Our Picks
The Future Radio Pub Quiz at The Fat Cat and Canary
- Hosted by one of our Future Radio DJs
- It’s at 8pm every Wednesday (except when Norwich City play at home on that day!)
- There’s a street food van
- No need to book – just turn up
- All to raise money for our parent charity Future Projects, tackling poverty, deprivation and disadvantage in Norfolk and Norwich
- That’s the Future Radio Pub Quiz, at The Fat Cat and Canary, 101, Thorpe Road, NR1 1TR Wednesday nights at 8 – see you there!
April 2025
16th – 25th April – Still Not Safe For Treatment Art Exhibition at St Mary’s Works
- Not Safe For Treatment is an intimate art exhibition of pieces exploring the hidden navigations of the mental health system.
- Curated by 2 local creatives, the exhibition looks to create a safe, supportive, and understanding environment of art that tells uncensored stories through the work of 9 artists and walk-in workshops.
- The exhibition is open to everyone from the 16th-25th April from 1-6pm and is free to attend.
- The event is taking place at The Shoe Factory at St Mary’s Works, NR3 3AF.
- The timetable for workshops can be found on their Instagram page and for more information, visit the Not Safe For Treatment website.
26th – 27th April – Norwich Community Gardens Festival
- The first Norwich Community Gardens Festival is taking place at the end up April and it won’t be one to miss!
- The festival will see over 25 community gardens open their doors (well, fences…) to the public.
- With activities ranging from garden tours, talks, seed planting and more, the festival is a great chance to get an insight into what local groups are out there for you to get involved in!
- For more information you can visit Norwich Community Gardens Festival | Facebook
26th April- Local Maker’s Market @ The Forum
- This specially curated craft market showcases the best of Norwich and Norfolk’s amazing artisans
- With handmade jewellery, ceramics and prints, to organic skincare, candles and of course baked goods from over 60 local makers. it’s a great way to treat yourself or a loved one to something unique.
- The event is free, happening between 10am-4pm.
May 2025
4th May – Norwich Vegan Parkfest
- Back for a 4th year, the Norwich Vegan Parkfest returns this May!
- Taking over Chapelfield Gardens, the event will bring together a huge variety of vegan street food vendors, artisan bakers, craft brewers, ethical jewellers, sustainable chandlers, local artists, zero-waste champions, environmental charities and loads more.
- The event starts at 10:30 and runs until 4pm – nearly six hours of vegan and sustainability galore!
- For more information you can visit the Vegan Market Co Facebook page.
4th – 5th May – Free Open Weekend at The Oak Circus Centre
- A FREE weekend of activities for all the family to enjoy Circus workshops and performances.
- This exciting event invites visitors of all ages to step into the world of the circus through new experiences, such as aerial arts, acrobatics, juggling, and more!
- Highlights of the weekend include free taster sessions in aerial skills, trapeze, hula hooping, and juggling; exciting performances, workshops and a behind-the-scene tour of the historic centre.
- For more information, click here.
5th May- Bluey and Bingo Day @ Pensthorpe
- What better way for a family to celebrate the bank holiday than meeting children’s TV icons, Bluey and her little sister Bingo!
- This only adds to a perfect family day out- as well as the usual fun on the reserve, such as 5 stunning gardens, a species-rich nature reserve and outdoor play, included in the price of your ticket will be an option to book your timeslot to meet the cheeky dogs.
- You need to ensure when booking your ticket, you click to book your timeslot and do it for each person in your booking (including grown-ups!)
- Open from 10am-5pm (or from 9am for members)
7th-10th May – Princess Ida performed by East Norfolk Operatic Society
- If you’re a fan of theatre, The East Norfolk Operatic Society are putting on a show this May… the highly acclaimed Princess Ida by Gilbert and Sullivan! It is a comic opera telling the age-old story of the battle of the sexes, with a twist on a medieval fairytale.
- With a strong supporting chorus, alongside stunning costume and set design, this production is set to wow.
