Derby's new Christmas light trail with 'UK's largest Santa' to dazzle city centre this festive season

Christmas is coming to Derby with a new light trail and a host of exciting events including a giant SantaChristmas is coming to Derby with a new light trail and a host of exciting events including a giant Santa
Christmas is coming to Derby with a new light trail and a host of exciting events including a giant Santa | Derby City Council
Experience the magic of Derby's Christmas light trail, featuring stunning installations and festive attractions across the city.

A magical light trail will illuminate the streets of Derby city centre for the festive season.

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Derby City Council and the Cathedral Quarter and St Peter’s Quarter Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) have teamed up to create the new attraction.

The Festive Derby Light Trail will see several stunning light installations lead from The Spot, all the way to Cathedral Square, taking in the Market Place where the Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink and Nordic Bar will be situated.

Starting with wrapped rings at The Spot, people can enjoy festive foliage and twinkling lights as the trail winds its way through the heart of the city.

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Festive fun for all ages means adults and little ones can get involved!

Grab a bite to eat and let the kids enjoy the festive rides before heading down to St Peter’s Cross to see the jolly Rudolph arch, complete with his red nose, and then onto a tunnel of light which will run through Cornmarket.

As you enter the Market Place, the colourfully lit Christmas presents will sit with the Christmas tree as a backdrop.

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You will also find the highlight of the trail - the UK’s largest light-up Santa installation, powered by Tomato Energy. It could be a fabulous photo shoot spot for a festive family snap!

A curtain of light will illuminate Iron Gate up to Cathedral Square, where a giant gold star will sit below the Cathedral.

After all that walking why not enjoy a festive drink in the cosy tipis of the Nordic Bar and then, when you have had time to rest, take a spin around the ice rink with family and friends.

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Afterwards you can enjoy food from a variety of food stalls on the Market Place, including loaded fries, grilled sausages, donuts and crêpes.

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council, said: “We’re already getting excited about this Christmas in Derby.

“The new light trail promises to be a magical addition to our packed festive programme.

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“It’ll light the way through the city centre to the Cathedral, providing plenty of fantastic photo opportunities along the way!”

Brad Worley, Manager for Cathedral Quarter and St Peter’s Quarter Derby BIDs, added: “The BIDs are thrilled to bring this amazing light installation trail to the city.

“There are some truly impressive installations and we hope people will take some memorable photos and share with friends and family.

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“We want people to explore the city and experience what our wonderful businesses have to offer this festive period.”

Dominika Walker, Regional Community Engagement Lead for Tomato Energy, said: “At Tomato Energy, we’re lighting up the holiday season in more ways than one!

“We're absolutely delighted to support this year's Festive Derby and proud to sponsor the UK’s largest illuminated Santa.

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“We hope it will not only bring joy to the community but also spark conversations about efficient energy use during the festive season.

“It's our way of spreading holiday cheer while showcasing how cutting-edge technology and sustainability can go hand in hand.”

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