With Halloween and (shortly) Bonfire Night out the way, the inevitable march towards Christmas 2025 has officially begun.
Though you are no doubt already aware of that, as Christmas songs start to permeate the air and supermarkets start wheeling out mince pies and other Christmas sundries ahead of your all-important 2025 shop.
Several areas in the East Midlands are also gearing up for the festive season, with Christmas Lights being switched on, ice rinks being constructed in market squares across the region, and, of course, Christmas trees taking centre stage in your neck of the woods.
We’ve earmarked at this early stage 21 Christmas Markets and events taking place across the East Midlands, from traditional Victorian fayre to fun and adventure for the whole family, including an appearance from the man himself - Santa Claus - ahead of his busiest time of the year.
Here’s our pick of the festive events coming up around the area this year, and what you could expect from attending them.
1. Chatsworth House's Christmas Market (Bakewell - November 8 - January 4)
This prestigious market is set on Lodge Hill within the spectacular Chatsworth Estate, offering over 100 stalls selling a wide range of gifts, decorations, and food from local suppliers and beyond. Admission to the market is free, but pre-booking a car park ticket is essential for entry to this iconic Peak District venue. 🗺️ Chatsworth, Bakewell, DE45 1PP | Brian Eyre
2. Winter Wonderland (Nottingham - November 12 - December 31)
The city's main winter attraction transforms the historic Old Market Square into a Christmas village featuring scores of festive cabins, a two-storey bar, an ice rink, and the iconic observation wheel. It's a bustling central hub for shopping, food, and festive entertainment throughout the holiday period. 🗺️ Old Market Square, Nottingham, NG1 2BD | Nottingham World
3. Mercatum Christmas Artisan Market (Bakewell - November 12 - December 14)
Hosted at the magnificent Haddon Hall, this thoughtfully curated artisan market showcases over 100 talented makers and sellers inside the historic medieval manor house. Visitors can find unique handmade gifts, enjoy festive food, and wander the stunning grounds. 🗺️ Haddon Hall, Bakewell, DE45 1LA | Peaklass
4. Bakewell Christmas Market (Bakewell - November 15 - 16)
A quintessential English Christmas market, this free event takes over the town centre streets of Market Street, Granby Road, and Riverside Crescent. It features around 100 stalls, including traders from the town's famous Monday market, offering local produce, gifts, and festive treats in the heart of the Peak District. 🗺️ Bakewell Town Centre, DE45 1DX | Maresol - stock.adobe.com