MERKUR Casino UK has renewed its commitment to Willen Hospice, entering a second year as a Platinum Corporate Partner and helping to fund essential care and support for local people living with life-limiting illnesses.

To date, the partnership has already generated more than £19,000 for the Milton Keynes charity, supporting a range of services that directly benefit patients and families across the city.

As part of its latest commitment, MERKUR will again sponsor Willen Hospice’s popular Corporate Golf Day, bringing together local businesses for a day of fundraising and networking in support of hospice care. Taking place this October at Aspley Guise and Woburn Sands Golf Club, the event is expected to raise thousands of pounds to help ensure local people can continue to access the hospice’s palliative and end-of-life care when they need it most.

MERKUR’s sponsorship of the event totals £10,500 across two years, reflecting the company’s ongoing investment in the local community.

The business has also supported the hospice’s Willen at Home service, contributing £3,000 towards community-based care that allows patients to receive support in the comfort of their own homes.

Additionally, MERKUR has donated £5,650 over the past three years to support the hospice’s Christmas dinners, with team members volunteering their time to help serve festive meals to patients and staff.

Every year, Willen Hospice supports hundreds of local people and their families, providing expert care, emotional support and practical guidance. As demand for services continues to grow, support from local businesses remains vital to ensuring care can continue to be delivered across Milton Keynes.

Keira Caso, Business & Partnerships Executive, Willen Hospice, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to MERKUR for continuing their support as a Platinum Corporate Partner for another year. Partnerships like this make a real difference to local people and families facing some of the most challenging times in their lives.”

“The support MERKUR has provided through fundraising, sponsorship, and volunteering helps us continue offering compassionate care to our community and ensures we can be there for those who need us most.”

Mark Schertle, Chief Operating Officer at MERKUR Casino UK, said: “We are proud to continue our partnership with Willen Hospice and support the incredible work they do for people across Milton Keynes.”

“Willen Hospice is a charity that touches the lives of so many local families, providing essential care and compassion when it matters most. As a business, we are committed to supporting the communities we serve, and we’re delighted to continue contributing to the hospice’s vital work through our sponsorship of the Corporate Golf Day and wider fundraising efforts.”

SMK Live have announced the final artists set to complete a fabulous weekend of live music at Stadium MK, with the introduction of the C Stage.

The C Stage, situated near Gate 1, will host DJs DJ Hurley, Tony Dibbin and VICCARS on both Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th June.

A well-known face in the MK area, award-winning DJ, producer and radio presenter, Keith Hurley – aka DJ Hurley – is a name synonymous with skill and longevity in the UK dance music scene. With over 35 years of experience behind the decks, he is the current host of the MKFM weekend mixshows.

From performing at private functions for Oscar winning Hollywood movie directors to sharing the stage with the giants of the music industry, Tony Dibbin is also fellow heavyweight of the dance floor.

Having spent decades working on radio brands such as Gold, Greatest Hits Radio, Absolute 80s, Nation Radio UK, Nation 80s and Nation 90, he brings a wealth of skill and experience to Stadium MK’s festival weekend.

Finally, VICCARS is another Milton Keynes-based DJ known for tightly crafted, high-energy club sets built on instinct, sharp selection, and a deep understanding of how to move a room. Rooted in years of playing bars, clubs, and private events, he has developed a reputation for fluid, responsive sets that build pressure, release it and keep dancefloors locked in.

Alongside his DJ work, Paul has presented on MKFM, bringing his musical identity and voice to local radio.

These DJs join a now complete line up, with the Main Stage set to showcase Basement Jaxx and Black Eyed Peas (UK Festival Exclusive), alongside Jason Derulo, Cat Burns, Clean Bandit, Groove Armada, Jalen Ngonda, Katy B, Jax Jones, Moonchild Sanelly, Maverick Sabre and Jaguar Skills. In addition to this, Bimini and Big Narstie bring their unwavering charisma and charm to the stage to host the festivities.

In addition, the B Stage – a second stage located by the Food Village – will host DJs throughout the weekend. Saturday will see party facilitators SoulGood take over with DJ sets from Welsh talents Paul Lyons, The Tribe of ViBE and Luna Amani. Sunday sees DJ, producer and TV personality Marcel Somerville take to the decks alongside DJ Twist and Kaptin & Dregz.

