Culture, sport, restaurants, holidays, social gatherings and more have all been badly hit by the Covid-19 emergency, which means the calendar has been in shreds since March.
But there is much to look forward to in 2021 if, as is hoped, the roll-out of vaccines works effectively and public confidence grows.
Here are 10 of the best things that are lined up next year in Sheffield.
9. Art gallery's overhaul
The Graves Art Gallery is getting its biggest refurbishment in years. The gallery, on the top floor of the Grade II-listed Central Library building, is to undergo an overhaul before it reopens in 2021 – this will involve the walls being re-cladded in three of the main galleries, a redecoration of the exhibition spaces, and a complete changeover of a third of the artworks on display. The project is being funded by a £455,000 grant from The Ampersand Foundation. Photo: JPIMedia
10. Back to the big panto
A 'pop-up' panto has been streamed online from the Crucible Theatre this festive season, starring Sheffield's familiar dame Damian Williams, pictured - but the pantomime originally planned for 2020 at the neighbouring Lyceum venue, Sleeping Beauty, has been pushed back to Christmas 2021. Photo: Andrew Roe