What's hot in Notts: July

What's Hot in Notts: July July brings with it the promise of lazy summer holidays, family-fun time and plentiful ice cream. If you're dreaming of a faraway paradise, stop and take a  look a little closer to home. You'll be spoilt for choice in Nottinghamshire this July, from inspiring outdoor theatre, to sporting celebrations and even a pop-up beach! Read on to find inviting events and reasons to spend your summer with us. You'll soon realise that one day in Notts is never enough. Amazing Art Be amazed by water-themed art as part of a brand new exhibition 'Aquatopia' at Nottingham Contemporary which sets out to explore "the imaginary of the ocean deep". Opening mid-July, see this stunning exhibition until September. Animal Madness Find ways to keep the kids entertained this summer, with a little help from our furry friends. The Tropical Butterfly House, Wildlife & Falconry centre will be opening their brand new 'Lemur Heights' with the help of Barry Chuckle on 6th July. Meet Birds of Prey at Rufford Abbey Country Park on select dates throughout the summer, or walk with bats at Sherwood Forest after-dark.  Family-fun With the start of the school holidays fast approaching, many venues are offering family-fun activities to keep little kids (and big kids) entertained. Fireman Sam will be busy making two appearances in Nottinghamshire in July, spending time at both Southwell Racecourse and White Post Farm.Visit the market town of Newark for a Fun Day on 21 July in Newark Castle Grounds.  Festival Fever Festival fever has well and truly set in across Nottinghamshire, with locals anticipating the return of homegrown talent, Jake Bugg, to the stage at Splendour Festival, or to sing-a-long to sound-a-like bands, try Hucknall Fake Festival for top tribute acts. If you prefer real ale to real music, then try one of several beer festivals 'hopping' up around the county, including Newark Beer Festival. Other not-to-be-missed festivals include Nottinghamshire Pride at the Arboretum, and the Americana International at Newark Showground; Europe's no.1 American lifestyle event. Outdoor Theatre Enjoy traditional and contemporary theatre across a variety of different venues this July, from country parks and historic houses, to the more unusual venue of an ice-age gorge. Whether you prefer the romantic tale of Romeo and Juliet, to the classic Sherlock Holmes & Hound of the Baskervilles, or contemporary children's plays such as Old Mrs Pongy and the Pirate Girl; you'll find the perfect play to tempt you outdoors. Sporting Events Nottinghamshire's sporting calendar is very much alive in July with a range of high profile events. Trent Bridge are proud hosts of the 1st Ashes test which will see national and international visitors flock to the city. Lucky enough to get a ticket? Why not see what special offers are up for grabs from local supporting businesses. Alongside the cricket, we have a range of participatory sports which YOU can get involved in. Try your hand at tennis with Hart's, swimming with Speedo at Holme Pierrepont, or taking part in the annual Outlaw Triathlon in Nottingham. Whatever your reason for visiting Nottinghamshire in July, we hope it's a sunny one. For even more of what’s on this month, visit our dedicated page www.experiencenottinghamshire.com/whats-on. Tickets for many of the above events can be purchased directly via our website or the Nottingham Tourism Centre. Advanced booking is essential as activities and events will sell-out quickly. Please note that activities and dates are  subject to change.  For more information, contact the venue/s directly.