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!
9. Bag a bargain at Rufford Abbey
If you're looking for bargains for presents, look no further than Rufford Abbey, which is hosting a 'Christmas In The Courtyard' fair every weekend until Sunday, December 19. A number of craft and gift stalls can be found in the twinkle-lit courtyard, as well as mulled wine and mince pies. Photo: Submitted
10. Take part in Christmas Tree Festival
Saturday (from 10 am to 2 pm) is the last day for businesses, schools, clubs and groups to donate trees for Mansfield Museum's Christmas Tree Festival, which will take place throughout December. With the theme of recycling, the museum's entrance arcade will be turned into an avenue of unique trees, created by the community. Photo: Andrew Bellis
11. Pick up unique gifts at Patchings
The popular Patchings Arts Centre at Calverton opens its doors this weekend (Friday to Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm) for a Christmas market. All the exhibitors have been hand-picked because they design and make their products themselves. Expect to see items ranging from textiles and fine art to ceramics and jewellery. Photo: Submitted
12. Get into festive spirit at Wollaton Hall
If you don't mind travelling towards Nottingham, there are few more spectacular places to visit than Wollaton Hall, where its Christmas season begins on Friday and runs until early January. Take a festive tour of the kitchens or follow an amazing outdoor light-trail in the acres of parkland. Photo: Submitted