What's On: Summer 2025
- Boom Blog
- 2 days ago
- 24 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
We've searched high and low to collate this HUGE list of activities happening this summer in Derbyshire. There's truly something for everyone. From family fun days to woodland toddler classes. From tree climbing to craft workshops. And from theatre performances to museum events. Have an amazing summer!
Click through to your category of choice!
CLASSES AND ACTIVITIES FOR UNDER 4s (by date)
Role Play Fun… All Summer Long
Titchy Town and Hero Town
Throughout Jul & Aug
More info here
Seaside Messy Play
Electric Daisy, Derby
Sun 20 Jul – 12 to 3pm
Bringing the beach to Electric Daisy – join in an afternoon of messy play and crafting in the sunshine.
Book here
Intergenerational Musical Sessions
Springwood House Residential Home, Duffield Bank
Wed 23 Jul – 1.45 to 2.45pm
Join Twistin Tots for some intergenerational fun. Raising money to fund the new Tinies and Teacups parental support group.
Book here
Messy Play Derbyshire North
Woodland Messy Play, Kilburn
Every Mon – 10am
The Party Palace, Belper
Every Wed – 9.30am & 11.30am
The Venue, Ashbourne Specials
Thu 24 Jul & 21 Aug
Matlock Farm Park Special
Thu 31 Jul – 10.30am
Book here
Celebrating Us - Intergenerational Events
Belper Views Care Home
Fri 25 Jul – 10.30 to 11.30am
Spencer Grove Care Home
Mon 28 Jul – 10.30 to 11.30am
Holbrook Hall Care Home
Tue 29 Jul – 10.30 to 11.30am
Shared singing, music, refreshments and inclusive storytime suitable for all ages in association with Pride in Belper. No need to book.
Phonics with Robot Reg Special Summer Session
The Play Village, Ashbourne
Sat 26 Jul – 9.45 to 11.30am
Get ready for fun and phonics with a bumper session focused on the first 6 ‘satpin’ sounds!
Book here
Summer Sensory Sessions with Baby Sparks Derby West
Hilton Village Hall
Mon 04, 11 & 18 Aug
Newmount Church, Littleover
Tue 05 & 19 Aug
Strutts Centre, Belper
Tue 12 & 26 Aug
Darley Abbey Village Hall
Wed 06 & 20 Aug
St John’s, Allestree
Wed 13 & 27 Aug
Mickleover Methodist Church
Fri 08, 15, 22 & 29 Aug
Sensory adventures for 0-3s to stimulate, engage and relax.
Book here
CLASSES AND ACTIVITIES FOR OVER 4s (by date)
Derbyshire Libraries’ National Summer Reading Challenge
All local libraries
Sat 05 Jul – Sat 06 Sep
This year’s theme is ‘Story Garden’ encouraging children to get out in nature and share stories and imagination about the great outdoors.
Check your local library’s free activities here
Summer Activities at Infinite Wellbeing
Holiday Club
Mon 28 Jul to Wed 03 Sep
Family Craft with Aby
Mon 28 Jul, 04, 11, 18, 25 Aug – 9.30 to 11.30am
Themed Crafts with Lydia (check website for specifics)
Wed 30 Jul, 06, 13 Aug – 10am to 12pm
Family Friendly Cinema
Wed 30 Jul, Sat 02, Wed 06, 13, 20, 27 Aug – 1 to 2.30pm
Spiderman Visit
Sun 03 Aug – 10.30 to 11.30am
Family Friendly Afternoon Tea
Sat 16 & Sun 17 Aug – 12 to 1.30pm
More info here
SEN-Fit Holiday Club FREE
Langley Mill and Borrowash
Mon 28 Jul to Fri 22 Aug – 9am to 1pm
A fun, supportive, enriching holiday club with SEND-trained staff for children aged 8-16 with SEND. Lunch included. Contact info@sen-fit.co.uk
Singing Summer Schools
Holy Trinity Primary School in Matlock Bath OR Beaufort Primary School in Derby OR Harpur Hill Primary School in Buxton
Mon 28 to Wed 30 Jul – 9.30am to 3.30pm
Three days of singing, fun activities and new friends! Age 7+.
Book here
Summer Flowers Workshop
Belper Library
Tue 29 Jul – 2 to 3.30pm
Crafty workshop delivered by Fleet Arts and suitable for 7+. Contact the library to book a place.
Kids’ Painting Workshop
Horsley Village Hall
Fri 29 Aug – 2 to 4pm
Children paint their own canvas. Includes sweet cone, soft drink, bubble machine, face painting and more. Suitable for 3+ years. £15 until 25 Jul and £20 after.
Game On Kids Holiday Club FREE
Ashbourne Elim Church
Tue 29 Jul to Fri 01 Aug – 10am to 3pm
Fun-packed holiday club for 5-10s. Lunch included.
