Bluey, Bingo, Mum and Dad are back by popular demand in the Olivier Award-nominated live stage show Bluey’s Big Play. The tour opens on 25 October and will visit 32 venues across the UK and Ireland up until August 2026, including performances at Milton Keynes Theatre from Thu 27 – Sat 29 November.

Featuring brilliantly created puppets, this theatrical adaptation of the Emmy® Award-winning children’s television series is packed with music, laughter, and fun for the whole family. The critically acclaimed stage show has captivated audiences of all ages, with Bluey and her family delighting fans with an unforgettable live theatrical experience.

“Expect full chair dancing and shrieks of joy” – Broadway World ★★★★★

“Puppy puppets’ sweet show sets tails wagging” – The Guardian

Since premiering in Australia, Bluey’s Big Play has toured globally across the UK, Ireland, Canada, the US, Europe, Singapore and the UAE and has been seen by millions of fans worldwide.

Bluey’s Big Play is a delightful treat for families, featuring the original voices from the beloved TV series, including the instantly recognisable voices of Dave McCormack and Melanie Zanetti as Dad and Mum. Based on an original story by Bluey creator Joe Brumm and featuring music by series composer Joff Bush, this live adaptation is produced by Andrew Kay and Cuffe & Taylor with Windmill Theatre Co for BBC Studios.

When Dad feels like a little bit of afternoon time out, Bluey and Bingo have other plans! Join them as they pull out all of the games and cleverness at their disposal to get Dad off that bean bag. With an original story by Bluey creator Joe Brumm, and new music by Bluey composer Joff Bush – this is Bluey, For Real Life.

Natasha Spence, Events Director, Live Entertainment at BBC Studios, said:

“The play’s last tour was met with overwhelming enthusiasm from audiences across the UK and Ireland. We can’t wait for more fans and families to experience the joy of seeing Bluey’s Big Play live on stage once again”

Ben Hatton, Senior Vice President, Arts & Entertainment at Cuffe and Taylor, added:

“We were thrilled with the incredible reception Bluey’s Big Play received in our previous tour; the response from our audiences was nothing short of magical. So we couldn’t be more excited to bring Bluey back to the UK and Ireland”

Book your tickets now at ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes.

LISTINGS 

Bluey’s Big Play
Performances: Thu 27 Nov – Sat 29 Nov 2025
Access bookings: 0333 009 5399
Group bookings: 0207 206 1174
Online Booking: ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes*

*Fees may apply. Calls cost up to 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge

Milton Keynes’ newest entertainment venue, MERKUR Casino Milton Keynes at Xscape, is kicking off its sporting event calendar in style with its first major live event – an exclusive Eubank Jr vs Benn II Fight Night Experience this Saturday 15^th November.

Just two weeks after opening its doors, the city’s new flagship casino will host an unforgettable evening of sport, entertainment and celebrity guests, marking the beginning of a programme of high-quality live events.

Guests will also enjoy exclusive insights from some of the most respected names in British boxing and broadcasting including: Carl Froch MBE, David Haye and Gary Newbon MBE.

Carl ‘The Cobra’ Froch MBE is a four-time world super-middleweight champion, inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2023 following an iconic career featuring wins over George Groves, Mikkel Kessler and Lucian Bute.

David ‘The Hayemaker’ Haye is a former unified cruiserweight world champion and WBA heavyweight world champion, one of only a handful of British boxers in history to win world titles in two weight divisions.

Hosting the evening will be one of Britain’s most respected sports broadcasters, Gary Newbon. With a career spanning over five decades, Gary has fronted and produced coverage for ITV Sport and Sky Sports, presenting some of the biggest moments in football and boxing history. Having interviewed countless world champions and sports icons, his experience and insight have made him a household name and a trusted voice in British sports broadcasting.

The evening will begin with a live panel discussion hosted by Newbon, featuring expert insights, pre-fight predictions, and professional commentary from Froch and Haye as anticipation builds for the Eubank Jr vs Benn II showdown.

Following the bout, Froch and Haye will return for a post-fight analysis and interactive question and answer session, offering guests a ringside perspective from some of the sport’s most respected voices.

Mark Schertle, Chief Operating Officer at MERKUR Casino UK Ltd, said: “We couldn’t think of a better way to launch our live events calendar. Having legends like Carl Froch, David Haye and Gary Newbon here in Milton Keynes is an incredible way to showcase what MERKUR Casino is all about. Premium experiences, high-quality entertainment and unforgettable nights out. This event sets the tone for what guests can expect from us moving forward.”