Housed inside Stadium MK’s stunning 30,000-seater stadium, the festival – the first of its kind in the stadium’s history – will offer music fans a jam-packed day-to-night schedule of high-octane performances, bringing some of the most memorable hits spanning the last two decades to the heart of Milton Keynes.

The festival is additionally set to host one of the biggest England vs Panama World Cup screenings in the country, with the game shown live on giant stadium and main stage screens inside Stadium MK on the 27th, transforming the venue into a one-night football and music extravaganza.

Day, Weekender, Group and VIP tickets remain available for SMK Live – although time is running out to snap one up!

Check out all ticket options HERE

The Stables in Milton Keynes has announced details of Make My Music, a brand-new creative music programme designed for young people aged 12–14.

Taking place from Monday 20 to Thursday 23 July, the immersive summer programme invites young people to explore music-making through DJing, live beat creation, songwriting and world music workshops in a fun, supportive and inspiring environment.

Make My Music is open to any young person with a keen interest in music, but especially welcomes young people who have not had much chance to take part in practical and creative music-making. The Stables is also offering bursaries to help more of those young people who face barriers in attending to take part.

Running from 10am-4pm each day, Make My Music gives participants the chance to try new musical experiences, collaborate with others and build confidence through creativity.

Each day focuses on a different aspect of contemporary music-making:

• Monday 20 July – Turntablism: Introduction to DJing
  Participants will get hands-on with the fundamentals of scratch DJing and learn the basics of mixing and turntablism.
• Tuesday 21 July – iPad Live Beats: Perform and Create
  Young people will use free iPad music apps to create and perform their own live beats and electronic music.
• Wednesday 22 July – Sounds and Instruments From Around the World
  A practical workshop introducing instruments, rhythms and sounds from diverse musical traditions.
• Thursday 23 July – Creative Songwriting
  An opportunity for aspiring songwriters to collaborate, write lyrics and create original music together.

Young people can book individual days or attend the full four-day programme, with each day affordably priced at £40 per day, including lunch. No previous musical experience or instrument knowledge are required to take part.

The programme reflects The Stables’ ongoing commitment to music education and creative participation for young people across the region. Founded by Sir John Dankworth and Dame Cleo Laine, The Stables has been championing access to music and the arts for more than 50 years.

Graeme Surtees, Head of Learning & Participation at The Stables, said:

“Make My Music is all about creativity, curiosity and giving young people the chance to explore music in exciting new ways. Whether they’re interested in DJing, songwriting, beats or discovering instruments from around the world, we want participants to feel inspired, supported and empowered to express themselves through music.”

Places are limited to 30 people per workshop and advance application is required.

For more information and to apply for a place CLICK HERE

Looking to plan a Father’s Day with a difference? At Xscape Milton Keynes, they’re all about bringing families together for unforgettable days out packed with fun, food and quality time.

Let’s face it – he probably doesn’t need another pair of socks, and their cupboard is already full of “World’s Best Dad” mugs. This year, swap the predictable presents for something everyone can enjoy together instead.

Whether he’s into action-packed adventures, laid-back family meals or simply spending time with his favourite people, Xscape has everything you need for a Father’s Day done right – all under one gigantic roof.

BOOK THE BIG MOMENTS FIRST

Planning ahead is the secret to a smooth, stress-free Father’s Day, especially when it comes to the most popular activities. Start by locking in your cinema trip at Cineworld – the hottest cinema seats get booked up quickly, so make sure you secure yours early to get the best view in the house!

Looking for something more adventurous? Book now for high-energy family fun at iFLY Indoor Skydiving, challenge Dad to a little healthy competition at Hollywood Bowl or Volcano Falls Adventure Golf, or put your teamwork to the test at Escape Hunt. If you’re planning to visit Gravity too, booking early means less waiting around and more time making memories together.

And don’t forget Father’s Day food plans! Some of our busier restaurants, including Pizza Express, Sumac Room and Vita accept bookings, so it’s worth planning ahead if you’ve got your heart set on a family meal together.

MAKE A DAY OF IT

The best Father’s Day plans are the ones that feel effortless, and Xscape makes it easy to turn a few hours into a full family day out. Start with coffee and catch-ups at Starbucks, T4 or Xpresso Net before diving into activities, games and adventures together.

