Your area is bulging at the seams more than Santa’s sack with events and activities over the weekend. So check out our guide to 20 things to do and places to go across the Mansfield, Ashfield, Worksop, Retford and wider Nottinghamshire area.
As we approach the final week of November, it’s all about the big Christmas lights switch-ons in our towns, with Mansfield, Sutton, Worksop and Retford all set to launch their festive celebrations. Rap legend Tinchy Stryder presses the button in Mansfield.
Christmas markets are everywhere you look – from Clumber Park to Sutton Library. As are Santa’s Grottos – from Rufford Abbey to Robin Hood’s Wheelgate Park. There are plenty of chances too for the kids to meet Santa himself. You can even have breakfast with him!
Panto season has kicked into gear, with the launch of the annual shindig at Mansfield’s Palace Theatre, starring Dani Harmer, aka Tracy Beaker, no less! And the big names don’t stop there as the singing troupe, G4, one-time stars of ‘The X Factor’, arrive at Southwell Minster for a Christmas show.
With Newstead Abbey turning into Narnia, Rufford hosting a festive afternoon tea and Retford’s Majestic Theatre rockin’ all over the world, there’s every excuse to get out and about over the next few days.
Before you set off, please check the websites of your chosen destination for admission prices and opening times. Have a great weekend!
17. Festive afternoon tea with Trixie Holiday
Trixie Holiday is a renowned singer of vintage jazz and wartime classics, and she will be entertaining visitors to Rufford Mill on Sunday (1 pm to 3 pm) with some seasonal tunes to get you in the Christmas spirit. It's all part of a festive afternoon tea where you can enjoy a delicious, tiered stand of sandwiches and other festive treats, while being serenaded in a historic mill setting. Photo: Submitted
18. Three-day Christmas market at Patchings
A huge range of artists, artisans and textile and jewellery makers will be running stalls at a three-day Christmas market at the Patchings Art Centre on Oxton Road, Calverton this weekend. Pop along to the free event on Friday, Saturday or Sunday (10 am to 4 pm) to pick up a bargain of a festive gift. The centre's art shop, gift shop, framing centre, cafe and artists' trail will also be open. Photo: Submitted
19. Dances from all over the world at the Majestic
Stand by for an exciting pre-Christmas show at the Majestic Theatre in Retford this weekend. For the Clark School Of Dance, based in Doncaster, is presenting one of its spectacular performances, with tickets priced £12 (concessions £10). 'Rockin' All Over The World' showcases dances from across the globe and takes to the stage at 2 pm and 7 pm on Saturday, and then at 6 pm on Sunday. Photo: Submitted
20. Take a selfie with Santa at Clumber Park
Santa is waiting for all good boys and girls in his cosy grotto at the historic Parsonage at Clumber Park from this Saturday until Christmas Eve. When they arrive, they will be greeted by a friendly Christmas guide and taken to Santa's living room to enjoy colouring activities. Once Santa calls them in to the grotto, he will check his list and hand over a special gift while also giving the kids the chance to take a selfie with the great man. Photo: Submitted