Free day of folklore, creativity and celebration

Glossop will come alive with creativity and folklore on Friday 9th May 2026, as High Peak Community Arts presents ‘Derbyshire Makes’.

The free, family-friendly festival features a spectacular puppet parade, live music, storytelling and creative workshops. 

The festival centrepiece is the ‘Lady of the Loom’, a giant puppet created by professional puppeteers Babbling Vagabonds. She will wake from her winter sleep at 11am in Norfolk Square to open the day's festivities, celebrating Glossop's textile history and the arrival of spring. Throughout the day, visitors can help make seasonal creatures and celebration flags before joining her final Celebration Parade at 4:30pm. 

From 11am to 5pm, three main venues - Norfolk Square, the Market Hall and Partington Theatre - will host a packed day of activities, organised by High Peak Community Arts. 

Helen Book, Project Manager at High Peak Community Arts, said: 

"The celebration parade is shaping up to be a lovely moment of fun and creativity for the whole town. I think people will love the lineup of musicians, and I'm really looking forward to seeing audiences gather for the folklore storytelling. There's something for everyone - whether you're taking part or simply soaking up the atmosphere." 

What's happening on the day 

The Springtime Stage in Norfolk Square will feature live music from local musicians, while the Partington Theatre will host storytellers, historians and folklore experts sharing tales of the High Peak's mysterious past. 

Artist Gordon Maclellan (Creeping Toad) will lead the popular ‘Cabinet of Treasures’ workshop, where people can create miniature artworks inspired by Glossop's special places and people. Writer Michelle Collier will explore strange lights, old gods and ghostly encounters in her ‘Flash Folk’ creative writing workshop, while High Peak Community Arts' Film Cuts Club will offer folklore-inspired film activities. 

The Market Hall will showcase twenty-five local makers at the Springtime Makers Market. The venue will also display a photography exhibition by Dark Peak Photo, featuring new work inspired by spring and folklore. 

Glossop Arts Project will run a Springtime Weaving Revival, where visitors can weave their stories into a large 3D hazel structure using locally sourced wool. The Bureau's knitting group will create a colourful yarn display, while Glossop Community Allotment and Men's Shed will demonstrate traditional craft skills and sell handmade items. 

Eleanor Duckworth, Project Lead at Glossop Arts Project, said:   

“We’ve been working together to plan and generate ideas and look forward to being part of the festival. It’s a chance for us all to play and learn as we revive old skills and crafts that are part of Glossop’s history and making.”  

Part of a county-wide celebration 

Derbyshire Makes is happening at six locations across the county, celebrating making in all its forms and shining a spotlight on Derbyshire's creative heritage and thriving cultural scene. 

Now in its second year, the festival will transform high streets, heritage sites and public spaces into vibrant hubs of activity, bringing together artists, makers, performers and communities. Each location will host a full day of free, family-friendly activities. 

Visit https://www.derbyshiremakes.co.uk for the full programme. 

The festival is funded by Arts Council England, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, and Derbyshire County Council.