Nottingham is getting ready for another Big Night Out – and it’s set to be another great family event that’s even bigger and better than before.

Last year’s first Big Night Out in November was a great success, bringing families into the city centre to enjoy the city’s cultural offer – including some special Big Night Out offers.

BBC Radio Nottingham, supported by Nottingham City Council, will host another event taking place on Thursday August 7th. This event links with Nottingham’s first ever Children’s Festival, which will be launched at the Riverside Festival on August 1st and run until August 17th.

BBC Radio Nottingham’s Breakfast Show presenter Andy Whittaker came up with the idea for the Big Night Out to encourage people to come into the city after dark who might not usually consider it.

Andy said :

"I think the last Big Night Out proved that the image of the city centre is changing. People who hadn't been into Nottingham at night for years were pleasantly surprised and I'm sure that making the most of the lighter summer evenings this time round will make it even more popular. The support from venues in Nottingham has once again been fantastic. It will all help to prove to those who still aren't convinced, that this is a vibrant and cultured city at night."

Leader of Nottingham City Council Councillor Jon Collins added:

“We were pleased to support last year’s first Big Night Out and I’m delighted that Radio Nottingham are planning a re-run after such a successful and popular event last November. It’s great to see families enjoying the city and discovering for themselves that it has something for everyone.”

Nottingham City Council has programmed some entertainment for the event, including drummers, street bands and stilt walkers to add to the fun atmosphere around the city centre on the night. This has been funded by Nottingham Business Improvement District (BID) working in partnership with the City Council to make sure the city is lively and entertaining.

A huge range of special offers have been secured at a variety of venues for the Big Night Out, including discounts at restaurants and special evening openings at venues such as the Galleries of Justice and The Tales of Robin Hood and special events such as guided walks. For full details of Big Night Out events and special offers, visit www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk/bignightout.

For more information on the Riverside and Children’s festivals, see www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk/whatson.