Derby City Centre to Feature UK’s Largest Light-Up Santa in New Festive Trail

Derby city centre is preparing to be illuminated by a new Christmas lights trail during the upcoming festive season. The Festive Derby Light Trail will encompass various installations throughout the city centre, extending from The Spot, situated on Lara Croft Way, all the way to Cathedral Square. Derby City Council announced that the trail is designed to “wind its way through the heart of the city” and will prominently feature the UK’s largest light-up Santa installation, which will be positioned in the Market Place. Nadine Peatfield, leader of Derby City Council, stated: “We’re already getting excited about this Christmas in Derby.” She further commented, “The new light trail promises to be a magical addition to our packed festive programme.” This new attraction is a collaborative effort between Derby City Council, the Cathedral Quarter, and St Peter’s Quarter Business Improvement Districts (BIDs). The trail will commence with festive wrapped rings at The Spot, leading to a lit-up Rudolph arch at St Peter’s Cross, which then connects to a tunnel of light running through Cornmarket. Inside the Market Place, “colourfully lit” Christmas presents will be displayed alongside a Christmas tree, marking the location of the “highlight of the trail” – the UK’s largest light-up Santa. Subsequently, “a curtain of light” will brighten Irongate, extending up to Cathedral Square, where a large gold star will be situated beneath the cathedral. Brad Worley, manager for Cathedral Quarter and St Peter’s Quarter Derby BIDs, expressed: “The BIDs are thrilled to bring this amazing light installation trail to the city.” He added, “We want people to explore the city and experience what our wonderful businesses have to offer this festive period.” Festive Derby will officially launch the trail with a Christmas Lights Switch-On event scheduled for 30 November. For updates, follow BBC Derby on Facebook, X, or Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp at 0808 100 2210. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external sites. Information regarding our approach to external linking is available.