From lights to laughter: Nottingham's December events guide
From lights to laughter: Nottingham's December events guide
Events for whether you want to get into the festive spirit or not
It’s the most wonderful time of the year… and the busiest time of the year, too. There’s always so much going on before the run-up to Christmas — including lots of events around the area.
Don’t know where to start? We’ve rounded up a range of things to do in Nottingham this December, from seasonal festivities (see more of those here in our round-up) to just generally fun activities that don’t involve donning a Santa hat.
10 things to do around Nottingham this December
1. Sound at Central Launch Event
What: Concert and performance
When: December 1
Where: Nottingham Central Library
Price: £10
The Central Library in Nottingham has finally opened, and this is the first of a monthly performance series it will be hosting. BAFTA award-winning TV writer and poet Henry Normal will be taking to the stage, followed by a DJ set by Jam Cafe, and finishing off with an eclectic world music experience by seven-piece band Salmagundi. The cafe will be open, so you can stay fuelled up during the show.
Do if: You want to check out the new library (it looks incredible!).
F.E. Greene
2. Myths and Legends
What: Walking tour
When: December 2 and 9
Where: Sherwood Forest
Price: £5
Sherwood Forest is best known for being one of Robin Hood’s favourite hangout spots, so it’s definitely a great place to learn about the man, the myth, and the legend. William De Tankerville — aka the Sheriff of Nottingham’s Master of Arms — will take you on a tour of the iconic forest, sharing tales of medieval life and of hunting down his number one target: Mr Hood. The walk will last 90 minutes, and it’s advised that you wear suitable walking footwear.
Do if: You love dynamically learning about history.
3. Madness
What: Concert
When: December 5
Where: Motorpoint Arena, Nottingham
Price: From £50.78
Didn’t get a chance to catch Madness at Splendour? You can still see them in Notts this year, as they’re heading to the Arena to play their signature ska and pop music. They’re known for hits such as Baggy Trousers, It Must Be Love and Wings of a Dove… the list goes on. The Motorpoint is a huge venue, so you’ll have plenty of elbow room to show off your best One Step Beyond moves. The special guests are The Lightning Seeds, who are also a brilliant band.
Do if: You want a joyful evening of music that isn’t Christmas tunes.
4. Peter Kay Christmas Party Night
What: Comedy and food
When: December 7
Where: Kelham Hall, Newark
Price: £39
Enjoy comedy and Christmas fun all wrapped up into one at Kelham Hall, where the UK’s most authentic Peter Kay tribute act (yes, that’s a thing) Simon Mark will be providing evening entertainment worthy of The Phoenix Club itself. The night will also include a welcome drink, a festive three-course meal, and a disco until midnight. The dress code is festive party wear, black tie optional. If you have dietary requirements, they advise letting them know before the event.
Do if: You’re looking for a festive night out to do with friends or work colleagues.
5. Christmas Wreath Making Workshop
What: Crafting
When: December 9-10
Where: Attenborough Nature Reserve
Price: £55
Spend a mindful afternoon creating a wreath for your front door at the beautiful Attenborough Nature Reserve. You’ll be supplied with all the materials you’ll need, including willow from the nature reserve and locally sourced foliage. As well as this, the price also includes a mulled beverage and mince pies. The workshop will take place in a room with views of the reserve itself. Earlier events have already sold out, so you might want to be quick if you want to book.
Do if: You like the idea of bringing Nottingham nature into your Christmas decor.
6. Hucknall Comedy Club with Nabil Abdulrashid
What: Comedy
When: December 15
Where: The John Godber Centre, Hucknall
Price: From £13.70
TV comedy favourite Nabil Abdulrashid is heading to Hucknall’s Comedy Club, along with comedians Jack Gleadow and Jacob Nussey. Nabil broke out into the comedy scene after being a finalist on Britain’s Got Talent, and has since appeared on 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, Have I Got News for You, and Live at the Apollo. You get a lot of top-quality acts for this ticket price, making it great value for money.
Do if: You need an evening of laughs in between the holiday chaos.
7. Bama Lama Sing Song Christmas
What: Concert and singalong
When: December 15
Where: Rescue Rooms, Nottingham
Price: £10
Singing at concerts is always good fun — but what if you could sing along to every song? At this concert, there’s no singer. The live band plays the tunes and the audience is invited to provide the vocals. The lyrics will be projected onto the screen, so you don’t need to worry about fumbling the words. On the Rescue Rooms events page there’s a Spotify playlist curated by them, which may be a clue about what songs to expect.
Do if: You love karaoke.
8. Candlelight Christmas
What: Concert
When: December 20 and 23
Where: Nottingham Contemporary
Price: From £29
This multi-sensory concert will bring Christmas classics to life at the gorgeous location of Nottingham Contemporary. They say to expect music featured in films like Love Actually, Home Alone, and more. There are two sittings on each day — 6pm and 8.30pm — so you could always catch the concert before or after a festive meal or drinks. The event is inclusive for wheelchair users and carers can get a free ticket.
Do if: You want to wow that special someone.
Snowman Enterprises Ltd
9. The Snowman
What: Film and concert
When: December 23
Where: Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham
Price: From £16
When it comes to family-friendly Christmas films, The Snowman is absolutely one that stands the test of time. Watch it in all its full glory at the Royal Concert Hall, where a live orchestra will be playing the soundtrack along with the film being shown. As well as the film, there will be festive music and even audience participation. Children and adults alike are sure to be swept into the magic of this enchanting tale.
Do if: You’re searching for a special festive experience for the kids.
10. The Grand Ball at Woodborough Hall
What: Ball
When: December 31
Where: Woodborough Hall
Price: £130
Live your best Great Gatsby life this New Year’s Eve by heading to this fabulous ball to ring in 2024 in true style. After fizz and canapés on arrival, you’ll be able to dive into a five-course meal. From here, you can dance to the live orchestra and marvel at the tricks of the live musician. The whole night will be capped off with dazzling fireworks — much better than the ones in your back garden. Dust off your glad rags and have yourself a Cinderella moment.
Do if: You’d like to celebrate the New Year in the most glamorous way possible.
🎁 Psst! We’re looking for local makers to feature in our Nottingham gift guide next month. If you’d like to submit your products or give any suggestions, please do email us at editor@thenottsedit.com.