Chesterfield’s Glow Up weekend brought a new buzz to the town with people of all ages joining in celebrations to mark the revitalisation of market areas. As town centre regeneration continues – with more events planned – student Molly Holmes considers the impact of these changes on young people’s views of their hometown.
When you think of Chesterfield, what comes to mind?
My guess is that you would probably reminisce about the many, many times you have walked through the centre and wished that something would change.
The outdated market, the lack of shop variety – the idea that Chesterfield is only known for its Crooked Spire.
Well, Chesterfield is now amid a much needed ‘Glow Up’.
This spring, the town centre saw the big ‘Glow Up’ weekend burst into life. The observation wheel made a welcome return, standing proud within the festivities for all to enjoy.
The light show on the Market Hall and night market truly ‘lit’ up the two evenings and gave us an insight to the next few months of exciting revamps.
The market, situated in the centre of it all, looks polished and lively with a new set up that creates a sense of tidiness within the bustle. Throughout the Glow Up weekend, a sense of community seemed to be brought out and, with the help of sunshine, made it a perfect start for the new Chesterfield.
The weekend of 27th and 28th March brought families out and about together and made the transition much more wholesome.
The big wheel created a busy atmosphere and children enjoying the festivities, including the helter skelter and wheel, brought a new mood to the centre. It was nice to see children enjoying their time in town as opposed to feeling like they ‘had’ to be there – based on my own experience when I was younger!
For as long as I can remember, Chesterfield has been a town that hasn’t exactly caught the eye of younger generations – whether from a lack of options in shops, entertainment or just places to hang out with friends that isn’t McDonald’s or the park.
This situation isn’t helped with the prominence of shopping centres like Meadowhall – with trendy shops that young people are obsessed with – discouraging them from a trip to the town centre.
Many people within my age group – teens in general – would say that town doesn’t have that factor that appeals to younger people that cities not so far away do.
The aftermath of the pandemic and the evolution of social media have also created laziness that I will admit to. Is it necessary to go into town when instead, with the help of online shops, you can take five minutes scrolling and then go about your day? This is something that needs to change and hopefully it will.
In my opinion, younger people are always going to be attracted to the big and busy cities that are completely different from their hometown. However, in recent years, Chesterfield’s independent shops and cafes have become staples – with many young people becoming regular visitors. Who knows, this could grow, and more people can experience what town has to offer.
This summer will hopefully bring about a new beginning and, to see a market and town centre filled with people, will make Chesterfield a much nicer place to spend time in.
Upcoming events include the 1940s market and an international market that will surely outdo previous years, thanks to the new set up. Even more events are in the works to make summer 2026 one to remember, so refresh your social media for updates, mark your calendars – and I hope to see you there.
Glow Up pictures by Fiona Stubbs