Nottingham December events — 10 things to do this month
Panto, photos, parties, and more...
Looking for events in Nottingham this December? There are so many great ones happening around the area.
I’ve rounded up a mixture of different activities across the whole month, from classic panto to magical festive walks. I’ve narrowed these down based on the event's uniqueness, how different they are compared to other ones in the area, and how good value for money they are.
If you’re searching for things to do in Nottingham this month, these are all worth checking out and booking in advance. We’ve also compiled a range of Christmas events, if you’re looking for these specifically. Plus, you can subscribe to The Notts Edit for free and receive Notts Going On and more in your inbox.
10 things to do in Nottingham this December
By Eve Smallman
1. Snowed In at Newstead
When: Until January 5
Where: Newstead Abbey, Ravenshead
How much: Site entry £6 per car, £2 for walkers or coach
The home of Lord Byron is hosting a huge range of Christmassy activities this month. During weekends in December, there will be craft stalls filled with treasures that could make perfect gifts. Those with little ones may also wish to pick up a Snowman Trail (£2 per sheet) and follow it around the grounds. Or, if you’re looking for Christmas dining, the historic house is hosting festive afternoon teas every weekend for £30pp. As well as all this, you can go down on a Saturday evening and discover the Snowed In festive installations after dark (£25pp).
Do if: You want to go on a winter walk filled with treats.
2. Jack and the Beanstalk
When: Until January 18
Where: Nottingham Playhouse
How much: From £19.50pp
Nottingham Playhouse’s pantomime is renowned for being one of the best in the area, and this year the theatre has a really wonderful show. Join Jack as he exchanges the family cow for magic beans, which leads him onto a big adventure. This year’s show stars Finton Flynn as the titular character (Coronation Street, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie), John Elkington as the Dame (26 years after his first Playhouse panto), as well as Sir Ian McKellen voicing Giant Blunderbore.
Do if: If it just isn’t Christmas for you without shouting ‘Oh no you didn’t!’ at some point.
3. Victory Lap
When: December 7
Where: The Bodega, Nottingham
How much: £8.80pp
Noir-pop quintet Victory Lap is set to bring dreamy tunes to the intimate Bodega venue. They say their influences range from everything from Leonard Cohen to The Last Shadow Puppets and the film Casablanca (so expect a unique sound!). It’s worth listening to their debut single Jealousy before you go, which is an emotional tune with a rich sound. Doors open at 6.30pm and they’ll be supported by Prima Star Power and Grain Mother.
Do if: You’d like to spend your Saturday night dancing to one of the hottest new bands in Nottingham.
4. The Drone Light Show
When: December 7-8
Where: Trent Bridge, West Bridgford
How much: £23pp adult, £18pp child
Wrap up warm and head to the famous cricket ground to see A Christmas Carol come to life during this 45-minute drone show. The show will be narrated by Matt Lucas, so there might even be a joke or two. Trent Bridge is a 40-minute walk from the centre, or you can also get the tram to Wilford Lane and then walk for five minutes. Tickets are very limited, so you may want to be quick if you like the sound of this.
Do if: You’re searching for a unique event that the whole family will enjoy.
5. Christmas Movies
When: December 7-31
Where: Broadway Cinema, Hockley
How much: £11pp, some pay as you feel
It’s the season to watch all your favourite festive films — and at Broadway, you can do just that, whether you love family favourites like Home Alone or classics like White Christmas. On December 14 there’s a special screening of The Polar Express, where kids will get a golden ticket through the post beforehand, hot chocolate, gifts, and a chance to meet Santa for £25 per child. There are also pay-what-you-feel screenings of It’s A Wonderful Life, The Muppet Christmas Carol, and Elf.
Do if: You’re looking for a cosy, relaxing way to get Christmassy.
6. Scrooge Immersive Dining
When: December 18
Where: Kelham Hall, Newark
How much: £60pp
Immerse yourself fully in the famous tale A Christmas Carol during this fabulous and fun evening. During the interactive event, you’ll be able to help the ghosts restore Ebenezer's Christmas spirit, become well-known characters, and dance the night away. You’ll also be able to enjoy a welcome drink and a three-course meal with seasonal flavours.
Do if: You’re not feeling the festive spirit yet and you’d like to get swept up into it properly.
7. Christmas Pet Photo Shoot
When: December 20
Where: Attenborough Nature Reserve
How much: £8pp (that’s per pet!)
Gather up your pup or pooches for an adorable photoshoot with Sophie Bell Photography at this scenic location. Various photo options will be available on the day, so you can pick the perfect one for your needs. After you’re done, you can take a walk around the beautiful nature reserve (one of our top beauty spots in Nottingham!) and see all the wonderful winter waterfowl that make it their home during this time of year.
Do if: You’d like to include a family paw-trait with your Christmas presents.
8. Family Carol Concert
When: December 21
Where: Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham
How much: £14.50-£27pp
The Nottingham Harmonic Choir’s annual carol concert will showcase soaring vocals, as well as music from the Thoresby Colliery Band, to create a truly magical experience. They’ll be performing a range of seasonal songs, from traditional ones like Schneewalzer to fan-favourites like Let It Go from Frozen. Children will also get to come down to the stage to sing and some will even get the chance to conduct the band or choir.
Do if: You’re planning to do some last-minute shopping in town and want to round it off with something special.
9. The Snowflake Ball
When: December 21
Where: Pitcher and Piano, Nottingham
How much: £30.50pp
You are cordially invited to the Pitcher and Piano for an enchanting evening of elegance and magic. It’s set to be jam-packed with excitement, with fire eaters, casino tables, and even a Michael Bublé tribute. The dinner tickets have now all sold out, but there are still entertainment ones available. Make sure to dust off your suit and ties and glitziest gowns, as the dress code is black tie.
Do if: You love getting dressed up during the holidays and want to celebrate the season properly.
10. New Year’s Eve
When: December 31
Where: The Orchard Hotel, Nottingham
How much: £99pp
Bramley’s Restaurant at the beautiful Orchard Hotel is hosting a special evening to ring in the new year. On arrival, you’ll be treated to drinks and a selection of canapes, before you sit down and indulge in seven exquisite courses. When the clock strikes midnight, you can toast to 2025 with your family and friends. If you want to make an evening of it, you can add accommodation to your ticket.
Do if: You want to wave goodbye to 2024 in style, without having to do any of the hosting or cooking yourself.
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