Festive Derby, including Ice Skating and Nordic Bar Co, Review
DISCLOSURE – THIS EXPERIENCE WAS GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST/S FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW.
Reviewed by Alexander Wilde
Today marked the official start of Derby’s Festive programme for the Christmas season. Once again, it was very well advertised with Derby residents receiving a pamphlet in the post. Year on year, there is an extremely comprehensive offering for all ages, budgets, and interests. Therefore, it was with great delight when my family and I were given the opportunity to sample a section of the yuletide line-up. Wonderfully, my children’s school were already participating in The Lantern Parade which marked the climax of the Derby Season of Light festival, organised by South Asian city-based arts organisation ‘ Surtal Arts’ (www.surtalarts.co.uk)
We started our afternoon in the St Peters Quarter, (www.stpetersquarter.co.uk) the central high street of the city centre, from where the Lantern Parade was departing. It was a mild, but no less merry day thanks to the festive visitors; Father Christmas and his stilt-walking candy canes was a particular favourite. Just one of many costumed characters, entertainers and groups who are bringing free music and fun at the weekends up until New Year.
Celebrating the diversity of the city, the dazzling spectacle began with an array of dance and music performances from across the world. Led by a stunning, elaborately dressed Caribbean carnival queen, hundreds of school children, holding aloft their handmade lanterns, with their families, teachers, and the public, danced through the streets to the Council House. To the mighty beat of traditional Indian drums, we were accompanied by Chinese dragon performers, masqueraders, and a range of dancers in luminous and vivacious costumes. The parade concluded with an energetic Bollywood dance and drumming performances – adding colour and dynamism to the Christmas Light Switch On. An exceptional cultural celebration showcasing what makes the city so special!
Building up to the Big Switch On, a temporary stage in the glow of the Council House hosted a range of compelling acts which raised spirits of all ages. In front of thousands, breakfast presenters of Smooth Radio (www.smoothradio.com/eastmids) were joined on stage by the stars of Derby Live’s panto Cinderella (www.derbylive.co.uk/whats-on/cinderella2024), the Mayor and the main man himself – Father Christmas! The countdown culminated in the dazzling lighting of the streets and a flurry of fireworks. A rousing and crowd pleasing crescendo! A short stroll took us to the cultural heart of the city centre – Derby Marketplace – in the Cathedral Quarter (www.derbycathedralquarter.co.uk). Lit beautifully from above, and home of the UK’s largest light-up Santa, attractions – including the Giant Snow Globe for a cool photo, and food cabins surrounded the pop-up and spectacular real Ice Rink (www.derbylive.co.uk/whats-on/cathedral-quarter-ice-rink-2024) and the family-friendly neighbouring Nordic Bar (www.derbylive.co.uk/whats-on/festive-bar).
On arrival at the Ice Rink we were treated to a performance by a local skating virtuoso. The glittering rink was spacious and accommodated varying abilities. It is fully undercover, allowing for all weather frozen fun. Starting at £8.50 with additional discounts for groups, the Ice Skating is fantastic value and inclusive of skate hire, which were clean and comfortable, and the use of cute aids, including a sit on raft, for little gliders. The rink is also wheelchair friendly. Enhancing the experience, the team were incredibly friendly and helpful; being on hand to help visitors fasten their skates and pass out the aids.
Next door, the three peak tepee is the perfect pre- or post-skate venue for hot and cold winter tipples. Best described as Scandi hygge mixed with disco chic, under the cosy canopy you will find a welcoming fire pit, a well-stocked bar with an extensive menu and plentiful seating. Prices were reasonable and we ordered mocktails and hot chocolate for the children. I tried the delicious passion fruit mojito; they didn’t scrimp on the rum either!
Additionally, for those wanting to enjoy their drinks outside, takeaway is allowed. The aroma of the German sausages and loaded fries were incredibly tantalising, plus the sweet crepes and waffles also caught our eyes! The latter we couldn’t resist and enjoyed some smothered in Nutella.
Hosting a programme of entertainment including live music, theatre, comedy, quiz nights and more, tonight we were entertained by the incredible, local, party band Cassette Roulette (who had also played on the Light Switch On stage). Belting out pop hits and medleys from across the decades, the energetic quintet raised the roof and created an unrivalled atmosphere. The Grinch was also drawn to the music and joined revellers on the dance floor. Mischievous as ever, his antics made for some fun selfies and videos.
Still buzzing, we weren’t quite ready for home so decided to walk the Festive Light Trail from The Spot (which is also hosting Children’s Rides daily) to Cathedral Green. We enjoyed admiring the light installations and used the LoyalFree app to check-in at each location to enter a prize draw. Paper copies and activity sheet for younger explorers are available from the Ice Rink and Nordic Bar.
Last stop, Electric Daisy (www.dtederby.org) the city’s welcoming and vibrant community garden, which hosts hip events, experiences and workshops. Tonight, the eco-space was hosting a DJ and the outdoor party was in full swing. What can beat partying around the firepit as November draws to a close. This inclusive venue with its bar and a pizza oven is well worth visiting. Ticketed events can be found on their Eventbrite page.
Overall, an incredible day for young and old celebrating in the heart of the city that yule love! Christmas has officially started!
The vibrant city has excellent transport links and several car parks which make visiting easy and accessible. From magical seasonal activities and dazzling entertainment to bustling shopping, delightful dining, and captivating theatre, Festive Derby has it all. A true Christmas gift wrapped in joy and wonder, it’s the perfect destination to make your celebrations unforgettable!
Further highlights we hope to enjoy include: Christmas at Pickford’s House; Bustler market; multiple theatre productions by Derby Live and Derby Theatre; services and celebrations at the local churches, including the Arts Trail; and Santa’s Grotto We may even find time to squeeze in some Christmas shopping (plenty of gift buying options from craft fairs to independent retailers to the high-street big hitters), as well as entering the Golden Ticket Prize draw. This season, Derby is the ultimate choice for unforgettable experiences that will shine brightly in your memories for years to come!
Rating: 5/5 Five Merry Stars!
Prices range from free and are dependent on the experience. For those that require booking, do so online or by visiting the dedicated Box Office in the Market Place or specific venues.
Visit www.festivederby.co.uk for more information, map and what’s on guide.