What to do in Nottingham this January
From big laughs to big bands, let Notts entertain you this month...
2024 has officially arrived — how did that happen, right? Nevertheless, this means that it’s time to scope out January events in Nottingham.
From rocking nights of song to chilled-out afternoons of crafting, whether your New Year resolves to get out more or you simply want to keep yourself busy, there’s plenty to keep you entertained.
Oh, and if you have an event coming up this year you want to spread the word about, please do email us at editor@thenottsedit.com.
10 things to do around Nottingham this January
1. Canalhouse Comedy Night 🤣
When: January 10, January 24
Where: Canalhouse, Nottingham
How much: £2
Sure, you could go to a big comedy show with guaranteed giggles. But isn’t the unexpected much more fun? Grab a pint (or a non-alcoholic bev), sit back, and relax as experienced acts and new acts alike test material out on the crowd. There are two events, so if you miss the first one, you can still pencil the other into your diary and not miss out.
Do if: You fancy a laugh at an award-winning comedy event.
2. International Postcard Show 🎨
When: January 12-February 10
Where: Surface Gallery, just off Sneinton Market
How much: Free
We love the concept of this exhibition, which showcases postcards designed by artists from all over the world, sent into Surface for this event. From paintings to textiles, you can be sure to expect a real mix of artworks. All the postcards are available for purchase for just £15, so you can snap up an original artwork at a very affordable price indeed.
Do if: Your New Year’s resolution involves sprucing up your interior.
3. Aladdin 🎭
When: January 14-20
Where: The Squire Performing Arts Centre, Nottingham
How much: £7, under 12s £3
Ride away on a carpet ride with this romantic tale that sees Aladdin save the kingdom with the help of his friendly genie. The majority of the cast in this work at Nottingham University Hospitals, so don’t boo too loudly when Abanazzer comes on stage. Donations from tickets will go towards extras that improve patient experience that the NHS doesn’t provide.
Do if: You missed out on the panto season in December.
4. Cancer Bats as Bat Sabbath 🎵
When: January 20
Where: Rescue Rooms, Nottingham
How much: £21.94
Canadian metal punk band Cancer Bats are spreading their wings and transforming into Bat Sabbath for a night at Rescue Rooms. They’ll be playing songs by (yes, you guessed it) Black Sabbath, who have Midlands-based roots. The evening will also have two support acts: Acid Throne and Margarita Witch Cult. Rescue Rooms say to ‘watch the carnage unfold’ — so have fun, kids?
Do if: You’re in need of a night of head-banging this January.
5. The Snowsmith 🎭
When: January 20-21
Where: Lakeside Arts, Beeston
How much: £7.50-£9
We haven’t had proper snow this winter, so if your family members are in want of some frosty magic, make their wishes come true by taking them to this show. This show promises captivating storytelling, live folk music, and even breathtaking puppetry — better than a tablet, right? It’s only an hour long, which is just the right amount of time for little attention spans.
Do if: You’re looking for a fun way to entertain the kids on a winter’s afternoon.
6. And Then There Were None 🎭
When: January 23-27
Where: Theatre Royal, Nottingham
How much: £15.50-£37.50
Polish off your magnifying glasses — this 21st-century retelling of the iconic tale is hitting the glorious Theatre Royal stage. Starring names such as Bob Barrett (Holby City) and Oliver Clayton (The Play That Goes Wrong), it has a very experienced cast. This is Agatha Christie’s most-read work and the best-selling crime novel of all time, so you’re sure to be in for a treat whether you’re familiar with her work or not.
Do if: You love being on the edge of your seat.
7. NTU Big Band Live 🎵
When: January 26
Where: Metronome, Nottingham
How much: £12, £5 students/under 16s
There’s nothing that can blow the January blues truly away like the sound of rich, live music. Nottingham Trent’s award-winning band will be playing hits from the likes of Frank Sinatra and Miles Davis. This venue is located just a few minutes walk away from the Vic Centre, making it easy to get to, as well as a breeze to leave afterwards if you’re having a night on the town.
Do if: You want to enjoy stellar live music without a huge cost.
8. Corked Terrarium Jar Workshop 🪴
When: January 27
Where: The Watered Garden, Sneinton Market
How much: £50
If you’re a low-maintenance plant person and want some greenery in your home that doesn’t require watering, self-sufficient terrariums are the way to go. In this workshop, you will be shown how to build your own, with all the materials provided. Whether you’re a gardening pro or green-fingered novice, it’s sure to help improve your indoor gardening skills. At the end, you’ll have your own terrarium to take home.
Do if: Your shelves are looking a little bare after taking down Christmas decorations.
9. Beat the Streets 🎵
When: January 28
Where: Venues around Nottingham City Centre
How much: From £15
This annual festival brings together the local community to raise money and awareness for the homeless, with vital funds going towards Framework. All the wristband proceeds go to charity, and there are options to pay more for your ticket on the site — so do feel free to give generously. Acts playing include G!rlband, Cost of Loving, and Airport Dad.
Do if: You’d like to check out upcoming local artists and give to a good cause.
10. Card Making Crafternoon ✂️
When: Until January 31 (excluding Sundays and Mondays in the city, as well as Tuesdays and Wednesdays in Ruddington)
Where: Debbie Bryan Lace Market and Ruddington Village
How much: £25
Whether you’re prepping for Valentine’s Day, Easter, or something else, giving someone a handmade card always goes down better than a shop-bought one. You can do this by settling down for a mindful afternoon of crafting at either Debbie Bryan. Each session includes an intro with tips and techniques, materials including thread and three cards, and tea/coffee plus a chocolate fudge brownie.
Do if: You want to get a head start on your card-making this year.