What's On and Things To Do This Weekend in Nottinghamshire 16 - 18 October 2026

Nottinghamshire has plenty to keep you busy this weekend. Take your pick of unique events and activities including half term fun, Ceilidh dancing, a traditional Oktoberfest celebration, sundown adventures and epic theatre! 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. October Half Term Ice Skating

Friday 16 October – Sunday 1 November 2026 | National Ice Centre | Tickets from £8

Kick off the spooky season at the National Ice Centre with Halloween fun that brings families together. This October Half Term, the rink becomes the perfect place to make memories. From themed skating sessions to playful seasonal surprises that add a little extra magic to your visit. It's an easy, exciting way to enjoy time together and try something different this autumn.

For more half term fun click here.

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2. Nottingham Ceilidh Club

Friday 16 October 2026 | Boat & Horses | Tickets £5 on the door

Never been to a ceilidh? (That's Kay-Lea btw) - Fun, laughter, dancing out of time with the music, and probably have sore feet afterwards. It's not technical & half the fun is making mistakes. Doesn't matter if you're a total newbie or a ceilidh ninja – Schuggie, will be calling the dances so you'll know exactly what to do… or at least think you do. The beauty of it? Nobody's 100% sure what's going on, so there's zero pressure. You just laugh, spin, and stumble in the best possible way. So grab your mates and get ready to laugh, dance, and make the Boat & Horses bounce!

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3. Oktoberfest Binks Yard

Friday 16 & Saturday 17 October 2026 | Binks Yard | Tickets from £16.50

Germany's biggest beer festival comes to Nottingham for its FOURTH year running! And this year they are going even bigger, bringing in a huge covered and heated marquee on the event space adjacent to Binks Yard outdoor terrace! With steins, Oktoberfest decor, traditional German food, a live authentic Oompah band and pure energy all day long, this is something you don’t want to miss! So get your Lederhosen on and Bavarian spirit ready for a real German party!

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4. Sundown Adventures at Go Ape

Friday 16 October – Sunday 8 November 2026 | Go Ape Sherwood Pines | Price from £31.95

Looking for unique things to do in Nottinghamshire this October? Back by popular demand, Go Ape Sherwood's Sundown Adventures offer a new level of forest fun in the evenings after dark. Experience the usual Go Ape thrills taken up a level as you climb through the canopy on a high ropes course lit with glowing lights and illuminated trees. A perfect Autumn night out for families, groups of friends or a date-night.

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5.  Joan and the Dragon

Sunday 18 October 2026 | 2pm (1 hour, no interval) | Djanogly Theatre, Lakeside Arts | Tickets from £9.50 - £11

Joan doesn't fit in – and honestly, she's done trying! When whispers of a mysterious Dragon reach her ears, she sets off on a wild, topsy-turvy adventure packed with circus chaos, big laughs, and surprising secrets. Expect daring discoveries, epic friendship, and a heroine who might just be exactly who she's meant to be. This original production has been created by disabled and neurodivergent artists. This show is suitable for ages 7+.

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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!