January may be the middle of winter in Norfolk, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t anything going on! In this post we will share the best events in Norfolk in January 2024. So, ditch the hibernation plans and join in the fun!
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January 2024 Norfolk Events
If you are looking for things to do in Norfolk in January, you have come to the right place. Here you will find events happening in January 2024 in Norfolk. It includes some events that are family-friendly and/or free.
Remember there can always be last minute changes, so it’s always a good idea to double-check the details with the organization hosting the event.
Be sure to also check out the January sales in Norfolk.
*Details for some of the January 2024 events have not been announced. Events with TBC – meaning to be confirmed – next to them means they happened last year but have not been confirmed for this year. I will update the post as the information becomes available.
Norfolk Lights Express
When: 10 November – 1 January
The North Norfolk Railway offers a festive treat – the Norfolk Lights Express, a dazzling evening train ride from Sheringham to Holt via Weybourne. This family-friendly holiday event features a well-stocked buffet at Sheringham station for hot and cold refreshments, including alcohol, soft drinks, cakes, and savoury snacks. The 5.25-mile route showcases beautifully lit festive displays, with the train itself adorned in lights and a special soundtrack to enhance the experience. After reaching Holt, the train turns back to Sheringham.
Get more information here. This will sell out! Read our Norfolk Lights Express review to find out more.
Winter Wonderland at Norfolk Showground
When: 17 November – 3 January
This winter extravaganza features an ice skating rink and much more. You can enjoy a whole host of fun fair rides, a visit with Father Christmas, and festive food and drinks. Ice skating should be booked in advance, it is not included in admission. Ride credits also need to be purchased separately.
Get more information and book here.
Sleeping Beauty Panto at Norwich Theatre Royal
When: 9 December – 7 January
An all-star cast will take to the Norwich Theatre Royal stage to perform the panto, Sleeping Beauty. It tells the story of how the Queen and Fairy work to save our Sleeping Beauty, with a prince in tow and despite the efforts of the Evil Fairy.
You can expect all the traditional pantomime ingredients including energetic songs, a live band, magic, mesmerizing dance routines, slapstick comedy, and plenty of audience participation. The show is perfect for all ages and it’s one of the best things to do in Norwich during Christmas.
Joe Tracini, who played Tommy the Cat in 2021’s Dick Whittington Panto and Jack in 2022’s Jack and the Beanstalk returns to play The Fairy. Norwich’s favourite panto dame Richard Gauntlett is also back. It also features Beverley Callard as The Evil Fairy.
Purchase tickets here. Read our Sleeping Beauty review here.
Find out about other pantos around Norfolk here.
Cromer New Year’s Day Fireworks
When: 1 January
The New Year’s Day Fireworks Display in Cromer has been a tradition for more than 20 years. This event raises money to pay for the Cromer Fireworks display each year and to support local charities.
As you might expect, the town will be busy so we recommend that you get there early. Don’t worry there are activities starting in the afternoon to keep you entertained. Shops and cafes will also be open.
Get more details here.
Read about more New Year’s Day events in Norfolk here.
Sheringham New Year’s Day Dip
When: 1 January
Start the New Year off with a cold plunge into the sea by Sheringham for charity. If you want to join in arrive at the tank (east end slipway beach) for 12:00. The estimated dip time is 12:30. You are encourage to wear fancy dress as it will be judged before the dip and prizes will be awarded.
Get more information here.
World Indoor Bowls Championships
When: 5 – 21 January
The world’s best indoor bowlers descend on the picturesque Norfolk Coast, in the quaint village of Hopton-on-Sea near Great Yarmouth, where the championship takes place at Potters Resort, one of the top luxury hotels by the sea in Norfolk. You can book a World Bowls Break or just purchase day tickets.
Get more information here.
Wedding Show at Dunston Hall
When: 7 January
Start planning your wedding. There will be over 55 local independent wedding specialists (from flowers, cakes, wedding transport, toastmaster to bride and groom attire and more) at the Wedding Show at Dunston Hall ready to talk to you about your big day.
Get more information here.
Faulty Towers Revisited
When: 13 January
A fun night of comedy, music, and food at the Holiday Inn Norwich North hotel. Basil is not happy when Simon Cowell booked the Hotel for a number of Tribute acts. These tribute acts with Basil, Sybil and Manuel at their very best, will keep you entertained.
Your ticket includes a three-course meal and the entertainment. Get more information here.
