Stadium MK have officially announced Day Two of SMK Live 2026 in Milton Keynes on Sunday 28 June with Black Eyed Peas revealed as headliner with Celebrity Traitors star Cat Burns joining the lineup together with Jaylen Ngonda and Maverick Sabre – Big Narstie will be the Day Two host.

Over 25 years, Los Angeles trio Black Eyed Peas – will.i.am, Apl.de.Ap, and Taboo – have earned six GRAMMY® Awards and achieved sales of 35 million albums & 120 million singles. One of the era’s biggest acts, they emerged as “the second best-selling artist/group of all-time for downloaded tracks,” (Nielsen), landing on Billboard’s “Hot 100 Artists of the Decade.” With multiple anthems that have defined a generation, their exclusive SMK Live appearance promises a truly standout moment in the festival’s debut year.

Also announced for Day Two is London-raised singer-songwriter Cat Burns. Since her breakthrough in the early 2020s, Cat Burns has continued to expand the perimeters of success for Gen Z musical talent. Achieving both chart success and critical acclaim, she is not only a triple-platinum-selling artist but the recipient of three BRIT nominations and a BBC Sound Poll shortlist, as well as a Mercury Prize nomination for her 2024 debut album early twenties. In 2025, she released her second album How to be Human: a body of work that moves through loss and grieving to emotional rebirth, delivering her most refined songwriting to-date. Beyond music, Cat captured the nation’s attention with her appearance on The Celebrity Traitors in 2025.

No matter what sub genre our current crop of musicologists may cite in the very near future to describe Daptone’s Records Jalen Ngonda’s riveting approach, he’s unequivocally a gifted songwriter and artist, blending classic and contemporary soul influences to create a sound that’s all his own. Having been lauded by the likes of Snoop Dogg, Jill Scott, Kehlani and Olivia Dean, as well as Elton John, who predicted last Summer that “he is going to be a huge star”, Jalen is set to bring his enthralling live show to SMK Live and we cannot wait.

Maverick Sabre has long been known for his soulful, honest songwriting and unmistakable vocals. His breakout debut album Lonely Are The Brave earned him a BRITs Rising Star nomination and he has since released four more acclaimed albums and had huge hits like ‘Slow Down’ with Jorja Smith. He’s known for his electric festival appearances and his performance promises to be a very special moment at SMK Live.

Hosting and performing at Sunday’s festivities will be none other than multi award winning national treasure and all round legend Big Narstie. Big Narstie has carved his own path through music, TV, entertainment, film and social media over the last decade, winning BAFTAs, RTS Awards, a record number of Urban Music Awards, presenting his own chat show for five successful seasons on national TV, and being the “go to” guest for many of the highest rated shows including Michael McIntyre’s The Wheel, Big Fat Quiz, Would I Lie To You, Good Morning Britain, Celebrity Bake Off etc., as well as releasing Top 10 hit singles. We can’t wait for him to bring his incredible charisma to SMK Live.

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.

Whilst taking place in a stadium, SMK Live is not just a sit down show. It is a full festival, with street-food villages, activation zones, live DJs and singers, and two stages packed with amazing artists. Everything you could want out of a festival, including top-tier production, open spaces to explore, hospitality offerings and a crowd that’s there for the full weekend experience.

At just £95 (plus booking fee) for a two day pitch standing weekend ticket, SMK Live offers incredible value and is one of the most exciting new additions to the UK festival calendar. For those who have already purchased a Saturday-only ticket and would like to upgrade to the full weekend, further details on how to do so here.

Group tickets are for those who will be aged 14 and above at the time of SMK Live and offer six people access to the event for the price of five tickets. Offering great value for an all-day festival ticket, a group booking would, for example, bring the overall cost of a general admission pitch standing ticket down from £75 to £62.50 (excluding booking fees) per person. Group tickets for SMK Live are available to purchase here.

Perfect for families looking for a fun day of music and sunshine, the family package includes four tickets – two adults and two children (aged 5-14 years old). The cost of each child’s ticket is just £10 (excluding booking fee) – please note, children under 14 are not permitted into the pitch standing area. Purchase your family package here.