Book here ashelim.ch/game
Three Bears Cookery - Budding Bakers Holiday Workshops
The Fellowship Room, St Matthews Church, Darley Abbey
10am to 12.30pm
Tue 29 Jul - all ages - Chocolate Butterfly Cakes
Wed 30 Jul - over 8s - Party Pizza
Thu 31 Jul - all ages - Chocolate Dipped Shortbreads
Wed 20 Aug - over 8s - Funfetti Iced Biscuits
Thu21 Aug - all ages - Vanilla Sweetie Cakes
Tue 26 Aug - all ages - Fudge and White Choc Chip Cookies
Wed 27 Aug - over 8s - Bake Off!
Thu 28 Aug - all ages - Bake Off!
Treat your young chefs to a fun and tasty adventure this holiday. They'll learn kitchen skills, whip up delicious dishes, and leave with confidence—and maybe a few crumbs. For ages 2 and over. Under 8s must be accompanied by an adult. All ingredients, aprons, and equipment included.
Book here
Flower Power Workshop FREE
Ashbourne Library
Wed 30 Jul – 10am to 12pm
Stretch, smile and grow – fun, crafts and musical activities with Flower Power author Caroline Wedd. Suitable for ages 4-10.
Hand Flower Pot Paper Craft FREE
Matlock Library
Wed 30 Jul – 10.30am to 12.30pm
Suitable for age 3+.
Thornbridge Hall
Craft Activities
10.15 to 11.45am
30 Jul - Kids Stone Painting
11 Aug - Collagraph for kids
18 & 27 Aug - Kids Lego Printing
Sign up to one of Thornbridge Hall’s creative workshops. Why not make a day of it by exploring the grounds and stopping for lunch at the Quackers Café?
Book here
Make & Frame FREE
Ashbourne Library
Thu 31 Jul – 10am to 12pm
Create a nature picture.
Crafting Club
Electric Daisy, Derby
Thu 31 Jul & Fri 22 Aug – 1 to 4pm
Freestyle crafting sessions where imaginations can run free! Suitable for school aged children. Kids get a free mini pizza with any full size pizza purchased.
Book here
Primrose Art Club Summer Workshops
St Marks Hall, Belper
Fri 01 Aug - Clay Vessels
Wed 06 Aug - Beading
Fri 08 Aug - Gypsum Bandage Masks
Wed 13 Aug - Wet Felting
Fri 15 Aug - Sewing a Felt Monster
Wed 20 Aug - Cross Stitch
Fri 22 Aug - Natural Plant Dyes
Two-hour workshops for 4-13 year olds exploring different arts and crafts. £10 per child with
sibling discount available. Book with Amy primroseartclub@gmail.com or call 07387 962150
Kids Craft Sessions
Poole’s Cavern School Room
Tue 05, 12, 19 & 26 Aug – 10 to 11.30am
Crafts sessions for ages 4+. £5 per child plus booking fee.
Book here
Summer Family Workshops
The National Stone Centre
Tue 05 Aug - 11am to 12pm - Willow Weaving Taster (8+)
Tue 05 Aug - 1 to 2pm - Pyrography Taster (11+)
Thu 07 Aug - 11am to 12pm - Plaster Casting (+8)
Thu 07 Aug - 1 to 2pm - Cyanotype Sun Printing (8+)
£15 per person. Under 18s must be accompanied by a paying adult.
Book here
Playday FREE
Moorways Stadium
Wed 06 Aug – 11am to 3pm
A fantastic array of activities including inflatable, live demonstrations, competitions, a raffle, tug of war and games. Plus face painting, stilt walkers, a magician, and a range of stalls. No booking required.
More info here
Storytime and Craft Workshops
Bridge the Gap
3.30 to 4.30pm
Thu 07 Aug – Ruby’s Worry – for children who may experience worry, anxiety or big emotions.
Thu 21 Aug – Perfectly Norman – for children who struggle with their self-esteem or confidence and feel like they don’t ‘fit in’.
Thu 28 Aug – The Invisible String – for children who are struggling with separation or loss in general.
All sessions suitable for children aged 6-11. £12.50.
Book here and find out more about Bridge the Gap's services
Bookworms Kids’ Takeover
Electric Daisy, Derby
Thu 07 Aug – 10am to 3pm
A day of stories and nature play. A full programme of storytelling from authors, along with illustration draw-a-longs and lots of nature.
Book here
Family Deal Extravaganza
Genesis 10 Pin Bowling
Every Tue – 5 to 10pm
1 hour of bowling for a family of 4, 2 x 9” pizzas and 4 drinks for £49
Lego Stay and Play Sessions
Oggel Studio, DeBradelei Mill, Belper
Choice of 9 sets to build from and 4 Lego games. £10 per person.
Book here
DAYS OUT (by location)
Bluebells Dairy
Cows and Cocktails – adults only
Fri 25 Jul & Fri 29 Aug – 6pm to 9.30pm
A night out that’s full of udderly brilliant fun.
Book here
MooFest
Fri 25 Jul to Wed 03 Sep
Calf bottle feeding, foam in the field, toboggan, piggy pampering, water wars and tractor rides as well as all the usual fun.
