Counting down to Northamptonshire Day 2026 - celebrating civic pride and community

07 October 2026

An exciting programme of events and activities is planned for this year’s Northamptonshire Day event, taking place on Sunday 25 October in Kettering from 10am to 5pm.

The event, organised by North and West Northamptonshire Council, aims to showcase everything that makes the county special.

Northamptonshire Day will see Kettering transformed into a vibrant festival featuring themed event zones, local food and drink, heritage and live entertainment with more than 50 organisations already signed up to take part. 

Visitors will be able to explore a range of themed zones across the town centre including heritage, culture and arts, family activities, community groups, active leisure, food and drink, and local businesses. 

The Heritage zone, centred around Manor House Gardens and Corn Market Hall (Corn Market Hall from 1pm - 5pm), will bring Northamptonshire's rich history to life with living history re-enactments, archaeology activities, museum exhibits, family games and displays from heritage organisations from across the county. Highlights include a 17th-century Civil War encampment from The Sealed Knot, alongside interactive activities and stalls from the Archaeological Resource Centre, Delapré Abbey, the Northamptonshire Heritage Forum and Northampton Museums and Art Gallery.

The Culture and Family Zones will offer hands-on creative activities, artist demonstrations, exhibitions and workshops, alongside a dedicated quiet, SEN-friendly space. Visitors can also enjoy performances at the Alfred East Gallery (which will fully re-open to the public on Saturday 24 October) and Northampton Film Festival and the Northamptonshire Film Archive Trust will screen local films local film screenings throughout the day.

Food and drink lovers will be able to sample produce from local breweries, food producers and street food vendors, while community organisations, emergency services, charities and local groups will showcase the work they do to support residents across the county.

The Community zone will include vehicles from the emergency services and there will also be stands from local charities and organisations. Live music will run throughout the day on the main stage, celebrating local talent and helping to create a festival atmosphere in the heart of Kettering.

Away from the town centre, heritage buses will be running, including between Northampton and Kettering (timetable to be published online soon), whilst Wicksteed Park will run its full half-term programme on the day and offer discounted tickets to Northamptonshire Day visitors. In the evening, a special performance of musical theatre, pop, rock and classic hits will take place at the Lighthouse Theatre.

Northamptonshire Day is so nearly here! It will be a fantastic opportunity to celebrate everything that makes our county special. From our rich heritage and thriving cultural scene to our communities, attractions, businesses and talented residents, this event brings together the very best of Northamptonshire in one place.

There will be something for everyone to enjoy, and I would encourage residents and visitors alike to come along, explore the different zones and celebrate our shared pride in Northamptonshire.Cllr Martin Griffiths, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council

Our county has so much to be proud of, from its rich heritage and cultural scene to the businesses, community groups and volunteers who make Northamptonshire such a special place. This event is a fantastic opportunity to showcase that pride and celebrate the people, places and organisations that help our communities thrive.

I am delighted that so many groups and organisations are getting involved to create what promises to be a memorable Northamptonshire Day celebration. Whether you're discovering something new, reconnecting with local history or simply enjoying the atmosphere, there will be something for everyone to enjoy so please do come along and join the festivities.Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council

Alongside the county celebration is the BIG50 Book Festival, a week-long programme of free reading, storytelling and literary activities taking place across North Northamptonshire, encouraging residents of all ages to discover the joy of books and reading.

Northamptonshire Day is sponsored by Wilson Brown Solicitors, London North Eastern Railway and Ace Furniture.

More details are available on the Northamptonshire Day pages of the North Northamptonshire Council website.