If he loves trying something new, there’s plenty to discover here. Take on climbing challenges at Gravity Rocks, experience immersive virtual reality at InstaVR or hit the slopes together at Snozone. Prefer a slower pace? Browse the latest outdoor gear and gifts at Trespass, Ellis Brigham and Evans Cycles.

When it’s time to refuel, you’ll find plenty of options to suit every craving, from burgers and wings to desserts and sweet treats. Whether you’re planning a big family lunch, casual dinner or post-activity milkshake stop, there’s something for everyone at Xscape.

GIVE THE GIFT OF TIME TOGETHER

Father’s Day isn’t about finding the perfect present – it’s about making memories together. Whether you’re competing for bowling bragging rights, sharing dessert after dinner or laughing your way through an escape room challenge, Xscape Milton Keynes is the perfect place to celebrate the father figures in your life.

So, what are you waiting for? Plan your Father’s Day visit now and book ahead to make the most of the celebrations.

CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE XSCAPE MK WEBSITE

The iconic 80s movie comes to the stage: The Karate Kid – The Musical, based on the original Columbia Pictures motion picture written by Robert Mark Kamen, arrives at Milton Keynes Theatre from Tue 16 – Sat 20 June.

Producers Naoya Kinoshita, Kumiko Yoshii, John Gore, Kenny Wax, Michael Wolk, Jack Lane and Leo Stages present the UK premiere production of THE KARATE KID – THE MUSICAL. Based on the smash hit Columbia Pictures motion picture, this new stage adaptation features a book by Robert Mark Kamen, screenwriter of the original 1984 film that launched a 40-year global franchise, and music and lyrics by Drew Gasparini.

Honouring the roots of the timeless story, this new musical celebrates resilience, mentorship, and the quiet strength that bridges generations. Daniel is the new kid in town trying to fit in until he becomes the target of Cobra Kai’s relentless star student, Johnny. Underestimated and outmatched, Daniel struggles to find his footing, until Ali, Johnny’s ex, sees something in Daniel that no one else does. As Johnny refuses to step aside, teenage rivalry turns into something more sinister. Daniel discovers guidance from Mr. Miyagi who teaches him that karate isn’t about fighting, it’s about balance, respect and that the greatest victories are won from within.

Adrian Pang will lead the company as Mr. Miyagi, with Gino Ochello as Daniel LaRusso, Abigail Amin as Ali Mills, Joe Simmons as Johnny Lawrence, Matt Mills as John Kreese, Sharon Sexton as Lucille LaRusso, and Finley Oliver as Freddie Fernandez.

Adrian Pang is an acclaimed Singaporean performer whose extensive stage career spans the UK and Asia. Credits include the title roles in Hamlet and Macbeth, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Twelfth Night, The Comedy of Errors, The Grand Babylon Hotel, The Glass Menagerie, Little Shop of Horrors, Barefoot in the Park, The Odd Couple and The God of Carnage. In 2024 he portrayed Ying Ruocheng in the world premiere of Salesman in China at the Stratford Festival in Ontario, later reprising the role at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa.

Gino Ochello, a Gibraltar-born performer and singer makes his professional stage debut as Daniel LaRusso. Abigail Amin a recent Arts Ed graduate, recently completed filming James Graham’s feature film Ink directed by Danny Boyle. Joe Simmons also recently graduated from ArtsEd, with credits including Cruel Intentions (UK Tour) and Pippin (West End). Matt Mills’ theatre credits include MJ the Musical (West End), Dreamgirls (UK Tour), Tina – The Tina Turner Musical (West End), Motown the Musical (UK Tour) and Beautiful – The Carole King Musical (UK Tour).

Featuring a Tony Award®-winning design team and an electrifying new score, this coming-of-age masterpiece is reimagined for the stage with stunning artistry and ground-breaking choreography.

Tickets are on sale now and are available at ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes

LISTINGS
The Karate Kid The Musical
Performances: Tue 16 – Sat 20 Jun
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

Dads will be the centre of attention with a fantastic offer lined up for Father’s Day Weekend at Gulliver’s Land.

For Saturday, June 20 and Sunday, June 21 entry to the Milton Keynes theme park is free for each adult who is accompanied by one full-paying child (over 90cms in height).

