Nottingham November events — 10 things to do this month
Amazing theatre, magical celebrations, musical joy, and more...
Even though the nights are darker and the weather is colder, there are still plenty of events in Nottingham this November.
I’ve rounded up a range of different ones from across the county, from fabulous theatre shows to sparkling shopping fairs. There are even a couple of festive events if you want to start getting into the seasonal spirit.
If you’re looking for things to do in Nottingham, there are so many wonderful reasons to get out and about in the area down below. And, if you want to find out about more events that are happening this month, sign up to receive our articles in your inbox, including our weekly guide Notts Going On.
10 things to do in Nottingham this November
By Eve Smallman
1. Nottingham Comedy Festival
When: November 1-10
Where: Various venues around Nottingham
How much: From £5pp
A huge range of comedians from across the county and the country will be bringing laughter to the city for 10 whole days. There’s something to make everyone giggle — whether you relate to dating woes (Tinder Tales, November 1 and 8, £7pp), roll your eyes at politics (A Political Brunch, November 2 , £8pp), or just love being part of the ribbing (Beat the Bat, November 6, £7pp). Plenty of stand-up acts will be performing too, including Nottingham-based Scott Bennett, whose NCF shows have all sold out, except for the one at the Canalhouse (November 10, £8pp).
Do if: You have a spare weekday evening or weekend that you’d like to spend smiling, rather than just sitting on the sofa.
nottinghamcomedyfestival.co.uk
2. Hairspray
When: November 4-9
Where: Theatre Royal, Nottingham
How much: £23.50-£48.50pp
Bold style, big energy, and brilliant tunes are all hallmarks of this show-stopping musical. It follows high-schooler Tracy Turnblad as she transforms into an overnight sensation, becoming a trendsetter and bringing inclusivity to The Corny Collins Show. This will all be set to musical classics such as Welcome to the ‘60s and You Can’t Stop The Beat. This production stars Strictly Come Dancing’s Joanne Clifton and is directed by Hairspray legend Brenda Edwards.
Do if: You’re in need of some feel-good fun to chase away the dark night blues.
3. Our House
When: November 5-9
Where: Mansfield Palace Theatre
How much: £19.50pp
On the night of his sixteenth birthday, Joe Casey commits a crime in order to impress his dream girl — but his decision on whether to run from the police or face the consequences changes the course of his life forever. Watch as his ‘sliding doors’ moment splits into two stories. The plot will be accompanied by Madness tunes, such as favourites Baggy Trousers, House of Fun, and (you guessed it) Our House.
Do if: You like going to shows where you know all the songs.
4. Lustre 2024
When: November 8-10
Where: Lakeside Arts, Beeston
How much: Free entry
Over 50 of the UK’s top designers, makers, and crafters will be bringing stunning wares to Lakeside Arts. There will be jewellery, textiles, ceramics, as well as leather and wood pieces, so you’ll be able to start festive shopping for people no matter what their tastes are. Stallholders will include Laura Baxter Fine Jewellery, Carolyn Sara Designs, Alex Allday, and Stevie Davies Glass. Once you’re done, you can always wander around Highfields Park or explore Lakeside’s autumn art exhibitions.
Do if: You like buying unique, handcrafted homewares and gifts that you won’t be able to get on the high street.
5. Diwali ‘Jam’ in the Castle
When: November 9
Where: Nottingham Castle
How much: £15pp adult, free for children
Learn more about the musical heritage behind Diwali by seeing this fabulous contemporary music and dance performance by Nottingham Trent University students. This will take place in the Art Gallery, so you’ll be able to see it no matter what the weather entails. The ticket is for standard admission into the Castle, so not only will you get access to it on this date, but you’ll be able to get in for the whole year, too.
Do if: You’d like to extend your Diwali celebrations (and then carry on enjoying it in town afterwards).
6. Mike Mayfield
When: November 13
Where: Peggy’s Skylight, Nottingham
How much: From £10pp
You might not have heard Mike Mayfield’s name, but you’ve definitely heard of the acts he’s usually the sideman for — we’re talking about the likes of Ed Sheeran, Jessie J, and Rita Ora. Now he’s stepping out on his own and bringing his blend of soul and R&B to Peggy’s Skylight. Choose between the standing ticket for £10pp or the £17pp option if you’d like to sit down and dine while you watch.
Do if: You’re looking for a dreamy date night idea that’ll impress this cuffing season.
7. A Christmas Carol
When: November 14
Where: Southwell Minster
How much: From £19.25pp adult, from £11pp child
Critically acclaimed theatre company Chapterhouse is bringing its own version of the iconic festive tale to one of Nottinghamshire’s most beautiful venues. One Christmas Eve, Ebenezer Scrooge gets whisked away by three fearsome ghosts. Can they teach him the true meaning of the holidays? This event has sold out both times it has been at the Minster, so you might want to be quick in booking tickets.
Do if: You’re searching for a memorable way to welcome in the festive period with family.
8. Disney on Ice
When: November 14-17
Where: Motorpoint Arena, Nottingham
How much: From £18.45pp
Join Mickey Mouse and the gang as they head out on a road trip to a host of Disney Kingdom destinations. They’ll be stopping off in London and seeing Mary Poppins, Motunui and Moana, the Pride Lands where Simba lives, plus many other places. Oh, and don’t worry — your favourite Disney princesses like Merida, Belle, Ariel, Mulan and Tiana will also be taking to the ice, too. You can get regular tickets or front row hospitality ones that include face-painting and afternoon tea.
Do if: You’ve got someone (big or small!) that you want to treat to a memorable experience.
9. Kelham Hall Vintage Festival
When: November 29-December 1
Where: Kelham Hall, Newark
How much: £13pp day ticket, £22pp weekend ticket in advance
Take a trip back in time and ring in the festive period in a gorgeously nostalgic way. Expect all the ’20s-’50s vibes as you browse through stalls with gifts and food and drink. There will also be music throughout the day and evening, with Saturday’s acts including Satin Dollz and Victoria Bass and Sunday’s acts including the Ding Dong Daddios and Miss Holly and the Swingtones.
Do if: You like festive shopping to feel truly special.
kelhamhallvintagefestival.co.uk
10. The Magical Major Oak
When: November 21
Where: Mansfield Central Library
How much: £2pp
Join Maid Marian and her woodland friends for a magical winter adventure produced by Nottingham Playhouse. This sensory, interactive experience features inspiring storytelling to spark the imagination, making it super immersive. It is targeted at little ones aged 2-4, but older siblings are of course welcome, too. The show is taking place at various libraries across the region, but the Mansfield shows (11am and 1.30pm) are the only ones with tickets remaining.
Do if: You’re looking for a fun way to introduce kids to the magic of the season.
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