Things to Do

The Lewis Foundation is calling on schools, students and families across Northamptonshire to pull on their Santa suits and take part in this year’s Santa Fun Run on Saturday 7 December, raising funds to support adults undergoing cancer treatment in hospital. Organised by the Rotary Clubs of Northampton, the cheerful event invites participants to walk, jog or run a 2.5km or 5km route, with every runner receiving their very own Santa outfit — free of charge. This year, The Lewis Foundation is shining a spotlight on young people and families, encouraging them to give back during the festive season. To make it easy for schools and families to get involved, the charity will cover the entry fee for anyone signing up to run on its behalf. In return, participants are asked to raise a minimum of £36 each, enough to fund ten gift packs filled with comfort items and essentials..

This festive season, Stanwick Lakes invites families and visitors to step into the magic of Christmas in the heart of our beautiful nature reserve. With a joyful programme of events — from festive lunches and creative workshops to sparkling trails and family adventures — there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From our magical Santa’s Grotto to the unforgettable Lantern Walk and Santa Winter Run, we really have all you need to make joyful memories this Christmas. And it doesn’t stop there. Beyond the festive fun, Stanwick Lakes offers everything you need for a perfect family day out. Explore the pathways, hire bikes, or let the kids burn off energy in the adventure playgrounds. For those that enjoy a treat our lakeside café serves delicious seasonal, homemade treats which all contribute to a day that’s active, memorable and full of variety. Set against the stunning backdrop of lakes and frosty woodland,..

The Northampton Town & County Art Society is set to open its 108th Annual Exhibition at Northampton Museum & Art Gallery next month, showcasing the best of the county’s artistic talent. Running from 8 November 2025 to 11 January 2026, the exhibition features new works from professional and established local artists, as well as 23 pieces by non-members selected to bring a fresh perspective to the event. Founded in 1913, the Society has exhibited every year since, maintaining its reputation as the county’s leading platform for artists — even during both world wars. Visitors can expect a wide variety of paintings, sculptures and original prints, most of which will be available to buy — offering the perfect opportunity to pick up a unique Christmas gift. Society president Cordell Garfield said: “The Northampton Town and County Art Society’s annual exhibition is the high point of Northampton’s art programme, and the culmination..

The Live Performers at the Fireworks Spectacular. Image credit: Stu Vincent Photography Get ready for a night of lights, music and more — because Northampton’s much-loved Fireworks Spectacular is back at the Racecourse on Saturday 1 November, and it’s all free. The annual event, organised by Northampton Town Council, draws thousands every year, and this one promises to be the biggest and brightest yet. Festivities kick off at 4pm with live entertainment, family activities and food stalls, before the jaw-dropping pyro-musical fireworks finale at 6pm lights up the sky. Music, fire and a little bit of history BBC Radio Northampton’s very own Justin Dealey will host the live stage, warming up the crowd and introducing acts including party favourites Funk Odessey at 4.30pm. Just before the fireworks begin, the Live Performers will deliver a daring Fire and Pyro routine at 5.45pm — setting the stage (literally) for the grand finale...

Image: Fireworks in Northampton Credit: Stu Vincent Photography Autumn in Northampton isn’t just about crunchy leaves and digging out your favourite jumper — it’s about coming together for moments that make you go “wow”. And this year, the town’s calendar is bursting with them. Think fireworks that dance in time to music, lanterns lighting up the night in a blaze of colour, and a community standing shoulder to shoulder in remembrance. From family fun on the Racecourse to giant puppets parading through the town centre, Northampton’s about to put on a season of celebrations you’ll want to mark in your diary (and yes, maybe even your phone alarms too). Northampton’s much-loved Fireworks Spectacular, organised by Northampton Town Council, is back at the Racecourse on Saturday 1st November — and it’s free for all to enjoy! The fun kicks off from 4pm with entertainment for the whole family, supported by event..

Oktoberfest is rolling back into Delapré Abbey this September – and the call has gone out for Northamptonshire to dust off its lederhosen and get ready to party Bavarian-style. The South Lawn will swap its usual calm for beer, music and Bavarian cheer on Friday 26th September (7pm–11pm) and Saturday 27th September, with two lively sessions running in the afternoon (2pm–6pm) and evening (7pm–11pm). Whichever you choose, you’ll find the Abbey buzzing with live bands, hearty food, steins in hand, and plenty of good-natured fun. This year, there’s no giant tent or Oompah band – instead, the Abbey is going for a more intimate, local flavour. Expect a South Lawn dressed with Bavarian touches, brilliant live music from local acts, and food stalls serving up everything you’d want alongside a stein (think bratwurst, pretzels and other hearty bites). It’s about atmosphere – dancing, singing, clinking glasses with friends, and maybe..

Picture this: you’re wandering through the historic grounds of Delapré Abbey, but instead of leafy woodland and quiet gardens, you’re met with glowing archways, twinkling trees and shimmering installations that look like they’ve stepped straight out of a Christmas film. That’s exactly what’s waiting for you at Northampton’s Winter Light Trail, running from Friday 28th November to Wednesday 31st December. It’s not just a walk – it’s over a mile of magic. You’ll follow illuminated pathways that wind through woodland and gardens, discovering brand-new light installations, interactive features and captivating soundscapes along the way. In short, it’s designed to make you stop, smile, and maybe even gasp a little. (Yes, it’s that good.)   And just when you think it can’t get any cosier, there’s the pit stop. A roaring fire, marshmallows to toast, mugs of hot chocolate (or mulled wine if you fancy something a little stronger), plus street..