With more than 50 rides, attractions, shows and activities to enjoy, you can treat your dad to an awesome, action-packed adventure with all the family.

And if you book your tickets in advance, you can save even more on your big day out.

Gulliver’s Land been a firm family favourite for more than 25 years and Gully and the gang will be on hand to make sure there are plenty of wonderful memories for dad to treasure.

Among the resort’s most popular rides are Runaway Train, Jungle River Ride, Dragon Siege 360-degree pendulum, and the Grand Prix Racers rollercoaster. Cool recent additions include the Upside Down House and the exciting Wriggler ride.

You can also visit Gulliver’s Dinosaur & Farm Park which includes the Lost World dinosaur area, a farmyard with a host of animals to enjoy, plus the Very Hungry Caterpillar Play-Patch and Elmer, the Patchwork Elephant’s Jumping Pillows.

Sue Conway, resort director at Gulliver’s Land, said: “These special events and offers are our way of providing lots of opportunities for family fun, while keeping the price for a visiting family as low as possible. Father’s Day Weekend is always so much fun and we hope to see many faces, new and old, through the park to celebrate dad’s special weekend.”

To make it an even more special Father’s Day adventure for dad, why not turn your visit into a weekend stay at the wide range of themed accommodation available at Gulliver’s Land.

These include Princess Suites, JCB Suites, Dinosaur and Unicorn-themed lodges, along with Western Lodges and Woodland Lodges.

For more information and to book your tickets, visit: www.gulliverslandresort.co.uk/fathers-day-weekend

Following the seventeenth West End and fifth Broadway extensions, the Tony Award® and double Olivier Award®-winning musical Operation Mincemeat comes to Milton Keynes Theatre.

Having launched on 16 February 2026 at Lowry in Salford – the venue that first encouraged the writers’ extraordinary debut musical and hosted its first-ever scratch performance in 2017 – a 40-week run will play at theatres nationwide through 28 November 2026, including Milton Keynes Theatre from 8 – 13 June.

In Operation Mincemeat, it’s 1943, and the Allied Forces are on the ropes. Luckily, they’ve got a trick up their sleeve. Well, not up their sleeve, per se, but rather inside the pocket of a stolen corpse. Equal parts farce, thriller, and Ian Fleming-style spy caper (with an assist from Mr. Fleming himself), Operation Mincemeat tells the wildly improbable and hilarious true story of the covert operation that turned the tide of WWII.

Reprising their acclaimed roles, West End alumnae Christian Andrews (Sherlock Holmes and the 12 Days of Christmas), Seán Carey (The Play That Goes Wrong), Charlotte Hanna-Williams (Rogers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella), and Holly Sumpton (Lovers Actually) are joined by new recruit Jamie- Rose Monk (Rome & Juliet) to form the cast, while Katy Ellis (The Curious Case of Benjamin Button), Georgina Hagen (Only Fools & Horses), Jordan Pearson (Back to the Future: The Musical), and
Morgan Phillips (The History Boys) complete the company.

SpitLip, the musical’s writers and composers, commented: “We’re so excited to see Operation Mincemeat heading out on a world tour next year, and the fact that it’s all kicking off at The Lowry, Salford – a venue who have fiercely championed us as theatre makers for over a decade, and where some of us made our professional debuts -is incredibly special. Having launched our show on Broadway this year, we know there’s an appetite (and a need) out there for shows which champion joy, and the power of small groups of people to change the world. We’re also delighted to be welcoming back our agents Christian, Charlotte, Holly and Seán, and welcoming our amazing new recruit Jamie-Rose, to kick off the UK leg of the tour – MI5 couldn’t be in more capable or more spectacularly stupid hands. Father’s never been prouder!”

The decision to write the musical was the last roll of the dice from SpitLip, a quartet of young British creatives after years of performing sketch shows at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and echoes the journey of Beyond the Fringe from the world-famous quartet Alan Bennett, Peter Cook, Jonathan Miller, and Dudley Moore, which premiered at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 1960, before moving to the Fortune Theatre and later to the Golden in 1962.

Performances run at Milton Keynes Theatre from Mon 8 – Sat 13 Jun. Tickets are available now via
ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes.

