Residents invited to help shape the next generation of events in West Northants

27 April 2026

Residents are being invited to help shape the future of major events across West Northamptonshire. From international sporting fixtures to much-loved community festivals, we want to hear what you’d like to see in the area and how we can make events event better.

Events play a vital role in bringing people together, boosting the local economy and strengthening pride in place. West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) in partnership with the University of Northampton (UON), have developed a survey to help identify what kinds of events people would like to see more of in West Northants, as well as gather new ideas for the future.

The feedback will directly inform the development of a West Northamptonshire Major Events Strategy, which will guide how events are planned, supported and delivered in the years ahead. The strategy will build on the area’s strong track record of hosting successful events, including the Women’s Rugby World Cup, Men’s Tour of Britain, A Perfect Day Festival, Let’s Rock, and Northamptonshire Day celebrations.

West Northants has a proud track record of delivering fantastic events that bring people together, generate local pride and showcase our area on a national stage. This survey gives residents a real opportunity to help shape what comes next – by telling us what they value, what they’d like to see more of, and sharing new ideas for the future.
No idea is too big or too small – whether it’s pet shows, arts and crafts, motorsport, technology or something entirely different. We want to hear from everyone so we can develop events that genuinely reflect the interests, needs and creativity of our communities.Cllr James Petter, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at West Northamptonshire Council

The short online survey takes less than ten minutes to complete and asks residents about the types of events they enjoy, any barriers to attending, and how events could better reflect local communities. It is open to anyone who lives, works, studies or regularly spends time in West Northamptonshire.

We are excited to support this important work which gives all residents in West Northamptonshire an opportunity to share their ideas for the types of events they would like to see hosted in the county.
West Northamptonshire has so much to offer its residents and visitors, from heritage locations steeped in history, cultural activities and sports events to a broad active leisure, health and wellbeing offering.
Events help bring people together and build pride in place, and the University is pleased to be playing a key part in building a thriving visitor economy and raising the profile of West Northamptonshire on the national and international stages.
A county-wide major events strategy which actively incorporates community ideas and feedback will ensure that everyone living in or visiting West Northamptonshire has opportunities to engage in events and activities that bring them joy and reflect who they are.Ivna Reic, University of Northampton’s Head of School of Marketing & Hospitality Management

The Major Events Strategy will combine local insight with academic research and student involvement to ensure an evidence-based, community-led approach. The aim is to strengthen

West Northamptonshire’s reputation as an events destination while delivering lasting economic, social and cultural benefits.

Take part and have your say before Friday 15 May.