Book here
Bolsover Castle
Legendary Joust
Sat 23 to Mon 25 Aug – 10am to 5pm
An exhilarating spectacle of speed and skill as four legendary knights compete for honour and glory in the grand medieval joust. Book early and save 15%.
More info here
Come Play featuring TV’s Taskmaster
Sat 19 Jul to Sun 31 AugFun and games, with loads of activities for the whole family to get stuck into, partnered with TV’s Taskmaster to set you silly challenges as you explore!
More info here
Church Farm, Anslow
Summer Events
Wed 23 Jul – Teddy Bear’s Picnic
Sat 26 Jul – Usbourne Books Workshop
Mon 28 Jul – Meet and Greet Bluey and Bingo
Fri 01 Aug – Swiftie and Sabrina Day
Fri 08 Aug – Meet and Greet The Gruffalo and Falconry Show
Tue 12 Aug – Frozen Workshop
Fri 15 Aug – Bubble and Bounce
Thu 21 Aug – Circus Day
Sat 23 Aug – Meet and Greet Pooh and Piglet
Fri 29 Aug – Princess Workshop
Book here
Crich Tramway Museum
Dinosaur Day
Sat 19 Jul – 10am to 5.30pm
A Jurassic take over that is sure to be a roaring success! Meet a T Rex, a triceratops, a velociraptor and some dinosaur babies.
Music Sundays
Sun 20, 27 Jul, 03 Aug – 1 to 3pm
Discovery Time
Mon 28 Jul to Fri 08 Aug – 10am to 4.30pm
12 days of fun and fascinating school holiday activities for families. Discover science and history facts, meet characters from the past and have a go at crafts.
Children’s Theatre – The Pied Piper of Hamelin
Mon 11 to Fri 15 Aug – 10am to 5pm
Performances from Notice this Notice at 11.30am, 12.30, 2 & 3pm.
Build It!
Mon 18 & Tue 19 Aug – 10am to 4pm
Take part in this year’s LEGO mosaic.
Teddy Bear’s Picnic
Sun 24 & Mon 25 Aug – 10am to 4.30pm
Bring your own teddy bear (and receive a badge). See what the busy teddy bears are doing on the teddy bear trail from Wakebridge tram stop to Derwent View. Teddy Bear’s Picnic Show with Amy Zing at 12.30, 1.30 & 2.30pm. Face paints, mask making and penny arcade.
Pirate Day
Sun 31 Aug – 10am to 5pm
A day of fun and piracy on the not so high seas. Sea shanties, pirate school, learn how to talk like a pirate, make your own pirate hat and find the pirate treasure.
More info here
Cromford Mills
Much Ado About Nothing
Sun 27 Jul – 6 to 8pm
Pedalling from venue to venue with all of their set, props and costumes on the back of their bikes, the HandleBards are a four-strong troupe of actors who are spending the summer bringing environmentally sustainable Shakespeare to venues across the UK.
Voyage with the Vikings FREE
Mon 28 Jul to Fri 01 Aug – 11am to 3pm
Get creative with Viking Crafts at Cromford Mills. Create your own bookmark with Viking runes and have a go at braiding with a Viking Trollen wheel! Become your own Viking explorer with their free trail. No need to book.
The Vikings of Middle England FREE
Sat 02 & Sun 03 Aug – 10am to 4pm
Experience what life was like over 1,000 years ago with Viking camps, demonstrations, weapons display, battle skirmishes and family activities. No need to book.
Superhero Week FREE
Mon 04 to Fri 08 Aug – 11am to 3pm
Make your very own superhero mask! Unleash your inner super power on our Hero’s explorer trail. Decorate your super costume and take a cool picture at our selfie station! No. need to book.
Superhero Olympics
Thu 07 Aug – 11am, 1 & 3pm
Show off your superpowers at Cromford Mills’ superhero Olympics! Through a series of fun team games, you can test your aim, strength, speed and rescue abilities! Which team will come out on top? Children £5 - must be supervised. No cost for accompanying adults. Suggested ages 5-9.
Comic Con
Sun 10 Aug – 10am to 4pm
Special guests, vehicles, collectibles, photo opportunities, gaming, activities, toys and stalls.
Pirate Tales and Treasure Trails FREE
Mon 18 to Fri 22 Aug – 11am to 3pm
Get ready to sail the seven seas at Cromford Mills. Come and make your very own pirate flag! Exercise your creativity and have some crafty fun. Search for our hidden treasure in the Mills with your own Treasure Map and receive your Treasure Hunter Sticker! No need to book.
Adventure Weekend
Sat 23 to Mon 25 Aug – 10am to 4pm
Activities for children of all ages including kayaking, bushcraft, climbing and more
Dino Digs and Fossil Finds FREE
Tue 26 to Fri 29 Aug – 11am to 3pm
Explore the prehistoric world by making your own dinosaur skeleton art with foam and paper straws. Create crazy fossil and dino skeleton art that you can take home! Hunt for our hidden Dino Bones around the Mill Yard on an explorer’s trail. No need to book.
