Christmas Lights Switch On & Lantern Parade

Come into the city as we celebrate the start of Festive Derby

Come into the city as we celebrate the start of Festive Derby, with a range of festive entertainment including a stage show featuring local acts and of course, Santa!

Join us from 11am on 2 December and be one of the first to hit the ice on the Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink (booking required, as spaces are limited on this date) and catch the cheeky Elves, grumpy Grinch, Elf on a shelf, Gingerbread Men, Ice King and Queen on their walkabouts across St Peter's Quarter and the Cathedral Quarter. And don't forget to step into our giant snow globes for a festive photo opp with your friends. There will be lots of tasty treats to indulge in, including German sausage, donuts and crepes, plus fairground rides for the children.

From 4pm - Lantern Parade
Don’t miss the magical Lantern Parade from Surtal Arts, which is the climax of Surtal Arts’ Season of Light. The parade will start from St Peter’s Church at 4pm. The dazzling spectacle will see families, children and young people from schools and the community unite to light up the night with vibrant lanterns as they parade through the city streets. They will be joined in the parade by Chinese dragon performers and Bollywood dancers who will weave their way to the Lights Switch On.

From 4pm - Stage Show in Corporation St
An exciting stage show, presented by Smooth Radio’s breakfast show presenter Gareth Evans and Emma Caldwell, kicks off at 4pm. Situated in Corporation Street, outside the Council House.

4.05 - 4.15pm
The stage show starts with a performance by the talented students of Sinfin-based Tiptoe School of Performing Arts.

4.20 - 4.35pm
Singer songwriter Karolina, in partnership with Derby CAN, will be providing the music.

4.40 - 4.55pm
The dragons and dancers from Surtal Arts will take to the stage following the lantern parade.

5.00 - 5.20pm
Local party band Cassette Roulette will keep the party going until the big switch on.

5.30pm
Christmas light switch on.

And don’t miss Santa, who will be making an appearance to help with the big moment!

(Please note there will be no ice skating from 4pm – 7pm for the general public)

This event is BSL interpreted.