on the lights
  • Live entertainment on Friday 20 and Saturday 21 November
  • The main stage returns to the Town Hall, making room for more entertainment and traders across the town centre

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is there to do besides shopping?

There are fairground rides, walkabout entertainers and an Après Ski-style bar. You'll also find festive food and drink and activities for all ages.

What can I buy at the market?

Stalls from local independent traders, artisan makers, craft producers and food and drink vendors sell gifts, handmade crafts and festive treats.

Where is the main stage?

The main stage is back at the Town Hall. Local musicians, choirs, dance groups, community performers and seasonal entertainers will appear there.

Who switches on the lights?

On Sunday, Becky Measures hosts the stage show, and then a special guest switches on the Christmas lights.

How do I book a stall?

Dowse Events manages stall bookings for Chesterfield Borough Council. You book through the Event Owl website.

Tags

Christmas marketholiday marketSanta visitsfestive foodcommunity celebrationseasonal activitiesfamily friendlyholiday traditionartisanal productslive entertainment

More Christmas Events Near Chesterfield

More Christmas Events near Chesterfield

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Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team