SMK Live is proud to offer an array of perfectly crafted hospitality packages, with offerings set to elevate your experience to one of luxury. There are four hospitality tiers available, starting from £150 – purchase your package here.

New Adventures is delighted to bring Matthew Bourne’s double Olivier award-winning, smash hit production of The Red Shoes to Milton Keynes Theatre, from Tue 10 – Sat 14 February as part of a UK tour.

Playing Victoria Page are Ashley Shaw, Cordelia Braithwaite, Hannah Kremer and Holly Saw, alongside Andy Monaghan and Reece Causton as Boris Lermontov, Dominic North and Leonardo McCorkindale as Julian Kraster, Michela Meazza, Cordelia Braithwaite and Katrina Lyndon as Irina Boronskaya, Liam Mower, Will Bozier and Jackson Fisch as Ivan Boleslawsky and Glenn Graham, Liam Mower and Reece Causton as Grischa Ljubov.

They are joined by Mark Austin, Tom Barnes Standing, New Adventures Emerging Artist Isabella Chandler, Adam Davies, Cameron Flynn, Anna-Maria de Freitas, Christina Gibbs, Thomas Ireson, Rosanna Lindsey, Callum Mann, Daisy May Kemp, Jarrod McWilliams, Matthew Potulski, Molly Shaw-Downie, Kingston Taylor, Shakiera Ward and Daisy West.

Matthew Bourne said: “I’m thrilled to announce that 11 of the original cast of The Red Shoes, which premiered in 2016, are returning for this 10th Anniversary production, performing the roles they created, possibly, for the last time. This is something that no New Adventures fan will want to miss!

The Red Shoes was the culmination of a twenty-year ambition to bring Powell and Pressburger’s seminal 1948 film to the stage. It was also, in many ways, a personal love letter to a life in theatre and dance.  

This production was certainly a landmark event for New Adventures, becoming an instant classic and a beloved addition to our repertoire. I’m so happy to see it return this year, especially as our last tour in 2020 was sadly cut short by the pandemic and left many of our loyal audiences throughout the UK disappointed.

So, welcome back to the Ballet Lermontov and to paraphrase the great impresario himself… ‘It’s time to put on the red shoes, Vicky, and dance for us again….’”

A sell-out before its world premiere season opened in 2016, Matthew Bourne’s triumphant adaptation of the legendary film went on to win Best Entertainment at the 2017 Olivier Awards, with Matthew Bourne winning the award for Best Theatre Choreographer. The show then returned for a national tour in 2019.

A timeless fairytale and Academy Award-winning movie, The Red Shoes has captivated audiences and inspired generations of dancers with its powerful tale of obsession, possession and one girl’s dream to be the greatest dancer in the world. Victoria Page lives to dance, but her ambitions become a fierce struggle between the two men who inspire her passion.

Matthew Bourne’s magical double Olivier Award-winning production of the legendary Powell and Pressburger film is set to a score orchestrated by Terry Davies, featuring the mesmerising music of golden-age Hollywood composer Bernard Herrmann, with sumptuous designs by Lez Brotherston (set and costumes), Paule Constable (lighting) and Paul Groothuis (sound).

An intoxicating drama where life imitates art with fateful consequences, The Red Shoes will dazzle your senses and break your heart.

THE RED SHOES is supported using public funds by Arts Council England.

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

LISTINGS

The Red Shoes
Performances: Tue 10 Feb – Sat 14 Feb
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

The British Off Road Grand Prix (MKGP 2026) is one of the largest indoor radio-controlled car racing events in the UK, bringing together 430 competitors from all over the world for three days of high-energy competition in Milton Keynes.

From Friday 6 February to Sunday 8 February, watch the 1/10 scale electric off-road RC vehicles in the racing arena in Middleton Hall at centre:mk – and it’s completely FREE to watch and great fun for the whole family.

Watch the highly skilled competitors race their vehicles in this high-speed competition.

