Nottingham November events — 10 things to do this month
Markets, workshops, festivals, and more...
The sleigh bells are quietly jingling, and the nights are notably darker, which means it’s time to find out about a range of November events around Nottingham.
I’ve curated a mix of festive and fabulous activities, such as festivals, markets, and workshops. I’ve narrowed these down based on their seasonality, the uniqueness of what they offer, and value for money. There aren’t any Bonfire Night events in this guide, but we do have a separate roundup of those.
If you’re looking for things to do in Nottingham this month, these are all brilliant offerings. We will also be curating a Christmas events guide. For more 2025 events, guides and features, subscribe to The Notts Edit to receive our articles in your inbox for free.
10 things to do in Nottingham this November
By Eve Smallman
1. Christmas Market at Nottingham Castle
When: November 28-30
Where: Nottingham Castle
How much: £2pp adult, £1pp child in advance
Over 90 seasonal stalls will be setting up shop at It’s in Nottingham’s sparkling market, which is spanning three whole days for the very first time. Makers to watch out for include Luisa’s Vegan Chocolates, Higgins & Rose, and Cloth & Kin, while food and drink options will range from roasted cobs and poutine to crumbles and gingerbread lattes. There will also be free family-friendly activities, magical performances, and photo opportunities.
Do if: You love shopping for presents in person — this is a wonderful opportunity to do so, as well as meeting the creators behind them.
2. Nottingham Comedy Festival
When: Until November 9
Where: Various venues around Nottingham
How much: Mix of free and ticketed events
With jam-packed days of comedy shows, stand-up, improv, workshops, and more, this is the side-stitching event of the year in Nottingham. New for 2025 is the Kids Festival, taking place from November 8-9 at the Vat and Fiddle (shows from £5pp). For grown-ups, highlights include A Political Brunch (November 2 and 9, Cosy Club, £10pp), MissImp’s Smash Night (November 5, Malt Cross, £5pp), and Desiree Burch (November 7, Canalhouse, £18pp).
Do if: You’d like to experience a variety of comedic styles.
nottinghamcomedyfestival.co.uk
3. Gin and Gaslight
When: November 7
Where: D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum, Eastwood
How much: £17.50pp
D.H. Lawrence is one of the most iconic Nottingham authors, having penned books like Lady Chatterley’s Lover and The Rainbow. His birthplace museum is the best place to learn about him, and this evening will give you the chance to do just that under the glow of Victorian gaslight. After this, you’ll be offered several gins to sample, with information about their flavour profiles. Victorian costume is not essential, but is celebrated.
Do if: You’d like to have your Friday night tipple in a beautiful, educational setting.
4. Book Folding With Alyson
When: November 8
Where: Long Eaton Art Room
How much: £35pp
Discover the art of book-folding during this half-day workshop, where you’ll be able to craft your own book candle to take home with you. This light-hearted, beginner-friendly session will teach you how to choose an appropriate book, prepare it and apply folds to the pages, as well as how to decorate with it. Everything is provided for you to learn the Measure, Mark, Fold technique, and patterns will be available for you to carry on making at home.
Do if: You’d like to impress your friends and family with a handmade gift.
5. A Christmas Carol Ballet
When: November 11
Where: Mansfield Palace Theatre
How much: £24pp adult, £18pp child
You’ve seen A Christmas Carol with Muppets. You’ve seen A Christmas Carol animated. But have you ever seen it in ballet form? Probably not! Step (or pirouette) into a Victorian Christmas, where Charles Dickens’ timeless tale will come to life, which follows Ebenezer Scrooge being visited by three enchanting ghosts. With a score of festive carols, breathtaking costumes, and choreography by Christopher Moore, it’s sure to be a stunning performance.
Do if: You love traditional Christmas tales and mesmerising dance.
6. Disney on Ice
When: November 12-16
Where: Motorpoint Arena, Nottingham
How much: From £35.40pp
Skate on down to the Motorpoint for an evening filled with inspirational stories and Disney sparkle to enchant the whole family. Be whisked away with Mirabel and her family as they learn that everyone has a special gift, with Moana journeying across the ocean, Anna and Elsa protecting their kingdom, Rapunzel escaping from her tower, and more. For extra magic, little ones (and big ones!) can even dress up or Disneybound as characters.
Do if: It isn’t the festive season for you without a little bit of faith, trust, and pixie dust.
motorpointarenanottingham.com
7. Jools Holland
When: November 20
Where: Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham
How much: £57.50pp
Musical maestro Jools Holland and his famous Rhythm & Blues Orchestra are coming to the Royal Concert Hall for a grand evening of big tunes. Together with the skilful musicianship of the band, Jools Holland will be performing songs from throughout his career. He’ll also be joined by Irish singer-songwriter Imelda May. Availability is limited, so you might want to be quick in booking if you’re interested.
Do if: Your New Year’s Eve isn’t complete without Jools Holland.
8. Festive Punch Needle Workshop
When: November 22
Where: Handmade, Nottingham
How much: £40pp
Get into the holiday spirit during this cosy workshop, where you’ll delve into the relaxing art of punch needle as you create your very own Christmas wall hanging decoration with the expert help of Created By Char. Choose from a range of joyful festive designs, including a wreath, bauble, Santa, snowman, presents, and more. All the tools and materials are provided, and you’ll have a finished Christmas decoration to take home and display proudly.
Do if: You’d like to have a mindful afternoon before the business of the season truly begins.
created-by-char.sumupstore.com
9. Festive Wreath Making
When: November 22-23
Where: Cleaver and Wake, Nottingham
How much: £60pp
Cleaver & Wake’s stunning upstairs space is the dreamiest venue for making a wreath. After being welcomed with a glass of bubbles (to fuel the creative juices), you’ll decorate with all the products and wreath accessories on offer to make your masterpiece truly your own. Both dates offer a morning session from 10am-12pm and an afternoon session from 2pm-4pm. The venue is also right by the station, making it a breeze to get to.
Do if: Your front door is in need of a decorative festive touch.
10. Wollaton Winter Light Trail
When: November 26-December 31
Where: Wollaton Park, Nottingham
How much: From £17pp adult, from £12.50pp child and concessions
The fabulous Wollaton Winter Light Trail is back after being on hiatus, with a new operator showcasing never-seen-before installations on the almost mile-long walk. Wander through the illuminated gardens, take plenty of Instagrammable pics, and enjoy the immersive features, all while sipping on mulled wine and hot chocolate. You can even end the evening in style by relaxing in an Alpine-inspired private chalet with 8-10 people.
Do if: Magical lights always seem to unlock your inner child.
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