More info here
Derby Arena
Fun Fest 2025
Sat 26 Jul – 9am to 4pm
Dodgeball, basketball, football, track taster sessions on the velodrome, balance bikes, bouncy castle and inflatable zone. Only £2 per person (under 2s free).
More info here
Heights of Abraham
Womblemania Exhibition
Fri 18 Jul onwards – 12pm
The launch of the World’s first Womblemania exhibition.
More info and book here
Punch and Judy Summer Spectacular
Tue 22 Jul to Thu 31 Aug – 11.30am, 1.30pm & 3.30pmTraditional puppet show with modern twists. Included with cable car admission.
More info here
Magna Science Centre
Ferocious Fridays
Every Fri in Aug
Meet a new dinosaur every week. Live interactive show: How to Train Your Dinosaur (11.15am & 1.30pm), and dino walkabouts.
Book here
Matlock Farm Park
Dinosaur Fun Day
Sat 19 Jul
Learn about Rita the great T-Rex and several baby dinosaurs at small outdoor shows throughout the day, see them wander the park to get up close for photos and let the kids join in some dig site fun.
The BIG Bubbleman
Sun 27 Jul
The Big Bubbleman, his bubble mill, wands and special potions make the most AMAZING bubbles!
Emergency Services Day
Sat 02 Aug
Meet your local emergency services and see the equipment and vehicles they use when they are called out! Learn about what it takes to be a real rescue hero and even have a look inside their transport!
The Snow Sisters
Sun 10 Aug
Throughout the day at five showtimes, Anna and Elsa will be singing their well-known songs for you to join in with on the Rainforest lawn, followed by meet & greet photo opportunities.
Dinosaur Fun Day
Sun 17 Aug
Peak District Highland GamesSun 25 Aug – 10am to 4pmCaber toss, strongmen contests, stalls, and farm activities.
The BIG Bubbleman
Mon 25 Aug
More info here
National Forest Adventure Farm
Farmarama
Sat 19 Jul to Mon 01 Sep
The beach comes to Burton! 5 gigantic paddling pools and over 250 tonnes of golden sand! Seaside shows, super sand art, a huge maize maze and the fabulous foam party.
Book here
Peak Wildlife Park
Where’s Wallaby?
Fri 18 Jul to Fri 05 Sep
Free sculpture trail throughout the park.
Bubble Fairy
Every Wed throughout Aug
Book here
Rosliston Forestry Centre
Grand Opening of the New Play Equipment
Sat 19 & Sun 20 Jul
Owl trail, (£3 per child), ride on electric vehicles and birds of play displays.
Family Fun Day in the Forest
Fri 25 Jul & Thu 28 Aug
Pay one entry fee and try out as many activities as possible across the site – archery, crafts, laser combat, inflatables, sumo wrestling, pond dipping, den building, birds of prey, orienteering and much more!
Night Watch
Fri 25 Jul – 7 to 10.30pm
Find out more about nocturnal creatures and the night sky with experts from local groups to guide you. Talks, walks, information and displays throughout the evening. £5 per person. Booking essential. Suitable for adults and children 7+.
Wildlife Watch Dens & S’mores
Tue 29 Jul & 26 Aug – 2 to 4pm
Fantastic family fun building dens in the woods. Learn how to safely and sustainably light a campfire then cook the delicious treat of S’mores. All materials and equipment provided. £5 per person taking part (incl. adults). Booking only. Suitable for families.
Music in the Forest FREE
Wed 30 Jul – 1.30 to 4pm
Get connected with nature with live music amongst the trees.
Quest Trail
Sat 02 to Mon 25 Aug – 10am to 4pm
Calling all knights and dragons! £3 per child
Wildlife Watch Pond Dipping
Tue 05, 12 & 19 Aug – 2 to 4pm
See what creatures lurk beneath the waters of the lake. All equipment provided. £3 per child taking part per 20 mins.
More info
The Children’s Country House at Sudbury
Summer of Fun
Fri 25 Jul to Fri 01 Sep – 10am to 5pm
The whole property will be transformed into three themed play zones, packed with activities for both the young and the young-at-heart to get stuck into. Take part in active challenges on the front lawn, play carnival and board games in the Stableyard and let your imagination come to life in the Gardens with a mixture of role play, trails and music making to get involved with. Each day will also see something different to get stuck in with:
Mons - Attic Tours at 11am, 1 & 2.30pm.
Tues - Craft Workshops
Thus - Drop-in and Discover Sessions at 10.30am & 2pm
Sats (from 9 August) - Mystery Rooms "Queen Adelaide's Cure" at 11am & 12pm
More info here
Twycross Zoo
Zoo Monopoly
Sat 19 Jul to Fri 29 Aug
Monopoly-inspired fun – interactive challenges and a chance to collect stamps and discover what it’s like to run your own zoo. Plus Gruffalo Discovery Land, Wet & Wild Splash Pad and all the animals.
Book here
White Post Farm
Summer Nights – Dog Friendly
Fri 15 Aug – 5.30pm to 8pm
Photo opps, pup treats and take-home crafts.
