Derby Christmas Lights Switch On & Festive Derby Opening
Visitors gather to celebrate the start of Festive Derby as the city's Christmas lights illuminate the streets. The event features live entertainment and community performances, along with a spectacular lantern parade presented by Surtal Arts.
Sat, Nov 28, 2026 All ages Free.
See more other Christmas activities near Derby
Plan Your Visit
Hours
5:30pm.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Wrap up warmly, because the lights switch-on, community performances and lantern parade all happen outdoors in the city centre on a late-November evening.
- If you'd like to go skating too, book Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink tickets in advance; the rink and Nordic Bar return for Festive Derby 2026.
Links & Contact
Run by Derby LIVE
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens at the switch-on?
The city centre's Christmas lights are switched on to start Festive Derby. There's free live entertainment, community performances presented by Smooth Radio, and a lantern parade by Surtal Arts.
What else is on for Festive Derby this year?
The Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink and Nordic Bar are back, with skating tickets bookable in advance. Snow White is this year's panto at Derby Arena, and Chapel Street Arts Centre has a new Christmas theatre show.
Browse Christmas in Derby
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.