We’ve rounded up our top 5 things to do in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire this weekend. 

Take your pick of unique events and activities including a birthday party for Lord Byron, the ever-popular Nottingham Puppet Festival, a beer festival and much more! 

And while you’re out and about, don’t forget - if you are out having a great time in Nottingham or Nottinghamshire, you can use #LoveNotts to share the love, or tag us using @visitnotts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We’re also on TikTok under @visitnottinghamshire

There are many more things to do and explore on our full What’s On calendar such as interesting exhibitions, tours, and fun outdoor activities. Have a browse today and find the perfect activity or experience to enjoy this weekend. 


Byron's Bash 

1. Byron's Bash 

Saturday 20th & Sunday 21st April | Newstead Abbey | Site entry and parking charges apply  

This week marks the 200th anniversary since the death of Lord Byron. One England's most famous poets and a leading figure in the Romantic movement, he is often regarded as one of the first celebrities of the modern age. After growing up in Scotland, he lived in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire for many years including a turbulent few years at Newstead Abbey. 

Come dressed as Byron to join in the weekend anniversary activities through his ancestral home and gardens, and be inspired by Byron’s activity here. Meet some of his people, his dogs, hear songs, his poems, go on trails and tours, write pledges to nature and maybe catch a glimpse of the man himself! 
 
To learn more about Lord Byron’s history and influence in Nottinghamshire, and to find more events involved in the Byron Bicentenary celebrations, click here


Life of Pi for the Nottingham Puppet Festival

2. Nottingham Puppet Festival 

Tuesday 9th - Sunday 21st April | Various Venues | Various Times | Various Prices 

Nottingham Puppet Festival takes place this week, with a range of fantastic events until Sunday 21st April that will showcase the many diverse and exciting forms that puppetry can take. Expect to see everything from giant Hindu gods in Listergate to hand-carved marionettes in Sneinton! 

The Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall will be hosting the acclaimed theatre production Life of Pi (showing 15 - 20 April), based on the best-selling novel by Yann Martel. Other venues that will host a range of local, national and international puppet shows include Nottingham Playhouse, New Art Exchange, Squire Performing Arts Centre and Lakeside Arts. Broadway Cinema will be presenting a rare screening of David Lynch’s cinematic debut Eraserhead. 


Evolution Drone Light Show 

3. Evolution Drone Light Show 

Friday 19th April | Nottinghamshire County Cricket Ground | From 7pm | Tickets: From £9 

Witness an epic-scale theatrical event told through a swarm of mesmerising drones flying in unison. Experience the sky above Nottingham as it becomes the stage for the story of our evolution. 

Watch the universe unfold, from the humble beginnings of single-cell organisms, to the awe-inspiring reign of the dinosaurs ending with the arrival of modern humans. 

The Evolution Drone Light Show will be held at Trent Bridge stadium near Nottingham, with doors opening 2 hours prior to the show so that you can enjoy the food and music! 


EIHL Playoff Finals Weekend 2024 

4. EIHL Playoff Finals Weekend 2024 

Saturday 20 & Sunday 21 April | Motorpoint Arena Nottingham | Weekend Pass from £94 

The Elite Ice Hockey League is pleased to confirm the return of the Playoff Finals Weekend at Motorpoint Arena Nottingham in 2024! The fantastic final four showdown will determine who ends this season as Playoff Champions including Sheffield Steelers, Guildford Flames, Cardiff Devils and Belfast Giants. 

Dedicated fan zones with themed bars for each team have been created around the Arena bowl to make sure all the visiting fans feel at home for the annual showpiece.

You can also book your tickets for the Official After Party at Saltbox (next to the arena), and enjoy live music, DJs playing all your favourite songs and exclusive drinks offers to celebrate the biggest weekend in ice hockey. 


Nottingham Races Beer Festival 

5. Nottingham Races Beer Festival 

Saturday 20th April | Nottingham Racecourse, Colwick Park | 3.30pm – 9.30pm | Tickets: £12.20 - 13.00 

Join Nottingham Racecourse for a fantastic evening of horseracing and beers this weekend! 

Fill your pint glasses with a taste of locally brewed Nottinghamshire beers, ales and ciders whilst taking your chances on going home with some winnings 

Gather your Merry Men at your local and come on down to watch some thrilling racing with an excellent range of drinks on offer. 


This blog was written by Katherine Taylor, Marketing Executive at Visit Nottinghamshire.

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