The event is professionally managed, with marshals, race control, commentators and safety barriers in place.

The event is key for attracting young people into science and technology as a career path and several local schools will also be attending the event.

The racing will be live streamed globally by RCTV, the top RC media channel in the world, with over 115,000 subscribers.

“RC racing is one of the most engaging ways to introduce children to engineering and technology without them even realising they’re learning. By bringing the British Off Road Grand Prix into centre:mk, we’re opening the sport, and the STEM skills behind it, to a whole new audience.” Brett Castle – Event Organiser of the MKGP2026

Kevin Duffy, Centre Director added “We are very excited to be hosting this fantastic event once again. It is amazing to watch the skill involved in this competition, bringing an event that is totally unexpected, into a shopping centre environment. It is popular with visitors to the centre who take a break from the shops and restaurants to watch the racing.”

More info HERE

Whether you’re looking to explore local wildlife, learn new skills, or simply enjoy time outdoors, February offers the perfect opportunity to connect with nature and your local parks.

The Parks Trust, the charity caring for MK’s parks, invites you to step outside, slow down, and discover the wonders of the city’s green spaces. From half term adventures at Howe Park Wood to community tree planting, mindful wellbeing walks, expert-led talks, and inclusive activities across the city, there’s something for every age and interest.

Howe Park Wood Open Mornings
Tue 17 – Thu 19 Feb

Explore the wonders of wildlife this half term, with a mammals in winter theme and plenty to explore. Uncover the secret lives of otters, become a nature detective by identifying tracks and trails, and enjoy lots of free nature-inspired activities.

Walk and talk: Wellbeing wander for families
Wed 18 Feb at Howe Park Wood

Find a moment of calm in the buzz of half term, with a range of activities to help all ages unwind and experience nature in a different way.

Green Break
Wed 18 Feb at Willen Lake

An adult-only walk to give staff from local businesses the opportunity to enjoy a lunch break outdoors, be introduced to and explore a green space close to their place of work.

Aside from half term entertainment, there are plenty of nature-inspired events to get closer to the local landscapes too:

Community Tree Planting
Sat 14 Feb at Trinty Church Meadow, Old Wolverton

Celebrating the launch of the Wetland Arc project, here’s a chance to leave your legacy planting native trees that’ll enhance Milton Keynes’ landscape and boost local wildlife habitats. No experience necessary, just enthusiasm. Booking required.

Talk: Rewild Your Residence
Tue 10 Feb at Howe Park Wood

Discover the secrets to creating a habitat haven by making your outdoor spaces wildlife-friendly. You’ll pick up tips from finch-favourite feeders to helping hedgehogs in your neighbourhood.

Talk: Behind the scenes of landscape management
Tue 24 Feb in Campbell Park

Join one of The Parks Trust landscape management team to find out how parks are cared for and some of the challenges that the team face.

Plus, there are lots more events to get you outdoors in the city’s parks this month:

Inclusive Stroll with British Sign Language 5 February at Ashland Lakes

Women’s Walking Network 5 February at Furzton Lake

5 Ways Cafe 10 February at St. Andrew’s Church in Great Linford Manor Park

Great Linford Manor Park 13 & 22 February

MK Rose Corporate Pancake Race 17 February in Campbell Park

Winter Warmer Run 22 February in Newlands

Community Litter Pick 24 February at Linford Wood

Woof Walk 28 February in Campbell Park

Julie Dawes, Events and Community Engagement Manager at The Parks Trust, said “Winter is a wonderful time to explore the city’s parks, and this February we’re offering plenty of ways to get outside together. From wildlife‑themed activities to gentle wellbeing walks, our events are designed to help residents rediscover nature during the colder months and enjoy quality time outdoors.”

To find out more about park events, visit theparkstrust.com/events

A Tree of Hope has been planted in the city, marking Milton Keynes’ role in a nationwide initiative to honour the legacy of the iconic Sycamore Gap tree and create a lasting symbol of hope for future generations.

