If you’re in Nottinghamshire and you’re wondering what to do, KLG Rutland is here to help. We’ve been active in the Nottingham community for over half a century, so we know a thing or two about what goes on here. As such, we have put together an Annual Events Calendar for Nottingham, giving you a summary of all the best events going down in each month.
Whether you’re after something family-friendly to do in the school holidays or fancy something relaxing for grown ups on a weekend, this guide is sure to have something to suit. From Nottingham city centre to the glorious Notts countryside and Sherwood Forest, you’ll find the annual celebration you won’t want to miss.
January
Newark Antiques Fair
One of the largest antiques fairs in Europe, held several times a year at the Newark Showground. The January edition often attracts collectors and dealers from all over.
Beat The Streets Music Festival
In the final weekend of January, the Beat The Streets music festival takes place in the city showcasing up and coming local bands and raising money for charities combating homelessness in the city.
February
Light Night
Nottingham’s Light Night brightens up the winter months with a variety of light-based installations and events throughout the city, often held at the start of February.
Chinese New Year Celebrations
You can expect various events across the city, including performances, parades and food stalls celebrating Chinese New Year, often attended by scores of local families.
March
St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations
Parades and events in Nottingham celebrating Irish culture, including music, dance and food take place every year on March 17. Expect lots of green and lots of Guinness.
April
The County Cricket Season Begins
In early April, the county cricket season begins, when Nottinghamshire CCC will be on the hunt for silverware in their stunning home ground of Trent Bridge. Additionally, East Midlands women’s team, The Blaze (sponsored by KLG Rutland), play some of their games at Trent Bridge during the summer.
May
Nottingham May Family Fest
An annual open day at the University of Nottingham featuring family-friendly activities, interactive displays and demonstrations.
June
Nottingham Comic Con
If you’re into your comic culture, head to the Motorpoint Arena in June for the biggest pop culture event in the East Midlands. You’ll meet famous guests and get to hang with like-minded folk.
Riverside Festival Dragon Boat Challenge
A part of the larger Riverside Festival, the Dragon Boat Challenge sees teams competing in dragon boat races on the River Trent. It is quite a sight to behold!
July
Splendour Festival
Splendour is the largest music festival in the county, taking place in the wondrous surroundings of Wollaton Park. The line-up features lots of big name artists, plus a flavour of local bands. Previous acts include Madness, Noel Gallagher, Craig David, Paloma Faith, Busted, Kaiser Chiefs, Jake Bugg and many more.
The Gate to Southwell Festival
Another music festival of a slightly different flavour in July is The Gate to Southwell Festival. It’s a vibrant folk music festival held in Southwell, featuring live music, dance, workshops and family activities.
Newark Book Festival
If reading is your thing, then the Newark Book Festival is for you. It’s a welcoming literary festival held in Newark, featuring author talks, book signings and workshops.
August
Nottingham Riverside Festival
A free festival held along the banks of the River Trent, featuring live music, family entertainment, food stalls and a spectacular fireworks display. Fun for all the family.
The Football Season Returns
Nottingham is home to two historic football clubs – Nottingham Forest (two-time European Champions) and Notts County (the oldest professional football club in the world). The two teams have grand old stadiums on the banks of the River Trent (City Ground and Meadow Lane, respectively) and draw huge crowds.
Robin Hood Festival
Robin Hood is the man or myth who put Nottingham on the map. Held in Sherwood Forest, this festival celebrates the legend of Robin Hood and all his merry men with historical re-enactments, performances and medieval-themed activities.
September
Robin Hood Half Marathon
An annual running event that attracts participants from all over the UK, taking them on a scenic route through the city and surrounding areas. Many run for charity, and many run to challenge themselves. Either way, it’s a great event.
Heritage Open Days
Part of a national initiative, various historical sites in Nottinghamshire open their doors to the public, offering free tours and special events. This is a great time to see some of the amazing heritage properties in the county without spending a penny.
Nottingham Mela Festival
A celebration of South Asian arts and culture, with performances, workshops, and food stalls in various locations, including the New Art Exchange.
October
Goose Fair
One of the oldest and largest traveling fairs in Europe, the Goose Fair takes place at the Forest Recreation Ground, offering rides, games and traditional fair food. You’ve not experienced Nottingham if you haven’t been to the Goose Festival!
Nottingham CAMRA Beer Festival
Fans of beer and a good time need look no further than the Nottingham CAMRA festival, hosted annually in October. Known officially by CAMRA as The Nottingham Robin Hood Beer and Cider Festival, you’ll find hundreds of festival beers and cider on sale in the beautiful venue of Trent Bridge cricket ground, alongside live music.
Hockley Hustle
A multi-venue music festival held in the Hockley area of Nottingham, featuring a wide range of local and national acts. Hockley is a buzzing area on any given day, but during the Hockley Hustle it is a hive of acitvity.
November
Nottingham Christmas Market
The market opens in mid-November, transforming the city centre into a festive wonderland with stalls selling gifts, food and beverages, alongside an ice rink and various holiday attractions. It’s a wonderful time of year to be in the city and celebrating with friends and family.
Nottingham Comedy Festival
Fancy a laugh? The Nottingham Comedy Festival is a 10 day long event in November which brings together comedians from all over the country, both established names and the new big things.
December
Southwell Minster’s Christmas Services
The historic and beautiful Southwell Minster hosts a series of traditional Christmas services, carol concerts and festive events throughout December. It’s a great way to get into the Christmas spirit.
Wollaton Hall Christmas Lights Trail
A spectacular light display set in the grounds of Wollaton Hall, featuring illuminated trails and festive installations. This is the perfect place for taking some snaps for Instagram or getting lost in the lights.
Hopefully by reading our summary of the most exciting annual events held in Nottingham and the wider county, you won’t ever be struggling for things to do here. There’s always something taking place that all the family can appreciate in wonderful Nottinghamshire.
Meanwhile, KLG Rutland is here for all your Nottinghamshire home improvement needs, specialising in our amazing glazing products – windows, doors and conservatories. Visit our Nottingham showroom or reach out to us via the contact page to find out more.
Feel free to also read our similar article which details all the Derbyshire annual events.