Located inside Xscape Milton Keynes, the new 22,000 sq ft MERKUR Casino combines a first-class gaming floor, premium bar and event spaces designed for live entertainment, social experiences and community events, cementing its place as one of the region’s most exciting new destinations.

The Eubank JR vs Benn II Fight Night marks the start of a regular programme of live events at MERKUR Casino Milton Keynes.

To book your tickets, please CLICK HERE.

Photo: Lightdraw Photography

Christmas is a time of connection, of coming together with friends, family, colleagues and community. This year, Unity Place is embracing that spirit with a festive programme designed to inspire togetherness, creativity and celebration.

From artisan markets and creative workshops to festive food and community activities, there’s something for everyone. Come along solo to meet new people at a wreath-making workshop, or gather friends, family and colleagues to make memories at this landmark Milton Keynes destination.

Festive Food & Drink

The festive season is all about indulgence and great company. At the Urban Food Market, seasonal flavours take the spotlight with Festive Buns and Yuletide Wraps & Dogs, from The Merry Clucker burger to hearty Christmas Yorkshire Pudding Wraps.

Over at Rye’s Deli, visitors can enjoy a festive drinks menu and seasonal sweet treats, perfect for a mid-morning pick-me-up or cosy afternoon catch-up.

Meanwhile, the Sky Lounge serves a carefully curated Christmas cocktail menu, ideal for after-work drinks or a festive date night overlooking the city lights.

A Place to Celebrate and Connect

As a hub for co-working, networking and social gatherings, Unity Place invites local businesses and the community to celebrate the season together. With stylish interiors, curated menus and vibrant spaces, it’s the ideal destination for festive lunches, events and get-togethers.

Supporting Local Makers

This Christmas, Unity Place is shining a spotlight on Milton Keynes’ creative talent. The festive pop-up markets will feature local artisans selling handcrafted gifts, festive décor and seasonal treats whilst creative crafters will host wreath-making workshops, offering guests a chance to connect through craft and creativity.

Adam Holbrook, Head of Placemaking at Unity Place, said: “Christmas is all about connection and that’s exactly what Unity Place was built for. Whether it’s colleagues coming together for festive drinks, local makers sharing their craft, or someone joining a wreath-making workshop to meet new people, Unity Place is all about bringing people together and celebrating what makes Milton Keynes special.”

Festive Highlights

• Festive Pop-Up Markets – Thursday 27 November and Wednesday 10 December (12pm – 2.30pm) at the Urban Food Market. Browse local artisan stalls for jewellery, décor, candles, gifts, MK honey and more — a perfect lunchtime escape to shop local and soak up the festive atmosphere.
• Wreath-Making at the Sky Lounge – Saturday 22 November. Starting after the CMK Christmas Lights Switch-On, enjoy an evening of creativity and connection, crafting a bespoke wreath with expert guidance (£37 pp). Book here.
• 12 Days of Christmas – 8 to 23 December. A joyful series of daily activations, competitions, pop-ups and social media challenges, including the fun Find the Christmas Elves hunt with prizes for eagle-eyed visitors.
• House to Haven Gift-Wrapping Pop-Up – Friday 12 & Thursday 18 December (11am – 4pm). Bring your gifts to the ground floor and let the House to Haven team wrap them beautifully, just in time for Christmas.
• Christmas Quiz Night at the Sky Lounge. A festive night of trivia, laughter and great prizes, perfect for groups and colleagues rounding off the year together.

Find out more about What’s on this Christmas at Unity Place

Discover the spirit of Christmas through stories, characters, and creativity at the once-secret home of Britain’s Codebreakers.

This December, Bletchley Park will be filled with history and festive fun in A Codebreakers’ Christmas, running from 4 to 30 December 2025.

Visitors of all ages are invited to immerse themselves in the world of Christmas at World War Two Bletchley Park by meeting Codebreaker characters found around the site, enjoying interactive live theatre and taking part in hands-on creative activities.

More than a festive day out, it’s an experience that will engage, inspire, and connect visitors with the story of the Codebreakers of Bletchley Park, and is perfect for those looking for something unique to do with their family or friends.

