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.
5. Delapre Abbey Christmas Fair (Northampton - November 22 - 23)
Held at the beautiful, historic Delapre Abbey, this fair offers a high-quality Christmas shopping experience within the abbey grounds and building. It is a ticketed event that provides a distinct, rural venue near the main city centre. 🗺️ Delapre Abbey, London Rd, Northampton, NN4 8AW | Kirsty Edmonds
6. Daventry Christmas Market & Festive Fun (Daventry - November 22)
This free, family-friendly event takes over the High Street, Bowen Square, Foundry Walk, and Sheaf Street in the town centre. It features market stalls, street entertainment, and often includes a visit from Santa, making it the primary festive hub for West Northamptonshire. 🗺️ Daventry High Street, NN11 4HU | AFP via Getty Images
7. Northampton Christmas Lights Switch On (Northampton - November 22)
This key central event combines a festive market with a large programme of entertainment and activities culminating in the town's official lights switch-on. The associated market and events offer a strong opportunity for local trade, featuring food and craft stalls in the city centre. 🗺️ Northampton Town Centre, NN1 2BL | Kirsty Edmonds
8. Chesterfield Christmas Lights Switch-On and Market (Chesterfield - November 23)
This event combines a festive market with a large, entertaining stage show culminating in the town's official lights switch-on. Due to ongoing renovation work, the main stage show will take place outside the Town Hall, followed by a procession back into the town centre market area. 🗺️ Chesterfield Town Hall and Market Place, S40 1LP | Brian Eyre