LISTINGS
Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical
Performances: Mon 8 Jun – Sat 13 Jun 2026
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

Horwood House is set to give afternoon tea a beauty-inspired makeover this summer with the launch of ‘Beauty in Bloom’, an exclusive event in partnership with luxury cosmetics brand, delilah.

The award-winning, 4-star country house hotel and conference venue in Little Horwood, near Milton Keynes, will host Beauty in Bloom on Sunday 28 June, where guests can enjoy an elegant afternoon of beauty, bubbles and sweet treats within the hotel’s beautiful manor house setting.

The experience begins with a glass of chilled Prosecco on arrival, before guests take part in an exclusive masterclass hosted by a specialist delilah makeup artist. The session will showcase the tips, tools and techniques behind delilah’s signature radiant look, offering guests expert insight and inspiration.

Following the masterclass, guests will sit down to a stunning beauty-inspired afternoon tea, featuring delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of sweet treats created especially for the occasion.

The partnership highlights Horwood House’s ongoing commitment to supporting premium, local and independent businesses that share its values. Stocked in prestigious retailers such as Fortnum & Mason, delilah carries significant industry weight and perfectly complements the luxury heritage experience offered at the hotel.

Furthermore, the collaboration aligns seamlessly with modern sustainability expectations; delilah is proudly 100% vegan and paraben-free, echoing Horwood’s dedication to quality, mindful practices and natural beauty.

Caroline Morrone, General Manager at Horwood House Hotel, said: “Beauty in Bloom is a beautiful way to enjoy a summer afternoon at Horwood House. We are delighted to be partnering with delilah to bring together expert beauty advice, indulgent afternoon tea and a relaxed, elegant experience in our Manor House.”

Janet Fricker, Co-Owner of delilah, added: “We are thrilled to embark on this partnership with Horwood House, a destination that mirrors our own commitment to heritage, excellence and elegance. As a B Corp dedicated to ‘better beauty,’ we look forward to joining Horwood with our luxurious and ethical glamour.”

Guests will also have the opportunity to browse the delilah pop-up collection on the day, with exclusive discounts available across selected products. Each attendee will receive a £20 delilah voucher to spend at the event.

Tickets for Beauty in Bloom cost £65 per person and can be booked by visiting:
https://www.horwoodhouse.co.uk/Beauty-in-Bloom.html

For more information on Horwood House Hotel, please visit https://www.horwoodhouse.co.uk/

Milton Keynes Theatre has unveiled its vibrant Summer Season for 2026, featuring an unparalleled line-up of West End hits, iconic concerts, award‑winning drama, side‑splitting comedy, beloved family favourites and world‑class dance.  The season promises unforgettable experiences for every audience.

June brings a packed programme of dance, comedy and musical theatre, including the internationally celebrated all-male comedy ballet company Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo (2–3 June), Midge Ure (4 June), and Strictly Come Dancing favourites Amy Dowden & Carlos Gu (5 June).

One of the summer’s biggest highlights follows with the award-winning, record-breaking smash hit musical, Operation Mincemeat, running 8–13 June. This hilarious show tells the unbelievably true story of the twisted secret mission that won us World War II. Get your tickets quick!

The Milton Keynes Theatre stage then welcomes The Karate Kid – The Musical (16–20 June) and the iconic Lord of the Dance for its 30th Anniversary Tour (22–28 June).

Families will also delight in the return of The Tiger Who Came to Tea on 29 June.

Closing the month, audiences can enjoy the political satire I’m Sorry, Prime Minister, opening 30 June, starring Simon Rouse (ITV’s The Bill) and Clive Francis (BBC’s Poldark, Netflix’s The Crown).

July kicks off with Matthew Bourne’s acclaimed and award-winning dance production The Car Man, running 7–11 July, followed by the gripping stage adaptation of The Spy Who Came In From The Cold (14–18 July), starring Ralf Little (The Royale Family, Death in Paradise).

Music fans are treated to A Vision of Elvis (19 July) and Jools Holland and His Rhythm & Blues Orchestra (27 July), while families and musical lovers can look forward to the beloved classic Annie from 21–26 July.

August opens with the feel-good favourite The Magic of Motown on 1 August, bringing timeless hits and high energy choreography back to the Milton Keynes Theatre stage.

