We have compiled a list of no fewer than 25 ideas for things to do and places to go over the next few days in the Mansfield, Ashfield, Worksop, Retford and wider Nottinghamshire area.
The panto season is in full swing at Mansfield’s Palace Theatre and Worksop’s Acorn Theatre, while Christmas concerts with carols are sure to stir the festive soul at Rufford Abbey, St Lawrence’s Church in Mansfield and the Patchings Art Centre in Calverton.
There’s festive entertainment for shoppers in Mansfield town centre and a Christmas party for under-fives, as well as a festive storytelling session with local author Adrian Beeden, at Mansfield Museum.
Ashfield stages its final Christmas lights switch-on, this time in Hucknall, while Retford stages a Santa Fun Run for charity, as well as a Christmas rock ‘n’ roll show at the Majestic Theatre. And Worksop stages a special show that pays homage to the jazz giants of the tenor saxophone.
Elsewhere, Christmas has well and truly arrived at venues such as Sherwood Forest, Clumber Park, Newstead Abbey, Hardwick Hall, The Harley Gallery, Creswell Crags, Southwell Racecourse and Bolsover Castle, with a veritable feast of events to whet the festive appetite.
Before you set off for your chosen destination, be sure to check its website for opening times and admission prices. Have a great weekend!

5. Christmas party for under-fives
The 'stay and play' sessions at Mansfield Museum for under-fives are always popular, so expect lots of fun at a Christmas party for the youngsters, being held on Friday (12.30 pm to 2 pm). Booking is essential, but party food, games and prizes are on the agenda, as well as a visit from a very special guest! Photo: Submitted


7. Carols by candlelight at Rufford Abbey
Sit back and relax while the Carlton Male Voice Choir sings all the Christmas classics at a 'Carols By Candlelight' concert at Rufford Abbey. You can unwind from all the craziness of the pre-Christmas season with an afternoon of carols, mulled wine and mince pies in the Talbot Suite of the historic abbey. The concert takes place on Sunday (2pm to 4 pm) and also on the Sunday of December 17. Photo: Submitted

8. Seasonal music with mince pies
The delightful Patchings Art Centre on Oxton Road, Calverton welcomes the return of the Nottingham-based chamber choir, Sinfonia Chorale, for an annual Christmas carol concert on Sunday (7 pm). Celebrate the festive evening in style with an evening filled with seasonal music, with an interval for wine and mince pies.Tickets cost £10.50. Photo: Submitted