What Visitors Can Experience

• Encounter Characters from Wartime Bletchley Park Step into the 1940s and meet lively characters inspired by those who worked at Bletchley Park. Discover how they celebrated Christmas and experience stories that will bring the history of the WW2 codebreaking centre to life in an engaging way.
• Interactive Theatre: A Christmas Carol The Bletchley Park Drama Society are rehearsing for their production of A Christmas Carol, and they will need the help of visitors to make sure they are ready for opening night. A playful and participatory experience that blends theatre, history, and festive magic.
• Hands-On Craft Workshops The Codebreakers at Bletchley Park used what they had available, including scrap paper, to make decorations to bring some festive cheer to their workplaces. Children and adults can create their own Christmas decorations to take home as a personal memento of the day.
• Festive sweets and treats Enjoy some traditional Christmas flavours in the onsite Café and Coffee Shop, with hot and cold food on offer. Visitors can enjoy a festive lunch or a delicious mince pie with an indulgent hot chocolate to warm up even the coldest winter days.
• Vintage Grotto For younger visitors, a (separately ticketed) grotto experience, allows a magical visit with Father Christmas, adding an extra touch of festive magic to the day. Book in advance online.

Why Visit

A Codebreakers’ Christmas is an immersive experience where visitors can engage with Bletchley Park in a new and fun way. Step into the story, meet fascinating characters, enjoy interactive theatre, and try your hand at crafts, all while celebrating Christmas in a way that is unique, inspiring, and unforgettable.

All You Need To Know

• Dates: 4-30 December 2025 – Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays plus 22, 23, 29 and 30 December
• Location: Bletchley Park, Milton Keynes
• Tickets and full details: Included with admission to Bletchley Park
  www.bletchleypark.org.uk

Follow in the tyre tracks of F1 legends Lewis Hamilton, George Russell and Lando Norris as you experience one of the world’s largest Christmas light trails, only at Silverstone from 12 December 2025 – 3 January 2026.

This winter, Silverstone’s Lap of Lights returns by popular demand, transforming the home of British motorsport into a glittering festive wonderland. Bigger, brighter, and even more breathtaking, the world-famous Grand Prix circuit becomes a spectacular celebration of speed, light, and seasonal spirit.

Drive your own car around the legendary track, guided by a dazzling trail featuring ten immersive light installations, 35 lasers, and over 7,000 LED panels, an electrifying festive experience that merges motorsport heritage with Christmas magic.

After your lap, continue the adventure with a glide around the Ice Trak rink, weaving through the iconic F1 garages before heading to Silverstone’s festive food and drink garage. Here, guests can savour yuletide favourites such as German sausages and mince pies, warm up with mulled wine and hot chocolate and sample mouth-watering sweet treats, the perfect way to round off your Lap of Lights experience.

New for this year, Santa’s Garage in partnership with LEGO, offers a truly magical experience for younger visitors. Step inside Father Christmas’s high-octane workshop to see an exclusive LEGO F1 car and trophy, get up close to real F1 cars and meet Santa and his team of mischievous elf technicians as they prepare his sleigh. It’s a festive pit stop that combines the magic of Christmas with the thrill of motorsport, creating memories to treasure.

And for those looking to tick off their Christmas list, Lap of Lights also offers the perfect opportunity to shop Silverstone’s official merchandise, ideal for finding unique stocking fillers and gifts for motorsport fans of all ages.

Perfect for families, friends, and racing enthusiasts alike, Lap of Lights offers an unforgettable journey through themed zones that react and shimmer as your car passes by, all to the upbeat soundtrack of ELF FM, blending racing-inspired beats with Christmas classics.

Route highlights include:

• Glittering Gateway through the iconic Copse Corner
• Sledspeed Straight charging through Maggots and Becketts
• Fastest Lapland finale down the legendary Hamilton Straight

Race towards Christmas this winter with Lap of Lights at Silverstone, where festive wonder meets motorsport magic.

Spaces are filling fast for this unmissable festive drive-through spectacular. Bring your family or a car full of friends – one ticket covers everyone. Secure your place from just £50 per car.

Tickets for Santa’s Garage are now on sale and selling fast! Book early to secure your slot, prices start from £18.

Top up your Lap of Lights experience with an unforgettable skating session at the Ice Trak. Prices start from £8.45 per person.

BOOK HERE – https://www.silverstone.co.uk/events/lap-of-lights

Families can join Stick Man for a magical winter adventure as the beloved character, based on the beautiful picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, launches a brand-new Christmas trail at Forestry England’s Salcey Forest.

