As well as bringing together local communities, a key part of Derby Season of Light will be to ‘shine a light’ on local artists whose livelihoods have been severely impacted by Covid restrictions to give them an opportunity to perform and engage with live audiences again. Starting at 4pm, the Derby Season of Light lantern parade organised by Surtal Arts will start from The Spot and weave its way through the city centre, along St Peter’s Street, Cornmarket and through Derby Market Place to the stage. Panto characters will be part of the parade, which will arrive at the stage at approx 4.50pm ready for the party to really get started. Simon Webbe will take to the stage at 5.30pm. They are now recognised as being are a significant record of the fight of science against religious values in the period of the 18th century known as the Age of Enlightenment. Singer songwriter Karolina, in partnership with Derby CAN, and local party band Cassette Roulette will be providing the music, while the dragons and dancers from Surtal Arts will also take to the stage following Derby Lantern Parade. And don’t miss Santa, who will be making an appearance to help with the big moment!

Sound: An Allen & Heath dLive system, d&b audiotechnik Y series system with B-subs and a full max wedge monitor system Starting at 4pm on St Peters Cross Derby Lantern Parade, led by city-based South Asian arts organisation Surtal Arts, will make its way from along St Peters Street, Corn Market, and the Market Place before going down Tennent Street. More than 500 people of all ages and cultures are expected to join in the parade which will be headed by renowned drummers Dhol Frequency and Chinese Dragon dance performed by DANS Chinese Dance Troup. Be prepared to be enchanted as these talented performers and beautiful lanterns illuminate a path through Derby city centre and spread joy as we come together as ‘one’ for this city-wide celebration of Derby’s culture and local talent.Joining him onstage will be Smooth Radio’s breakfast show presenter Gareth Evans, cast members from this year’s Derby Arena pantomime Sleeping Beauty, and some unmissable local acts. The show starts at 3.30pm and ends at 6pm with the Christmas lights switch on, and a short fireworks display to mark the start of the city’s festive season. Ahead of what is many people's favourite time of the year, we took a look at some of the eye-catching Christmas events due to take place around Derbyshire in 2023. From grottos and parades to Edwardian themes and classical music, the county has many activities set in store for families and friends alike. Christmas at Chatsworth

However, he declined the latter honour on account of a perceived slight, and severed his official connection with the Academy, although he continued to contribute to its exhibitions from 1783 until 1794. See professional artist Stephanie Sian Coley at work creating the show-stopping lantern sculpture that will head up the Derby Lantern Parade on November 13. This year Festive Derby is bigger than ever and features events and attractions brought to you by Derby City Council, The Cathedral Quarter BID, St Peter’s Quarter BID and a range of other city partners. Join us from 3.30 pm on Corporation Street, outside the Council House, for a stage show showcasing local talent alongside our headline act The Overtones. Enjoy the Derby Lantern Parade from 4pm, and more free entertainment before the light switch-on at 6pm along with the fireworks finale.The performers will be joined by school pupils, community groups and members of the public carrying traditional biodegradable Diwali and Chinese lanterns that they have made in workshops across the city organised by Surtal Arts as part of Derby Season of Light Festival. Father Christmas and members of the Derby pantomime cast Aladdin will also join the parade. It will give everyone a chance to re-engage with other people, play an active part in the arts which is so important for mental well-being and enjoy some new and uplifting performances. Kit Lane:Kit joined the University in 2006 and has been working in live events and professional theatre for over 30 years. He has previously worked as a Production Manager at Derby Playhouse (now Derby Theatre), as a video and projection designer for over 20 years, and has worked on hundreds of shows across the UK as well as the USA, Australia and Ireland