St George’s Day Victorian market and Party in the Park among highlights of Luton’s 150th anniversary events
To mark 150 years since Luton became its own borough, the council has unveiled a packed programme of celebratory events.
In 1876, Luton gained the power to elect its own representatives, marking the beginning of local democracy as we know it in the town. Now, 150 years on, 2026 will be filled with music, culture and heritage events to honour the past and look ahead to the next chapter in Luton's story.
Here are some of the highlights from this year’s calendar:
A Victorian-era market will take over the town centre on April 25 to celebrate St George’s Day.
The outdoor cinema at Hat Gardens returns on May 22 and August 29, offering free, family-friendly film screenings in the warmer months.
Stockwood Park will host a special VE Day celebration to mark the end of the Second World War, with plenty of Vauxhall trucks on display in a nod to the town’s motoring heritage.
And carrying on with the motoring theme, a dedicated showcase of Vauxhall cars will start on May 2.
The “Luton Made” exhibition will open at Stockwood Discovery Centre, celebrating the town’s proud car-making history through artefacts, classic models and personal stories from the people who built them. The exhibition runs from May 2 to June 28.
Luton International Carnival will return to its home in Wardown Park for its 50th anniversary celebration, promising an afternoon of colour, music and community spirit.
Live outdoor music will be a major feature throughout the summer. From May to August, the bandstand in Wardown Park will host a series of performances, while Market Hill will come alive with bands and artists, including performers from The Castle on June 27.
The council’s popular summer events programme will also return, featuring three live music events in the town centre. Following last year’s success, Beats & Bites in the Hat District and Market Hill Live will both return, alongside a brand new event, Funk ‘n’ Soul, showcasing jazz, soul, blues and funk artists performing in the Hat District.
Funk and soul will take centre stage in the Hat District on July 18, as The Bear Club’s talent showcase brings an evening of live music to the area.
The biggest musical moments of the year are set for September, with the “Luton 150 Party in the Park” in Stockwood Park on September 12, followed by an evening of classical favourites at “Proms in the Park” the next day.
The Party in the Park will feature a mix of local and national performers alongside food and drink stalls and family entertainment. This is set to be the biggest party of the year, with well-known artists taking the stage for an audience of around 10,000 people.
History enthusiasts can delve deeper into Luton's past during Heritage Open Days and guided tours running from September 11 to 20.
Cllr Simmons said: “2026 is a significant year in Luton’s history, and our events programme reflects the pride we have in our town and its people. Residents have told us they want to see more live music and heritage events, and this programme delivers just that.
“As we celebrate the 150th anniversary of Luton’s borough status, we are also celebrating the people, places and stories that make Luton what it is today. At the same time, we are looking ahead, with continued investment in the town centre and beyond to ensure Luton remains a great place to live and work for the next 150 years.”
The full list of events and activities taking place this year can be found on the Step Forward Luton website.