Christmas Events in Nottingham 2026

About Christmas in Nottingham

Nottingham's Christmas season centres on Old Market Square, where the Winter Wonderland transforms the city's main public space from mid-November each year. At its heart is the Sky Skate, an elevated ice path that carries skaters above the square with views across the city's festive lights - the only experience of its kind in the UK. Alongside it, an ice rink, market stalls, fairground rides, and an ice bar create one of the most complete city centre Christmas setups in the East Midlands.

Beyond the square, Nottingham offers a rich programme of festive events across its historic landmarks. Nottingham Castle hosts a Christmas market weekend and a Santa's grotto in the atmospheric Brewhouse Yard. Wollaton Hall, the striking Elizabethan mansion set in its own deer park on the edge of the city, stages a winter light trail and Santa experience in its grounds each December. The city's three main theatres - the Theatre Royal, Royal Concert Hall, and Nottingham Playhouse - together host a packed schedule of pantomimes, festive concerts, film-with-live-orchestra events, and Christmas shows running from late November into January.

For families with younger children, Wollaton Hall's Santa experience and the family-friendly atmosphere of Old Market Square's Winter Wonderland offer gentler alternatives to the city's bigger ticketed shows. For families looking to venture slightly beyond the city, Nottinghamshire's wider programme includes trail events at Newstead Abbey and Clumber Park. Browse the listings below and book early - popular events including the Sky Skate, Santa experiences, and theatre shows sell out well in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Nottingham's Christmas season start?
Nottingham's Winter Wonderland in Old Market Square typically opens in mid-November and runs until the end of December. The Theatre Royal pantomime usually begins in late November. Other festive events at Wollaton Hall and Nottingham Castle open from late November onwards.
What makes Nottingham's Winter Wonderland unique?
The Sky Skate elevated ice path sets it apart - it is the only experience of its kind in the UK. Skaters glide above Old Market Square on a raised track, with views over the city's Christmas lights and market stalls below. The Winter Wonderland also includes a standard ice rink, market chalets, fairground rides, and an ice bar.
Do I need to book Nottingham Christmas events in advance?
For most ticketed events, yes. The Sky Skate, Santa experiences at Wollaton Hall and Nottingham Castle, and theatre performances at the Theatre Royal and Nottingham Playhouse all sell out on popular dates. Booking as early as possible is strongly recommended, particularly for weekends and school holiday dates in December.
Are there free Christmas events in Nottingham?
Some events are free to attend. Entry to Old Market Square's Winter Wonderland is free, though ice skating, the Sky Skate, rides, and the ice bar are ticketed separately. Check individual listings on Midsmas for details.
Is Nottingham easy to get to for Christmas events?
Yes. Nottingham has good rail connections from across the East Midlands and beyond. The city centre is busy on December weekends, so public transport is recommended for family visits.
What types of Christmas events are listed for Nottingham on Midsmas?
Midsmas lists a wide range of Christmas events in Nottingham including Santa experiences, pantomimes, theatre and concert performances, Christmas markets, light trails, and festive family activities. All events are family-friendly. We list and describe events editorially without ranking or reviewing them, so you can browse and decide what suits your family.

View all Christmas events in Nottinghamshire

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