On Friday 23 January, the sapling was officially planted by community representatives and dignitaries including the Lord-lieutenant of Buckinghamshire, Countess Elizabeth Howe. The planting ceremony took place in Stanton Low Park, the location chosen for the Tree of Hope due to its rich heritage, tranquil setting and connection to nature.

The Sycamore Gap tree held cultural and emotional significance for people from all walks of life, and the Tree of Hope initiative ensures that its legacy lives on. It’s hoped that each sapling will act as a living reminder of resilience, renewal and the importance of protecting the natural world.

The Parks Trust, the charity caring for MK’s parks, is proudly one of only 49 organisations across the UK to receive a sapling grown from the historic tree. Over time, the Tree of Hope will grow into a place for quiet reflection, community gathering and celebration.

Victoria Miles, Chief Executive of The Parks Trust said: “We’re incredibly proud to have been chosen to be part of this national initiative! Having a Tree of Hope in our city echoes our charity’s purpose, to provide amazing green spaces for our communities to love forever. It symbolises renewal, connection and our shared responsibility to care for nature. I hope that people will find the Tree of Hope to be a meaningful place for our communities for many generations to come.”

Due to the very wet ground at the planting ceremony on Friday, The Parks Trust decided to temporarily care for the sapling in their nursery over the weekend. To give the tree it’s best chances, the sapling will be replanted in a location very nearby in Stanton Low Park with more ideal ground conditions.

If you’ve not been to Stanton Low Park before, discover it here:
theparkstrust.com/stantonlowpark

A free wellbeing showcase aimed at helping people reset after the toughest month of the year is taking place at Unity Place this Thursday, 29 January.

Running from 11am to 2.30pm in the Urban Food Market, the Pop-Up Wellbeing Showcase will bring together local wellbeing experts, community organisations and practitioners offering practical, accessible ways to support mental, emotional and physical health.

Open to the public and free to attend, the drop-in event forms part of Unity Place’s wider Wellbeing at Unity Place programme and is designed to give visitors simple tools they can use immediately — from mindful movement and nutrition to emotional resilience, grief support and mental health advice.

Visitors can enjoy complimentary drink sampling from MOJU, offering daily vitality, immunity and gut-health shots, alongside naturally refreshing live-culture drinks. A variety of interactive wellbeing pop-ups will also be available throughout the event.

Highlights include a cycling-based mindfulness experience from Cycle Your Heart Out, an innovative wellbeing project founded by poet and Heartful Cycling Guide Sarah Bayaidah, which blends gentle movement, creativity and reflection to help people slow down and reconnect. The event will also feature The Man Cave UK, supporting men’s mental health and connection, alongside practical wellbeing advice from a range of local specialists.

The showcase will welcome Sarah Brason, a Grief Navigator and certified grief coach, who supports individuals and organisations to better understand and navigate grief in all its forms, from bereavement to life changes such as relationship breakdowns, identity shifts or changes in health. Her work focuses on helping people move from isolation and fear toward connection, strength and compassion.

Also attending is Hope & Wellbeing Hub, offering a gentle, chair-based five-minute emotional reset using headphones. This simple, self-guided pause is designed to help people settle, reflect and recharge during a busy day.

Visitors can also find out about upcoming community wellbeing workshops including breathwork classes and take away optional resources to continue their practice at home.

Additional wellbeing partners taking part include Mind BLMK, Tiny Terra, Puzzle-Peace Coaching, S.A.M Clinics – Skin, Aesthetics & MediSpa, and more.

Find out more about the free Wellbeing Showcase here:
https://www.unityplace.co.uk/whats-on-milton-keynes/pop-up-wellbeing-event-at-unity-place/

Location: Unity Place, Urban Food Market
Date: Thursday 29 January
Time: 11:00am – 2:30pm
Cost: Free, drop-in

The first-ever UK and Ireland tour of TINA – The Tina Turner Musical, comes to Milton Keynes Theatre direct from the West End from Tue 27 Jan – Sat 7 Feb 2026.

