Chesterfield Glow Up Illuminates Town Centre to Celebrate Market Transformation
Residents and visitors are invited to gather for a dazzling celebration marking the completion of the multi-million-pound transformation of Chesterfield Markets. The Chesterfield Glow Up event, scheduled for Friday, March 27 and Saturday, March 28, will bring the town centre to life with vibrant entertainment, family-friendly activities, and a spectacular centrepiece light show.
Immersive Projection Art Takes Centre Stage
At the heart of the Chesterfield Borough Council-run event is 'Twist and Shout', an immersive projection artwork that will illuminate the Market Hall. Created by internationally acclaimed projection artists Illuminos, this installation forms part of the council's Animate Chesterfield programme and promises a striking visual experience for all ages.
Rob Vale, founder of Illuminos, expressed his excitement about the project: "We're so excited to be developing Twist and Shout in Chesterfield. Growing up in Matlock, I attended Chesterfield College Art Foundation course, and it was fundamental in shaping me as an artist. Coming full circle and working with today's Foundation Students is really special."
The projection will be shown from 7pm until the event ends on a loop on both evenings, featuring work from local art students that becomes part of the projection mapping.
Vibrant Entertainment and Activities for All
The event offers a rich programme of entertainment including:
- Live music from local musicians
- Excellent street entertainers
- Free craft workshops
- UV face painting
- A night market with diverse vendors
New Square will feature a giant 35m observation wheel that will remain in place for three weeks after the event. During Chesterfield Glow Up, it will be joined by other fun fair rides including a classic carousel and vintage helter-skelter. Food and drink options will be plentiful, with a Bus Bar located in the main Market Square.
Celebrating Regeneration and Community Spirit
Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council's cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, commented: "This event is a fantastic way to mark a major milestone in the regeneration of our Market and to welcome people back into a space that has been completely transformed. We're bringing a brilliant mix of entertainment and activities that will appeal to all ages."
The event not only celebrates the refurbishment of Chesterfield Markets but also showcases the versatility of the newly-designed market squares, demonstrating how these revitalised spaces can host vibrant events that draw more visitors into the town centre.
Funding and Broader Programme
Chesterfield Glow Up has been part-funded from the Mayor of the East Midlands and East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) from funding provided by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).
Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said: "Chesterfield Glow Up is a fantastic way to bring the community together and celebrate the town's market transformation. Events like this revitalise our public spaces, strengthen pride in place, and give residents and visitors a chance to connect."
Animate Chesterfield is a programme of public art that creates artworks and activates through regeneration programmes happening in both Chesterfield and Staveley. Funding for this public art project was secured through planning agreements as part of the council's percent for art scheme.