More info here
Wyvern Rail
Summer Rail 200 Gala
Fri 18 to Sun 20 Jul
Departing from Wirksworth Station throughout the weekend celebrating 200 years of railway history. 45-minute scenic vintage bus tours depart at 11.10am, 1pm and 3.20pm.
Book here
FESTIVALS (by date)
Earth Heart Gathering
Unstone Grange
Fri 18 to Sun 21 Jul
A transformative weekend of revolutionary love, reclaiming the Earth and our natural environment. Lots of activities for children.
Book here www.flowingwithlife.org/events
Horsley Woodhouse Music Night and Carnival
Sitwell Recreation Ground
Fri 18 – 6 to 9.30pm
Live music, food and drinks
Sat 19 Aug – 12 to 5pm
Family fun for all
More info here
Stainsby Festival
Stainsby, near Alfreton
Fri 18 to Sun 20 Jul
Live music, family-friendly activities and performances in a rural setting. Weekend and day tickets available.
More info here
Food & Drink Festival FREE
Elvaston Castle Country Park
Sat 19 & Sun 20 Jul – 10.30am to 4.30pm
Sample food and drink from all over the world. Craft stalls, plus live music and children’s entertainment.
More info here
Chesterfield Children’s Festival FREE
Queen’s Park
Sat 26 Jul to Sun 27 Jul – 10am to 4pm
Free family weekend with music, theatre, art, storytelling and more. Suitable for children aged 0–16.
More info here
Superhero Picnics FREE
Allestree Park, Derby
Tue 29 Jul – 11am
Chaddesden Park, Derby
Wed 30 Jul – 11am
Darley Park, Derby
Thu 31 Jul – 11am
Dress up like a superhero and bring a picnic! Attractions include sports and craft activities, gym try-out sessions, superhero trail, face painting, and much more.
More info here
Dog Lovers’ Festival
Elvaston Castle Country Park
Fri 01 Aug to Sat 03 Aug – 3pm to 7pm
The perfect way to celebrate our canine friends and enjoy a weekend in the great outdoors.
More info here
Gloworm Festival
Thoresby Park
Fri 08 to Sun 10 Aug Children's festival with shows, workshops, and character meet-and-greets.
More info here
Eat in the Park-Buxton Music & Food Festival
Pavilion Gardens, Buxton
Sat 16 Aug to Sun 17 Aug
Discover the magic of Eat in the Park festival - where music and food collide! Bring the whole family and enjoy a day full of fun festivities and local talent. Kids go free.
Book here
Food and Drink Festival
Markeaton Park, Derby
Sat 16 & Sun 17 Aug – 10.30am to 4pm
An exciting day out with your family and friends enjoying a wide variety of food and drink.
More info here
Derby Food & Music Fest
Derby Rugby Club
Sat 16 & Sun 17 Aug – 11am to 10.30pm/7pm
The ultimate feast of food and music for all the family to enjoy.
More info here
Family Fun Day, Derbyshire perinatal mental health FREE
Derby Arena, Derby
Sun 17 Aug – 10am to 2pm
Something for the whole family as well as meet Bluey, Spider-Man & Rapunzel.
More info here
Summer Food & Drink Festival FREE
Hall Leys Park, Matlock
Sat 23 & Sun 24 Aug – 10.30am to 4.30pm
Come and celebrate amazing food and drink.
More info here
Autumn Food & Drink Festival FREE
Shipley Country Park Visitor Centre
Sat 30 & Sun 31 Aug – 10.30am to 4.30pm
Two whole days of live music, great food and drink, children’s entertainment, and so much more.
More info here
FETES, FAIRS AND FUN DAYS (by date)
Chesterfield Pride
Stand Road Park
Sat 19 Jul – 12pm to 7pm
Celebrating 10 years of Pride with live music, drag shows, stalls, and family-friendly zones.
More info here
Shipley Summer Fun FREE
Shipley Country Park
Sat 19 Jul – 11am to 4pm
The annual event is a brilliant day for the local community with lots of free entertainment.
Alvaston Park Community Fun Day FREE
Alvaston, Derby
Sun 20 Jul – 12pm
A fun-packed day for all including live music, dancers, fair rides, and craft and charity stalls.
More info here
Classic Car Show
Hurt Arms, Ambergate
Sun 20 Jul – 12pm to 5pm
Enjoy a selection of incredible cars.
More info here
Derby Caribbean Carnival FREE
Derby Market Place & Osmaston Park
Sun 20 Jul – 12pm to 6pm
Colourful parade and performances from over 300 troupes, food and arts stalls.
More info here
Farm Shop Summer Food Fair FREE
Chatsworth Farm Shop, Chatsworth
Fri 25 Jul to Sun 27 Jul
A celebration of local summer produce.
More info here
Summer Fayre
Openwoodgate Preschool
Sat 26 Jul – 11am to 1pm
Bouncy castles, Stitch and Angel, face painting, arts and crafts, snacks and refreshments, tombola prizes and giveaways.
Leek & District Show
Showground, Longsdon
Sat 26 Jul – 9am to 5pm
Visitors will see all aspects of farming, agriculture and livestock management. Free on-site car parking.
