We’ve rounded up our top 5 things to do in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire this 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. Download Festival

Friday 13th - Sunday 15th June | Donington Park | Gates: 12pm | Tickets from £67

Returning for its 22nd year, Download Festival is back for a mammoth weekend featuring some of the biggest and best names in rock and metal.

Held on the hallowed ground of Donington Park—where the borders of Leicestershire, Derbyshire, and Nottinghamshire meet—Download has cemented itself as one of the major events in the music industry calendar.

This year’s lineup boasts headline performances from Green Day, Sleep Token, and Korn, promising an unforgettable weekend for fans of heavy music.

2. Outdoor Cinema At Nottingham Racecourse 

Friday 13th June | Nottingham Racecourse | two films: 5:30pm and 7:30pm | Tickets: Adult: £13.36, Child: £9.06

Nottingham Racecourse is set to transform into a magical open- air cinema, offering a night of movie magic that's perfect for all ages

Film fans are invited to bring their blankets, grab some popcorn, and settle in under the stars for an unforgettable cinematic experience. Two classic films will be shown across the evening: the family favourite Shrek (U), packed with laughs and heart, and the timeless musical Grease (PG), full of catchy tunes and retro charm.

Guests can choose to attend either screening—or make a night of it and enjoy both. With a unique atmosphere, outdoor vibes, and plenty of nostalgia, it’s set to be a fantastic evening for friends, families, and film lovers alike.

3. Balloon & Beats Festival 

Friday 13 - Sunday 15 June 2025 | Thoresby Park | Opens 4pm Friday and Closes 8pm Sunday | Tickets: Adult - £22, Child - £15, under 3s FREE

This Weekend, Thoresby Park is home to the unique Ballons & Beats Festival, where Hot Air Balloon displays and music combine for one unforgettable experience.

Guests can expect Hot Air Balloon display, live musical performances, family friendly attractions and entertainments, fairground rides and much more

It's a weekend which promises fun for all the family and memories that will last a lifetime.

4. 'DadFest' At Binks Yard

Sunday 15th June | Binks Yard | 1pm - 5pm | Tickets: Adults: £15, Children: £14

This Father's day sunday celebrate the dads and father figures in your life by bringing them down to Binks Yard for their very own dedicated festival - DadFest

The event is family friendly and will have activities suitable for all aswell as featuring a bar stocked with some of the best local brews, an All Day BBQ and A DJ bringing the true festival vibes all afternoon long

so come on down, DADFEST is the ultimate way to say cheers to Dad whether he's sipping a cold beer, belting out a dad anthem, or enjoying family fun

5. Nottingham Poetry Festival 2025

Starts 13th June - 22nd June | Various Venues | Various Times | Free Events 

This year, Nottingham Poetry Festival celebrates local, national and internationally acclaimed artists that align with our community values.

Across the week long festival individuals are  warmly invite you to join us for the array of performances, workshops, debates, and all the other poetry-related activity.

Events are being hosted all around the city and proudly programmed together with the local creative community

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Events currated by Georgina Richardson, Visit Nottingham