Glossop Sparks Creativity with Free Derbyshire Makes Festival

Glossop is about to come alive with creativity as Derbyshire Makes, an exciting new three-year cultural programme, launches with exciting creative festivals around Derbyshire. The Glossop Hub is hosted by High Peak Community Arts—a charity that has been fostering creativity since 1979—this vibrant celebration will unite artists, makers, and the community in a shared exploration of artistic expression.
Before the main festival, a series of interactive creative workshops will inspire Glossop to get involved, offering plenty of opportunities to participate ahead of the event.

Everyone is invited to take part in the festival over the Easter half term in Norfolk Square on the 15th and 16th April. Some highlights include The Cat and Swift, an enchanting puppet performance, the Sounds of Glossop, a unique auditory experience capturing the sounds of everyday life.

There will be plenty of exciting hands-on workshops to join! Create your own Cyanotype picture using sunlight, design pop-up creations that bring Glossop’s Lost Stories to life, and enjoy special performances featuring music, storytelling, and film.

Technology enthusiasts can immerse themselves in Virtual Norfolk Square, an interactive VR experience, while those with an interest in heritage and textiles can take part in the Dare to Dream Workshop, creating flags inspired by Derbyshire’s rich history.

The festival will showcase incredible projects by artists such as Clare Savory, Gordon MacLellan (Creeping Toad), Deb Pitman, and Fenn Bartels. Additionally, it will feature work from High Peak Community Arts’ ongoing group, Film Cuts Club – a filmmaking group for young people with additional needs.

Derbyshire Makes has customised Derby Museum’s Makory bus into a mobile workshop and gallery on wheels. This creative hub on wheels offers a unique space for hands-on activities, showcasing local craftsmanship and interactive exhibits.

Glossop’s Festival programme organiser Sophie Mackreth said: “We’re thrilled to be a part of Derbyshire Makes and create a festival that brings people together through creativity. This is a chance for the community to experiment, learn, and celebrate the incredible talent and heritage we have in Glossop and beyond.”