A big Christmas lights switch-on ceremony has also been held in Sutton, and with Kirkby taking its turn tomorrow (Thursday), the whole of Ashfield is also bathed in festive spirit.
It all means an exciting weekend, jam-packed with things to do and places to go, not only across Mansfield and Ashfield but also Worksop and Retford and the wider Nottinghamshire area. So please get stuck into our guide below, which features 21 event ideas for the next few days.
The panto season is well under way, with ‘Beauty And The Beast’ continuing at Mansfield’s Palace Theatre and ‘Dick Whittington’ launching at Worksop’s Acorn Theatre. Retford’s Majestic Theatre is not to be outdone either, courtesy of a top-notch Elvis tribute show and a blast of retro rock with hits by the likes of Queen, Fleetwood Mac, U2 and Def Leppard.
If you’re looking for bargain presents, Christmas markets pop up all over the place – from Mansfield Museum and Papplewick Pumping Station to Clumber Park, where the kids also get the chance to meet Santa himself.
Rufford Park hosts Santa’s grotto, as well as a special ‘Carols By Candlelight’ service, while the Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre hosts a Christmas wreath-making workshop.
Shoppers in Mansfield town centre are treated to some festive music. And if you fancy treading a bit further afield, there are wonderful Christmas events to sample at the Tropical Butterfly House in North Anston, Wollaton Hall in Nottingham and the National Ice Centre in Nottingham city centre.
Before you set off for your chosen destination, please check its website for opening times and admission prices. Have a great weekend!
9. Musical treat for Christmas shoppers
Christmas shoppers in Mansfield town centre are in for a musical treat on Saturday, courtesy of entertainment lined up by the district council. From 10 am to 11 am, the Whitwell Brass Band (pictured) will be performing on the Market Place, and then from 1 pm to 2 pm, Mansfield Community Choir takes centre stage A face-painter will also be on hand, doing some free festive designs. Photo: Submitted
10. Festive family trail of light at Wollaton Hall
Looking like a scene from a Harry Potter film, the resplendent Wollaton Hall and Deer Park in Nottingham is again lit up for Christmas -- and it is well worth a visit. Immerse yourself in a world of seasonal sparkle by embarking on a festive family trail of colour, light and play. Surprises are around every corner, including festive food, cocktails and picture-perfect moments. Photo: Submitted
11. Newstead Abbey is transformed into Narnia
The fantasy town of Narnia is recreated at Newstead Abbey for a series of Christmas events, which continue this weekend and run until New Year's Day. 'Narnia At Newstead' includes magical installations and a self-led walk through the historic house, while a family-friendly tour through the abbey's festive scenes can also be booked. You can also indulge in afternoon tea, enjoy a Christmas dinner and go on an after-dark tour. Photo: Submitted
12. Choir spreading some Christmas cheer
If you're out shopping in Mansfield town centre on Friday, or just passing by the Market Place, be sure to take a moment to catch The Forest Singers (pictured), a mixed choir based in the town, who will be performing live. The festive show, brought to you by the district council, takes place between 11 am and 1 pm with the aim of spreading some Christmas cheer Photo: Submitted