Derbyshire Makes Chesterfield will be a vibrant celebration of creativity that will transform Chesterfield Market and beyond into a live, immersive festival of making, showcasing the town’s rich artistic talent and heritage.
The festival headliner is the Great Chesterfield Make Off, where 40 local artists create brand-new work live in the marketplace, turning the space into a buzzing hub of creativity. Visitors will experience the energy of artists at work, discover new creative talent, and witness the skill and imagination that make Chesterfield’s arts scene so vibrant.
Alongside this, there will be a hands-on workshop where visitors can create their own mini masterpieces, live street performances from internationally renowned artist Matt Pang, plus more opportunities to discover and support Chesterfield’s makers.
The festival also extends into the library and town centre exhibition spaces, exploring the endangered local heritage craft of lacemaking and celebrating today’s cultural leaders through a photographic exhibition of Chesterfield’s creative sector.
This is a must-see event that invites everyone to watch, take part, and be inspired.
Now in its second year, Derbyshire Makes is Derbyshire County Council’s flagship programme of cultural events across the county. The free Derbyshire Makes Festival is an annual event taking place across six distinct local Hubs from 11th April - 16th May 2026.
The Derbyshire Makes Festival will also take place in other locations across the county, each hosting a full day of free, family-friendly activity:
Cromford Mills – Saturday 11 April
Swadlincote – Saturday 25 April
Heanor – Saturday 2 May
Glossop – Saturday 9 May
Bolsover – Saturday 16 May
For more information and details on how to get involved, visit www.derbyshiremakes.co.uk and sign up to the mailing list.
Derbyshire Makes is made possible thanks to funding from Arts Council England and The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
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Festivals in Chesterfield,
Arts events in Chesterfield,
Exhibitions in Chesterfield.