From 5 November through December 2025, Salcey Forest will host specially designed Stick Man Christmas trails, where families can team up with Stick Man and Santa as they deliver the final present. This interactive festive adventure invites young explorers to enjoy lots of fun wintry activities whilst keeping a lookout for hidden letters to discover who the special gift is for.

Josephine Lovelle, National Membership and Marketing Manager at Forestry England, said:

“We’re thrilled to bring families this magical Christmas adventure with Stick Man. This festive trail perfectly combines the joy of storytelling with outdoor winter exploration, helping children connect with nature during the most wonderful time of year. Through interactive activities and seasonal discoveries, families can create special Christmas memories whilst learning about how trees and animals adapt to the colder months. It’s fantastic to see how Stick Man continues to inspire families to explore the nation’s beautiful forests together.”

To make the adventure even more special, families can purchase a Christmas trail pack for just £4. The pack includes everything needed to complete the trail: an A5 envelope to colour in, a Christmas trail leaflet to complete, festive stickers, a pencil, a ‘magic’ reveal lens to uncover hidden letters, and a wooden Stick Man keyring – the perfect keepsake to treasure the adventure.

As families follow the trail panels, they’ll take part in a festive scavenger hunt, uncover hidden letters, and enjoy fun activities inspired by the wintry forest. The trail also offers fascinating facts about how woodland wildlife prepares for winter, making learning about nature engaging and memorable for young adventurers.

The Christmas trail continues the successful partnership between Forestry England and Magic Light Pictures, which began in 2014, bringing Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s beloved characters to life in natural settings. With plenty of seasonal cheer, woodland wonders, and Christmas magic, this trail offers the perfect way for families to celebrate the season together in the great outdoors.

To find your nearest participating forest and plan your Stick Man Christmas adventure, visit:
Stick Man Christmas trail at Salcey Forest | Forestry England

Photo credit: Forestry England/Crown copyright

Electronic music legends The Prodigy have confirmed they are returning to the National Bowl in Milton Keynes for the Warriors Dance Festival on Saturday 22 August 2026.

The Prodigy last played at the iconic National Bowl venue in Milton Keynes in July 2010, for their original Warrior’s Dance Festival, which marked the bands 20th anniversary. The sold-out show attracted 65,000 fans and featured support acts like Pendulum and Enter Shikari, with The Prodigy’s setlist including hits from their back catalog.

In 2026, the band bring their Warriors Dance experience to you, complete with new production and their sonically attacking wall of sound.

General tickets on sale NOW via:

https://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/
https://www.gigsandtours.com/

Milton Keynes’ entertainment scene reached new heights this weekend as MERKUR Casino unveiled its new flagship venue inside Xscape with a show stopping launch event that combined glamour, entertainment and excitement.

Hundreds of guests, including local dignitaries, media, influencers and VIPs, gathered to witness the official ribbon-cutting and experience a night that captured the energy and ambition behind the MERKUR brand.

The evening delivered non-stop live entertainment, featuring performances from Oasis, Queen and Robbie Williams tribute acts, before DJ vs live band concept, The Benny Blanco Allstars took to the stage to bring the celebrations to a finale.

Adding to the spectacle. Roaming performers captivated guests throughout the night, transforming the new 22,000 sq ft venue into a vibrant celebration of music, lights and atmosphere. The excitement continued with a series of exclusive prize giveaways, headlined by a £10,000 cash prize.

Mark Schertle, Chief Operating Officer at MERKUR Casino UK Ltd, said: “The opening marks a defining moment for MERKUR and for the city itself. The atmosphere on launch night was simply electric and a true celebration of what we stand for – entertainment, energy and community.

“We’ve created a destination that blends first-class gaming with live entertainment and a premium social experience, and it’s fantastic to see guests embracing it from day one.”

Dan Murphy, Centre Director at Xscape Milton Keynes said, “We’re thrilled with the incredible success of the unforgettable opening celebration of MERKUR Casino at Xscape.

“The new casino, complete with its impressive sports bar and entertainment spaces, has created a real buzz – offering guests an elevated experience that blends excitement, energy, and top-quality entertainment. It’s fantastic to see such a dynamic addition to Xscape Milton Keynes, bringing even more vibrancy and excitement to the destination.”

