Whether you’re planning a family day out, fancy getting lost among classic cars, want to catch one of the East Midlands’ biggest music festivals, or simply need an excuse to get out of the house, there’s plenty happening across Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Lincolnshire this weekend.
From Snow Patrol and The Wombats at Splendour Festival to Pokémon adventures at Clumber Park and Belton Estate, dinosaur invasions in Derby, wartime celebrations in Lincoln and stunning heritage attractions across the region, there’s something for every age and interest.
So grab your diary, charge your phone and start making plans — here are our top picks for the weekend ahead.
👇 Scroll down for the best events happening near you.
🎵 Nottinghamshire Highlights
Splendour Festival – Wollaton Park, Nottingham
Sat, 18 Jul 2026 – Sun, 19 Jul 2026
One of the region’s biggest music festivals returns to Wollaton Park across Saturday and Sunday, featuring major headline acts including The Wombats and Snow Patrol across multiple stages.
Clumber Park Summer of Play & Pokémon Zone
Families can enjoy six themed play zones alongside a special Pokémon Summer of Play experience, including trading card activities, trails and outdoor games.
Beyond Monet and Beyond Van Gogh
Beyond Monet and Beyond Van Gogh come to the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham from Saturday, 18 July to Sunday, 9 August.
Pawsby Dog Show – Thoresby Park
Sunday 19th July 2026, 10.00am – 4.00pm
A fun family day out with dog competitions, demonstrations, food, shopping stalls and entertainment.
The Workhouse Victorian Trail – Southwell
Explore Victorian language and customs through the “Cheer Up Chuckaboo” family trail at the historic National Trust property.
🏰 Leicestershire Highlights
Stoneywell Summer of Play
Outdoor family activities, woodland adventures and picnic spots at one of Leicestershire’s most unique National Trust properties. Numbers are controlled to maintain a relaxed atmosphere.
Harborough Sports, Classic & Vintage Vehicle Meet
Sunday, July 19 2026, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Classic cars, motorcycles and enthusiast vehicles gather in Market Harborough on Sunday morning.
Heritage Craft Day
Saturday 18 July 2026, 11am 3pm
Part of Leicestershire County Council’s summer programme, featuring hands-on heritage activities for families on Saturday at Donington le Heath Manor House in Coalville.
Leicester Guildhall Family Events
Children can enjoy craft sessions and historical activities at Leicester Guildhall throughout the weekend.
🌄 Derbyshire Highlights
Chatsworth Signature Classic & Performance Motor Show
Sunday, July 19, 2026 10:00 am – 4pm
A major gathering of classic and performance vehicles set against the spectacular backdrop of Chatsworth Estate.
A Jurassic Day Out – Derby City Centre
Saturday, July 18 From 11am
Dinosaurs take over Derby Market Place on Saturday with interactive displays, activities and family entertainment.
Earthly Delights Art Installation – Ilam Park
Sat 18 Jul 2026, 9:30am to 17:30pm
A striking new outdoor art installation celebrating 200 years of Ilam Hall, with sculpture, nature and creative trails. [nationaltrust.org.uk]
Hardwick Hall: Bess’s Dream
A fascinating new exhibition featuring Bess of Hardwick’s rarely displayed 400-year-old gown and immersive storytelling.
Riddings Annual Family Funday
Sun, 19 Jul 2026, 11AM – 4pm
A traditional community summer event with family activities and entertainment at Riddings Park Community Centre in Alfreton.
🌊 Lincolnshire Highlights
Lincolnshire Fire Aid 999 & Vintage Weekend
Sat 18th – Sun 19th Jul 2026
A popular heritage event with steam engines, emergency vehicles, vintage tractors, classic cars, stalls and family entertainment held on Belton Lane in Great Gonerby
Lincoln 1940s Weekend
17 Jul – 19 Jul 2026
One of Lincolnshire’s most anticipated heritage weekends, bringing wartime history, reenactments and vintage attractions to Uphill Lincoln.
Lincolnshire Classic Motor Show – Lincoln Showground
Sunday, 19 July 2026
A brand-new showcase celebrating classic motoring and vehicle restoration.
Belton Estate Summer of Play & Pokémon Adventure
Family fun, Pokémon trails, outdoor games and summer activities across the estate grounds.
Grantham House Monthly Market
Sunday, July 19, 10am to 4pm
Local crafts, artisan products and food producers fill the gardens and courtyard on Sunday.
Gunby Hall Summer of Play
Family activity trails, outdoor games and creative challenges across the grounds.
Dates and times correct when going to print. It’s probably worth checking with the venue before a visit
