You might be wondering what summer events in Nottingham are happening if the sun is shining and you can’t wait to fill up your diary this season.
It’s a good idea to book these sooner rather than later, as events can sell out well before they’re due to happen. We’ve rounded up a range of festivals, outdoor cinema and theatre shows, and family-friendly events to go to in the county. No matter what you want to do, we’ve got you covered.
These are just events, but we have also put together a Nottingham Bucket List filled with activities and a round-up of days out with the kids, for those who want to stay super busy this season.
12 sizzling summer events in Nottingham
By Eve Smallman
Nottingham summer festivals 2024
Woodland Disco Festival
When: July 6
Where: Newstead Abbey
How much: £47.81pp
We think Lord Byron’s history proves he’d be happy that his residency is being used for a full-on party. This all-day Saturday disco will be filled with feel-good groove tunes, headlined by Sister Sledge, who have three Grammy nominations and have played at Glastonbury and Madison Square Garden. There will also be performances by Jocelyn Brown, Fat Tony, Gok Wan, and more.
Do if: You want to kick off July in style.
Boho Festival
When: July 26-28
Where: Millview, Newton
How much: £38.75pp adult day ticket, £22.25pp teen
Dance away to big tunes by big names at this fabulous festival, where`Spandau Ballet’s Martin Kemp and ‘90s DJ Jeremy Healy are among the headliners, tribute acts such as Blondied and UK Fleetwood Mac will be playing, as well as performances from local talent like Mollie Ralph and Fat Digester. Along with music, there will be kids' entertainment, workshops and classes, and arts and crafts - plenty to keep you entertained.
Do if: You want a festival with lots of music and activity choices.
Robin Hood Festival
When: August 3-26
Where: Sherwood Forest, Edwinstowe
How much: Admission free, £15 per vehicle per day on selected dates
Celebrate the world-renowned outlaw and all the legends that walked through Sherwood Forest by enjoying plenty of medieval revelry. There will be horseback combat, historic enactments, children’s entertainment, and music, along with activities such as archery, axe-throwing, wildlife walks and pond dipping to try. Key dates include the Fantasy in the Greenwood (August 10-11), Inspiring Wildlife (August 17-18), and the Festival Finale on the bank holiday weekend.
Do if: You’re looking for an event you can revisit throughout the holiday season.
Arboretum Beer Festival
When: August 24
Where: The Arboretum, Nottingham
How much: £16.50pp, £1pp under 18s (accompanied by an adult)
At this one-day festival, you’ll be able to try out tipples from local breweries like Black Iris, Bang the Elephant, and Liquid Light, along with ones from further afield like Palm, Full Circle, and La Trappe. Food-wise, names such as Bubble Waffle Co, New York’shire Pizza Co, and Homeboys (from Everyday People’s Pete Hewitt) have already signed up. All this will be served to the sound of songs from the ‘Busk Stop’ stage.
Do if: Beers in the sun sounds like a brilliant vibe to you (we’re sold!).
Foolhardy Folk Festival
When: August 25
Where: The Arboretum, Nottingham
How much: £40.38pp, under 11s free
Beans on Toast is known for his fantastic folk songs, which he’s bringing to the Arboretum, along with artists handpicked by him from the UK festival circuit such as Will Varley, Pet Needs, and Lady Nade. You can see these acts and more play on the Victorian Bandstand, as well as sipping on real craft ales and eating street food while you tap your feet.
Do if: You want to celebrate the bank holiday weekend properly.
Nottingham outdoor cinema and theatre shows 2024
Mamma Mia Outdoor Cinema Screening
When: July 13
Where: Nottingham Racecourse, Colwick
How much: £16.56pp, £54.17 group of four
The catchy tunes of ABBA and the summery vibes of this film make it an absolute winner for an outdoor cinema screening. This event will start at 7.30 pm, just after sunset, so it’s advisable to bring blankets and warm layers (yes, even if you’re planning on going in sparkly disco gear that Donna et al would be proud of). Seating isn’t provided, but you can upgrade to VIP for £27.32pp to lounge on a deck chair if you like.
Do if: You just can’t resist cheesy tunes and a good ol’ sing-along.
Romeo and Juliet
When: July 20
Where: Nottingham Castle
How much: £20pp, £12pp child
The famous playwright’s works were originally all performed outdoors, so it just makes sense to watch his most famous one out in the open air. Nottingham Castle might not be fair Verona, but for one night Illyria Theatre Company will make you feel like you’re there with this gripping, romantic tragedy. If Shakespeare isn’t up your street, the castle is also hosting theatre shows Robin Hood (July 27), The Comedy of Errors (August 11), and Little Women (August 16).
Do if: You’re looking for a dreamy summer date idea.
Beauty and the Beast
When: July 27, August 7 and 30
Where: Southwell Minster, Wollaton Hall, and Newstead Abbey
How much: From £12pp, under 5s go free
See this brand new take on the tale as old time, which will feature lively puppets, original songs, and sparkling humour. When an arrogant prince is cursed, his only hope is a kindly woman who needs to seek out the rose that’ll break the spell. All the performances will be take place some of the most beautiful backdrops in the county, which are totally worthy of fairy tales in our opinion.
Do if: You want a different take on a classic tale.
Films in the Forest
When: July 27-28
Where: Sherwood Forest, Edwinstowe
How much: From £15pp
Pack your blankets and snacks and head over to Sherwood Forest, which is hosting a range of films across the late July weekend. Of course, it’s showing Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (July 27, 7pm) and Disney’s Robin Hood (July 28, 12pm) for those wanting a super immersive experience. It’s also showing other films set in forests such as Brave (July 27, 1pm) and cult-classic The Princess Bride (July 28, 3pm).
Do if: You want to relax in nature while being thoroughly entertained.
Family-friendly summer events in Nottingham 2024
The Hundred
When: July 31, August 3, 7, and 14
Where: Trent Bridge, West Bridgford
How much: From £5pp
If regular cricket is a little yawn-worthy for you, this fast-paced version of the game is much more dynamic and doesn’t require days of your time. The premise is that each team faces 100 balls — hence the name. For the Trent Rockets, key names to look out for are England stars Joe Root and Nat Sciver-Brunt. BBC Music Introducing will be providing music to break up all the sporting action, and there will be food and activities throughout.
Do if: You’re looking for your next sporting fix after the Euros.
Gloworm Festival
When: August 16-18
Where: Holme Pierrepont Country Park, Nottingham
How much: £49.50pp adult, £38.50pp child, weekend options available
This looks like every child’s dream festival, with entertainment and music that will entertain little’uns and biguns alike. There’s a huge host of music on the main stage, which is headlined by tribute acts Noasis and Spiceworld, along with CBeebies’ Andy Day. Off-stage, play zones, adventure zones, crafts, and outdoor fun will all available to partake in. You can even snap selfies during meet-and-greets with beloved characters from Bluey, Paw Patrol, and Elmer.
Do if: You want to see some of the kids’ favourites during the summer holidays.
Little Bop Mini Circus
When: August 26
Where: Binks Yard, Nottingham
How much: From £14.30pp adult, £12.35pp child
Roll up, roll up for this dazzling day of delights. Marvel at performances from fire eaters, jugglers, stilt walkers, and clowns, as well as learning tricks of the trade at circus workshops. You can even get a makeover for the day, with a glitter, hair braiding and face painting station. Binks Yard is right by the train station, so you can easily get to it from outside the city centre.
Do if: You’re looking for a family day out full of awe and wonder.
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