Families can enjoy a special day out at Markeaton Park in the run-up to Christmas. The free Family Festivities event takes place on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 December.
The Deputy Mayor and Mayor’s Consort will be attending the annual Christmas extravaganza, which will feature live music, walkabout acts, a craft fair and an outdoor market. Visitors will be able to enjoy festive food, meet our friendly characters and post a letter to Father Christmas in Markeaton Park’s own North Pole post box.
Children will love exploring the picturesque surroundings while they take part in the Elf Trail, which is free of charge. Grab a trail map and find the amazing carved wooden elf houses hidden around the park.
Find all the letters and unscramble the festive word for the chance to enter our prize draw. You could win a family ticket for this year’s fantastic pantomime Aladdin at Derby Arena or vouchers for family fun at Mundy Play Centre.
We know your pets are an important part of the family, so they won’t be left out of the festivities! You can bring your four-legged friend to meet Father Christmas at our Santa’s Grotto for Dogs. The event will provide the perfect opportunity for some Christmas shopping too, with cards, gifts, decorations and much more available at the wonderful Markeaton Craft Village.
Councillor Jonathan Smale, Derby City Council cabinet member for Finance, Digital and Culture, said:
“Family Festivities is a fantastic event that gives families the chance to enjoy a host of Christmas activities free of charge. It’s just one of a huge range of events taking place during this year’s Festive Derby programme, which is bigger and better than ever.”
Councillor Jerry Pearce, cabinet member for Streetpride, Leisure and Public Spaces, added:
“Markeaton Park is a perfect setting for the Family Festivities event. It’s a wonderful place for all the family and we are delighted to host these free Christmas activities. We hope all the families that attend have a fantastic time.”
Family Festivities will be open from 11am until 3pm. For all the updates see the event’s Facebook page.