Make the most of summer in Chesterfield
Longer days, warmer evenings and a calendar packed with local events can only mean one thing, summer has arrived in Chesterfield.
Whether you're planning family days out, catching up with friends, looking for a peaceful escape or searching for your next adventure, there's no shortage of ways to make the most of the season. From live music and food festivals to canal cruises and adrenaline-fuelled activities, Chesterfield offers something for everyone.
Here's our pick of some of the best things to do in and around Chesterfield this summer.
Party at the Chesterfield music festival
If you're looking for the ultimate summer day out, the Chesterfield Music Festival is a date worth adding to your calendar. Taking place at Chesterfield Panthers Rugby Club on 25 July, the festival brings together an exciting line-up of tribute acts celebrating artists including Oasis, Taylor Swift, Charli XCX and ABBA, creating a fun-filled atmosphere for all ages.
Alongside the live music, you'll find a fantastic selection of street food vendors and licensed bars, making it easy to spend the whole day soaking up the festival atmosphere. Families are equally well catered for, with funfair rides and children's entertainment, including a K-pop Demon Hunters meet and greet, ensuring there's something for everyone.
Get lost in the Chesterfield Escape Rooms
If you’re looking to beat the summer heat, the Chesterfield Escape Rooms are the perfect local getaway for you and your friends. Consistently being ranked the UK’s number 1 live escape game experience, this hidden diamond holds many experiences based on your interests. You are able to put your teamwork, out-the-box thinking and curiosity to the test. This independent venue offers immersive, air-conditioned escape experiences for all ages, whether you're planning a children's birthday celebration, tackling a spine-chilling challenge with friends, or simply looking for a fun day out with family or colleagues.
Packed with puzzles, surprises and plenty of adrenaline, these immersive 60-minute escape games offer a fun alternative to a typical summer day out. With 12.5% off family bookings until 26 August using the code 'FAMILYTICKET', there's never been a better time to put your teamwork to the test.
Take a breather at the Chesterfield Canal
If you are searching for an oasis of calm to unwind this summer, the Chesterfield canal is the place for you. The canal is well maintained, and offers routes perfect for strolls, running, cycling, picnics and more.
What makes it truly special in the summer, is the ability to get on the water. You can book a public cruise ride such as the ‘Madeline’, with some offering afternoon tea or evening fish and chips. Surrounded by the beautiful greenery, wild flowers and a vibrant ecosystem, it provides a tranquil environment to clear your mind and soak in the summer sun, where you might just spot a blue kingfisher.
Tuck into the Great Chesterfield Feast
A brand-new addition to Chesterfield's events calendar, The Great Chesterfield Feast is set to bring New Square to life on Saturday 1 August to Sunday 2 August, with a weekend of international street food, artisan traders, craft drinks and live entertainment. Free to attend and designed for all ages, it's the perfect excuse to spend a summer day exploring the town centre, whether you're catching up with friends, enjoying a family day out or discovering some fantastic local independent businesses.
Alongside the food and shopping, visitors can enjoy live music and family-friendly activities throughout the weekend, creating a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Chesterfield. As one of the town's newest events, it's also a great opportunity to experience the newly transformed New Square and see the continued investment bringing even more life to the town centre.
Gear up for the BMX track reopening
Thrill seekers won't want to miss the grand reopening of the Ringwood Park BMX Track this summer. Following a £150,000 refurbishment led by dedicated local volunteers, the upgraded track offers an exciting space for riders of all ages and abilities, from complete beginners to experienced BMX enthusiasts.
The reopening event takes place on 26 July, from 11am to 4pm, with structured coaching sessions, bikes and safety equipment available for those wanting to give BMX a try. Alongside the action on the track, visitors can enjoy food vendors, music and a lively community atmosphere, making it a fantastic family day out and one of Chesterfield's standout summer events.
Discover Chesterfield's newest foodie hotspot
Chesterfield's food scene takes centre stage once again as Peddler Market returns to the regenerated New Square on 29 and 30 August. Bringing together award-winning street food, craft drinks, live music and a carefully curated selection of independent traders, it's one of the town's most anticipated events of the summer.
Running alongside Chesterfield's traditional Saturday Market and the Artisan Market on Sunday, the festival creates a lively atmosphere in the heart of the town. Whether you're discovering your next favourite street food vendor, browsing local makers or simply soaking up the music with friends, Peddler Market is the perfect way to celebrate the Bank Holiday weekend.
A town made for summer
From music festivals and foodie weekends to canal cruises, escape rooms and community events, Chesterfield offers plenty of ways to make the most of the warmer months.
Whether you're soaking up the atmosphere at The Great Chesterfield Feast, discovering local street food at Peddler Market, taking to the water along the Chesterfield Canal or cheering on riders at the Ringwood Park BMX reopening, there's always something happening.
It's this combination of local events, independent businesses, green spaces and strong community spirit that makes Chesterfield such a fantastic place to call home, and why summer is one of the best times to experience everything the town has to offer.
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