- It will be performed at the Maddermarket Theatre at 7:30pm with a Sunday matinee at 2:30pm.
- Tickets are £21.00 and available here.
10th May – Youtopia Sober Social at The Yard Coffee
- Join Youtopia for their 2nd Birthday this May at their home, The Yard Coffee.
- Youtopia creates fun wellness spaces for adults, including sober socials, sober raves, play retreats, and so much more.
- With DJs, a Mocktail and Herbal Elixir Bar, chill out space with EFT and breathwork tasters, and some added cake and party games, this is the sober party for your soul!
- There is an optional, opening sound healing meditation space at 6:30pm, but otherwise, the social welcomes everyone from 7:45pm and closes at 11pm.
- Early bird tickets can be purchased for £10 and are available here.
9-25th May – Norfolk and Norwich (N&N) Festival
- The Norfolk and Norwich Festival is the flagship arts festival for the East of England spanning music, theatre, literature, visual arts, circus, dance and free outdoor events.
- It is focused on improving the cultural offer for children and young people by transforming our public spaces to bring people together and experience a variety of events
- The prices vary depending on which event, with some free and some with paid tickets, all of which can be found on nn.festival.org.uk/whats-on
15th-24th May- Norwich Jazz Festival
- Its back! The Norwich Jazz Festival returns after a 20 year hiatus, showcasing jazz music across multiple venues in Norwich.
- Aimed to be accessible for young people and families, why not dip your toes into something new, or reignite a love for a beautiful music form!
- Ticket prices vary depending on events, with some events offering reduced rates for under 25s to encourage young participation in jazz, and some are even free!
- For the line up, and tickets, more information is available here
24th-25th May- Norwich Brick Show @ Open Academy Sprowston
- Do you have a passion for all things Lego? Consider yourself a master-builder? Or perhaps you just fancy a unique day out…
- Then from 10am onwards, head down to Open Academy in Sprowston, where you can expect interactive Lego buildings, custom creations, robot wars and large-scale displays made by Lego Lovers nationwide!
- Not only will there be models and displays, but expect activities and trade stalls too!
- Tickets are only £5 and under threes go free.
- What’s even better is this non-profit event is all to raise money for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices and Fairy Bricks.
31st May- Goodies Foodhall Makers Market
- As it is the last Saturday of the month that can only mean one thing… its time for the Goodies Food Hall Market!
- Located on the outskirts of Long Stratton, from 9am-3pm you can expect local stalls stocked with local food and drink, gifts and crafts.
- What’s even better is it’s free, with free parking.
- Afterwards, why not browse the delicious, local offerings at the Goodies Food Hall, or try their delicious restaurant!
Ongoing Events
Mondays
East Anglian Film Network – Monthly meetup at Norwich Playhouse
- The EAFN Monthly Meetup is a free networking event for local filmmakers and creatives.
- Come along for a good conversation, over your choice of pint or tea, with local actors, directors, writers and more.
- Anyone who is interested in working or already works in film is free to come along – you are also welcome to bring a friend!
- This monthly event takes place every first Monday of the month (2nd Monday if there is a bank holiday) at the Piano Room in The Playhouse from around 7pm.
- For more information you can visit the East Anglian Film Network Facebook page.
Fine City Samba Rehearsal at Marlpit Community Centre
- The Fine City Samba group have regular rehearsals every Monday from 7:30-10pm.
- It’s free of charge for first timers, so if being part of a Samba band takes your fancy, why not pop along tonight?
- You can just watch for a bit or join in on any instrument.
- Rehearsals take place at the Marlpit Community Centre with onsite parking and wheelchair access.
- If you have any questions email Martine info@finecitysamba.org
60+ Creative Writing Drop-In Sessions @ Dragon Hall
- If you’re aged 60 and over and are looking to kickstart your writing career, then head down to Dragon Hall on King Street for their creative writing drop in sessions.
- Enjoy a quiet, supportive environment where you can focus on your writing alongside like-minded individuals.
- There will be a facilitator on hand to offer ideas and encouragement, but feel free to work on your own idea too.
