Free Activities in Derby City Centre

Derby City Council has organised some activities to attract people into the city centre over the Christmas period. More details of activities Summary of the free activities below.

Nordic Express: the train takes a scenic route though the Market Place down to the Cornmarket and back.

Take in the festive journey and have the best seat to see the city’s lights. Catch the Nordic Express outside the QUAD building in the Market Place.

Open every weekend in December, Fri 22 Dec and Tue 26 to Fri 29 Dec.

Follow the trail of the mischievous elves
Spot the cheeky elves in Derby city festive shop window displays with this fun, free activity to keep little ones amused. Collect clues to solve the puzzle and post your free entry in the Post Box outside the Nordic Bar in the Market Place to enter the special prize draw.

Download your map on the Festive Derby web page.

Festive Entertainment

The mischievous Grinch will bring smiles and laughter to all ages, the Gingerbread Man will charm you with sugary sweetness, and don’t miss the chance to groove along with our dancing elves.

Cornmarket, Sadler Gate & St Peter’s Street on Sat 16, 23 and 30 Dec 2023 @ 11am