Families are in for a wonderful time at Markeaton Park in the lead-up to Christmas. The free Family Festivities event takes place on Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 December, from 11 am to 3 pm.
The annual Christmas extravaganza features live music, family festive activities, walkabout characters, a craft fair and a bustling outdoor market. Visitors will be able to enjoy festive food, meet our friendly characters, go on an elf trail and post a letter to Father Christmas in Markeaton Park’s own North Pole post box.
Children will love exploring the picturesque surroundings at Markeaton Park while they take part in the Elf Trail, which is free of charge. Just grab a trail map and seek out the wonderfully crafted wooden elf houses hidden throughout the park. Find all the letters and unscramble the festive word for the chance to enter our free prize draw. You could be in with a chance of winning a family ticket for this year’s fantastic pantomime Mother Goose at Derby Arena or vouchers for family fun at Mundy Play Centre.
We understand that your pets are cherished members of the family. That's why we've created Santa's Grotto for Dogs, where your four-legged friends can meet Father Christmas. Additionally, the event offers a perfect opportunity for Christmas shopping, featuring cards, gifts, decorations, and more at the delightful Markeaton Craft Village.
We are thrilled to announce the line-up of artists and bands set to provide a festive feeling to the weekend, which include Derby Concert Band, Rock Choir, The Invisible Friends, Derwent Valley Wind Band, Local Voices, Shannon Elmore, Chaddesden Ukulele Players, and Gem Connection.
Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for City Centre Regeneration, Culture and Tourism, said:
Family Festivities is a delightful event that brings joy to families by providing lots of free Christmas activities. It's just one of the many gems in this year's Festive Derby programme, which is bigger and better than ever.
For all the programme updates for the festive weekend, follow Derby Parks event’s Facebook page. Or visit the event web page.