Switching on the Chesterfield Christmas lights

Residents and visitors are invited to attend the Chesterfield Christmas Lights Switch On and Market on Sunday 19 November.

The event is being held in Chesterfield’s town centre, and crowds can enjoy a range of street entertainment from 12pm.

This is a fantastic free event for all the family to enjoy – whether you want to sing along to some Christmas carols, listen to a steel band, be entertained by the National Elf Service, or simply see the festive lights being turned on across the town, there is something for everyone.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “If you want to get into the festive spirit, what better way to do this than to attend our Christmas Lights Switch On event. Come along with your family and friends to enjoy all of the free street entertainment, as well as having the opportunity to do some shopping in the town centre and by visiting our festive market stalls.

“Shopping local is a fantastic way to support our local economy and there are some incredible independent traders across the town centre.”

This year’s special guest appearing in Rykneld Square is Paddington™. He will be appearing outside the Visitor Information Centre at intervals between 12pm and 3.30pm check the website for more information. Don’t forget to bring your phones or cameras to take photos of Paddington during your visit.

The stage show will be held in New Square from 3.30pm with carol singing Christmas Crackers, Directions Theatre Arts dance school and a stunning light show with juggling and hula-hoops.

Stars of the Aladdin Pantomime including Anne Hegerty, Nigel Clarke, Tony Rudd and more will also be taking to the stage to join the celebration and host a ticket giveaway. The lights will be officially switched on at 4.45pm.

A market will be held alongside the event and the Market Hall will be open – making it a fantastic opportunity to support local independent businesses and start preparing for Christmas. Chesterfield residents will be able to park for free with their free resident’s pass.

What’s happening when and where?

Location: Rykneld Square (Outside Visitor Information Centre)

• Paddington 12pm – 12.30pm, 1pm – 1.30pm, 2pm – 2.30pm, 3pm – 3.30pm.

Location: Market Place

• Chesterfield Studios (festive singers)1.05pm – 1.30pm and 2.20pm – 2.45pm.

Location: Central Pavement

• Phoenix Concert Band 12.30pm – 12.50pm, 2pm – 2.20pm and 3pm – 3.20pm.

Location: New Square

Jon Hicks (Artist in action) 12pm – 12.15pm, 12.45pm – 1pm, 1.30pm – 1.45pm and 2.15pm – 2.30pm

Location: Walkabout Entertainment Around the Market Area

• The Halo Glow Show 2pm – 2.20pm and 3.30pm – 3.50pm.
• Carol Singing Christmas Crackers 12.40pm – 1.10pm and 4.50pm – 5.20pm.
• Jacks of Frost 12pm – 12.30pm, 1.30pm – 2pm and 3pm – 3.30pm.
• Sid Bowfin’s Christmas Classics 1.50pm – 2.20pm and 4pm – 4.30pm.
• National Elf Service 1pm – 1.30pm, 2.30pm – 3pm and 4.30pm – 5pm.

Location: Pavements Shopping Centre

• Chesterfield Museum – 12pm – 4.30 pm (Old Massarella’s Unit)

Location: Outside old Marks & Spencer

• Pantonic All Stars Steel Band 12pm – 12.30pm, 1.30pm – 2pm  and 3.30pm – 4pm.

Location: Crooked Spire Church

• A Festival of Christmas Trees 12pm – 5.30pm.

Please note: this programme is subject to last minute changes.

Visit www.chesterfield.gov.uk/christmas to see the full range of festive events this year.