The successful launch underscores MERKUR’s commitment to its UK growth strategy and its aim to become one of the best casino destinations outside of London. The venue is now fully open, with the launch event setting the scene for the high-calibre programme of events the casino will continue to host.

For further details visit https://merkurcasinouk.com/casino/

Photo credit: Lightdraw Photography

The original Mary Poppins film came out in 1964. That makes it over 60 years old, yet it’s a movie that brings out childhood memories like no other. Remembering back to sitting on the sofa as a family, mesmerised by the magical, now iconic story of the ‘practically perfect’ nanny arriving by umbrella to change the lives of the Banks family on Cherry Tree Lane.

As a child you were drawn into this world, it was probably the first time you’d ever seen ‘special effects’ in a movie, a talking parrot handle, on-screen flying, and actors interacting with animated penguins…it blew many tiny minds back them and quite a few since.

The new version of the movie arrived in 2018 with Mary Poppins Returns and brought a whole new wave of fans into the Mary Poppins world. But with all this movie magic, how would the stage show match up. As a Cameron Mackintosh and Disney production, you have certain expectations for the staging and sets but mostly you desperately want it to live up to those childhood memories that you cherish so much.

After award-winning runs in the West End and on Broadway this new UK & Ireland tour has made its way to Milton Keynes Theatre for a month-long stint until 22 November.

Almost from the moment the curtain goes up, you know you’re in for a visual feast – the sets are honestly jaw-dropping. They effortlessly transport you to the Banks’ grand house, the children’s nursery, the park and the rooftops of London town – so you’re fully immersed into the world of Mary Poppins.

Acclaimed Australian stars, Stefanie Jones and Jack Chambers play the roles of Mary Poppins and Bert, we were little concerned about their accents creeping through, but no need to worry the prim English and cockney accents held true throughout. They are both absolutely superb. Stefanie Jones commands the stage with a self-assured presence that grounds the production, but her warmth still shines through. Her clipped, comedy timing is ‘spit-spot’ on. As with Julie Andrews in the movie, she doesn’t need to overplay the character, her restraint reels the audience in and is totally believable.

Opposite her, Jack Chambers has the charisma and energy to bring Bert to life, his cheekiness and on-stage presence perfectly balance against Mary’s rigidity. You can’t help but warm to both the characters as they take you through the wonderful story with ease and grace.

The rest of the cast are equally as brilliant, but we must give a special shout out to the Banks children played by Connie Jones and Oli Manning in the performance we saw. They are on stage for a lot of this production and there’s nowhere to hide. They dance, they sing, they act and they do it all superbly well.

The ‘Bird Woman’ was played by the iconic Patti Boulaye and although she only sings that one classic song, she does it with ease and again, brings a warmth to a much-loved character.

All your favourite songs are here ‘A Spoonful of Sugar’, ‘Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious’, ‘Step in Time’ and ‘Chim Chim Cher-ee’ plus many beautiful new songs written especially for the musical.

But honestly, the choreography within the musical numbers is what makes this show shine above many others. They are executed with such joy and energy that you can’t help but get swept along in the happiness they bring to the audience. No spoilers but ‘Step in Time’ has to be one of the best musical dance numbers ever in theatre-land. The set design, the tap dancing, the costumes, the lighting and the spectacular gravity-defying conclusion leave you stunned and elated in equal measure.

And as Mary Poppins departs, umbrella and bag in hand, once again your jaw ends up firmly on the floor as some truly remarkable theatre trickery concludes the show and you’re left yearning to see it all over again.

There have been many incredible shows at Milton Keynes Theatre over the years, but this is up there in our Top Three, maybe even the best ever. It’s truly a production that transports you into another world – for two and half hours, you forget about the madness of the world outside, you become that child again, taken back to a simpler time of magic and music, and it really is ‘practically perfect’ in every way.

Mary Poppins runs until Saturday 22 November. Matinee performances on Wednesday and Saturday. 2pm show only on Sundays.

Tickets available from £25 – buy here:
https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/mary-poppins/milton-keynes-theatre/

Age guidance: 7+. Children under the age of 5 will not be admitted into the theatre.

“It’s Milton Keynes at its best – innovative, collaborative, unique.” – IF:MK 2025 audience member

The eighth edition of IF: Milton Keynes International Festival took place from 18 to 27 July – and the Festival has created a highlights film to celebrate its successes and impact on the city.

