Chesterfield is set to be transported back to the 1940s as one of the highlights of the town’s events calendar returns later this month.
The much‑loved 1940s Market will take centre stage in the town centre again on Thursday 28 May, bringing vintage entertainment, music and family‑friendly activities between 10am and 4pm.
Visitors will be greeted by a full‑size replica Spitfire taking pride of place in the Market Square, celebrating 90 years since the aircraft’s historic first flight.
Classic cars and a host of wartime displays will once again fill the town centre, and children will even have the opportunity to climb into a Hurricane plane for a photo.
With street performers, 1940s dress, live music and dancing on offer throughout the day, the event promises something special for every age.
Organised by Chesterfield Borough Council, the event will take place during the school holidays and run alongside the popular weekly Thursday flea market – providing the perfect opportunity for the while family to get together.
Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “The 1940s Market is a highlight of our events calendar each year and we’re really looking forward to it taking place again this May.
“After the completion of the refurbishment of New Square and Market Square, and the brilliant response to the Glow Up event in March, we hope to see lots of people and families coming together to enjoy another fantastic event in the heart of Chesterfield.
“There’s plenty to keep all ages entertained, with several much‑loved performers returning this year. It’s shaping up to be a fantastic day.”
This event is delivered by Chesterfield Borough Council thanks to support from by the Chesterfield Town Board Pride in Place programme, which is funded by the UK Government.
The full list of entertainment available on the day and where to find everything is as follows:
Outside Market Hall
- Display of classic cars and military vehicles – 10am to 4pm
· 1940s Mining display – 10am to 4pm
· Escape artist / glass walker – 25-minute displays starting at 10am, 1pm and 3pm
- Bombardiers (walkabout) – 40-minute performances starting at 12pm, 1.15pm and 2.30pm
Market Place
- Full-sized Replica Spitfire – 10am to 4pm
- Vintage Fire Engine – 10am to 4pm
- Laurel and Hardy Magicians (walkabout) – 11am to 4pm
Market Square (outside Santander)
- Natasha Harper (singer) – 30-minute performances starting at 10.30am, 12.20pm and 2pm
- Kyle Evans (singer) – 30-minute performances starting at 11.30am, 1.10pm and 2.50pm
Outside Crown & Cushion
- Shire horses – 12pm to 1.30pm
New Square
- Hurricane Plane and Diamond T Truck – 10am to 4pm
- The Daisy Belles (singers) – 30-minute performances starting at 10.15am, 12.15pm and 2pm
- Kalamazoo Dance Band – 30-minute performances starting at 11am, 1pm and 2.45pm
Outside McDonald’s (10am to 4pm)
- Chesterfield Museum displays
- Post officers throughout the years
The Shambles
- Viva La Vintage– 30-minute performances starting at 10am, 11.50am, 1.30pm and 3pm
The Yards
- Lady Lindy– 30-minute performances starting at 11am, 12.40pm, 2.20pm and 3.30pm
Burlington Street (10am to 4pm)
- Royal British Legion
The Parish Church of St Mary and All Saints (Crooked Spire)
- Soldiers camp and drill – 10am to 4pm
- Jayne Darling (singer) – performances starting at 10am, 11.30pm and 2.10pm
- Johnny Victory (singer) 30-minute performances starting at 10.50am, 1.20pm and 3.15pm
- Tower Tours – 2.30pm. Tours are priced at £10 for adults and £5 for children under the age of 16. Family tickets (2 adults and two children under 16) are available for £20
