The top ten holiday activities in Derby this February half-term

Published: 17 February 2022

Need some ideas to keep the kids occupied this February half term? There’s plenty of family friendly fun to be had in Derby, from stargazing to arts and crafts to sports activities there’s sure to be something to keep your little ones entertained.

Stargazing at Alvaston Park - Reach for the stars for an evening of stargazing suitable for all budding astronomers. Explore the wonders of the night sky through one of Derby and District Astronomical Society’s telescopes! Remember to wrap warm to take a starry stroll led by Beyond the Pencil, plus, there will also be the chance to watch the model Alvaston Pirate Boats illuminated on the lake. Come join us at Alvaston Park on Sat 19 Feb from 6pm. The Waterside Café will be open for refreshments throughout.

Events in Derby Libraries - There’s lots going on at Derby Libraries this half term, especially at Normanton Library. Come and help to create a scrapbook with Artcore to chart the incredible journey and celebrate the amazing achievement of an amazing Derby woman. Celebrating the successful mission of Preet Chandi is at Normanton Library on Mon 21 Feb. Normanton Library will also be hosting Get creative with Spiral Arts on Sat 26 Feb, join in the fun and celebrate how wonderful you are, along with your talents, skills, and personality in your very own ‘Tiny Book of me!’ Both of these events are free but places are limited and booking is required.

Derby Parks - Derby Parks has lots to offer this February half term, from the BMX track at Osmaston Park to the recently installed outdoor gym equipment at Chaddesden Park or simply take a scenic stroll around any of Derby’s fantastic parks. Why not try out the Love Exploring app for a little walk on the wild side and see what you can discover? Don’t forget to stop for a bite to eat or warm up with a hot drink in one of the many cafes located in Derby Parks, see the In Derby website for a full list of cafes and opening times.

Markeaton Park - As ever, the Mundy Play Centre at Markeaton Park will have plenty of activities for everyone to enjoy throughout half-term. Why not channel your competitive side and play a game of Mini Golf, Pitch and Put or tennis also available to book at Markeaton Park.

Cycle Derby - Want to keep the kids active during the February holiday? Cycle Derby have plenty of activities planned at Markeaton Park! From Learn to ride on Thu 24 and Fri 25 Feb, meeting new friends at the holiday clubs on Mon 21 and Tue 22 Feb or whizzing around the velodrome, there is something for everyone. Don’t leave it too long as places fill up quickly! Booking in advance is required.

Derby Arena - If cycling is something you and your family want to take up this half term and you don’t want to worry about the weather, why not take advantage of the fantastic facilities at Derby Arena and book onto the Family Taster sessions? The whole family, aged 9 and up, can try out track cycling with no experience on Fri 25 Feb. Derby Arena has some great birthday party offers too, including our track cycling party!

Springwood Leisure Centre - For other ways to keep kids active during half-term, Springwood Leisure Centre has a full program of Junior Gym sessions with recently installed state-of-the-art new gym equipment. These are available to young people aged 12 – 16.

St Valentine’s Fair and Derby Vegan Market - If you’re thinking of heading into the city centre this February half term, make sure to stop off at the Market Place for the St. Valentines Fair running from the Fri 18 to Sun 27 Feb. Alternatively, head just around the corner to Cathedral Green for a taste of vegan cuisine at the Derby Vegan Market on Sat 26 Feb, showcasing a variety of vegan food, drinks, clothes, cosmetics along with some great charity and information stalls.

QUAD, Museum of Making, Derby Museum and Derby Theatre - Looking for some fantastic educational activities for the kids to enjoy? Check out the QUAD, Museum of Making at Derby Silk Mill and Derby Museum & Art Gallery, all with a packed programme of activities to choose from! From digital workshops to creative classes, these are the perfect way to keep the kids entertained. The fun doesn’t stop there! Derby Theatre will be providing some family friendly productions throughout half-term, to find out what’s on offer head to their website.

Volunteering - Half term is a great opportunity to get involved with your community. Why not join one of our many volunteering groups to help to keep Derby’s parks looking great! Come and share your skills or learn something new and make some new friends, it’s perfect for the whole family to get stuck into and (get a little muddy!)

The fun doesn’t end there, for more information on all of the holiday activities being held in Derby this half term and beyond, visit inderby.org.uk/holidays

Children