Get ready for a busy weekend in Nottingham, March 7th and 8th, 2026! Highlights include catching a spectacular show at the Playhouse, exploring local youth creativity near Mansfield, and seeing the phenomenal stage adaptation of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory before it closes. Don't forget that British Science Week kicks off this weekend too!
See our top picks
Inspire at Nottinghamshire Libraries
Various libraries
Check local branches for free family activities running all weekend.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Mansfield Palace Theatre
A spectacular stage show running all weekend in Mansfield.
Eden Softplay
Nottingham
A reliable indoor play centre specifically for ages 0-12, open Sunday.
· March 7
5: Time to embrace your inner showman! Grab your tickets to sing along to all the hits from The Greatest Showman with on-screen lyrics. This is a fantastic interactive experience for the whole family.This is a one-off event happening only on Saturday, perfect for an energetic family outing.
: Head out to Mansfield for this youth-led showcase of creativity, featuring performances, live art, and creative workshops. It promises plenty of family fun alongside the artistic displays.This is a one-day event showcasing local youth talent on Saturday.
: Catch this spectacular stage adaptation of Willy Wonka's magical journey before the run ends on Sunday. It’s a great way to spend a Saturday afternoon indoors.It runs across the entire weekend (March 4th-8th), meaning Saturday or Sunday afternoon is a guaranteed treat.
BRITISH SCIENCE WEEK : The national celebration of STEM kicks off this weekend with the theme 'Curiosity: what's your question?' Look out for local events celebrating engineering, maths, and science happening around Nottinghamshire.This is a major nationwide festival that starts on Friday and covers the whole target weekend.
: Join the Rebel Rangers mission this weekend to uncover secrets by visiting trail locations across the region. You'll complete challenges and collect passport stamps for a chance to win prizes.This trail runs until mid-April, making this weekend perfect for starting the exploration.
· March 8
1THE SLEEP SHOW : Enjoy a dreamy performance that turns the mysteries of sleep into a playful adventure. Expect imaginative storytelling mixed with dance to explore funny aspects of bedtime.It's a unique Sunday performance happening only at the Djanogly Theatre this weekend.
Also On· anytime this weekend
9FREE : If you are near Coventry on Sunday, this Lego Club session is listed as a free drop-in activity. Great for building and playing without buying new sets!It is confirmed for Sunday and is listed as Free, making it a great budget option if you're travelling.
: Explore dramatic gorges, ancient caves, and marvel at Ice Age rock art. It's a great chance to get out in nature and walk in the footsteps of early humans.It is a fascinating historical site perfect for an active Saturday or Sunday walk.
: With 270 acres of parkland, this is the place for an outdoor day out, whether you want thrill-seeking activities or gentle family fun on and off the water.It's a huge local outdoor space available all weekend for varied family fun.
FREE : Libraries across Notts often host free family activities, so check local schedules for happenings this weekend. A great way to get out of the house without spending a penny.It's a free option confirmed to be running across the county this weekend.
: Get high up in the trees at Sherwood Pines. Go Ape offers challenging high ropes courses and zip lines perfect for adventurous families.It's an established attraction open all weekend ideal for family adventure.
: Take a unique tour beneath Nottingham city streets to explore ancient Anglo-Saxon tunnels. It’s a fascinating, slightly eerie look at the city's hidden past.This is a great indoor attraction available all weekend for guaranteed entertainment.
: If you fancy a competitive Saturday, head to The Lost City for a round of adventure golf amongst ancient temple ruins.Adventure golf is a great group activity for a wide range of ages, perfect for Saturday.
: If you have younger children, this soft play area catering for ages 0-12 is open all weekend. A reliable indoor option for burning off Sunday energy.It's a dedicated indoor play space open Sunday, ideal if the weather is poor.
: This farm near Newark is a popular attraction offering plenty of opportunities to get up close with the animals for a fun family day out.Farms are excellent Sunday destinations, and this one is highlighted as a popular local attraction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Nottingham this weekend?
The best free option listed is checking for activities at Inspire at Nottinghamshire Libraries, which are running free family activities suitable for all ages across the county this weekend.
Are there any major theatre events happening this weekend?
Yes, you can catch The Greatest Showman Sing-a-long-a on Saturday at Nottingham Playhouse, and the stage production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is showing at Mansfield Palace Theatre both Saturday and Sunday.
What is there to do outdoors on Saturday?
For outdoor fun on Saturday, consider the Rebel Rangers trail exploration, a visit to Creswell Crags to see Ice Age art, or an adventure at Holme Pierrepont Country Park or Go Ape Sherwood Pines.
