Travelling to Derby at Christmas is the ideal time to visit. Discover all of the festive activities to do when spending Christmas in Derby, and experience the most joyful time of the year in this beautiful English City.

Ice Skating in Derby

One of the most exciting things to do when visiting Derby with family or friends is to put on some skates and try your hand at Ice Skating on the seasonal rink in Derby’s Market Place. 

This protected rink is perfect for a simple skate, or thrilling themed ice capades. Skate back through the decades with themed sessions, or join in with fancy dress at the Christmas and New Year’s Eve Party sessions. The perfect activity for date night, or for a festive family weekend activity.

Christmas Party Nights at The Stuart Hotel

Begin the festivities with one of the infamous Christmas Party Nights at The Stuart Hotel in Derby. Begin your night with Bucks Fizz or Mulled Wine, followed by a decadent three-course meal. Enjoy a night of dancing and wind down with friends or colleagues as you listen to their resident DJ and break out some of your favourite moves.

Visit the Pantomime

Take a break from Christmas shopping and enjoy a festive theatre experience, perfect for couples, families, or those looking to add a little more festive cheer to their December.

Head over to Derby Arena for an immersive pantomime experience watching this year's production of Aladdin. Christmas wouldn’t be the same without a trip to the panto, so escape to Shangri-La for an evening of fun, mayhem and action-packed adventure.

Join the Derby Santa Run

This festive event is the perfect combination of fun, festive and meaningful. Join in the fun run, or spectate as hundreds of Santa’s run past through the streets of Derby. 

Support the Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People as you hop, run, skip and jump in a Santa suit, whilst raising funds and spreading cheer.

The route through Markeaton Park will feel like Christmas Day itself, as runners complete either 2.5k or 5k runs on the 11th of December.

The Wind in the Willows Live in Derby

A perfect Christmas activity for all the family, join the animal friends of The Wind in the Willows for an adventure through the English countryside this December. 

Head over to the performance tent on Derby Market Place to watch Toad, Mole, Ratty and Badger have a festive experience that will be entertaining for the whole family, no matter their age.

The Father Christmas Experience

If you’re looking for things to do in Derby then look no further, The Santa Clause Experience is a magical, interactive experience for all the family. Discover The Wishing Woods, Humbug the Elf’s Workshop and the Peculiar Penguin Sleigh Journey. From making toys to a nighttime sleigh ride, it’s time to have fun while you meet Father Christmas and choose a toy from his Magical Toy Shop.

Just outside of the city centre at Brunswood Farm you can join the festivities and experience the magic of Christmas.

Enjoy Christmas in Derby with The Stay Company

Looking for a base in Derby whilst you explore the city and its festive offerings? Get in touch with The Stay Company today and find your perfect city stay.