What's On and Things To Do This Weekend in Nottinghamshire 15 - 17 May 2026

Nottinghamshire has plenty to keep you busy this weekend. Take your pick of unique events and activities including a live performance by the NTU Big Band, Spritz Night, Damian Hall’s Running Forever, Tag Rugby and Calligraphy! Here are our top 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. NTU Big Band Live with Dennis Rollins

Friday 15 May 2026 | 7.30pm | Metronome | Tickets: £5 - £10

Metronome will host a stellar evening of swing and jazz, featuring NTU's award-winning Big Band under the direction of band leader Pete Wraight. The performance will include a special guest appearance by renowned trombonist Dennis Rollins, promising a night of unforgettable music.

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2. Spritz Night at Jenkins Bar

Friday 15 May 2026 | 7pm – 9pm | Jenkins Bar | Tickets: £30 per person

Kick off the perfect summer evening with Jenkins for a sun-soaked Spritz Night and immerse yourself in a night of refreshing, bubbly cocktails, laughter, and good vibes. Enjoy a handpicked selection of spritz cocktails, bursting with zesty citrus, fruity flavours, and a touch of fizz — ideal for those long summer nights. Whether you're a fan of the classic Aperol Spritz or love a fruity twist, this event is all about chilled drinks, great company, and summer in a glass!

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3. Damian Hall – Running Forever

Friday 15 May 2026 | 7.30pm | Squire Performing Arts Centre | Tickets: £16 - £19

Damian Hall is an ultrarunner, coach, author, climate activist and tea addict. In his first theatre tour, Damian – aka UltraDamo – will deliver stories of breaking long-distance running records and representing Great Britain, to running marathons dressed as a toilet and near-fatal mishaps. An inspiring and entertaining evening exploring how to keep running long and strong - and why the best years might still be ahead.

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4. Tag Rugby Taster Session

Saturday 16 May 2026 | 1.30pm – 2.30pm | Nottingham Moderns Rugby Club | FREE, booking required

Looking for a fun way to get active and meet new people in Nottingham? Try Tag Rugby — one of the UK's fastest-growing social sports. Join a free taster session and find out whether Tag Rugby is the thing for you. No experience needed – beginners are especially welcome. This  non-contact, mixed-gender team sport is easy to pick up and great for fitness, fun and socialising. Come along solo or with friends, don’t worry, many players start on their own. Expect a fun, beginner-friendly introduction, short games in mixed teams, a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere and the chance to meet new people locally.

Also check out the Free Tag Rugby Referee Workshop, taking place on Saturday 16 May from 10am – 1pm.

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5. Calligraphy – Tracing Cultures and Finding Flow

Sunday 17 May & 14 June 2026 | 1pm – 4pm | Nottingham Contemporary | FREE

Join artist Feng-Ru Lee (Milee) to explore the art of calligraphy as a bridge between cultures and learn to practice calligraphy as a meditative and mindful activity. In this workshop you will experiment with Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, and Western approaches, trying out different inks, papers and tools to find your flow and create your own style and designs. Explore different styles and techniques across cultures and across time, find out about symbolic meanings and significance and experiment with combining elements and cultural influences to create your own designs.

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Wherever your weekend takes you, don't forget to head out and make the most of everything our region has to offer!