And that’s also the theme running throughout our guide to weekend events, many of which have a seasonal feel to them.
The guide points you in the direction of things to do and places to go in the Worksop, Retford, Mansfield, Ashfield and wider Nottinghamshire area. And to help get you in the mood for Christmas, it includes festive markets, a Victorian fair, a grand 1940s’ charity dance and even an elves’ workshop. The Christmas season starts at Clumber Park and at Retford’s Sundown Adventureland, while Santa is arriving at Rufford Abbey County Park.
It’s not quite festive panto season in theatreland, but the Acorn in Worksop, the Majestic in Retford and the Palace in Mansfield all host shows worth getting excited about, including a Meat Loaf tribute and a revival of that classic film, ‘Steel Magnolias’, starring Sally Field, Julia Roberts, Shirley MacLaine and Dolly Parton.
Meanwhile, Retford celebrates another Big Market Day, Babworth runs its annual arts festival, Mansfield hosts an antiques fair, Calverton stages its annual open A5 art and photography exhibition and Hucknall welcomes the circus.
Oh and by the way, there’s a chance to meet the Bride Of Frankenstein, The Man-Eating Caterpillar and Medusa at Sherwood Forest!
To find out how, and why, check out our guide below. Please also visit the website of your chosen destination to ascertain opening times and admission prices. Have a great weekend!
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5. Comedy drama film revived
The famous 1989 comedy drama film, 'Steel Magnolias', starring Sally Field, Julia Roberts,Shirley MacLaine and Dolly Parton, is being revived at Worksop's Acorn Theatre for a three-night run from next Wednesday. The Dukeries Theatre Group presents the tale, by Robert Harling, about the bond a group of women share in a small town in the USA and how they cope with the death of one of their own. Photo: TriStar Pictures

6. Meet the giants of Sherwood Forest
Where can you meet the Bride Of Frankenstein, The Man-Eating Caterpillar, Rotten Roger and Medusa this weekend? The answer is Sherwood Forest because they are the names given to four of its huge ancient trees. 'Meet Our Giants' is an event taking place from the forest's visitor centre at Edwinstowe on Saturday (10.30 am to 12.30 pm) when visitors will be led on a walk, giving an insight into the life of a veteran oak. Photo: Submitted

7. Go back in time with 1940s Grand Charity Dance
Go back in time on Saturday night at Retford Town Hall, which stages a 1940s Grand Charity Dance. A nostalgic evening of live entertainment and dancing stars Brandyn Shaw (pictured) and his '1940s Radio Times Show'. With a struct dress code of period wear, there will also be a raffle and prize draw in aid of The Priory Church, Worksop, and a licensed bar Photo: Submitted

8. Return of Babworth Arts Festival
The village of Babworth takes great pride in its annual arts festival, and this weekend's renewal at All Saints' Church on Babworth Road is sure to prove as popular as ever. The theme of the exhibition is 'Heritage And Home, and it features paintings, pottery, quilts and special talks. Entry is free and it takes place on Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm and on Sunday from 12 midday to 4 pm. Photo: Submitted