Join us for Christmas magic on the Market Square!

The holiday season is just around the corner and Northampton's revitalised Market Square is ready to celebrate! After the incredible success of the re-opening celebration in October, West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is excited to unveil Christmas on the Market Square, a magical line-up of festive activities designed to spread Christmas cheer among residents and families while supporting our local businesses and market traders.

🎄 Saturday, 7 December – Elf Takeover and Grinch-y Surprise!
Get ready for fun-filled activities from 11am to 3pm, as the Market Square is taken over by elves performing stilt-walking, juggling, and face painting. A mischievous Grinch-inspired character will also make a guest appearance, offering fantastic photo opportunities as they stroll around spreading holiday cheer. In addition, WNC is supporting Small Business Saturday and encourages everyone to support small retailers and traders across West Northants and celebrate the contribution small businesses make to our communities.

🎄 Saturday, 14 December – A North Pole Inspired Experience
Step into a winter wonderland between 11am and 3pm, with the Market Square's North Pole inspired activities. Enjoy taking photos in a free inflatable snow globe and watch festive short films in our outdoor cinema. Visitors can take a relaxing break from Christmas shopping and soak up the festive atmosphere with plenty of seating in the square and a festive bar from V&B plus much more.

🎄 Saturday, 21 December – Carols and Christmas Music
Join us from midday to 4pm as we sing along to some heartwarming carols around the Christmas tree, a must for a guaranteed festive feel. Christmas music will play throughout the top section of the Market Square all December, adding an extra festive touch to your shopping experience.

View the full Christmas on the Market Square line up.

Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure, said: "We're excited to celebrate Christmas in our newly revitalised Market Square, building on the fantastic success of October's reopening event. This year's festive programme is designed to bring joy to residents and visitors, while supporting our local businesses and market traders during this important season.

"Whilst we worked hard to secure a Christmas market for this year, unforeseen circumstances on the operator's side meant they were unable to proceed. In response, we've focused on delivering a range of engaging activities that bring the community together and shine a spotlight on the fantastic businesses and traders already in the area. Plans are well underway to ensure a full Christmas market in 2025. For now, we warmly invite everyone to join us this December to create magical memories and enjoy the festive spirit."