Thousands turn out to celebrate Northampton Market Square grand reopening

22 October 2024

The grand reopening of Northampton’s newly revitalised Market Square was a resounding success with an estimated 10,000 residents and visitors coming together over the weekend to celebrate the transformation of the historic community space.

Held on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 October, the event was packed with family-friendly activities, live performances, and cultural displays, ensuring there was something for everyone to enjoy. The celebration was made possible thanks to a combined £65,000 from the event’s proud sponsors and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

From live music from local talent on the Main Stage including BBC Introducing and Northampton Music Festival plus headline performances from ABBA tribute band The Magic of ABBA and Britain’s Got Talent finalists Northants Sings Out, to circus workshops, balloon makers, and face painting in the Northampton Town Centre BID Family Zone, the celebrations brought the community together in a vibrant atmosphere.

The Food and Drinks Zone was a particular highlight, with visitors enjoying a wide range of delicious local food and beverages from Northampton’s finest suppliers. Market traders were also on hand, showcasing their fresh produce, handmade crafts, and expert services, giving attendees the perfect opportunity to shop local and support small businesses.

The event also featured a Discovery Zone, where attendees could explore Northampton’s rich history through heritage displays, models of the Market Square’s new water feature, and even a chance to take part in an archaeological dig led by Northampton Museum and Art Gallery. Visitors were able to immerse themselves in the town’s history while enjoying a film showcasing the rich heritage of the Market Square created by the Northampton Film Festival in partnership with Northampton Town Council.

The dbfb Interactive Sports Zone offered an exciting range of interactive activities that celebrated West Northamptonshire’s sporting excellence, including the Saints Rugby Team with their trophy and a women and girls’ rugby activity ahead of next year’s Women’s Rugby World Cup. Attendees had the chance to get active and take part in hands-on experiences, including cycling with British Cycling, joining a Martial Arts class, and participating in various fun competitions.

View photos from the event on the WNC website.

"We were absolutely thrilled with the turnout for the grand reopening of Northampton’s Market Square. It was fantastic to see so many people come together to celebrate, enjoy the activities, and support local businesses while experiencing the revitalised space – particularly the new water fountain! This event really captured the spirit of our community and it’s been brilliant to see how the new square is already attracting increased footfall to the town centre. 

“The Market Square is just one of the major projects we’re working on to regenerate Northampton town centre, and we look forward to building upon this to benefit our wider towns across West Northamptonshire helping to create a vibrant and welcoming area for residents, businesses, and visitors.”Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture, and Leisure at WNC

With its modern amenities, beautiful new seating, and interactive water feature, the refreshed Market Square is set to become the beating heart of Northampton’s town centre, providing a central space for markets, community events, and social gatherings moving forward. View the full list of services available on the WNC website.

“We in the Artisan Collective pod had a fantastic weekend. There were lots of new people who decided to venture out to the new market and said they will be returning as their new place for cheese and all things local. Despite the weather [on Sunday] we had a brilliant weekend – it’s definitely an amazing event space!”Steve Reid, owner of the Northampton Cheese Company located on Northampton Market Square

“Tiptoe Ventures is thrilled to announce its successful grand opening in Market Square, Northampton. The event attracted a vibrant crowd, bringing a refreshing variety of experiences and excitement to the square.

"Tiptoe Ventures aims to enhance the local community by offering a unique mix of products and services that cater to diverse interests. From artisanal goods to innovative workshops, the new venture promises to be a hub of creativity and collaboration.

"We are excited to be part of the Market Square community. Our goal is to create a space where people can come together, explore new ideas, and enjoy what Northampton has to offer."
Frank Beckley, Founder of Tiptoe Ventures located on Northampton Market Square, said:

The Council extends its gratitude to all the partners, businesses, and sponsors, including Veolia, ZONE Developments, Northampton BID, Northampton Town Council, SEGRO, Evolve, dbfb Communications, Danaher & Walsh Civil Engineering, Billing Aquadrome, CS2, Stageright and Chelsea Hire who played a crucial role in making the weekend’s celebrations such a huge success.

As part of the ongoing efforts to enhance future events and the use of the space, West Northamptonshire Council is inviting attendees to share their feedback via the post-event survey. Your views will help shape the continued success of Northampton’s Market Square. 

To participate, please visit the WNC website.