Love Luton: Events showcase everything that makes our town special
A special year for Luton as we celebrate 150 years of borough status
Love Luton column by Linsey Sweet, chair of Love Luton
I hope everyone is managing to keep cool during the recent warm weather and finding time to enjoy our wonderful parks and the many events taking place across the town throughout the summer.
As I mentioned in previous columns, this is a special year for Luton as we celebrate 150 years of borough status. We are now building towards our two flagship anniversary events, Party in the Park and Proms in the Park, taking place on 12th and 13th September.
Party in the Park on Saturday 12th September will be headlined by the Kaiser Chiefs, with support from The Feeling, The Hoosiers, Rickie & Melvin, and talented local artists Olivia Lynn and JW Paris. Proms in the Park on 13th September promises to be a spectacular evening, featuring a full orchestra and culminating in a stunning fireworks display.
Discounted tickets for Luton residents are available for both events, but availability is limited. If you're keen to attend, I'd encourage you to secure your tickets before the usual last-minute rush.
Party in the Park: https://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/luton-rising-presents-party-in-the-park-tickets/artist/5723168
August also brings a fantastic programme of events across the town. Beats & Bites returns to the Hat District with a range of well-known artists taking to the stage, while Hat Gardens will host a cinema day alongside a variety of family-friendly activities.
One of our partners, Aegis, is also hosting a Family Fun Day at Luton Sixth Form College on 22nd August in support of Keech Hospice. For more information about these and other events taking place across Luton, visit: https://place.stepforwardluton.co.uk/things-to-do-in-luton/whats-on-guide
If there is a recurring theme to this month's blog, it is events. It is something Luton does incredibly well. From music and sport to food, culture and family entertainment, there really is something for everyone.
Looking ahead to October, we will once again host our annual running event, with distances including 5K, 10K and Half Marathon races. Even if running is not for you, there are plenty of volunteering opportunities that allow you to be part of the day and enjoy the fantastic atmosphere.
Events showcase everything that makes our town special: our culture, creativity, diversity, community spirit and local talent. They highlight the very best of Luton and remind us that, when times are tough, we come together to support one another.
Like many towns and cities, Luton faces its share of challenges. For years, we have often found ourselves on the receiving end of negative headlines, perhaps partly because of our excellent transport connections and visibility. However, many of the issues we face are shared by communities across the country, and we are working hard to address them while building a stronger future.
That future is beginning to take shape. Luton is on the cusp of one of the most significant transformations in its history. In all my years here, I cannot remember seeing so many cranes on the skyline. A £5 billion regeneration programme is creating new homes, jobs, leisure opportunities and investment across the town. It is an exciting time, and there is a real sense that Luton is moving forward with confidence.
August also marks the start of a new football season and Luton Town's penultimate campaign at Kenilworth Road before the move to Power Court. Let's hope the team can pick up where they left off last season. I do not want to tempt fate, but I am optimistic about what could be a fantastic 2026/27 season and look forward to cheering the Hatters on at the Kenny.
As summer continues, I wish you all a wonderful August and hope to see many of you enjoying the town's events, supporting local causes, or cheering on Luton Town at Kenilworth Road.