October is the height of Autumn in Norfolk. Take advantage of the outdoors and enjoy the colourful leaves before it gets too cold. It’s also time to celebrate all things spooky.
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October 2024 Norfolk Events
If you are looking for things to do in Norfolk in October, you have come to the right place. Here you will find events happening in October 2024 in Norfolk. It includes some events that are family-friendly and/or free.
At the begining of the month, you can expect Oktoberfest celebrations. Then, at the end of the month, we have the October half term and Halloween. Check out our list of the best Halloween events in Norfolk for more details. You can also visit a pumpkin farm.
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.
Time Horizons at Houghton Hall
When: 21 April – 31 October select days
Experience Antony Gormley’s monumental exhibition, “Time Horizon,” at Houghton Hall, featuring 100 life-size sculptures spread across 300 acres of the park. These cast-iron sculptures, each weighing 620kg and standing at an average of 191cm, create a striking visual impact, installed at a uniform level across the landscape. Some sculptures are partially buried, while others rise above the ground or stand on concrete columns.
Houghton Hall, a stately home built in the early 18th century by Sir Robert Walpole, boasts exquisite Palladian architecture and has been open to the public since 1976. The Houghton Arts Foundation continues to expand its collection of contemporary art, positioning Houghton as a premier destination for experiencing great art in a historic setting. “Time Horizon” follows a distinguished lineup of previous exhibitions, such as Tony Cragg and Chris Levine.
Get more information here.
The Autumn Festival of Norfolk
When: 14 September – 29 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.
Bayfield Hall Sculpture Trail
When: 18 September – 20 October
The team behind the Raveningham Sculpture Trail brings together the works of 45 artists from across the UK in the private gardens of Bayfield Hall near Holt.
Get more details here.
Autumn Equinox Skycamp
When: 30 September – 7 October
The Loughton Astronomical Society holds an Autumn Equinox Sky Camp at Kelling Heath on the North Norfolk coast. It is the largest star party in the UK with hundreds of amateur astronomers gathering for a week of dark sky observing.
The main event day is the Saturday when they have vendor trade stands, equipment demonstrations, a raffle, and a telescope tour. It is free to attend but if you want to spend a night or more you will need to book a campsite.
Get more information here.
Circus Extreme
When: 4 – 13 October
Circus Extreme is set to dazzle audiences with its mix of world-class circus artistry and extreme stunts at the Norfolk Showground. From the heart-stopping Wheel of Death to stunning trapeze acts, each performance is designed to thrill. Expect plenty of laughs with lively clown performances and jaw-dropping moments as motorcyclists defy gravity. This show combines adrenaline-fuelled stunts with the classic fun of a traditional circus, making it a must-see for families.
Get discounted tickets on Groupon here.
Video Game Retro Market
When: 6 October
Head to the Forum to find everything from £1 bargains to rare items worth hundreds, including exclusive video games, retro toys, collectibles, trading cards, clothing, merchandise, and other video game-related items you won’t see online or in shops. Your ticket also includes access to a retro gaming area, where a variety of consoles will be set up to play.
Get more information here.
Norwich Oktoberfest
When: 11 – 12 October
Norwich Oktoberfest is back at Epic Studios, with the Oompah act, The Bavarian Strollers. They will be joined by one of the best party bands around, NightTrain, with chart-topping anthems and Euro-Pop classics.
You are encouraged to wear Bavarian outfit or a pair of classic Lederhosen, but it’s not required. There will be plenty of authentic Bavarian beers served in steins and Bratwurst sausages (with meat and vegan options).
Get more information and buy tickets here.
Apple Day at Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse
When: 13 October
Get ready to be swept away by the magic of autumn at this family-friendly event! Enjoy the sounds of traditional music, satisfy your cravings with seasonal treats and discover local crafts.
Get more information here.
Circus Fantasia
When: 16 – 20 October
Enjoy a two-hour live circus performance accompanied by a live orchestra in a climate-controlled big top, with comfortable stadium-style seating in Thetford. Food and drink will be available including all the usual circus favourites like popcorn and candy floss.
