THERE'S so much to see and do in Derby's St Peters Quarter this month thanks to a packed programme of Christmas events and street entertainment for the family.
Businesses around the area have teamed up to organise themed Saturdays in the run up to December 25 and a great line-up promises to put a spring in the step and get everyone in a festive mood at this magical time of the year.
The programme will include Newhall Brass Band performing at St Peters Cross tomorrow, Santa handing out treats to visitors and the sounds of the Royal British Legion Piper Band on December 15, and Santa returning on December 22, with chocolate treats this time – helped by one of his elves.
Thursday late-night shopping events, meanwhile, will include Christmas songs from local choirs. In addition, traders in the Eagle Market, a popular shopping destination within St Peters Quarter, have organised a further line-up of special visitors to bring Christmas cheer to the city centre.
Rodney the Reindeer will be greeting visitors tomorrow, followed by a polar bear character on Saturday, December 15, and Santa Ted on Saturday, December 22.
And if want to meet the famous man in a red suit himself – look no further than the Midlands Co-op's Santa's Grotto, which has been a popular feature at the long-established East Street department store for many years.
It opens late on Thursdays and Fridays and all day on Saturday and Sunday throughout December.
The Christmas programme is just one element of the activities encouraging visitors to Derby city centre to take a fresh look at St Peters Quarter, which is undergoing a renaissance thanks to the efforts of local businesses.
Add it to your shopping list as a perfect place for gift inspiration this year.