Veganuary Mela
When: 14 January
Namaste Village’s Norwich location plays host to an enchanting ‘mela’—an exuberant carnival that promises a tapestry of colours, flavours, and joy. As part of the festivities, Namaste Village will have a diverse selection of vegan food stalls.
Buy tickets and get more information here.
Mental Health Awareness Evening
When: 18 January
The Norwich City Fans Social Club has put together a free mental health mini-conference. This event aims to foster a sense of community, understanding, and support for those dealing with mental health challenges and features special guests.
Get more information here.
Glow Your Own Way
When: 18 – 21 January
Freshly Greated invites you to experience the magic of community and connection at the “Glow Your Own Way Festival” in Magdalen Square in Great Yarmouth. Set against the backdrop of winter darkness, the event features art installations, films, and interactive activities—all for free.
Highlights include the enchanting Luminosi Tree, the whimsical Glitter Glade, and the mesmerising Aoelian Light and Sound sculptures. Step into a world of luminosity and be part of an unforgettable multisensory experience.
Get more information here.
Norwich Record Fair
When: 20 January
The Norwich Record Fair, organized by VIP Record Fairs, has moved to The Forum from The Halls. Known for major events in cities like London and Manchester, this fair attracts top sellers offering a diverse vinyl selection, from Prog rock to Punk, Hip-Hop to Soul. With sellers from across the UK, attendees can explore rare finds and bargain bins.
Admission is £3, and early access at 9:00 is available for £6.
Get more information here.
Betty Blue Eyes
When: 23 – 27 January
The Norfolk and Norwich Operatic Society bring “Betty Blue Eyes,” a delightful musical directed and choreographed by Chris Cuming (who also did “Kinky Boots” and “The Sound of Music“) to the Norwich Theatre Royal Stage. This heartwarming and humorous production is inspired by the 1984 Alan Bennett film “A Private Function,” featuring Michael Palin and Dame Maggie Smith.
The storyline revolves around a Yorkshire couple navigating post-war challenges, with the central focus on Betty, an endearing pig being secretly raised to ensure a grand banquet for local dignitaries during the Royal Wedding of Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip. Meanwhile, the community must make do with Spam, creating a comedic and touching exploration of resilience and celebration in a small Yorkshire town.
Get tickets here. Read our review of Betty Blue Eyes here.
Burns Night Celebrations
When: 23 – 28 January
While Burns Night is officially the 25 January, some events are conveniently scheduled for the weekend. Check out our list of the Burns Nights events in Norfolk.
Walsingham Abbey Snowdrops
When: 24 January – 3 March
Walsingham Abbey is one of the best places to see snowdrops in Norfolk. They reopen on 24 January for their Snowdrop Walks where you can explore the grounds to see these beautiful white flowers, the ruins of the Abbey, the Crypt, Shirehall Museum, and Prison.
Admission is £6.50 for adults, £2.50 for children 6-16, and free for under 6. Historic Houses members are free. No booking is required, and you must pay by card.
Read our guide to seeing the Walsingham Abbey snowdrops.
Norwich Job Fair
When: 24 January
Discover new job opportunities at the Forum in Norwich! Chat with potential employers, learn about job openings, and amp up your career prospects – all for free!
Get more details here.
Winter Beer & Burrito Festival
When: 26 – 28 January
The inaugural Winter Beer Festival at The White Horse Upton is set to delight your taste buds with a perfect blend of craft brews and mouthwatering burritos. Enjoy a unique experience featuring live music, and seize the chance to become a sponsor for one of the beers.
Get more information here.
80s Party Night
When: 27 January
If you like the 80s, you don’t want to miss this party at the Holiday Inn Norwich North. There will be live DJ sets, giant video screens, retro sweets, a photo booth, red carpet, and retro decor. Wear your fancy dress, and create memories in the photo booth.
Get more information and purchase tickets here.
Space Invasion at Vancouver Quarter
When: 27 January
The Space Invasion Event at Vancouver Quarter in King’s Lynn will feature an inflatable planetarium and much more. Get creative at the biscuit decorating workshop, explore your imagination at the make and create station, and discover the wonders of space with colouring activities.. Meet Star Wars characters for added excitement.
While tickets are required for the planetarium, all other activities are free with no need to book in advance. Just show up and enjoy the cosmic fun!
Get more information here.
Looking Ahead
Check out February Events here.
Check out March Events here.
If you need more ideas for things to do in Norfolk, be sure to grab our free printable Norfolk Bucket list here.
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