More info here
Village Fete FREE
Denby Pottery
Sun 27 Jul – 10am to 4pm
Traditional games, entertainment, animals and tasty food and drink.
Celebrating 50 Years FREE
Alfreton Library
Mon 28 Jul – 11am to 2pm
Parties for children – traditional games, activities and crafts and stories. Booking essential. Call 01629 531481
Bonsall Hen Races FREE
The Barley Mow Pub, Bonsall
Sat 02 Aug
Let’s go hen racing! Only ‘champion of champions’ this year. Live music and other fun stuff. A free, fun, family friendly day!
Cromford Steam Rally
Cromford
Sat 02 & Sun 03 Aug – 10am to 5pm
Vintage engines, vehicles, craft stalls, and family attractions.
More info here
Pride in Belper FREE
Market Place
Sat 02 Aug – from 11am
Gather in the Market Place for the parade to starting at 12pm then enjoy the rest of the festivities in the Memorial Gardens. Followed by a Pride in Belper Fun Dog Show on Sun 03 Aug from 2pm.
More info here
Health and Wellbeing Drop-In
Crich Glebe Community Centre
Mon 04 Aug – 10am to 1pm
Join Arch Primary Care Network for a free drink and a chance to chat to local services abou groups and activities which support your family’s health and wellbeing. Free blood pressure checks. Activities available for children.
Street Circus FREE
Cathedral Quarter, Derby
Sat 09 Aug – 11am to 4pm
Perfect for all ages, this lively celebration of street performance is set to transform the Cathedral Quarter into a hub of laughter, awe, and unforgettable moments.
More info here
Dormouse Books Book Fair FREE
Market Place, Belper
Sun 10 Aug – 10am to 3pm
A huge variety of books for sale as well as children’s activities.
Family Fun Day FREE
Wellspring Church, Wirksworth
Tue 12 Aug – 10am to 3pm
Games and activities for primary-aged children plus Little Springs for pre-schoolers. Plus Steve the Juggler after lunch.
More info here
Ashover Show
Rectory Fields
Wed 13 Aug – 9am to 5pm
One of the UK’s top agricultural shows. Family entertainment, displays and competitions.
More info here
Barlow Carnival
Near Dronfield
Wed 13 to Sun 17 Aug
A week of family activities ending with floats, parades, and live entertainment. Carnival day Sat 16 Aug with parade at 1pm.
More info here
Bubbles & Brews Festival
Hurt Arms, Ambergate
Sat 16 Aug to Sun 17 Aug
A new beer, cider and cocktail festival with entertainment for the whole family.
Book here
Eat in the Park
The Pavilion Gardens, Buxton
Sat 16 to Sun 17 Aug Music, food, and family activities in a relaxed outdoor setting.
More info here
Burton Pride 2025 FREE
Shobnall Playing Fields, Burton upon Trent
Sat 16 Aug – 12pm to 6pm
Live music, family entertainment, and celebration of LGBTQ+ inclusion.
More info here
Ashbourne Show
Polo Ground, Osmaston
Sat 16 Aug – 10am to 5pm
A great family day out, with so much to see and do. Livestock judging, arena shows, crafts and trade stands. Under 5s free.
More info here
Bustler on the Road
Belper Rugby Club
Sat 09 & Sun 10 Aug
Elvaston Castle Country Park
Sat 23 & Sun 24 Aug
Cromford Mills
Sat 30 & Sun 31 Aug
Epic food lineups, cocktail bars, DJs, family fun and all-round good times to different hotspots.
More info here
Fritchley Show
Fritchley Village Hall
Sat 23 Aug from 1pm
Beer tent, tea and coffee, homemade cakes, prizes, woodfired pizzas, open mic, children’s inflatable and more.
More info here
Chatsworth Country Fair
Chatsworth
Fri 29 to Sun 31 Aug – 9am to 5pm
Arena displays, cooking demos, crafts, and vintage fairground.
More info here
MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES (by date)
The Cows Are Wet FREE
Bakewell Old House Museum
Tue 25 Mar to Wed 05 Nov
An exhibition which delves into local heritage and traditional techniques, exploring life as a teenager in Derbyshire.
More info here
Happy Trails: Welcome to Lalaland FREE
QUAD, Derby
Sat 19 Jul to Fri 29 Aug
Inspired by local life and pop culture, this interactive exhibition sparks smiles, encourages creativity, and offers a colourful escape into a world where anything is possible.
More info here
Brick by Brick
Derby Cathedral
Fri 25 Jul to Thu 21 Aug
A unique art installation and festival highlighting environmental sustainability through creativity and community engagement, using LEGO bricks.
More info here
Return of The Beach and Teddy Bear’s Picnic FREE
Erewash Museum, Ilkeston
Sat 26 Jul and throughout the summer
A fun-filled day for all ages, with plenty to see and do. Keep an eye on social media for more details about the big day, plus an exciting summer holidays programme packed with activities!
