There’s something rather magical about Northampton in the summertime, isn’t there? One minute you’re tracing the footsteps of history with a curious child tugging at your sleeve, the next you’re looking up in awe as hot air balloons drift across the sky, or tapping your foot to a brass band on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Northampton Town Council has pulled together a season packed with stories, sights and sounds that’ll make you fall in love with the town all over again – and you’re all invited to join in.
Bring the family into Northampton town centre this summer and discover the story of the Great Fire of 1675, which changed the town forever.
Using the Explore Northampton app, you can follow a fun augmented reality trail featuring different historical characters who tell the story of how the fire spread—and what happened next! Just scan the QR code to get started, then look out for the round floor stickers to guide you along the way.
The trail begins on St Mary’s Street (opposite Castle Hill Church, NN1 2RN) and is less than a mile long—perfect for curious kids and grown-ups alike. It takes around 30 minutes to complete.
Created to mark 350 years since the fire, the trail is part of a programme of fire-themed activities and events running all summer long.
Find out more at: northamptontowncouncil.gov.uk/greatfire350
Community spirit flies high at Northampton Balloon Festival
Northampton Town Council is delighted to host the Community Marquee at this year’s Northampton Balloon Festival, taking place from 15–17 August 2025 at The Racecourse.
Open daily from 12 noon to 6pm, the marquee will showcase local community groups and not-for-profit organisations, offering fun activities and a chance to learn more about the brilliant work happening across our town.
The festival promises a fantastic weekend for families, with morning and evening hot air balloon launches (weather permitting), live arena shows, birds of prey displays, a circus workshop, historical re-enactments, a funfair, and a wide selection of food and drink.
There’s also local crafts and produce, trade stalls and spectacular sunset balloon glows on Friday and Saturday, all rounded off with a firework finale on Sunday night.
Early bird tickets are available now from Skiddle.com. Don’t miss this popular summer event for all ages! Grab your tickets here.
Bands in the Park 125
Every Sunday & Bank Holiday Monday, 2pm –5pm: Abington Park Bandstand
Our Bands in the Park season continues with live music performances from traditional brass, jazz and concert bands, plus cover bands and singers in the beautiful surroundings of Abington Park. Meet up with family and friends and enjoy the music.
3rd Aug – Friday Night Konsipracy | 10th Aug – Fynnius Fogg Band | 17th Aug – Sax’s Cool | 24th Aug – Nene Valley Community Band | 25th Aug – Similar Jones | 31st Aug – Kettering Silver Band
For more details on NTC’s events and projects visit: www.northamptontowncouncil.gov.uk/events
Or get in touch with the team: events@northamptontowncouncil.gov.uk
All events and projects listed are delivered, supported or sponsored by Northampton Town Council