243 event and exhibition days – including two world premieres and four UK premieres – were presented in 12 different locations, among them centre:mk, the Festival’s Headline Partner; The Fred Roche Gardens; The Open University’s Walton Hall campus; Campbell Park; The MK Rose; Midsummer Place; The Church of Christ The Cornerstone; Xscape; and locations across Wolverton. There were 15,367 tickets sold and 63,000 attendances with visitors from as far afield as Aberdeen, Brighton, Newcastle, Liverpool, Southampton and St Ives. A further 210,000 people are estimated to have experienced the Festival as they encountered events taking place in the public realm. 72% of the events were free to attend.

Artists came from Australia, Belgium, Canada, Catalonia, France, Germany, the Netherlands and Spain as well as the UK. In total, 391 professional artists and crew were employed. 744 hotel rooms and apartments were booked and 2638 meals were served to them over the ten days!

6,160 community participants were involved in this year’s Festival. They took part in events including Michael Pendry’s art-for-peace multi-media installation Les Colombes and Milton Keynes poet Maureen Onwunali’s commissioned poem Utopia in Verse.  Les Colombes saw over 2,000 white paper doves suspended from the roof of Middleton Hall in centre:mk. Local people made doves for the installation and for their homes, shops, offices and community spaces creating a second City-wide installation. Young people and members of the community contributed their thoughts on what utopia looked like for them during workshops with Maureen.

The Festival would like to thank its many partners and supporters this year including: Arts Council England, Milton Keynes City Council, Headline Partner centre:mk; Inclusion Partner Milton Keynes Community Foundation; Pop-up Events Partner MyMiltonKeynes; Knowledge Partner The Open University; Green Spaces Partner The Parks Trust; VIP Green Room Partner Howden; Spiegeltent Family Event Partner Neves Solicitors; Community Event Partner Unity Place and Event Partners David Lock Associates, MHA, Midsummer Place and Xscape; Producing Partners The Church of Christ The Cornerstone, The Kindom of The Netherlands, Milton Keynes Development Partnership, MK Gallery, The MK Rose, Milton Keynes Theatre, MK College Group, NiftyLift and The Poetry Society; Festival Supporters Brewpoint, Brioche Pasquier, Click Arts Foundation + Specsavers, Collaborate MK, Europcar, Glenbrook and Urban Splash, John Lewis Partnership, MK Business Leaders, M&M Supplies, Stratstone Milton Keynes BMW and the YMCA Milton Keynes; Media Partners MKFM and Pulse Group Media; Wolverton Location Partners Electrolux Group, Elite Carpet & Furniture, HCGB, MK Christian Foundation, The Old Bath House, The Secret Garden, The Shop on The Square, Unity MK, Wolverton Benefice, Wolverton Supermarket and Wolverton & Greenleys Town Council.

The Festival is also extremely grateful to all of the artists, staff, local experts and contributors and the 216 volunteers who worked on the Festival.

Monica Ferguson, Festival Director and Chief Executive of The Stables which founded and produces IF: Milton Keynes International Festival said: “We want to thank all of the artists, audiences and supporters who made the 2025 Festival so special.  The excitement builds in the run up to and during the Festival as artists from around the world embed themselves in Milton Keynes and the positive impact felt across the City is a testament to everyone who helped us plan and deliver 10 amazing days ”

Hazel Edwards, South East Area Director, Arts Council England said: “The Festival provides a moment to really see the impact of investing in arts and culture with partners from the public, private and charitable sectors working together to showcase thought-provoking and joyous events and installations.”

Kevin Duffy, Centre Director of centre:mk, the Festival’s Headline Partner said: “We always look forward to the vibrant animation of centre:mk which the International Festival provides.  Using the City as a stage, it provides an energy for visitors that captures the imagination in a unique way.”

Cllr Shankika Mahendran, Cabinet Member for Planning & Placemaking, said: ““It was an exceptional Festival once again, bringing world-class cultural experiences to Milton Keynes.”

Watch the IF:MK 2025 highlights film:
https://ifmiltonkeynes.org/look-back-at-if-2025

Main photo above top left – credit Carys Underwood

The region’s premier shopping destination, centre:mk, welcomes new Peter Rabbit and Friends™- themed Grotto for festive celebrations in Milton Keynes this festive season.

Santa’s grotto opeed on 21 November and brings a brand-new festive adventure to share with visitors at centre:mk, in partnership with Penguin Books.

