The best Christmas markets and festive events
Take a peek at what's going from Christmas markets to winter food festivals and stunning light trails. A selection of the best Christmas events and things to do.
Want to know all about the best Christmas Markets in the Peak District and Derbyshire for 2026?
The Peak District & Derbyshire transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season, offering enchanting markets that capture the festive spirit. Here are some of the best Christmas markets to explore:
For more festive events across Derbyshire click here and for a chance to meet Santa in the Peak District click here.
Chatsworth Christmas Markets
7 November – 13 December 2026
Soak up the festive atmosphere at Chatsworth Christmas Market against the stunning backdrop of Chatsworth as you browse more than 100 stalls offering a wide range of Christmas gifts and decorations. Enjoy a mulled wine or a German beer at one of the outdoor bars, sample delicious food including gourmet burgers and sausages, hot pork rolls, pancakes and churros, and listen to live music that’s sure to get you in the festive mood. Book now!
Haddon Hall Mercatum Winter Artisan Markets
11 November – 20 December 2026 (Wednesday to Sunday)
Experience the true magic of Christmas at Haddon Hall’s famous Mercatum, a luxurious artisan market that fills this Medieval treasure with festive spirit. Explore beautifully decorated rooms, galleries and courtyards, and browse exquisite creations from over 180 talented makers. Go Green and arrive by public transport to save on tickets! Book online in advance.
Bakewell Christmas Market
14 – 15 November 2026
Set in the charming town of Bakewell and running their 16th year, their market features over 100 stalls selling handmade crafts, local delicacies, and seasonal treats including lots of entertainment! Don’t miss the iconic Bakewell pudding!
Christmas Market on the Thornbridge Estate
20 November - 6 December 2026 (Friday to Sunday)
Inviting you to their magical Christmas Village, enjoy a day out visiting the stalls of local makes, bakers, creatives and traders of unique items! Included with their standard garden entry, enjoy festive cheer, mulled wine, music and so much more to discover. Book now!
Chesterfield Christmas Lights Switch On and Market
20 -22 November 2026
Get into the festive spirit as Chesterfield’s annual Christmas Lights Switch On returns with a variety of entertainment performing throughout the day and a market where shoppers can start their Christmas shopping.
A market will run alongside this event in the Market Square and the Market Hall will be open so shoppers can start picking up presents from local businesses.
Matlock Victorian Christmas Market
4 – 6 December 2026
Matlock’s beloved Victorian Christmas Market returns this December transforming Hall Leys Park into a festive wonderland. Fun for the whole family – including your four-legged friends. Visitors can explore over 200 traditional stalls offering unique gifts, handmade crafts, delicious food, artisan treats, and festive fashion, with many of the stalls being located in two extra-large marquees, so the weekend can be enjoyed whatever the weather.
Bolsover Christmas Market and Lantern Parade
28 November 2026
Spreading right across town, Bolsover Christmas Market offer artisan treats and unique presents that support the amazing local makers in the area. The town square will have live music and entertainment as well as the festive bar so you can enjoy mulled wine! The Lantern Parade will begin at 5pm creating a spectacular celebration of light.
Belper Winter Food Festival
22 November 2026
The Belper Winter Food & Gift Fair will take place in the town centre with stalls selling a range of goods from food and drinks to gifts and crafts, with entertainment in the Memorial Gardens. Many of Belper’s wonderful local businesses will be open too, so there really is something for everyone to enjoy.
Cromford Mills Christmas Weekends
28–29 November, 5–6 December, 12–13 December 2026
Visit the festive winter markets in the atmospheric surroundings of the Georgian Mill Yard on selected dates in November and December. Discover quality artisans and independent local retailers selling a wonderful handmade gifts, hot drinks and festive fair.
Artisan Christmas Market at Peak Village
5 – 6 December 2026
Explore the Artisan Christmas Market, featuring live music, festive food, and market stalls from The Derbyshire Makers. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover unique Christmas gifts for yourself and your loved ones, all crafted by local makers, while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
Christmas Maker’s Market at Great British Car Journey
29 November 2026
A wonderful selection of local makers, independent businesses and small brands for a festive day of shopping. Discover handmade gifts, locally-made products, festive treats, unique finds and plenty of gift inspiration from independent makers and businesses. It’s just £5 per car to park up and enjoy our Christmas Makers Market, regardless of how many people are travelling with you!.
Christmas Markets at Peak Wildlife Park
12 - 13 December 2026
Included with park entry, experience Peak Wildlife Park as magical as ever! Wander through local artisan stalls all while meeting curious creatures from polar bears to red pandas! The perfect activity to tick off your Christmas list. Book now!
Bakewell Christmas Market
14 - 15 November 2026
Fun for all the family with a cosy tipi grotto, kids' crafts, animal encounters, face painting aswell as a Christmas market with local makers and traders, street food, bars. You can also enjoy live music from Ashover Band, Local Vocals Choir & The Lah Di Dahs.
Other great festive events
Events
Christmas Family Festivities at Markeaton Park
Enjoy festive food, music, Christmas crafts, free Elf Trail and much more!
Featured
Events
The Polar Express at Churnet Valley Railway
Experience THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride this Christmas at the Churnet Valley Railway
Events
Bakewell Christmas Market
Explore exciting tastes of different cultures or fill your soul with comforting favourites.
Events
Matlock Victorian Christmas Market
Fun for All - with entertainment for the whole family, from festive performances to fun fair rides, there’s something for everyone.
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