What else to do during Nottingham Light Night: Staff picks and more!
Nottingham Light Night is back on Friday 28 February, and Saturday 1 March, and the city is about to glow with creativity! This annual event transforms Nottingham into a magical evening playground filled with stunning light installations, performances, and interactive experiences. But Light Night isn’t just about the lights - there’s plenty more to do while you're out and about.
Posted: Feb 2025
We asked the It’s in Nottingham team to share their favourite places to stop off during Light Night. Whether you’re after a drink, delicious food, or a great view of the installations, we’ve got you covered.
Amy’s picks: Blue matcha & vegan tapas
Credit @blendnottingham
"For me, Light Night always starts at Sneinton Market - I love how creative and vibrant this area gets during the event. After checking out the installations and activities, I recommend popping into Blend at Sneinton Market for a drink - my favourite is the Blue Matcha!
A perfect place to stop on the way up to Old Market Square is Mowgli. If you're into vegan food, this is a good place to be. The food is great, and the decor is so pretty and inviting. If you're looking for more veggie and vegan-friendly spots, check out our guide to the best vegan restaurants in Nottingham."
- Amy, Sponsorship, Events and Projects Manager
Judi’s picks: A pitstop with a view
Credit @fothergillsnottingham
"If you’re looking for a great place to take a break and soak in some incredible views, I highly recommend Fothergills. It’s right by Nottingham Castle, so you get an amazing vantage point of both the Orbit projection lighting up the castle and the Firefly Field installation by the Robin Hood statue.
Plus, if you’re bringing along your four-legged friend, Fothergills is dog-friendly! Check out our guide for other dog-friendly venues in Nottingham.
I’ll be stopping here for food because you really can’t beat their hearty menu for ultimate comfort food on a cold winter night. A warm pub, good food, and a view of the lights? That’s my idea of a perfect Light Night pitstop."
- Judi, Campaigns and Sponsorship Executive
Anoushka’s picks: Drinks and live music
Credit @maltcross
"I like to start my Light Night at The Bell Inn on Angel Row - it’s the perfect place to meet up with friends and enjoy a drink before heading to Old Market Square to witness the spectacular Primal Future installation.
Later in the evening, you’ll probably find me at Malt Cross. This place is a total hidden gem - a beautiful Victorian music hall that’s always got a great vibe. And this year, I can’t miss Stiff Kittens playing live! If you love live music, definitely add this to your Light Night plans."
- Anoushka, Marketing Executive
More things to do on Light Night
Aside from the main Light Night attractions, there’s loads more happening around the city. Here are some other ideas to make your night even more special:
🎨 Interactive workshops: Some venues are offering hands-on experiences like lantern-making and light-based art sessions. Keep an eye out for these if you want to get creative with the kids!
🎭 Street performances: There’s always something unexpected happening - keep an eye out for our LED and glow performers along Collin Street and Sussex Street.
🛍️ Pop-Up market: Look out for stalls along Smithy Row, just off Old Market Square selling street food and local treats.
🐤 Light It Up Duckie: Look out for the giant yellow ducks decorated by local businesses in shop windows across the city - explore and share your favourites using #lightitupduckie
Top tips for an amazing Light Night
✔️ Plan your route – There’s so much to see, so it helps to have an idea of where you want to go. Download the Light Night map or use the It’s in Nottingham app to keep track of everything.
🧣 Dress warmly – February nights can be cold, so layer up and wear comfy shoes - you’ll be walking a lot!
🚍 Use public transport – The city will be busy, so avoid driving if you can. Check tram and bus schedules to get around easily.
Enjoy the magic of Light Night!
Nottingham Light Night is such a special event, and we hope these recommendations help you make the most of it! Whether you’re sipping on a matcha at Blend, enjoying small plates at Mowgli or dancing to beats at Malt Cross, there’s so much to experience beyond the lights.
Let us know your favourite Light Night spots - tag us on social media and share your best photos! #nottinghamlightnight2025 See you there! ✨
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