Countdown to WinterFest begins as new attractions and community events announced
02 November 2026
With the countdown to Christmas officially underway, a host of new attractions, entertainment and community events have been revealed for WinterFest 2026, set to transform Northampton Market Square into a magical festive destination this winter.
Running throughout the festive season, WinterFest will bring together local businesses, market traders, community organisations and cultural partners to deliver a packed programme of entertainment, seasonal shopping, food and drink, and community events in the heart of Northampton.
Delivered by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) alongside principal partner Northampton Town Council, together with Northampton BID, Delapré Abbey, the Grosvenor Centre and Muse, WinterFest aims to drive footfall and spend into the town centre, support local businesses and create memorable experiences for residents and visitors.
Cllr Kamala Guliyeva, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at WNC, said: "Christmas is such a special time of year, and WinterFest is a fantastic opportunity to bring people together and celebrate everything that makes Northampton unique.
"I'm delighted that we're working with so many local businesses, traders, community groups and partners to create a festive programme that everyone can enjoy while supporting our town centre and local economy.
“From the lights switch-on and Ferris wheel to festive shopping and community performances, there will be something for all ages to enjoy throughout the season."
The festivities get underway with Northampton Town Council’s Christmas Lights Switch On, taking place on Saturday 21 November, before a season-long programme of attractions, performances and community events takes over the Market Square.
Building on the success of Summer on the Square, local fairground operator John Greatorex will bring a selection of family rides to the Market Square throughout WinterFest, including a traditional Ferris wheel, offering views across Northampton town centre.
A special festive light installation from Delapré Abbey will offer visitors a taste of its popular Christmas light trail, while gingerbread-themed retail huts will showcase unique seasonal gifts from local traders.
Families can also enjoy free face painting sessions on selected dates across the programme, while visitors on Small Business Saturday will have the opportunity to enjoy festive cinema screenings on a giant screen in the Market Square.
John Greatorex, Owner of Café Continental, said: "We're incredibly excited to be part of WinterFest and to continue building on the success we've seen in Market Square this year. Bringing family rides into the town centre will add to the festive atmosphere and encourage more people to spend time enjoying everything WinterFest has to offer.”
The East Midlands Academy Trust (EMAT) choir, which brings together pupils from primary schools across Northampton, will be performing as part of the Carols on the Square event, taking place on Saturday 12 December.
Daniel Lugg, Executive Headteacher at East Midlands Academy Trust (EMAT), said: “We’re so excited to be joining WinterFest and giving our pupils the opportunity to be part of such a special community celebration.
“Taking part will help them build confidence, develop new experiences and create lasting memories, while sharing their enthusiasm and talents with the wider community. We look forward to helping spread festive joy and bringing a little extra Christmas spirit to residents and visitors throughout the season.”
A range of community events will showcase local talent each weekend, including:
SHINE! A Celebration of Young Talent
Saturday, 28 November
Bringing together schools, youth groups and young performers from across West Northamptonshire, SHINE! will celebrate the creativity, skills and achievements of young people through performances and entertainment in the heart of Northampton.
Small Business Saturday
Saturday, 5 December
Celebrating independent businesses with festive cinema screenings and seasonal entertainment on a giant screen in the Market Square.
Carols on the Square
Saturday, 12 December
Returning for its second year, Carols on the Square will feature local schools, community choirs, EMAT, the Polish Saturday School, the NMPAT Brass Band, Northampton Musical Theatre Company, Reggae Ray, the Starlight Sisters, Northants Sing Out and headline act Mike All Bublé, alongside opportunities to support local charitable initiatives.
WinterFest Live: Student Sessions
Sunday, 13 December
A platform for emerging performers and creative talent from local colleges, universities and educational institutions to take to the stage and showcase their work.
WinterFest Around the World
Saturday, 19 December
A celebration of the rich diversity of West Northamptonshire, bringing communities together through music, food, dance, storytelling and festive traditions from around the globe.
For the latest event announcements and updates, visit the WinterFest webpage and follow WNC's social media channels.