For it’s the weekend when the I Love Mansfield Christmas Market gets under way in the town centre, as well as the seasonal and ever-popular panto at the Palace Theatre.
So, whether your Christmas shopping hasn’t even been started yet or it’s already beginning to drag you down, there’s every reason to get into the mood for Yuletide.
To help you, here is our weekly ‘Things To Do’ guide for the Mansfield and Ashfield district, plus a bit further afield too.
We have hand-picked 15 events, attractions or activities that will ensure you enjoy the coming weekend, and almost all of them have a festive flavour.
For full information and for details on how to book, please visit the relevant websites.
Have a good time, and stay safe!
5. Get switched on in Pleasley
Make sure you've booked your ticket because one of the first Christmas lights switch-ons of the season, in Pleasley, is already a sell-out. Meden Square will be full of revellers for the event, which runs from 12 midday until 6 pm on Saturday. On the agenda are music, carols, refreshments and, of course, an appearance by Santa. Photo: Submitted
6. Spend an enchanting day at abbey
Join the team at Newstead Abbey for an enchanting Christmas from Saturday until Monday, January 3 when a host of attractions, including craft stalls, catch the festive mood. All the rooms are stunningly dressed for the season, with a tour of the historic house adopting the theme of the much-loved childhood story, 'The Nutcracker'. Photo: Submitted
7. Tackle a woodland adventure
The award-winning Woodland Adventure Zone in the grounds of Portland College in Mansfield is the perfect place for the kids (and yourself!) to let off some steam. Set amongst acres of pine trees, if features a plethora of fun activities - from climbing and abseiling to a zipline and bushcraft. Photo: Submitted
8. Take a selfie in giant snow globe
Mansfield's giant snow globe is touring the district in the run-up to Christmas, starting this weekend. On Friday, from 4.30 pm to 8 pm, it visits Ladybrook Place for an event that also includes food, drink and stalls, while on Saturday, it joins in the lights switch-on at Pleasley. Step inside the globe to take a silly selfie with Santa and his elves. Photo: Submitted