Stanwick Lakes is set to come alive this October Half Term with a programme of spooky adventures, creative workshops and outdoor fun for the whole family. With a full day out that’s fun and affordable, our Halloween activities are designed to encourage families to slow down and enjoy time together – from autumn crafts and seasonal treats to glowing trails and woodland adventures. Families can spend the whole day exploring, creating, and making magical memories in the great outdoors. And it doesn’t stop there. Beyond the Halloween fun, Stanwick Lakes offers everything you need for a perfect family day out. Explore miles of scenic walking and cycling routes, hire bikes, or let the kids burn off energy in the adventure playgrounds, complete with climbing towers and water play. For those that enjoy a treat our lakeside café serves delicious seasonal, homemade treats which all contribute to a day that’s active,..

HRH Sophie, The Duchess of Edinburgh visited Northampton on June 10, 2025, to commemorate the 350th anniversary of the Great Fire of Northampton. It was a September morning back in 1675 when sparks from an open fire on St Mary’s Street set off one of the most destructive blazes in Northampton’s history. Within hours, flames had torn through the town, reducing 700 of its 850 buildings to ashes. Eleven lives were lost. Fast-forward 350 years, and Northampton is set to mark the anniversary of the Great Fire not with fear, but with music, markets, art, and a week-long series of free activities that will culminate in a spectacular finale in the Market Square on Saturday 20 September. A big finish in the Market Square From 11am until 7.30pm, the square will come alive with stalls, performances and community showcases before a commemorative service at All Saints’ Church. Expect artisan crafts,..

It might only be November, but the tinsel is about to get its first outing. The Festive Gift Fair is back at the NEC Birmingham from 13–16 November 2025, and with more than 300 stalls under one roof, it’s the perfect place to kickstart your Christmas countdown. Now in its 29th year, this seasonal spectacular has grown into one of the UK’s most-loved festive shopping events. Expect everything from stocking fillers and homeware to artisan cheeses, boutique gins and hand-crafted decorations – all wrapped up in a buzzing atmosphere complete with roaming entertainers, Father Christmas, and live music to get you in the spirit. “Every year, the Festive Gift Fair brings together an incredible mix of traders and performers,” says the team behind the event. “It’s about so much more than shopping – it’s a festive experience for all ages.” Top 5 Highlights for 2025 🎄 Foodie Heaven – Taste..

Where great music meets real accessibility Imagine this: the thrum of basslines rolling across the historic lawns of Delapré Abbey, the laughter of festivalgoers filling the air, and — right alongside — all-terrain wheelchairs tackling a purpose-built adventure trail. It’s not just a festival. It’s not just a disability event. It’s the UK’s first-ever blend of the two, and it’s happening right here in Northampton. On Saturday 20 September, NN Fest — the much-loved music festival run by Mo Sounds — is joining forces with The Disabled Adventurer, Nick Wilson, to create something completely unique. “Music has the power to unite people,” says Suzy Jones, Operations Director of Mo Sounds. “We’ve always worked hard on accessibility, but this takes it to the next level. We want to show that minor adjustments at festivals can make a massive difference for wheelchair users. This shouldn’t feel special — it should just be..

Northampton's Market Square turns tropical with Moana outdoor cinema Market Square is about to swap cobblestones for coconuts as Northampton gears up for a tropical twist on movie night. On Saturday, 6 September, Disney’s Moana sails onto the big screen in the town centre, with a full day of Polynesian-themed family entertainment, live performances and hands-on activities. The open-air cinema event is being organised by Northampton Town Centre BID, with support from West Northamptonshire Council, and is expected to draw hundreds of visitors keen to soak up the atmosphere. “We’ve seen how making the most of the square’s events space can really bring in the crowds and get the town centre buzzing,” said Mark Mullen, operations manager of Northampton Town Centre BID. “An open-air cinema is something the whole family can enjoy… from Polynesian dancers to fire breathers, we want people to make a whole day of it in Northampton.”..

Play With Clay at Family Arts Festival July 2023 © ABDigitalUK A festival made for families Picture this: Corby town centre buzzing with music, dance, colour and laughter, as children, parents and grandparents roll up their sleeves and dive into a day of creativity together. That’s exactly what’s on the cards on Saturday 20th September, when community arts organisation Made With Many hosts its Family Arts Festival – a free celebration of art, performance and togetherness running from 11am to 5pm. “Family Arts Festival is all about bringing people together through the joy of making and creating,” said Victoria Bell, Co-Director of Made With Many. “There really will be something for everyone, from babies to grandparents.” From taiko drums to curious creatures The line-up is nothing short of eclectic (and joyfully so). Families can step into a world of stories, rhythm and colour with: ‘Fish Boy’, a powerful outdoor dance..

What’s on at Stanwick Lakes this September September at Stanwick Lakes is shaping up to be one for the diary. Whether you’re an art lover, fitness fan, history buff, or simply looking for a great family day out, there’s something to tempt you down to the lakeside this month. Here’s a look at what’s coming up. Northants & Rutland Open Studios From 1st SeptemberThe region’s biggest visual arts festival is back, and Stanwick Lakes is proud to be one of the venues. Half a dozen talented artists will be showcasing their work throughout the month, giving you the chance to browse, chat, and be inspired. Even better, nominated pieces will be donated to support the Stanwick Lakes charity, so your visit helps both local creativity and the community.Find out more Run at Stanwick Lakes Sunday 7th SeptemberReady to lace up your trainers? Whether you’re taking on the 5k, 10k, or..

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..