Derby Museum & Art Gallery
Most sessions – FREE but suggested donation of £3
Things We Like Trail
Sat 26 Jul to Sun 07 Sep
Family trail sheet - £1
More info here
Fossil Handling and ‘Cave Art’
Thu 07 Aug – 10.30am to 12.30pm
Handle real bones, fossils and tools from the Palaeolithic era and create your very own piece ‘Cave Art’ using natural pigments and materials.
More info here
Playful Portraits
Thu 28 Aug – 10.30am to 12.30pm & 1.30 to 3.30pm
Make your own marks on paper whilst learning new drawing skills and techniques.
More info here
Museum of Making, Derby
Most sessions – FREE but suggested donation of £3
Train Travel Trail
Sat 26 Jul to Sun 07 Sep
Discover 200 years of railway history on a fun family trail. £1 trail sheet.
More info here
Dystopian Crafts with The Lost Boys
Wed 27 Jul – 10.30am to 12.30pm – art inspired by nature reclaiming cities
Wed 27 Jul – 1.30 to 3.30pm – create a cardboard box time machine
More info here
Make a Railway Sign
Wed 30 Jul – 10.30am to 12.30pm & 1.30 to 3.30pm
More info here
PLAY at the Musuem
Wed 06 Aug – 10.30am to 12.30pm & 1.30 to 3.30pm
Celebrate National Play Day by exploring objects and materials.
More info here
Scanning Electron Microscope Workshop
Wed 13 Aug – 10.30am to 12.30pm & 1.30 to 3.30pm
Get a whole new perspective on objects from nature using the Natural History Museum’s Scanning Electron Microscope and a range of other microscopes.
More info here
Pickford’s House
Most sessions – FREE but suggested donation of £3
Pickford’s House Trail
Sat 26 Jul to Sat 06 Sep
Family trail sheet - £1
More info here
Nature Inspired Cyanotype
Tue 19 Aug – 10.30am to 12.30pm & 1.30 to 3.30pm
Explore the beautiful Georgian garden and select objects to create your own nature inspired Cyanotype.
More info here
Nature Inspired Aromas
Tue 26 Aug – 10.30am to 12.30pm & 1.30 to 3.30pm
Explore how skills in textiles and aromas of nature helped to keep the home smelling nice
More info here
Specialist Craft Open Days
Hardwick Hall
Wed 20 Aug – 10am to 3pm
Meet historic craftspeople and learn about preservation work.
More info here
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES AND TRAILS (by date)
Summer of Play: The Garden of Imagination
Calke Abbey - National Trust
Sun 13 Jul to Wed 03 Sep – 9.30 to 5pm
Discover endless opportunities of play from racing around the hobby horse course to putting on a stage performance. Games, races and crafts.
Every Wed 30 Jul to Wed 03 Sep – 10am to 3pm
Cycling sessions for children aged 2-8. Slalom poles, bridges and ramps on a new course every week. The hire team will help little ones get to drips with balancing and teaching cycle skills.
Fri 18 Jul & 22 Aug
Meet the taxidermist – family friendly edition!
More info here
Summer of Play at Longshaw FREE
Longshaw - National Trust
Tue & Wed throughout summer holidays – 9.30am to 3.30pm
Free games, trails and conservation activities for ages 5–10. Drop-in.
More info here
Bruce Asbestos’s Mole Hole Installation & Summer of Play FREE
Ilam Park - National Trust
Sat 19 Jul to Sun 07 Sep
Meet Pepperpot the mole, take part in the trail and get creative in our drop in craft tent. Plus, the Summer of Play is back with a festival feeling and fun for everyone!
More info here
Summer of Play
Kedleston Hall - National Trust
Sat 19 Jul to Sun 07 Sep
Obstacle course and giant bird house in the Secret Garden. Book nook, yoga den.
Wed 30 Jul, 06, 13, 20 & 27 Aug – free archery drop in suitable for age 4+
More info here
Secret Gardens of Winster FREE
Winster, Matlock
Sat 19 & Sun 20 Jul - 1.30pm to 5.30pm
Beautiful and historic Peak District village of Winster, between Matlock and Bakewell. Over 20 gardens open with accessible and dog friendly gardens highlighted.
More info here
Shipley Summer Fun Trails FREE
Shipley Country Park
Tue 23 Jul to Tue 03 Sep – 10.30am to 3.30pmWeekly changing, self-led activity trails through the park. Parking charges apply.
Treasure Hunt FREECarsington Water & Tittesworth WaterFri 26 Jul to Sun 10 Aug – 10am to 6pmFind clues in this self-led trail. Additional play areas and café onsite. Parking charges apply.
Pick Your Own Sunflowers and Maize Maze
Ashover Family Farm
Opens at the start of Aug
Sunflowers, gladioli, dahlias and wildflowers plus a giant sandpit, coffee and cake.
Keep an eye out here for updates
The Big Tree Climb
Chatsworth House
Mon 04 to Sun 10 Aug
Have an adventure and get closer to nature in Stand Wood, suitable for adults and children 6+.
