What's On and Things To Do This Weekend In Nottinghamshire 2 – 4 January 2026

If you're wondering how to kick off the first weekend of 2026 in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, we've got the perfect roundup for you!

From thrilling ice hockey and football games to panto magic, a fairytale Christmas and a dive into the world of Helen Oxenbury's illustrations, there’s something for everyone. Here are our top 5 picks for this weekend.

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 on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We’re also on TikTok !

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 to enjoy this weekend.

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1. Nottingham Panthers 

Saturday 3 & Sunday 4 January 2026 | Motorpoint Arena Nottingham | Tickets from £24.50

Catch The Nottingham Panthers play Guildford Flames on Saturday at 7pm or Glasgow Clan on Sunday at 5pm at The Motorpoint Arena. The Nottingham Panthers are the only professional ice hockey team in the East Midlands. Playing out of the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham Panthers’ games provide an atmosphere like no other and it’s suitable for all ages, whether you’re looking to start the new year with something different or spend some time with the family.

The action is fast, non-stop & physical as the Panthers battle it out with teams across the Premier Sports Elite League for the points that will take them to top of the standings & put them in contention for the league title when the season ends.

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2. Fairytale Christmas

Until Sunday 4 January 2026 | Newstead Abbey | Adults (16+): £15, Children under 15: Free

If you haven’t had a chance to visit Newstead Abbey this festive season, now is the time! This year’s Fairytale Christmas theme will have you mesmerised with all its stunning displays and dazzling decorations – turning the Historic House into a magical world. Go on a self-led walk through the house, explore the outdoors with a trail sheet for children & families, or simply enjoy a wintery walk through the park and gardens, and cosy up at the café afterwards.

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3. Notts County vs Gillingham

Sunday 4 January 2026 | Meadow Lane Stadium | Kick off 3pm | Tickets on sale now

League Two action returns to Meadow Lane as Notts County welcome Gillingham aiming for a win which will see them keeping pace. Get ready for a thrilling game as you cheer on the Magpies this Sunday!

If you're looking for some pre or post match atmosphere then head to The Nest with its huge bar area, the biggest screen in the city and top street food traders. Access to The Nest is from Iremonger Road and entry is free of charge. 

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4. Cinderella

Until Sunday 4 January 2026 | Theatre Royal | Tickets £18 to £49.50

You shall go to the ball with the spectacular family pantomime Cinderella at Nottingham's Theatre Royal.

This Christmas Craig Revel Horwood will lead the panto cast as the Wicked Stepmother in a production packed with laugh-out-loud comedy, stunning scenery, beautiful costumes and plenty of boos and hisses!

Craig will be joined by panto comic Neil Hurst as Buttons, singer, actor and impressionist Christina Bianco as the Fairy Godmother, Daniel Norford as Dandini and Abigail Morris as Cinderella.

Join Cinders as she goes from rags to riches, outwits her very wicked sisters and meets her Prince Charming.

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5. Helen Oxenbury: We're Going on a Bear Hunt and Other Adventures

Until Sunday 4 January 2026 | The Harley Gallery | 10am - 4pm | Free entry

Step into the illustrated worlds of Helen Oxenbury, one of the world's most popular and acclaimed children's book illustrators. Down the rabbit hole and through swishy swashy grass, this joyful exhibition will take you on an adventure through more than 100 original illustrations from Oxenbury's fifty-year career.

Explore artwork from classic picture books including We're Going on a Bear Hunt, Farmer Duck, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes.  At the heart of the gallery, you'll find a new sensory play space created by textile artist Ruth Waller, inspired by Oxenbury's illustrations. Filled with soft storytelling props, fluffy clouds and swishy grass, it's a welcoming place for babies, toddlers and grown-ups to crawl, read, relax and play together.

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Wherever your weekend takes you, wrap up warm, head out, and make the most of everything our region has to offer!