Thousands attend Luton's 150th anniversary Party in the Park with Kaiser Chiefs

Families, parents and groups of friends filled the park for the ticketed event, which formed part of the town’s Luton 150 celebrations.

The event opened at 2.30pm, with Luton band JW Paris among the first acts to take to the stage.

The hometown group had the honour of opening the main stage before a line-up which included The Hoosiers, The Feeling, Panjabi MC, Olivia Lynn, Rickie and Melvin and DJ Jess Iszatt.

The two Luton natives, Aaron Forde and Danny Collins from JW Paris, were honoured to play at the concert as they used to play football at the park in their youth.

By 3pm, the park had begun filling with people, although the large event space meant there was still plenty of room to move around.

And while there was a strong police presence, the atmosphere was warm and lively – with event-goers singling along to the music.

The layout of the park was similar to Radio 1 Big Weekend, with food and merchandise stalls along with funfair rides for a great family day out.

The Hoosiers helped raise the energy as the afternoon went on, performing some of their best-known songs including Worried About Ray and Goodbye Mr A, alongside covers including Cyndi Lauper’s Girls Just Want to Have Fun and Chappell Roan’s Pink Pony Club.

The Feeling then continued the live music before Panjabi MC brought a different sound to the stage, with the event offering a mix of indie, rock and dance music throughout the afternoon.

As the evening approached, attention turned to the headline act – Kaiser Chiefs.

The Leeds band, known for hits including Ruby, I Predict a Riot and Oh My God, were the final act of the day as thousands gathered to celebrate Luton’s milestone.

The event was organised as part of Luton 150, marking 150 years since Luton became a borough in 1876.

Luton Council said the celebration was designed to bring together music, culture, local talent and the communities that have helped shape the town over the past century and a half.

With families dancing and singing across Stockwood Park and local acts sharing the stage with established names, the event provided a large-scale celebration of Luton’s anniversary.

Party in the Park was followed by Proms in the Park at Stockwood Park on Sunday (September 13), continuing the weekend of Luton 150 celebrations.