November is when Nottingham starts to sparkle. The clocks have gone back, the Christmas lights are going up and there’s a real buzz around the city as the festive season gets going. If you’ve been wondering what’s on in Nottingham this month, here’s our pick of the big events, plus our own Affinity nights out, where you can come along on your own and leave with a few new friends.

Nottingham’s big events this November

Nottingham Comedy Festival, until Sunday 8 November

The comedy festival is in its final weekend, with stand-up, improv and showcases at venues across the city, including the Malt Cross, Canalhouse and Saltbox. If you fancy a laugh before the festival wraps up, check the line-up and grab a ticket while you can.

Winter Wonderland in Old Market Square, from Thursday 12 November

Nottingham’s Winter Wonderland opens on 12 November and runs until 31 December. It’s free to wander round, with chalet bars, food stalls, skating and the observation wheel in front of the Council House. It’s the perfect place to meet friends for a mulled wine after work.

Wollaton Winter Light Trail, from Wednesday 25 November

The light trail returns to Wollaton Hall and Deer Park from 25 November until early January. It’s a lovely evening walk through the illuminated gardens, and tickets usually sell fast, so book early if you want a weekend slot.

Panto season starts, from 27 November

Oh yes it does. Nottingham Playhouse opens Aladdin on 27 November, and the Theatre Royal’s Jack and the Beanstalk, starring Rob Rinder, starts on 28 November. Whether you’re going with family or just fancy a night of cheering and booing, it’s one of the best bits of the Nottingham Christmas calendar.

Affinity events in Nottingham this November

Our events are made for meeting new people. Most are free to attend, you just pay for your own food and drink, and a few need a ticket from the venue. Plenty of our members come to their first event on their own, and our hosts will make sure you’re introduced as soon as you arrive.

Friday 6 to Sunday 8 November

• Murder mystery night at Rufford Mill, Friday 6 November, 7pm. Dinner comes with a murder, and it’s up to you to work out whodunnit. Places are limited.
• Pub quiz night, Sunday 8 November, 7pm at the Trent Navigation. Put your general knowledge to the test with a relaxed, friendly team.

Thursday 12 to Sunday 15 November

• Board games night, Thursday 12 November, 7pm at the Malt Cross. Quick, funny games that do the ice-breaking for you. Take a look at the board games we play.
• Zombie Checkpoint: Friday the 13th, Friday 13 November, 7.40pm. Get kitted up and see if your team can make it through the outbreak, with live actors and plenty of screaming.
• A taste of Nottingham: Lace Market taster tour, Saturday 14 November, 1.30pm. Four venues, a small plate and a drink at each, and lots of good conversation along the way.
• Lady Bay walk, Sunday 15 November, 11am from The Hook in West Bridgford. A gentle stroll by the river to blow the cobwebs away.
• Sunday lunch at the Poppy & Pint, Sunday 15 November, 12.30pm in West Bridgford. The perfect follow-on from the walk, or come along just for lunch.

Tuesday 17 to Wednesday 18 November

• Midweek social: axe throwing, Tuesday 17 November, 6.15pm, meeting outside the Cornerhouse. No experience needed, and you might just discover a hidden talent.
• Blood on the Clocktower, Wednesday 18 November, 7pm at the Barley Twist. A social deduction game full of bluffing, whispered chats and big reveals.

Friday 27 November: LFM social at Winter Wonderland

Our LFM (Last Friday of the Month) social is heading to Winter Wonderland at 6.30pm to kick off the Christmas season. It’s free, it’s festive and it’s one of the easiest ways to meet a big group of new people in one go.

Meet new people in Nottingham this November

Whether you’re new to the city, your social circle has got smaller over the years or you just fancy trying something different, November is a brilliant month to get out and about. The nights are drawing in, but there’s no shortage of things to do in Nottingham, and it’s always more fun with good company.

See what’s on in Nottingham with Affinity and book your place.