Get more information here.
Norwich Cocktail Week
When: 18 – 27 October
For 10 days there will be an array of special cocktails available at various venues, along with masterclasses, culinary and beverage tours, delectable cocktail-pairing dinners, and much more in Norwich.
Get more information here.
Sundown Adventures at Go Ape Thetford
When: Select days 18 October – 10 November
It’s your chance to swing through the treetops under the stars at Go Ape Thetford! Feel your heart race as you climb, glide, and zip through the twilight. As the sun sets and darkness creeps in, the forest comes alive with a whole new energy. It’s the perfect time to sharpen your senses and embrace your inner explorer.
Get more information here.
Autumn Lights
When: 19 October
Get ready for Autumn Lights, an evening packed with fireworks and entertainment. With live music from Phats & Small and DJ Ryan Swain, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The event also includes a family funfair and a wide variety of delicious street food.
The night will feature two firework displays, both choreographed to music from around the world. You can also look forward to fire performances by La Flamo, energetic drumming from Spark!, and roaming glow performers throughout the evening.
Get more information here.
Norwich Book Festival
When: 24 – 27 October
Get ready for the Norwich Book Festival, a city-wide celebration in the heart of the City of Stories! This new festival brings together readers, writers, and literary lovers across Norwich, England’s first UNESCO City of Literature. With renowned authors, engaging readings, book signings, and interactive events, there’s something for every reader to enjoy.
Get more information here.
Halloween Spooktacular at the Hippodrome in Great Yarmouth
When: 24 October – 3 November
The Hippodrome is home to the circus, but during the Halloween season it transforms so not everything is as it seems. Jack Jay and Johnny Mac go on a spooky adventure to try and save the cast from evil and mysterious characters who are up to no good.
It’s a family-friendly indoor show and everyone is encouraged to come in costumes. While you’re in the area, be sure to check out our top recommendations for things to do in Great Yarmouth.
Get more information about the event here. Save money on tickets with a groupon here.
Norwich Beer Festival for Charity
When: 24 October – 3 November
There won’t be the typical Norwich Beer Festival this year as The Halls are closed for critical repairs, so this year there will be a series of events at smaller venues around the city.
Get more information here.
Read about more beer festivals in Norfolk.
Blakeney Fireworks & Bonfire Event
When: 26 October (or 27 October if weather doesn’t cooperate the first night)
It may be a little early to celebrate Bonfire Night, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. The evening kicks off at 17:00 with a variety of hot food and various attractions at Carnser car park. Then Ruby Flames performs at 18:15.
The bonfire will be lit at 18:45 and the fireworks show is at 19:30. It’s done by Titanium Fireworks, who also do the Cromer Carnival and Cromer New Year’s Day fireworks shows.
It’s a free event and no tickets are needed. You can park for free at the Blakeney Village Hall car park. Get details here.
Grove Lights Halloween Show
When: 26 October – 2 November
Get ready for a truly spine-tingling experience at Grove Lights in Newton Flotman (NR15 1QE)! This spectacular Halloween display is not only massive but also known for its creative choreography and attention to detail. What makes it even more special is that it’s all for a great cause, raising funds for Venture Farm Cat Rescue.
Get more information, including show times here. See the video highlights from 2023 here.
Great Yarmouth Half Term Fireworks
When: 30 October
You can see a free fireworks show at Central Beach in Great Yarmouth. There will be street performers starting at 17:00 and the fireworks show starts at 18:00.
Get details here.
Halloween
When: 31 October (but many events take place during the October half-term)
Find out about the best Halloween events in Norfolk here.
Something to Look Forward to Next October
Fire on the Water
When: Hoping this will return in 2025
Fire on the Water is popular fire and light trail that debuted in 2021 at the Venetian Waterways and was held on the Central Beach in Great Yarmouth in 2022. It did not take place in 2023 but hopefully will be back in 2024.
Read about our experience at Fire on the Water in 2021 or see our video from the 2022 Fire on the Water here.
Looking Ahead
Check out November events in Norfolk here.
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