- The sessions take place on the second Monday of the month and run from 2pm-4pm.
- More information can be found on the Visit Norwich website.
The Hackspace – Mondays 7pm at Lion House
- The Norwich Hackspace is open every Monday for visitors to pop in for free!
- The weekly sessions see members get together to discuss ongoing projects and share information in the world of computing.
- If this tickles your fancy, the session is happening tonight 7-9pm at the Lion House on Muspole Street. More information is available here.
Super Seedlings Playgroup at St. Catherine’s Church Hall, Aylsham Road
- The Super Seedlings, formerly the Messy Church, is a toddler group for pre-school children and is a chance to play, make different crafts and get nice and messy.
- A variety of activities take place throughout the morning, with a light soup lunch on offer as well.
- The event runs every Monday during term-time from 10am – 12:30pm.
- A donation of £2.50 per family is suggested and appreciated, if possible.
- For more information you can contact Mrs McDermott on 01603 409293.
The Norwich Jazz Jam at the Last Pub Standing
- The Norwich Jazz Jam takes place every Monday at The Last Pub Standing (except on bank holidays).
- You can expect to find a gathering of jazz and blues musicians coming together for a wonderful evening of music.
- Everyone is welcome, whether you are an experienced musician or just a beginner, or simply an enthusiast, to share in the love of jazz, blues and swing.
- The event starts at 7:30pm and ends at 10pm. It is free, so simply turn up and immerse yourself in Norwich’s Jazz scene!
- More information can be found at jazzjam.
Hester Yoga Classes at Thorpe End Village Hall
- Why not try something new and get fit with the Hester yoga classes at Thorpe End Village Hall.
- The classes run every Monday from 7:30pm – 9pm and will help improve strength, flexibility, balance, posture and muscle tone, boost energy levels, and could even help with your mental health and quality of sleep!
- Email hi@hesteryoga.co.uk to register your interest and book your slot in the class.
- Block payments for multiple classes cost £9.50 per class, with the cost for single class payments costing £11.50 but this is subject to space.
Tuesdays
Norwich Board Gamers at St. Andrews Brew House
- The Norwich Board Gamer’s weekly gaming night is on every Monday and Tuesday at St. Andrews Brew House!
- They play a very wide range of games and you can bring yours in if you wish, or play those brought in by others.
- Anyone is welcome to come along and there is no charge or membership fee. Just turn up by 7:30pm and join in with any game that interests you.
Norwich Community Choir at St. Cuthbert’s Church Hall
- Norwich Community Choir hold their rehearsals at St. Cuthbert’s Church in Sprowston at 7:15pm.
- As well as being involved in a friendly and welcoming group that loves to sing together, the Community Choir offers it’s members a rich social life!
- They have a reputation of passionate, polished, and uplifting performances.
- There is scientific research that shows us singing can lower blood pressure, improve immunity and increase happiness!
- For first timers you can take part in a taster session on either Tuesday or Thursday: just head over to their website to book one!
Turntable Tuesdays at The Plough (St Benedicts)
- One for all the music lovers – a dedicated vinyl night at The Plough pub on St Benedicts Street every Tuesday.
- You can enjoy full albums spanning multiple decades and genres.
- Bring your own vinyl and, if yours is chosen, you’ll receive a free drink!
- The event runs from 7pm-11pm. Entry is free.
- You can find out more information on the Norwich Lanes website.
Self Defence Classes at AR Krav Maga
- AR Krav Maga are home to some incredibly empowering self-defence classes, and you can get involved!
- They combine the force combination of Kickboxing with effective self-defence techniques.
- You’ll get to train in a safe, secure and comfortable environment – so you can concentrate and stay fit!
- After a few classes you’ll start to feel Safer, Fitter, Smarter and be Always Ready.
- Sessions start at 7pm and finish at 8pm. + classes are from £19.95 that you can book here.