The summer season ends with a bang as the iconic Dirty Dancing arrives for a special run 27–29 August, giving audiences the chance to relive the romance, music and emotion of the beloved film live on stage.  Be the first to see the new tour as it opens in Milton Keynes!

View the full programme of events at Milton Keynes Theatre and book your tickets at:
ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes

LISTINGS

Milton Keynes Theatre – 500 Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ

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

As part of the National Garden Scheme, Willen Hospice is inviting the public into its peaceful, wildlife-friendly lakeside gardens on Saturday 11 July to raise money for national nursing and health charities, as well as its own care.

From 10am until 4pm, visitors can pay a small fee to walk around the Hospice’s two acres of gardens. Lawns, wooded areas, planted beds, a working allotment and an orchard will all be open to view, alongside an RHS award-winning pocket garden first showcased at the Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival in 2025.

Set on the banks of Willen Lake, the gardens have been thoughtfully designed to provide private and peaceful spaces for Hospice patients and their loved ones. A dedicated team of volunteers manage the gardens, with staff support, taking an increasingly naturalistic approach to help boost biodiversity.

Cream teas, lunches and drinks will be on offer from the Hospice’s cafe, as well as delicious freshly made cake. Every purchase from the cafe helps fund care for local people affected by life-limiting illness. The vast majority of the Hospice’s services are funded by the local community making donations, attending its fundraising events and shopping at its charity shops.

Live music will take place throughout the day, from 60s/70s tribute band MOTIF, acapella group The Reluctants and Sarah Jones Jazz. Green-fingered visitors will be excited to browse the plant sale and the pop-up gardening shop. There will also be prize stalls and a biscuit decorating (and eating!) activity for children.

The National Garden Scheme gives visitors unique access to more than 3,300 exceptional private gardens in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands. It raises money for six core charities: Carer’s Trust, Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie, Hospice UK, Parkinson’s UK and The Queen’s Institute of Community Nursing. In 2025 the scheme raised £3.9 million and welcomed almost 600,000 visitors.

Willen Hospice’s gardens will be open on Saturday 11 July, 10am–4pm. Adult tickets are £5 and children can enter free. You can pay on the day or book in advance. Well-behaved dogs kept on a lead are also welcome.

To book online, and to read more information about the Hospice’s gardens, visit:
willen-hospice.org.uk/event/national-garden-scheme

If you’re interested in becoming a gardening volunteer at the Hospice, the gardening team are keen to welcome new members and will be at the event to answer any questions you may have. To find out more about volunteering with the Hospice in the meantime, visit willen-hospice.org.uk/volunteer-with-us

Get Involved

There are plenty of ways to take part and support the UK City of Culture 2029 Bid – come along, get creative and share your ideas. Everyone is welcome.

Join a session

Meet the team, connect with others and help imagine the future of Milton Keynes.

Future City Workshop

Join artists Tom Eke and Ciara Callaghan for a collaborative workshop exploring Milton Keynes as UK City of Culture 2029. Through drawing, large-scale mapping, model-making and conversation, we’ll reimagine the city – its festivals, public spaces, architecture and stories.

Add your ideas, dreams and provocations to a growing shared vision of what’s to come.

Locations:
The Box Arts Club
18–20 Burners Lane, Kiln Farm, Milton Keynes MK11 3HB
Friday 5 June, 1:30–7pm

Market Hall, Wolverton
Glyn Square, 171b McConnell Drive, Milton Keynes MK12 5JQ
Friday 26 June, 5–7pm

The Book of Ideas

Ursula White and Rachel Wright with a team of artists are inviting people who live and work in MK to take part in a ‘Book of Ideas’. They are hosting 8 pop-up events with lots of activities designed to inspire creativity and conversation. Everyone is welcome. Everything created will be added to the Book of Ideas, capturing what MK means to the people who work here and call it home – its stories, hopes, imagination and identity.

Special Request…if you have a favourite family recipe to add to city recipe chapter of the Book of Ideas, please bring it along and pop it in the big cooking pot.

