Nottingham February events — 10 things to do this month
Valentine's Day events, magical walks, sparkling shows, and more...
It’s officially the month of love, so there’s no better time to find events in Nottingham that are seriously swoon-worthy.
I’ve got you covered with a whole range of different treats, such as Valentine’s Day activities, family-friendly fun, and dazzling exhibitions. I have narrowed these down based on how unique and interesting the events are, their seasonality, and whether they’re of great value for money.
If you’re looking for events in Nottingham this year and want to step out in February, there are so many brilliant reasons to explore our county this month. For more things to do in Nottingham, subscribe to The Notts Edit to receive our articles in your inbox for free — including our weekly Notts Going On guide.
10 things to do in Nottingham this February
By Eve Smallman
1. Cosmic Titans
When: Until April 27
Where: Lakeside Arts, Beeston
How much: Free entry
This dazzling showcase features brand-new commissions by nine artists, who have spent time working alongside researchers in quantum physics and created sculptural installations and photographs inspired by this. These all aim to capture the excitement, wonder and poetry of cutting-edge scientific discovery. There are also a range of talks this month around the exhibition, such as The Journey to Cosmic Titans (February 13, £3pp) and Dark Side of the Universe (February 19, £3pp).
Do if: You’d love to learn more about what makes up the world around us.

2. Out and About With Linden Book Launch
When: February 6
Where: Nottingham Central Library
How much: £6.13pp
Photographer Stuart Linden Rhodes will be showcasing a collection of photographs from the Linden Archives, which were taken for the Gay Times and All Points North magazines in the ‘90s. He’ll be telling stories behind the photographs in conversation with CJ De Barra from the Notts Queer History Archive. Books and prints will be on sale at the event. There are only a few tickets left, so make sure to be quick if you want to go.
Do if: You’d like to find out more about the queer scene from those that know it exceptionally well.
3. Girls and Boys
When: February 8-March 1
Where: Nottingham Playhouse
How much: From £10pp
You know the typical love story. Boy meets girl. Sparks fly. They settle down. But underneath this tale, there is a disturbing undercurrent growing — and soon the truth unravels. This gripping one-woman show will be performed by Nottingham’s own Aisling Loftus and promises to be full of savage humour and raw intensity.
Do if: You want to watch something you’ve never seen before and be blown away — it’s written by Dennis Kelly, who is the BAFTA, Tony, Emmy, and Olivier award-winning author of Matilda the Musical, so you should be in for a treat.
4. Nottinghamshire Festival of Science and Curiosity
When: February 10-21
Where: Various venues around the county
How much: Mix of free and ticketed events
Head out on a fun-filled journey of discovery and learning by taking part in this festival’s exciting events and workshops. There will be live shows, science fun days, and activities including robot building and sensory nature walks. Highlights include the Inflatable Planetarium at Nottingham Central Library (February 15), the Robot Workshops at Mansfield Museum (February 19), and the Stop Motion Animation Workshops at Bingham Library (February 20).
Do if: You have little minds you’d like to keep active during half-term.
5. Galentine’s Workshop
When: February 13
Where: Emmy Lupin, Sneinton Market
How much: £50pp
Make your own cosy candle during this workshop at the dreamy Emmy Lupin shop, taught by Scented Studio’s Lili. You’ll customise your soy candle with your own fragrance, choosing from a mix of seven scents. Once you’ve done this and your candle is set, you can decorate the white glass jar with decals designed by Emmy, especially for Galentine’s. Plus, workshop goers can grab 20% off products in-store that day.
Do if: You’d like to try out a fun new craft and hang out with friends old and new.
6. Anti-Social App Speed Dating
When: February 13
Where: Malt Cross, Nottingham
How much: £10pp
It can be hard to meet people in person nowadays — but there’s definitely something magical about it. You can try and find that real-life spark at this relaxed ‘speed dating’ event hosted by Flamenco Dating. General admission tickets go on sale on February 9, but there are ladies' early bird ones still available. It’s worth noting that the age guidance for this is 20s and 30s. Plus, the ticket cost includes a glass of prosecco or orange juice if you arrive before 7.30pm.
Do if: Your finger hurts from swiping left on Tinder.
7. Magical Fairy Trail
When: February 14-March 9
Where: Rufford Abbey, Ollerton
How much: £3 per child
Wander through enchanted trails and discover a world of fairy delights during this dreamy walk at Rufford Abbey. You’ll be given a sheet to follow, so you can wander the grounds and discover creatures and hidden worlds. Once you’ve found everything, you can collect your hard-earned prize. The trail is fully accessible and the park is dog-friendly.
Do if: You’re looking for a day out with the kids that’s fun and will get the family step count up.
8. Valentine’s Day Walk
When: February 15
Where: Sherwood Forest, Edwinstowe
How much: £11pp adult, £6pp child, couple £16
Is there a Nottingham couple more iconic than Robin Hood and Maid Marian? I think not. Stroll around the famous Sherwood Forest with them, where they’ll regale you with tales of their adventures and explain how the greenwood is intertwined with their romance. The event will last approximately 90 minutes and it’s advisable to wear appropriate clothing and footwear.
Do if: You’re looking for an alternative activity to just a Valentine’s Day dinner.
9. Light Night
When: February 28-March 1
Where: Various venues around Nottingham
How much: Free entry
One of the highlights of the city’s cultural scene, Light Night gives Nottingham a glow-up with mesmerising installations. Exhibitions this year include Primal Future which will transform the Council House into a canvas, the journey of the universe at Nottingham Castle’s Orbit, and the glowy Firefly Field by the Robin Hood statue. To make the most of your evening, you can download the It’s in Nottingham app for the full guide.
Do if: You’d love a dazzling night on the town that’s super Instagrammable.
10. Connect & Collaborate: Business Networking Night
When: March 6
Where: Cosy Club, Nottingham
How much: £27pp early bird, £35pp general admission
This is in March, but it’s worth snapping tickets up early for. This evening hosted by Spark Business Networking will provide you with the opportunity to meet and chat with other professionals in the area. You’ll also hear an inspiring talk from award-winning entrepreneur and coach Tracey Taylor. The event runs from 6.30-10pm and there will be a delicious finger food buffet to keep you fuelled up.
Do if: You’d like to meet like-minded people in a relaxed, welcoming environment.
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