What's on at Victorian Matlock Christmas Market 2023? Firework display, Harry Potter owls and musical tribute acts

One of Derbyshire’s largest outdoor Christmas markets returns this year to bring sparkle and joy this festive season.

The Victorian-themed market has a packed roster of events which includes exciting funfair rides, a grand fireworks display and more.

It also happens to be held on the first weekend in December, which is the perfect time to meet the gifting season head-on and avoid last-minute Christmas Eve shopping chaos. 

Read more: Christmas in Derby

Here is everything you need to know about Victorian Matlock Christmas markets including opening times and the nearest car park.

When and where are Matlock's Victorian Christmas market?

The market takes place from Friday, December 1 until Sunday, December 3, 2023.

Opening times are 9am - 6pm and it is free to enter. 

The address of the location is Hall Leys Park, Causeway Lane, Matlock, Derbyshire DE4 3SX

Where is the nearest car park?

Bank Road Car Park is one of the nearest car parks and its full address for sat nav is 17 Bank Road, Derbyshire Dales DE4 3NN.

Details for alternative car parks in the vicinity can be found by clicking here.

What's on at the market?

There is so much to do, it makes sense for the organisers to host this great event over three days.

Shopping

If you love shopping then you’re in for a treat.

You can browse over 200 stalls spread over two giant marquees that will be packed with artisan handmade crafts and gifts.

This market with a twist sure makes it stand out from the crowd of other festive markets. 

Not only does it have a Victorian theme, it also has loads of fabulous entertainment lined up to keep you entertained for hours.

Music

There will be a bandstand entertainment featuring a variety of tribute acts to really get your toes tapping whilst you shop!

On Saturday December 2, you can enjoy performances by Lee Pashley as Robbie Williams, The Seaforth Highlanders and more.

On Sunday December 3, you can see Gary Goodmaze as Freddie Mercury, and Lara as Tina Turner.

Christmas fireworks display

Organisers have promised a ‘breathtaking’ Christmas fireworks display on the final day of the markets, on Sunday, December 3, at 5.30pm.

Santa’s Grotto 

Little ones can meet the big man himself at Santa’s Grotto (by Derwent Valley Lions) on Saturday 2 December and Sunday 3 December.

Harry Potter magic

It may not be your typical Christmas movie, but there’s something so wintry about Harry Potter’s magical story that evokes Christmas, especially when the cold nights are drawing in. 

James McKay, the man who supplied owls for the first movie in the blockbuster franchise, Harry Potter And The Philosopher’s Stone, will be at this Christmas market.

You can see his owls on all three days of the market, so there will be plenty of time for you to see James’ cute and cuddly feathered friends. 

Funfair

Proctors Family Funfair will be supplying thrills with their selection of funfair rides. 

Some of the larger rides may not be open on Friday, but are expected to be in operation on both Saturday and Sunday.

Food and drink

There will also be seasonal food so you can have a nibble as all that shopping can make you hungry.

For more information visit their Facebook page by clicking here.