We’ve got a wonderful round-up of the top 5 fun things to do in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire this weekend, complete with times and prices!
And while you’re out and about, don’t forget - if you are out having a great time in Nottingham or Nottinghamshire, you can use #LoveNotts to share the love, or tag us using @visitnotts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. We’re also on TikTok under @visitnottinghamshire!

1. Nottingham Carnival

Sunday 20 August 2023 | Victoria Embankment | 12pm-8pm | Tickets - Free

Prepare to be swept up in the vibrant atmosphere of the Nottingham Carnival, returning to the picturesque Victoria Embankment on Sunday. This eagerly anticipated event promises excellent entertainment, culture, and celebration. The highlight of the day is the Carnival Parade, a mesmerizing procession featuring numerous troupes from Nottingham and beyond. Starting at 2pm, the parade winds its way through the city streets, offering a feast for the eyes and a rhythmic delight for the ears. The entire route, which includes Victoria Embankment, Wilford Grove, Felton Road, Green Street, and Bunbury Street, showcases the diverse talents and traditions of the participants. The parade culminates at the Carnival site, where these troupes take the stage to further enchant the audience.

The Carnival site itself is a hub of entertainment. With four distinct music zones, it's a paradise for music lovers. Live bands, over 30 DJs, sound systems, and steel bands create an eclectic soundtrack that spans genres from Soca and Reggae to Dancehall and Grime. The festivities go beyond music, as trade stalls, world food vendors, and licensed bars cater to a variety of tastes. Families will find the dedicated kids' zone brimming with activities to keep the little ones engaged and delighted. From fairground rides to engaging games, there's no shortage of fun for everyone at Nottingham Carnival!

2. Binks Yard x Groovebox

Saturday 19 August 2023 | Binks Yard, Island Quarter, Nottingham | 2pm - 10pm (Last entry 3pm) | Tickets - Various

Get ready to dance the day away under the sun at Binks Yard, Nottingham's hotspot for music and entertainment. Binks Yard, The Island Quarter is teaming up with Groovebox to present an unmissable dance event. This collaboration promises a sensory feast of state-of-the-art sound, dynamic production, and an infectious energy that will keep you moving all day.

Foodies will be able to indulge in the street food from Binks Yard's outdoor smoker. The beautiful cocktails available ensure your thirst is well quenched while you groove to the soulful rhythms and beats. The lineup is a showcase of top-tier talent, featuring headline acts such as Hannah Laing, Matt Guy, Adrianna, Nath Brown, and Martin Beirne. But the excitement doesn't stop when the sun sets; an after-party keeps the beats pumping well into the early hours, ensuring an unforgettable day and night of music, dance, and summer vibes.

3. Fireworks Championships 2023

Saturday 19 August 2023 | Belvoir Castle | 4pm - 10pm | Admission Prices Apply

Prepare to be dazzled this weekend at Belvoir Castle's Fireworks Championship. As the sun dips below the horizon, the night sky will come alive with breathtaking displays that compete for the title of Fireworks Champion. This event brings together three of the UK's finest fireworks companies, each vying to create the most stunning and awe-inspiring visual spectacle. Set against the backdrop of the majestic Belvoir Castle, the fireworks will light up the grounds with a symphony of colors, shapes, and patterns.

From whimsical whizzes to thunderous bangs, the displays promise to be a feast for the senses. The castle's beautiful grounds provide the perfect canvas for this visual extravaganza. As the sky becomes a canvas of light, make sure to bring your friends and family for a magical evening that combines the grandeur of historic architecture with the modern artistry of pyrotechnics. Admission prices apply for this dazzling event, which promises an unforgettable experience for attendees of all ages.

4. Ladies Day at Southwell Racecourse 2023

Sunday 20 August 2023 | All Day | Southwell Racecourse | Tickes - Various 

Ladies, get ready to immerse yourselves in a day of sophistication, glamour, and excitement at the highly anticipated Ladies Day at Southwell Racecourse. This is your chance to gather your friends, celebrate a special occasion, or simply revel in a day of luxury. As the horse racing action unfolds, you'll be surrounded by an atmosphere charged with energy, drama, and the thrill of competition. Feel the adrenaline as magnificent horses thunder down the track, and join fellow racegoers in cheering on your favourites.

But Ladies Day is more than just horse racing—it's a showcase of style and elegance. Dress to impress, and you could become the star of the show by entering the prestigious Style Awards. Show off your finest attire, don your most stunning headwear, and stand a chance to win a fantastic prize. The ambience extends beyond the runway, as Radio 2 DJ Scott Mills drops a live DJ set to get you on the dancefloor , ensuring the party vibes continue well into the evening!

Experience tantalizing flavours as you indulge in glasses of summer Pimm's, sparkling prosecco, and the smoothest Champagne. Delight in a variety of scrumptious summery dishes available for purchase! If you're seeking the ultimate indulgence, consider upgrading to one of the first-class Ladies Day hospitality packages. Whether you're in it for the horses, the fashion, the music, or the food, Ladies Day promises an unforgettable experience!

5. Junior Detectives

 Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 August | National Justice Museum | 10am-11:30am or 1:30pm-3pm | Tickets - Adult - £9.95 - Child - £10.95

Calling all young adventurers and budding detectives! Step into the shoes of a Victorian sleuth and embark on an immersive journey back in time at the Junior Detective event held at the National Justice Museum. Perfect for families seeking a unique and engaging experience, this interactive adventure transports you to the Victorian era, where you'll unravel the mysteries of the past.

Designed for children aged 5 to 10, this family-friendly activity invites you to become a resident of Narrow Marsh, a Victorian slum, and assist a detective in solving the case of an escaped prisoner. Roam the atmospheric streets, scouring for clues, solving puzzles, and piecing together the puzzle. Your investigative skills will lead you to the Grand Courtroom, where you'll analyze your findings and work together to crack the case.

The Junior Detective event offers an educational and entertaining escape, blending history and intrigue. It's a chance for children to exercise their problem-solving abilities in an immersive setting, guided by the rich storytelling of the Victorian streets. get involved in a weekend of adventure, learning, and family fun at the National Justice Museum.