Coffee Morning at St. Mary & St. Margaret’s Church
- The volunteers at St. Mary and St. Margaret’s church in Sprowston run a coffee morning every Tuesday, to provide you with the opportunity to relax and catch up with others from your community!
- It’s often well populated, with some attendees having done so for many years, maybe this could be your Tuesday morning spot from now on!
- It’s happening from 10:30am until midday.
- More information can be found on the EDP website.
Toddler Yoga at Dussindale Centre at Thorpe Saint Andrew
- Come and join in for a fun and interactive toddler yoga session at Dussindale Centre!
- An instructor will guide the little ones through gentle stretches, playful movements, and calming exercises.
- Tickets are £6.50, and the session runs from 9:30am-10:15am.
- For more information, or to book your space here.
Riverside Multi-Games Group at Riverside Leisure Centre
- Experience a wide variety of games every Tuesday at Riverside Leisure Centre.
- Activities include table tennis, curling, boccia and archery.
- These activities are taking place from 11am-12:15pm.
- Event is free, just contact the team at Age UK to book.
Egyptian-style Bellydance Classes at The Norman Centre
- Why not pop along to the Norman Centre every Tuesday for their Egyptian-style belly dance classes?
- You will learn basic belly dance techniques including isolations, shimmies and travelling steps. Slower, smoother and sensual movements will also be taught alongside hip-driven sharper and faster moves.
- Class is aimed at all abilities, from newbies to those more experienced.
- Event runs from 7pm-8pm weekly on a pay-as-you-go basis.
- Tickets cost £9 and are payable by cash on arrival.
- For more information, head to their Facebook page
Wednesdays
Bridges Creative Writing Group at The Shoebox Hub
- Creative writing group for people who have had, or are experiencing mental health challenges.
- Bring along any sort of writing to share and discuss.
- Contact 01603 850309
- Where? The Shoebox Hub 21-23 Castle Meadow, Norwich, Norfolk NR1 3DH
- Every Wednesday, 3pm-5pm
Chatty Cafe at The Forum
- Cafe Marzano at The Forum are holding regular meetups for a chat and a natter, their goal being to eradicate loneliness.
- With no joining fee, no membership and no faff, it’s easy to get involved, just look out for the tables with the yellow cards!
- They get together from 10:30am.
- Absolutely everyone is welcome!
Cool Spot Coffee Morning at St. George’s Church (Colegate)
- St. George Church Colegate host their cool spot coffee morning every Wednesday from 10:30am – 1pm.
- Though conceived as a hot spot to help those in need find warmth and refreshment in the winter months, it’s running in the summer too – offering drink, cake and a warm welcome in the coolness of the church.
- No charge, everyone is welcome.
- St George Colegate – Google Maps
Norwich Wellbeing Choir for Women at Martineau Hall (Colegate, NR3)
- Enjoy the benefits of singing with others, boost your mental health and feel rejuvenated by attending the Norwich Wellbeing Choir for Women at Martineau Hall.
- This small and welcoming group gather every Wednesday morning during term time between 10-11:30am and sing songs from many genres.
- There is also a session between 7:30pm-9pm every Wednesday too.
- No auditions are needed – everyone is welcome.
- Event is free, so just turn up and register.
- You can find out more information by emailing colegatesingers@gmail.com
Social Games Night at Slice and Dice (St Benedicts)
- Social gaming evening to introduce you to new games and some friendly new people to play them with.
- Players of all abilities welcome, so you’ll feel at home whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gamer.
- No booking necessary, just turn up and play!
- Event runs on the first and third Wednesday of every month.
- The games begin at 6pm.
Thursdays
Shuffleboard Club at Catton Grove Community Centre
- If you fancy testing yourself at a new game/sport, why not head over to the Catton Grove Community Centre for their Shuffleboard Club.
- Shuffleboard is a game for 2 or 4 people. The aim of the game is to out-score your opponent by shooting discs into the marked areas at the opposite end of the Shuffleboard mat.
- It’s easy to learn and the club is open to all ages and abilities.
- Sessions run from 12:30pm-2:30pm every Thursday.
