What to do in Nottingham this March
This month features fascinating musicals, legendary talks, and much more...
If you’re looking for things to do in Nottingham this March, there are plenty of amazing events to get into.
The daffodils are out and the days are brighter, making it feel a bit more inviting to step out and see what the city centre and beyond has to offer.
From brilliant gigs from our vibrant music scene to fascinating shows and talks, no matter what your interests are, we’ve got you covered.
And, as ever, if you want to see your event featured in our monthly round-up, do email us at editor@thenottsedit.com with all the details.
10 things to do in Nottingham this March
1. 9-5 the Musical 🎭
When: March 7-9
Where: Nottingham Arts Theatre
How much: £17pp
If working 9-5 is your way to make a living but you want to let your hair down in the evening, this musical is the one for you. This fun show follows three female co-workers pushed to the brink by their boss, who end up on a mission to makeover their workplace. It will be performed by the University of Nottingham Medics Society, who have put together the lively show as a much-deserved way to de-stress post exams and placements.
Do if: You love a bit of Dolly Parton — just like Mamma Mia and ABBA, the show features her tunes throughout.
2. Do Nothing 🎵
When: March 8
Where: The Bodega
How much: £15.40pp
One of the biggest bands to come out of Notts in recent years — Do Nothing — are heading to the intimate venue of The Bodega for a cosy gig. The post-punks blend spidery rhythms with half-spoken vocals, creating a unique sound that’s dead catchy. The gig is raising funds for them to play in Texas, so you’ll be able to support them trying to break the states with your ticket.
Do if: You found yourself toe-tapping to LeBron James when it went on its radio run.
3. Michael McIntyre 😂
When: March 8-10
Where: Motorpoint Arena
How much: £47.95pp
When you think of Saturday night TV, Michael McIntyre’s shows Big Show and The Wheel probably come to mind. If you’ve caught them on TV or have found yourself chuckling at clips on Twitter/X, you might want to get yourself down to the Motorpoint to see the BAFTA award-winning comedian in person. For those who want to make it a really bougie night out, you can also upgrade to hospitality tickets, from £146pp.
Do if: You know you’ll need a good night of laughs this month.
4. Light After Dark Film Festival 📽️
When: March 8-16
Where: Various venues around Nottingham
How much: Free- £10pp, varies with shows
Feel the power of film at this festival, which is dedicated to immersive experiences in cinema through art, music, performance, and technology. From the family-friendly expedition into early cinema The Little Luminers and The Magic Lantern to the dreamy and experimental Sleep Walk with Me, there is a real mixture to suit all. Performances will be shown at Nottingham Contemporary, Bonington Gallery, and Broadway Cinema.
Do if: Netflix and chilling doesn’t quite do it for you when you want to truly enjoy films.
lightafterdarkfilmfestival.com
5. Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea 🍰🎵
When: March 10
Where: Creswell Events Centre, Worksop
How much: £20
There are two things that (most) mothers love: delicious food and a good sing-along. Boyband Three will be singing hits from Take That, Boyzone, and Westlife, so you can listen to all the cheesy/soulful tunes while tucking into scones and sandwiches. Doors open at 3pm, food will be served at 4pm, and the event will finish at 7pm, meaning you’ll have a whole afternoon of entertainment.
Do if: You want to be the favourite child this Mother’s Day.
6. Fantastically Great Women Who Changed the World 🎭
When: March 12-16
Where: Theatre Royal
How much: £13.50-£30pp
Find out all about explorers, scientists, and even secret agents at this sparkling, empowering show. The musical is based on the popular children’s book by Suffragette relative Kate Pankhurst and is filled with pop tunes that accompany and complement the moving tales. Frida Kahol, Rosa Parks, and Marie Curie are just a few of the women whose fascinating stories feature.
Do if: You love history lessons with a touch of sparkle.
7. The Ultimate Battle of the Bands 🎵
When: March 12
Where: Metronome, Nottingham
How much: Free but must be booked
Head on down to Metronome and jam out at this lively concert that’s also a competition. Bands from Confetti and NTU will be playing everything from rock to indie music for a chance to win some amazing prizes. The night will be hosted by BBC Introducing’s DJ Dean Jackson and the bands will be judged by reps from the likes of DHP, Rough Trade, Gigantic, and LeftLion.
Do if: You’d like to discover the area’s upcoming artists (so you can say ‘I saw them first’ if they make it big).
8. St Patrick’s Day ☘️🎵🎭
When: March 17
Where: Old Market Square
How much: Free
We’re ready to do an Irish jig after finding out how much is going on for St Patrick’s Day in Old Market Square. From 11.30am-4pm there will be Irish and Irish-inspired live music and entertainment, to celebrate the city and region’s vibrant Irish community and descendants. Expect music from the Louie Walsh Band (not the X Factor judge, we checked) and the duo Muriel O'Connor and Fran Curry, as well as dancing from local Irish dance schools.
Do if: You’re looking for a free afternoon of fun.
9. An Evening With Birtles and Clough ⚽
When: March 21
Where: Southbank Bar, Nottingham
How much: £22pp
Join former England internationals and Forest legends Garry Birtles and Nigel Clough for an evening filled with football. Garry Birtles won two European cups with Forest under Brian Clough, while Nigel Clough was capped by England 14 times and currently manages Mansfield Town, who are doing very well in League Two this year. For £5.50pp extra you can also bag tickets to Le Tissier and Crossley in May.
Do if: You know a footy fan who would get a kick out of reminiscing about ‘70s-’90s football.
10. Card Ninja 🎭
When: March 24
Where: Djanogly Theatre, Beeston
How much: £7.50-£9pp
Whether you believe in magic or not, we can all agree that card tricks are always exciting to watch and never cease to amaze. Card Ninja Javier Jarquin will be mixing wry wisecracks and dazzling card tricks, along with deadly and risky fun. Don’t worry about the latter statement — it’s still suitable for children over six. Javier has performed at sell-out festival shows and had millions of views on online videos, so he sounds like a pro.
Do if: You’re looking for a feel-good, family-friendly show.