Up until 24 December, when Santa must fly off for a busy night on his sleigh, families visiting the Grotto will first meet Mrs Rabbit, who will tell the children about Peter’s lost Christmas presents. Children will use clues to help Mrs Rabbit search for the missing presents, before adventuring out into the snowy forest through Peter’s secret tunnel. They’ll also decorate gingerbread biscuits for the Christmas feast, before meeting Santa himself to complete their festive journey. Each child will receive their decorated biscuit and a lovely gift from Santa.

Kevin Duffy, Director of centre:mk, commented: “Christmas is always a special time for us, and this year we’re especially pleased to welcome Peter Rabbit and Friends™ to Santa’s Grotto with a brand-new adventure. centre:mk is here to make the festive season unforgettable for families and visitors from across the country, with our enchanting events, huge range of shops and variety of cafés and restaurants on offer. At the heart of it all is the joy of creating magical memories for children and giving families a truly special day out.”

Starlight Square’s magic continues beyond the Grotto with a series of magical rides and attractions, including a Christmas Virtual Reality sleigh ride, a train ride, an old-school full-size Helter Skelter, a double-decker Victorian Carousel and a Christmas Market featuring independent local businesses and festive food & drink.

Along with thousands of twinkling lights, decorations throughout the centre and free selfie points to capture the perfect Family photo, centre:mk is a destination where you can really find that festive feeling in a wonderful day out.

centre:mk is one of the top 10 shopping destinations in the UK, located 30 minutes from London in Milton Keynes.

Tickets for Santa’s Grotto are now on sale, priced at £14.50 for children, £6 for adults and £4.50 for babies under the age of one from November 21^st to 24^th. During December, tickets are priced at £16 for children, £6.50 for adults and £5 for babies under one (prices exclude booking fee).

For more information and to book your tickets, visit:
https://www.centremk.com/whats-on/events/santas-grotto-with-peter-rabbit-friends/

Unity Place is shining a spotlight on local musicians, giving emerging talent from Milton Keynes, and the surrounding area, a stage to share their sound, grow their skills, and connect with the community.

In collaboration with National Sound, a local music company supporting emerging talent from across the region, Unity Place is hosting regular live music nights covering different genres of music including jazz, folk, blues and soft rock. Together, they’re making sure local voices are heard, offering musicians opportunities to rehearse, perform, and collaborate.

National Sound was founded in 2020 by musicians, for musicians. Their aim is to be a pillar of creativity, laying down the foundations to help support musicians across Milton Keynes, giving them spaces to rehearse, chances to play and helping them to learn from each other and create together.

“Unity Place has given us the perfect stage to connect artists with their community,” says Dan from National Sound. “It’s all about giving local voices a platform.”

Through regular live music nights, which celebrates the region’s diverse soundscape, Unity Place is giving new performers the chance to shine while helping them craft their own on-stage skills. Alongside scheduled performances, Open Mic Nights offer a platform for new voices to step up, gain confidence, and connect with local audiences.

The live music nights take place in the Unity Sky Lounge, a rooftop bar with city views that set the stage for local talent to shine. These events are about swapping solo streaming for shared experiences – stepping out to hear real music, played live, by musicians from the community.  With a relaxed atmosphere and a signature cocktail or two, these nights bring people together to support homegrown artists and enjoy the energy that only a live performance can create.

Adam Holbrook, Head of Placemaking for Unity Place commented, “We always wanted Unity Place to be more than just a building, we strongly believe in nurturing a community – it’s about growing, taking care of one another, and creating opportunities for all to thrive. We’re proud to work with local organisations, charities, and businesses to make that happen.”

One local artist, Manny, who has performed at Unity Place, said, “Being a local musician in Milton Keynes, it’s not always easy to find intimate venues where people truly come for the music. Playing at Unity Place has given me a safe and uplifting space where my songs can really thrive. It’s helped me grow as a musician, but more importantly, seeing the way it touches the audience has had such a positive impact on me. And having the chance to be paid for doing what I love means the world – it’s something every musician hopes for.”

Unity Live Lounge Presents: Soulful Tunes
What: Acoustic live music by Heidi Browne
When: Thursday 30 October, 7pm
Where: Unity Sky Lounge

To find out about the next live music nights at Unity Place got to:
https://www.unityplace.co.uk/whats-on-milton-keynes/