Clear your diaries, Northamptonshire – a brand-new celebration of everything that makes our county shine is landing this autumn. On Saturday 25 October 2025, the very first Northamptonshire Day will burst onto the scene, bringing people together for a full day of food, fun, and county-wide pride.

And where better to kick things off than Northampton’s Market Square? The newly regenerated heart of the town will transform into a buzzing hub of creativity and connection – think live music, heritage showcases, delicious local food, family-friendly stalls, and more. Next year, the baton will pass north, with plans already in place to take the celebration on tour.

A county coming together

The event is being delivered in partnership with Discover Northamptonshire, the county’s official tourism body and Local Visitor Economy Partnership (that’s a mouthful, but in short – they’re the people who work with Visit England to put Northamptonshire firmly on the map). Their mission? To boost local businesses, attract more visitors, and help everyone discover the hidden gems right on our doorstep.

For local leaders, Northamptonshire Day is about more than bunting and brass bands. Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council, called it “the start of a shared tradition, rooted in civic pride and future ambition,” while Cllr Martin Griffiths, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council, added:

“I was born and raised here and am extremely proud to call Northamptonshire my home. This celebration is a powerful opportunity to come together as one county – whether you’re a resident, visitor or local business.”

What’s on?

Here’s a taste of what you can expect on the day (running from 1pm to 7.30pm):

  • Live entertainment from brilliant local artists

  • Interactive stalls for all the family

  • Heritage exhibitions that bring our county’s history to life

  • A cultural showcase celebrating local creativity and innovation

  • A county-wide social media takeover using #NorthantsDay to share photos, memories, and pride

And it doesn’t stop there. Local businesses, schools, and community groups are being invited to join the fun – whether that’s decorating shop windows in Northamptonshire colours, offering themed promotions, or putting on mini-events of their own.

Sponsors already signed up include big county names like Billing Aquadrome, Delapré Abbey, Silverstone Park, Northampton BID and Northants Sings Out.

Why it matters

For Richard Clinton, Chair of Discover Northamptonshire, the event is about shining a spotlight on what makes the county unique:

“It’s a moment to showcase our heritage, creativity and visitor offer, while giving residents and guests the chance to explore hidden gems and shared stories. It’s this kind of collaboration that builds pride in place.”

With the Market Square now firmly re-established as a go-to destination (hosting everything from seasonal festivals to the upcoming Women’s Rugby World Cup Fan Zone), Northamptonshire Day feels like the next natural step – a celebration that’s rooted in community spirit but looking confidently towards the future.

How to get involved

Whether you fancy performing, trading, volunteering, or simply waving your flag with pride, there are plenty of ways to be part of Northamptonshire Day. Head to the Discover Northamptonshire website for the full programme and details on how you or your organisation can join in.

So mark the date. Saturday 25 October isn’t just another weekend – it’s the day Northamptonshire celebrates itself. And you’re invited.