November starts off with Guy Fawkes Night celebrations and then before we know it we are into the Christmas season. There are no shortage of things to do this month! In this post, we will share our top picks for November events in Norfolk.
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November 2023 Norfolk Events
If you are looking for things to do in Norfolk in November, you have come to the right place. Here you will find events happening in November 2023 in Norfolk. It includes some events that are family-friendly and/or free.
It’s the time of year to start getting in the Christmas spirit! Some Christmas Markets will be up and running and there are even a few Christmas Light Switch Ons and Christmas shows. Unfortunately, the Norwich Tunnel of Light has been cancelled.
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.
The Autumn Festival of Norfolk
When: 23 September – 25 November
Formerly known as the Hostry Festival, the Autumn Festival of Norfolk celebrates creativity, inclusion and year-round community. The diverse program includes parties, theatre performances, poetry readings, film screenings, talks, workshops, and more.
Get more information here.
Sundown Adventures at Go Ape Thetford
When: Select days 13 October – 4 November
Embark on an unforgettable adventure at Go Ape Thetford this season, where you can ascend, swing, and glide into the night for an unparalleled thrill.
As you ascend to towering platforms in the obscurity, your senses will sharpen, and the exhilaration of zipping through the air in the fading sunlight will leave you breathless.
Amidst the enchanting, softly hued lights that provide just enough visibility, and the encroaching darkness beyond, you’ll immerse yourself in a novel realm of excitement, transforming into a true nocturnal explorer.
Get more information here.
Norfolk Restaurant Week
When: 30 October – 10 November (excluding weekends)
Don’t miss this opportunity to check out Norfolk’s vibrant culinary scene. Every participating restaurant offers their usual high standard of food, but at an incredibly tempting price.
The Restaurant Week menus are available Monday to Friday only. You won’t need any passes, tickets or vouchers, simply book your table direct with your chosen restaurant and mention Norfolk Restaurant Week. It’s best to book ahead to avoid disappointment.
Get more details here.
Dragon Festival
When: 4 November
St. George’s Guildhall in King’s Lynn is hosting their first Dragon Festival, a family-friendly event featuring archery, creature encounters, a short play, face painting, medieval history, craft activities, and a Deadly Dragons trail.
The day concludes with a screening of “How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World” at the guildhall theatre, complete with complimentary popcorn for children. Best of all, admission and activities are free, and no reservations are required.
Get more information here.
Guy Fawkes/Bonfire Night
When: 5 November (events happen a few days before and after)
You can get more details on the best events to celebrate Bonfire Night in Norfolk here.
Norwich Philharmonic 22/23 Season Opening Night
When: 4 November
To kick off the 23/24 Season at The Halls, the Norwich Philharmonic will perform ELGAR: The Kingdom. Note that due to the refurbishment work happening at The Halls in 2024 some of their concerts will be at other venues.
Get more information here.
Norwich Film Festival
When: 6 – 19 November
Filmmakers from around the world come to the Norwich Film Festival to showcase their short films. The festival is a BAFTA and BIFA qualifying event and will feature a total of six award categories, including prizes for the best British, International, Documentary, Animation, Student and East Anglian films, with each being awarded a cash prize. It’s one of the biggest festivals in Norwich.
Selected films will be available to be viewed on their popular online cinema platform in the weeks following the main festival.
Get more information here.
Thursford Christmas Spectacular
When: 8 November – 23 December
Thursford is a small village in North Norfolk that is home to the Thursford Collection, one of the world’s most important steam and fairground museums. It also hosts popular summer and winter shows that attract visitors from around the UK.
To date, Thursford’s Christmas Spectacular has entertained over 5.8 million making it the largest Christmas show in the country. Many of its 120 cast members have performed in London’s West End.
The three-hour show combines non-stop singing, dancing, music, and humour. Expect to hear popular chart toppers along with traditional Christmas carols. The finale even includes white doves flying across the auditorium.
Book tickets in advance here. **For a limited time, you can get tickets for select performances of the Thursford Spectacular on Groupon at 25% off. Find out more here.
