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.
17. Market Harborough Christmas Fayre (Market Harborough - December 5)
Also known as the Late Night Shopping event, this fayre sees the town centre streets fill with music, food, drink, craft, and trade stalls, with many local independent shops staying open late. It is the key festive shopping event for the south of the county. 🗺️ Market Harborough Town Centre, LE16 7AE | Andrew Carpenter
18. Matlock Victorian Christmas Market (Matlock - December 5 - 7)
Held in Hall Leys Park, this market recreates a nostalgic Victorian atmosphere complete with costumed entertainers, fairground rides, and over 150 stalls selling crafts, food, and drink. It's a hugely popular, family-friendly event that transforms the centre of Matlock into a festive spectacle. 🗺️ Hall Leys Park, Causeway Ln, Matlock, DE4 3AR | Contributed
19. Newark Christmas Market (Newark-on-Trent - December 6)
Held in the historic Newark Market Place, this event features a range of stalls selling Christmas items, everyday staples, and festive food. Organised by the Town Council, it is a centrally located, family-friendly event that serves the eastern Nottinghamshire community. 🗺️ Newark Market Place, Newark-on-Trent, NG24 1DU | LITE
20. Lamport Christmas Market (Lamport - December 6 - 7)
This market is held at the grand Lamport Hall, offering a festive fair across two weekends with a focus on crafts and unique gifts from local and regional suppliers. The picturesque setting provides a stately backdrop for an intimate shopping experience. 🗺️ Lamport Hall, Lamport, NN6 9HD | Heritage Open Days