Book of Ideas POP-UP Events:

Saturday 6 June 1.30pm – 6.30pm
Art in the Park, Campbell Park Plateau, MK9 4BL

Saturday 13 June 10.30am – 12.30pm
Central Library (Foyer), Silbury Boulevard, MK9 3HL

Sunday 14 June 12pm – 7pm
Folk on the Green (The Memorial Garden), Horsehair Green, Stony Stratford, MK11 1JP

Sunday 21 June 10am – 6.30pm
Midsummer Festival, Midsummer Boulevard, MK9 3QA

Tuesday 23 June 10.30am -12.30pm
Kingston Library, Winchester Circle, Kingston, MK10 OBA

Thursday 25 June 11am – 4.30pm
Milton Keynes Market (opposite the shopping centre clock just outside centre:mk), MK9 3BB

Sunday 28 June 11am – 4.30pm
Middleton Hall (Near Pret A Manger), centre:mk,

Saturday 4 July 12pm- 3pm
African Diaspora Festival 2026, Campbell Park, MK9 4BA

Creative Collage with Robin Clements

Join Milton Keynes Arts Centre and artist Robin Clements for a series of fun, relaxed collage sessions. Meet the team, get creative and share your hopes, dreams and ideas for 2029. There are sessions suitable for both adults and children*. People who prefer not to get their hands dirty are also very welcome to come along and tell us their ideas. Refreshments will be provided.

Dates and locations are as follows:

Mon 15 June – Rowans Family Centre
Family: 4pm & 5pm | Adult (16+): 6pm
13a Moorfoot, Fullers Slade, MK11 2BD

Tue 16 June – Frank Moran Centre
Adult (16+): 3pm, 4pm & 5pm
12 Melrose Avenue, Bletchley, MK3 6PA

Wed 17 June – Eaglestone Activity Centre
Family: 3:30pm & 4:30pm | Adult (16+): 5:30pm
5 Harrier Court, MK6 5BZ

Thu 18 June – Ellen Pettit Memorial Hall, Woburn Sands
Family: 4pm & 5pm | Adult (16+): 6pm
High Street, MK17 8RH

Fri 19 June – New Bradwell Community Centre
Family: 3pm & 4pm | Adult (16+): 5pm
Church Street, MK13 0DA

Tue 23 & Wed 24 June – Bow Brickhill Pavilion
Adult (16+): 7pm & 8pm
Rushmere Close, MK17 9JB

Thu 25 June – Broughton Pavilion
Family: 12pm, 1pm & 2pm
139 Tanfield Lane, MK10 9NJ

Fri 26 June – Oxley Park Community Centre
Family: 4pm & 5pm | Adult (16+): 6pm
Redgrave Drive, MK4 4TA

All workshops are FREE but due to limited space book a free ticket here: https://www.miltonkeynesartscentre.org/events

Please note: Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Activities are suitable for ages 7+.

MERKUR Casino Milton Keynes is proud to announce its sponsorship of MK Weekender 2026, taking place at Campbell Park on 14 and 15 August, one of the city’s most anticipated summer events.

The popular music weekend will bring thousands of people together in the heart of Milton Keynes to celebrate live music, entertainment and community spirit. This year’s event features an exciting line up including Scouting for Girls, alongside DJ sets from Charlie Hedges, Martin Kemp and Chris Gregg, promising a weekend full of iconic songs and unforgettable moments.

As part of the Milton Keynes leisure and hospitality scene, MERKUR Casino Milton Keynes is proud to support events that help bring the community together and showcase the city’s vibrant cultural life.

Mark Schertle, Chief Operating Officer at MERKUR Casino UK, said:

“Milton Keynes is a city with a strong sense of community and an exciting cultural scene. Events like MK Weekender bring people together through music and shared experiences, and we are proud for MERKUR Casino Milton Keynes to support an event that celebrates everything that makes the city such a vibrant place to live and visit. Supporting local events like this reflects our commitment to being a positive part of the Milton Keynes community.”

The sponsorship reflects MERKUR Casino’s commitment to supporting local initiatives and contributing to the entertainment and cultural life of the city.

George Gordon, Venue Manager at MERKUR Casino Milton Keynes, added:

“MK Weekender is a fantastic event for the city and something the whole community can enjoy. We are incredibly proud to support such a major local event and to see Campbell Park come alive with music and entertainment. As a venue based in the heart of Milton Keynes, it means a lot for us to be involved in something that brings so many people together.”

With Campbell Park set to transform into a vibrant festival site for the weekend, MERKUR Casino Milton Keynes looks forward to welcoming music fans from across the region and celebrating another memorable event in the city’s calendar.