- The session costs £1 per week, with the first week free. No booking necessary.
Bond & Brew Friendship Cafe at Brooklands Care Home
- Every third Thursday of the month, head to Brooklands Care Home to meet new faces at their friendship café.
- Join them for a warm welcome, a hot cuppa, and delicious homemade cakes baked by their own chefs.
- Whether you’re looking for a friendly chat, new connections, or just a cosy place to relax, anyone is welcome.
- This is a free, open invitation event to all in our local community because sharing a moment over brew can make all the difference.
- To book your place, or to find out more, please call 01603 262 666 or email lifestyle.brooklands@carebase.org.uk
Fridays
REST Coffee Mornings
- Pop down to the REST café based at Churchman House on Bethel Street for their weekly café session.
- This is the perfect opportunity to meet new people, as well as indulge in their wide variety of snacks, including home baked sausage rolls, hot street food specials, jacket potatoes and ciabattas, as well as coffee, tea, hot chocolate and soft drinks.
- The group runs from 10:30am – 12:30pm.
- Attendance is free, but you will need to buy your snacks. Payment is contactless.
Friday Fitness at Catton Grove Community Centre
- If you want to improve your fitness or just try something new, then head to the Catton Grove community centre for their Friday fitness sessions.
- Friday Fitness offers you the opportunity to exercise at a pace that suits you, with support and encouragement from a qualified fitness instructor, with the sessions being aimed at those aged between 25-60 who live in the local area.
- New members are welcome, just turn up to get involved.
- The session costs £2, or free if it’s your first session.
- The event runs from 9:30am – 10:30am.
Fabric De-Stash Pop Up Shop at St Augustine’s Gate Unit 4
- Organised by ReDo, these pop-up events will run on a weekly basis and will showcase the highest quality fabric for sale.
- Sometimes there will even be clothes for sale for just £1!
- Event is running from 10am-2pm with free entry and free parking around the back of the building.
Harford FAB Fitness at Harford Community Centre
- Head down to Harford Community Centre for their fun aerobics’ classes every Friday.
- This low impact class is a great way of maintaining fitness and improving mental well-being.
- The session starts at 2pm and costs £4.25, or £3.25 for Harford Community Card holders.
- There’s no need to pre-book, just turn up on the day and pay.
Little Visitors Stay and Play Session at Broadlands Lodge Care Home.
- Spread cheer across generations and take your young ones to the little visitors stay and play sessions at Broadlands Lodge care home.
- Little Visitors is a multi-generational scheme which sees parents take their little ones to care homes to combat loneliness and spread kindness.
- Event starts at 10:30am.
- It’s free, but you will need to book a slot through their Ticket Source page.
Saturdays
Zine Club – Norfolk and Norwich Millennium Library
- Zine Club is a monthly social where locals get together to make and discuss zines!
- From over 200+ topics such as activism, protest, local interest, gender and sexuality, photography, art, nature, and more.
- The gathering occurs every third Saturday of the month from 2 – 4pm at the Norfolk and Norwich Millennium Library.
- It is completely free to attend with no booking requirement – all materials are provided too!
Flow Dance Meditation classes at Horsford Church Rooms
- Start the month by finding your inner zen and head to the Horsford Church Rooms for their Flow Dance Meditation classes.
- This conscious dance program is a vehicle for embodiment! Through somatic techniques you will become more deeply connected to yourself, especially your inner world!
- Session runs between 10am-11am on the first Saturday of every month.
- Event is free and tickets can be booked through their Facebook page.
Sundays
Sunday Social Run Club at Wright’s Café
- Start your Sunday with a refreshing run and a yummy treat from Wright’s Café on Bank Plain afterwards.
- Organised by the Fundamentality Run Club, this is the perfect event to socialise with like-minded runners, helping you stay physically and socially active.
- The team meet outside Wright’s café for 7:45am and are back in time for the café to open at 9am for a tasty treat and drink.
- You can register your interest through their Instagram page.
- The run is completely free.
