What's On and Things To Do This Weekend In Nottinghamshire 16 – 18 January 2026

Nottinghamshire has plenty to keep you busy this weekend. From the mysterious Krampus at Sherwood Forest and a hauntingly good ghost walk to Roaring 20s themed theatre, Neil Diamond classics and a brand new exhibition, 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. Wassailing Weekend and Return of the Krampus

Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 January 2026 | Sat 11am – 3pm, Sun 12pm – 2.30pm | RSPB Sherwood Forest | Free event

Is there something lurking in the woods? If you thought Sherwood Forest wasn't harbouring any malevolent spirits, then you’ve been missing out on the terrifyingly sinister folklore of Krampus. Traditionally, Krampus are said to appear alongside Saint Nicholas at Christmas time, giving naughty children gifts of birch twigs while Saint Nicholas rewards the good children with presents. This weekend the Krampus are returning to Sherwood Forest and bringing the medieval European folklore to life. It’s said to be a fun filled weekend for all the family, including entertaining performances and special Krampus Krafts, so get involved!

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2. The Cat’s Meow

Monday 12 – Saturday 17 January 2026 | 7.30pm | Lace Market Theatre | Tickets from £15

Step back in time and dive into the world of the roaring 20s! Based on the true story of a mysterious Hollywood death and written by Steven Peros, The Cat's Meow offers a fascinating cross section of Jazz Era characters who intersect for one notorious weekend in 1924, on board William Randolph Hearst's luxury yacht. With film stars, writers, lawyers and Charlie Chaplin on the guest list and a story of illicit love affairs, betrayal, substance abuse, cover-ups and murder – you’re in for a wild ride. A stylish and sardonically funny exposé of corrupt Tinsel-town values; this darkly comic morality play is laced with clandestine romance, Hollywood excess, and steadily heating tensions.

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3. The Original Nottingham Ghost Walk

Every Saturday 2026 | 7pm | Starts form Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem | Tickets: £9 adults, £3 children (12 years +)

If you’re looking to have a hauntingly good weekend, you don’t wat to miss the Original Nottingham Ghost Walk. Wander past the castle ramparts and walls, listen out for Queen Isabella's screams, look for the mysterious Lady in the Light, and prepare to hear of the 28 Welsh princes left to hang from the castle walls. Along the way, you will hear the disturbing tale of the Human Pin Cushion, the Baby in the Wall and the antics of Marshal Tallard; a French General imprisoned in Nottingham. From the abandoned plague pit at Broad Marsh to the haunted caves below Ye Olde Salutation, this brilliant storytelling tour around the city's historic Castle Quarter has struck terror into the hearts of young and old, for over 20 years!

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4. Ibiye Camp: layt de kam

Saturday 17 January – Saturday 7 March 2026 | Mon – Fri 10am – 5pm, Sat 11am – 3pm | Bonington Gallery | Free entry

Explore Bonington Gallery's first exhibition of the term, layt de kam — a newly commissioned body of film and textile work by multi-disciplinary artist Ibiye Camp. This exhibition investigates the complex interplay between infrastructure, care, and resilience along the coast of West Africa, critically examining the deployment of temporary power ships as a response to energy shortages in the region. The piece reflects both hope and uncertainty, highlighting the fragility of these energy solutions while honouring the resilience of coastal communities.

For the early birds, why not check out the opening of the exhibition on Friday 16 January and get a first look at the artist’s work while enjoying a free welcome drink, delicious food and music. Booking a free ticket is recommended to avoid disappointment.

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5. Hello Again

Friday 16 January 2026 | 7.30pm – 9.45pm | Royal Concert Hall | Tickets: £35

Start the weekend of with bang and head to Nottingham’s Royal Concert Hall for a celebration of the life and work of Neil Diamond. Award-winning Jesse Rivers, joined by the spellbinding Salvation Band and Diaz Sisters, brings his fantastic catalogue of songs to life with the Neil Diamond Songbook, 60 Diamond Years Tour. Follow Neil Diamond’s story from his early songwriting days to international stardom, through six decades of all your favourite hits, including Sweet Caroline, Cracklin’ Rosie, Forever in Blue Jeans, I am I said, Song Sung Blue, Hello Again, Love on the Rocks, Red, Red Wine, I’m a Believer, America and many, many, more. Get ready to have the time of your life and scream at the top of your lungs as you sing along to the world hit ‘Sweet Caroline’!

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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!