Headline acts revealed ahead of Northampton’s revitalised Market Square grand reopening

24 September 2024

West Northamptonshire is gearing up for an unforgettable weekend as the newly revitalised and reimagined Northampton Market Square prepares to reopen with a spectacular celebration on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 October. 

The two-day event promises to be a vibrant display of community spirit, culture, and live entertainment that residents and visitors won’t want to miss, with ABBA tribute the Magic of ABBA and Britain’s Got Talent 2024 finalists Northants Sings Out announced as the headline acts. BBC Introducing and Northampton Music Festival will also provide music and entertainment throughout both days, bringing some of the best emerging talent from across the country to the main stage, creating an energetic and festival atmosphere.

"It is a huge honour to be part of such a historical moment in time for Northampton. Having been raised and educated here, I've watched the transformation of the Market Square in awe.

“It was a pleasure to take the name Northampton onto the national stage during our time on this year’s Britain's Got Talent and it's now a pleasure to represent just some of the musical greatness we have in Northampton as we headline the closing of what I know will be a wonderful weekend celebrating the place we live, work and love so much."Gareth Fuller, Founder and Choir Director of Northants Sings Out

Hosted by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) and supported by Northampton Forward, Northampton BID and Northampton Town Council, the grand opening will mark the transformation of the town’s historic Market Square into a thriving hub for the whole community. The space, revitalised as part of a major regeneration project funded by the Government’s Towns Fund, is set to become a landmark that will serve as the beating heart of Northampton for generations to come.

But the celebration doesn’t stop with live music! Attendees can look forward to a host of family-friendly activities, from creative musical performances and cultural displays to historic exhibitions and mouth-watering food and drink from local vendors, all spaced out in a variety of accessible Zone areas. 

People will also have the chance to explore a diverse range of offerings from local businesses and market traders; from fresh, locally produced goods to handmade crafts and expert services like bicycle repairs, key cutting, floristry, and more, the market will showcase the best of Northampton’s small businesses and will provide an excellent opportunity for visitors to support local traders and discover unique products.

Starting with the phased return of traders on 20 September, the newly transformed Market Square will become a bustling marketplace with high-quality stalls, enhanced lighting, new seating, and an impressive interactive water feature. The space is designed to be inclusive and accessible, offering a welcoming environment for all.

“We are extremely excited to be celebrating the grand opening of Northampton’s newly revitalised Market Square, a project that truly embodies the spirit of our community.

“The regeneration of the Market Square is not just about celebrating the past, but about creating a bright future for Northampton. The project aims to boost the local economy, support small businesses, and provide a vibrant venue for events, markets, and community gatherings.

“This opening event marks a new chapter for the town, and we look forward to seeing the square become a central hub where residents and visitors can come together to enjoy everything Northampton has to offer. We invite everyone to join us for a fantastic weekend of fun, entertainment, and celebration."Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at WNC

Mark your calendars and come along for a weekend of fun, flavour, and festivities as we celebrate the reimagined Northampton Market Square. This is a not-to-be-missed event that will leave a lasting legacy for the town. For more information on the grand opening and the event schedule, please visit the Reopening of Northampton Market Square.