Read our review of the Thursford Christmas Spectacular to learn more.
Norfolk Festive Food and Gift Show
When: 10 – 12 November
Head to the Norfolk Showground to do your Christmas shopping at a festive event that all the family can enjoy. Browse over 250 stalls and sample food and drinks inside the Main Exhibition Hall at the home of the Royal Norfolk Show.
You can save money by purchasing tickets in advance here.
Norfolk Lights Express
When: Most days 10 November – 1 January 2024
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 review of the Norfolk Lights Express to learn more.
Remembrance Day & Remembrance Sunday
When: 11 & 12 November
Communities across Norfolk will come together to mark Remembrance Day and Remembrance Saturday. Check out our guide to the Remembrance Day events in Norfolk to learn more.
Bressingham at Night
When: Select nights 11 – 25 November
You can ride all three Narrow Gauge railways at night and enjoy colourful displays along the track and illuminated trees. Food and drink will be available at Café and the shop will be open for early Christmas shopping too.
Get more information here.
Luminate Sandringham
When: 11 November – 24 December
Luminate is 1-mile long trail through Sandringham Country Park has special effects, music, and interactive installations in addition to the lights. While it takes place during the holiday season, it is not Christmas-themed. It is more of an enchanted forest experience with roasted marshmallows.
Read our 2020 Sandringham Luminate review. You can see a short video of our visit to Luminate in 2021 here. We went again in 2022 and plan on going again in 2023.
Tickets must be pre-booked online in advance here. It is a bit cheaper if you can go Monday through Wednesday before 8th December. There is also the option to get a family ticket.
Autumn Lights
When: 11 November
Autumn Lights returns for its second year at Norfolk Showground near Norwich. They will have a standing arena and a stage, hosting musicians and fire shows. There will also be a funfair, street food vendors and LED glow walkers. You can enjoy two fireworks displays, one specially for children and the main one at the end of the evening, with both set to music.
Get more information and purchase tickets here.
Seafood Festival at the Dabbling Duck
When: 17 – 18 November
Time to celebrate the special treats from the sea in the local area (i.e. Brancaster mussels and oysters). There will be live music and the Sheringham Shanty Men on both days at the Dabbling Duck in Great Massingham.
Get more information here.
Winter Wonderland at Norfolk Showground
When: 17 November – 3 January 2024
This winter extravaganza features an ice skating rink and much more. You can enjoy a whole host of 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.
King’s Lynn Film Festival
When: 23 – 26 November
After a six-year hiatus, the King’s Lynn Film Festival returns! Dive into a diverse selection of cinematic gems, spanning world cinema, family-friendly screenings, and historically significant works waiting to be rediscovered. Don’t miss out on the chance to relish your favourite films on the big screen at the Alive Corn Exchange in King’s Lynn (unless otherwise specified) while keeping your wallet happy.
Get more information here.
Sausage and Cider Fest
When: 25 November
The Halls in Norwich will be full of sausages, ciders (plus other beverages), and live music. There will be gluten free and vegan options available.
Get more information here.
Cromer End of Pier Christmas Show
When: 25 November – 30 December
The Cromer Pier Christmas Show is just as fun as the summer Cromer Pier show.
The historic Cromer Pier is home to the Pavilion Theatre. While it hosts fantastic entertainment, like the famous Seaside Special, all year long, during the holiday season they have a special Christmas-themed show.
Olly Day is back as host. Expect a high-energy variety show with singing, dancing, comedy, and more. It’s family-friendly too.
Read our review of the 2021 Cromer Pier Christmas Show. Get more information on the times of the shows and buy tickets here.
Art Fair East
When: 30 November – 3 December
You won’t want to miss one of the region’s largest and liveliest art events. Hundreds of artworks by international and regional talent will be on display at St Andrews Hall in Norwich. It’s a great opportunity to meet many artists and experts in person.
Get more information here.
Looking Ahead
Check out December Events in Norfolk.
