The time has come again for another glorious long weekend in the UK. We've currated a special Whats On to highlight all the top events going on in and around Nottinghamshire this May Bank Holiday weekend. Take your pick of unique events and activities that this brillant city has to offer.

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!

There are many more things to do and explore on our full What’s On Calendar such as interesting exhibitions, tours, and fun outdoor activities. Browse today and find the perfect activity or experience to enjoy this weekend.

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1. Dot To Dot 2025

25th May | 2025 | Various music venues across the city | 12pm - 11pm | Tickets: £38.50 (provides access to every show at all venues)

Dot to Dot returns to Nottingham for its 20th anniversary.

Bringing some of the best and most anticipated emerging talent from across the globe to a multitute of esteemed music venues around the city, this event is one of the most exciting and popular in the calander and isn't one to missed.

Final wave tickets are selling out fast so be sure to grab them and join this famous multi venue festival.

2. Big Tattoo Meltdown

24th May and 25th May | 2025 | Motorpoint Arena | Tickets: Day - £21.84 Weekend - £28.62 (under 14s get in for free with a paying adult)

For the first time in over a decade the city is hosting its very own two day tattoo expo extraordinaire. Over 120 of the Uk's best and talented tattoo artists will be taking over the Motorpoint Arena but its not all tattoos.

 The weekend is packed with a wild mix of alternative fashion, gothic jewellery, handmade homeware, taxidermy, face painting, live signwriting, cowboy hats – you name it, it’s probably here.

Whether you’re looking for fresh ink, rare finds, or just a buzzing weekend out, Big Tattoo Meltdown is the place to be. Don't miss out – it’s going to be epic.

3. Launch Event of FOREST: Exhibition

Saturday 24th May | 2025 | Nottingham Castle | 6pm - 8pm | Free Entry *pre booking online required

FOREST is an exhibition that delves into the myth and magic of arboreal art, exploring how this timeless and powerful totem can shape artistic thought and creative practices.  

The exhibition showcases six newly commissioned works created exclusively for Nottingham Castle, alongside artworks on loan to the city for the first time, presented in the company of prints, drawings and photographs from Nottingham’s own Collection

It's a beautiful mix of work stemming from deeply personal connections to the Sherwood Forest to borader more introspective work exploring the essence of woodland and the opening night features the oppertunity to meet some of the artists in person, be one of the first people to see the work in person as well as a live musical performance.

4. Architects of Air LUMINARIUM: MYRIAD World Premiere

Saturday 24 May – Sunday 1 June | Highfields Park, Lakeside Arts | Tickets: £6.50 | Every 30 minuets from 11am - 5pm

Lakeside Arts are proud to host the world premiere of Architects of Air's 32nd Luminarium, Myriad, for the school half term in May 2025. Nottingham families can enjoy this brand-new luminarium in Highfields Park, next to Lakeside Arts' DH Lawrence Pavilion.

A luminarium is a hand made inflatable structure people enter to be moved to a sense of wonder and amazement. The intricate labyrinth of tunnels and domes provides a chance to experience daylight’s luminous brilliance and subtle hues.

If you're looking for something to kick off the May school holidays then be sure to welcome them into this brillant word of light and colour.

5. The Stalls Market at Rufford Abbey

Sunday 25th May | 2025 | Rufford Abbey | 10am - 3pm | FREE

Step into a world of creativity, craftsmanship, and culinary delights at The Stalls Market, an exclusive street food and makers market held monthly at Rufford Abbey from March to September.

Each market brings together a handpicked selection of artisans, bakers, street food chefs, brewers, illustrators, designers, and creators, offering a diverse range of handmade goods, delicious treats, and one-of-a-kind finds. 

Whether browsing for unique gifts, indulging in gourmet street food, or simply soaking up the lively atmosphere, visitors are guaranteed an exciting and inspiring experience.

6. Gathering Of The North

Monday 26th May | Sherwood Forest | £10 | 11am - 3pm

Get ready for an epic adventure this May Bank Holiday Monday as Sherwood Forest transforms into a battleground for the bold! 

The Gathering of the North is rolling in, and it’s bringing knights, clashes, and mighty medieval vibes. Hosted by Fireside Events, this all-action weekend will see champions go head-to-head in jousting tournaments and thrilling hand-to-hand combat to claim the title of the forest’s fiercest warrior. Step into the heart of the Middle Ages with a buzzing medieval village full of crafts, food, and entertainment that’ll transport you straight back in time. It’s Robin Hood’s turf – and you and you're whole family are invited to the ultimate tournament! 

Tickets for this event are £10.

7. Robin Hood Cup

Monday 26th May | David Ross Sports Village | FREE | All Day

Start the week off with this unforgettable incredible experience celebrating all things sports, culture and history.

Get ready for a day of non-stop energy, epic goals, and global vibes at the Nottingham Robin Hood Cup – and the best part? It’s totally free! Taking over David Ross Sports Village on Monday 26 May, this isn’t just any football tournament – it’s a full-on cultural celebration with teams from all over the world bringing serious skills and serious style

.Think dazzling opening parade, live music, food from every corner of the globe, and family fun around every pitch. From samba beats to street eats, this mini World Cup has it all – and it’s all happening right here in the heart of Nottingham. Come for the football, stay for the festival vibes.

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Events currated by Georgina Richardson - Visti Nottingham Intern