More info here
Rural Olympics FREE
Carsington Water
Tue 06 Aug – 10am to 3pm
Giant games, egg and spoon race, space-hopper dash, dribble the ball around the cows, bowling pins knockdown, welly wanging.
Marvellous Meadows
Peak Village, Matlock
Sat 30 Aug – 11am to 4pm
Discover the flowers and creatures that live in the meadow on the nature reserve, with Derbyshire Wildlife Trust. Plant some wildflower seeds to grow your own.
More info here
THEATRE, MUSIC AND FILM (by date)
Children’s Films
The Ritz, Belper
Elio, The Greatest Showman, How to Train Your Dragon, Superman and Smurfs.
Book here
Outdoor Cinema – Wicked
Hurt Arms, Ambergate
Sat 19 Jul
Live music followed by film showing. Booking essential.
Book here
Music in Crossley Park FREE
Ripley
2.30 to 4.30pm
Sun 20 July – LickSquid
Sun 03 Aug – Holymoorside Band
Sun 17 Aug – Amber Band
Sun 21 Aug – Derwent Valley Wind Band
Bring your chair and a picnic, sit back, relax and enjoy the music.
More info here
Larks in the Park FREE
Belper River Gardens
2 to 4pm
Sun 20 Jul – Derwent Brass
Sun 27 Jul – Heage Band
Sun 03 Aug – Derwent Valley Wind Band
Sun 10 Aug – Metz Junior
Sun 17 Aug – Belper Musical Theatre and Fleet Arts
Sun 24 Aug – Ignite UK
Sun 31 Aug – Belper Jazz feat. Jeanie Barton
More info here
Music On the Green
Shardlow Village Hall
Sat 26 Jul – 5.30pm
BBQ, drinks, and live music. Under 18s free.
Book here
Y-Not Festival
Pikehall
Wed 31 Jul to Sat 03 Aug
Live music, family zones, and countryside views. Family camping passes available.
More info here
SIX – Teen Edition
National Stone Centre, Wirksworth
Fri 01 to Sat 02 Aug
The wives of Henry VIII remix 500 years of historical heartbreak into a celebration of 21st-century girl power!
Book here
Outdoor Opera House FREE
Grin Low Woods, near Poole’s Cavern
Fri 01 to Mon 04 Aug
Lots of free activities and workshops for all ages, aimed to inspire creativity and increase wellbeing and nature connectedness.
More info here
Bake, Rattle and Roll
West Hallam Community Centre
Wed 06 Aug – 11am
Have you ever wondered how to bake a cake? Geoffrey Jumper and Leila can help you find out! Come along and join in with our interactive baking fun. Featuring original live music and baking magic from the Wobbly Magic Company.
Find out more here
The Greatest Showman Sing-A-Long
Calke Abbey
Thu 07 Aug – 6 to 9.15pm
Outdoor cinema sing-along.
Book here
The Wind in the Willows
Elvaston Castle Country Park
Sat 09 Aug – 3pm and 7pm
Can our plucky band of heroes save the day? Find out in Paperback Theatre’s charming open-air adaptation of The Wind in the Willows.
Book here
Wicked Sing-A-Long
Calke Abbey
Sun 10 Aug – 5.30pm to 9.45pm
Outdoor cinema sing-along.
Book here
Community Theatre and Festival
Ilkeston
Mon 11 to Sat 16 Aug
Theatre, music, and arts events. Mostly free with some bookable sessions.
More info here
Dinosaur World Live
Buxton Opera House
Thu 21 to Sat 23 Aug
Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World Live in this roarsome interactive show for all the family! A special meet and greet after the show offers all our brave explorers the chance to make a new dinosaur friend.
Book here
The Long Road Festival
Stanford Hall, Lutterworth
Fri 22 Aug to Sun 24 Aug, various times
Country and Americana music, family workshops and outdoor fun. Ticketed event with camping options.
More info here
Madagascar: A Musical Adventure Jr
Pavilion Arts Centre, Buxton
Fri 22 Aug – 4pm & 7pm
Join Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the hip hip Hippo and, of course, those hilarious, plotting penguins as they bound onto your stage in the musical adventure of a lifetime.
Book here
Moana 2
Wollaton Hall, Nottingham
Sun 24 Aug – 1.30pm to 4.45pm
Outdoor cinema experience
Book here
The Great Baldini - Family Magic Show
Museum of Making, Derby
Tue 26 Aug – 2.30pm
Join the legend that is The Great Baldini for his spectacular family magic show!
Book here
Pop Princesses World Tour
Buxton Opera House
Fri 29 Aug – 2pm
Featuring a soundtrack of top pop hits from artists such as Taylor Swift, Meghan Trainor and Miley Cyrus, Dua Lipa and Lizzo, plus a few of the best songs from all your favourite films and musicals. The Pop Princesses are embarking on their biggest adventure yet. Join the fun as the Princesses go International!
Book
Darley Park Weekender
Darley Park, Derby
Fri 29 to Sun 31 Aug
Three nights of music including a classical concert and fireworks. Most events free; Sunday concert ticketed.
More info here
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