Derby's festive favourites Nordic tipi bar and ice rink set to return for Christmas 2024

Derby may be enjoying double digit temperatures, however plans for the 2024 Festive Derby celebrations are already in full swing.

The city’s popular ice rink will return this Christmas – and tickets are on sale now.

The covered ice rink was a popular attraction for all ages during the 2023 festive season. Organisers Derby City Council and Cathedral Quarter Business Improvement District (BID) say over 12,000 people donned their skates to enjoy the ice rink last year.

This year, the Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink will be located at Cathedral Green, and the fabulous Nordic Bar will also be back alongside it from November 30 until New Year’s Eve.

Whether you’re able to dance on the ice or you’re just trying to stay on your feet, there’s no better way to get in the Christmas mood.

Skaters and spectators will be able to enjoy views of the river, Derby Cathedral and the Museum of Making amid twinkling lights.

Skaters of all ages and abilities can enjoy whizzing around on the ice in hourly sessions, with prices including skate hire. For those feeling a bit wobbly on the ice, free skate aids will be available.

The eye-catching tipis of the Nordic Bar will be returning next to the ice rink, thanks to Sami Tipi and Mambo Bars.

You’ll be able to head in from the cold and take in the stunning festive foliage arrangements, disco balls and twinkling lights as you take a cosy seat by the firepit.

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council, said: “The Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink has become a well-loved fixture of Christmas in Derby and it’ll be exciting to see it return in this stunning new location.

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“This year’s Festive Derby is shaping up to be another one to remember and we can’t wait to welcome everyone into the city centre to enjoy it.

“Like last year, there will be a tantalising array of drinks, from steaming speciality hot chocolates to mulled wine and festive cocktails. More tasty treats will be available from our on-site food vendors. The Nordic Bar will host a programme of entertainment including live music, children’s entertainment, quiz nights and more!”

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Jodie Bidder, co-founder of Sami Tipi, said: “We were absolutely blown away by the warm embrace from everyone in Derby last year! We’re thrilled to be back, bringing our tipis for another season of magic. Derby, get ready for more festive sparkle under the tipis.”

The Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink and Nordic Bar will open on Saturday 30 November, as Festive Derby is officially launched with a Christmas Lights Switch-On event.

On the evening, festive light installations will lead people through the city centre to the Cathedral Quarter, where there will be festive entertainment to enjoy on selected weekends.

Ticket prices for Derby Christmas Ice Rink and Nordic Bar 2024

Tickets for the ice rink are on sale now. Standard tickets cost £11 during peak sessions and £9 for off-peak sessions.

Under 16s tickets are £8.50 during peak sessions and £6.50 during off-peak sessions.

There are family and group discounts available, starting at groups of 4+, with larger discounts available for bigger group bookings. There will also be special sessions for toddlers and their parents/carers too.

The Nordic Tipi Bar will run from November 30 until New Year’s Eve this year.

Location: Both the ice rink and Nordic Bar will also be located on Cathedral Green.

For more information click here.