TINA – THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL is the story of legendary artist Tina Turner, the twelve-time Grammy Award-winning Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Set to the pulse-pounding soundtrack of her iconic hits, including The Best, What’s Love Got To Do With It?, Private Dancer and River Deep, Mountain High, the musical is an inspiring true story of a woman who dared to dream fiercely, shatter barriers and defy the bounds of age, gender, and race to conquer the world against all odds.

The cast will be led by Elle Ma-Kinga N’Zuzi (Moulin Rouge! Das Musical, Cologne; Sweet Charity, Nottingham Playhouse) and Jochebel Ohene MacCarthy (Ghost the Musical, UK Tour; Hairspray, London Coliseum), who will share the iconic role of Tina Turner, alongside David King-Yombo (Moulin Rouge, Piccadilly Theatre; Oklahoma!, Wyndham’s Theatre) as Ike Turner.

Joining them in the cast is Martin Allanson, who will play Record Producer Phil Spector, with William Beckerleg as record company Marketing Manager Erwin Bach, Rushand Chambers as Tina’s father Richard Bullock, Claude East as Tina’s grandmother Gran Georgeanna (GG), Isaac Elder as Tina’s Manager Roger Davies, Georgia Gillam as Tina’s sister Alline Bullock, Letitia Hector as Tina’s mother Zelma Bullock, Kyle Richardson as Tina’s first love Raymond Hill, and Gemma Sutton as Ike and Tina’s manager Rhonda Graam.

TINA – THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL continues to run in the West End at the Aldwych Theatre, where it has played for over 6 years following its world premiere, receiving critical acclaim, and breaking all Box Office records at the venue. It is currently booking until 25 October 2025, making it the longest-running show to ever run at the Aldwych. The production is also a global success, with 8 productions having opened worldwide since 2018, including on Broadway and across North America, Germany, Spain, the Netherlands and Australia. The show is currently on tour in both North America and Australia.

Directed by Phyllida Lloyd and written by Olivier Award and Pulitzer Prize-winner Katori Hall, with Frank Ketelaar and Kees Prins, TINA – THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL is choreographed by Anthony van Laast, with set and costume designs by Mark Thompson, musical supervision by Nicholas Skilbeck, lighting by Bruno Poet, sound by Nevin Steinberg, projection design by Jeff Sugg, orchestrations by Ethan Popp, and wigs, hair and makeup design by Campbell Young Associates, casting by Pippa Ailion CDG and Natalie Gallacher CDG.

TINA – THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL is produced by Stage Entertainment, Joop van den Ende and Tali Pelman, in association with Tina Turner.

TINA – THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL is dedicated to the memory of Tina Turner, who sadly passed away in May 2023.

Book your tickets now at ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes

LISTINGS

TINA – The Tina Turner Musical
Performances: Tue 27 Jan – Sat 7 Feb 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

Venture just outside Milton Keynes to Forestry England Salcey Forest where families get step into a magical forest adventure with the new Room on the Broom Trail – launching January 2026.

Bringing Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much loved story to life, this enchanting trail offers a spellbinding experience for families to enjoy throughout 2026. Celebrating the 25^th anniversary of the beloved book, the trail is packed with activities, fascinating forest facts, and plenty of hands on fun. It’s the perfect way for families to explore the great outdoors.

From 27 January, visitors can join Witch and her friends on a spellbinding journey through the forest. Along the way, children will help Witch find her lost hat, bow and wand, and collect magical ingredients to complete her spell. Each stop on the trail is packed with fun activities, fascinating forest facts, and a sprinkle of woodland magic – perfect for young explorers and families looking for an unforgettable day out.

Demi Langford, Forest Centre Manager said:
“We’re thrilled to bring the magic of Room on the Broom to Salcey Forest. This trail is a wonderful way for families to connect with nature, enjoy a beloved story, and create unforgettable memories together. With fun activities and enchanting surprises along the way, it’s the perfect adventure for young explorers.”

To make the adventure even more special, families can pick up a Room on the Broom trail pack for just £4. Each pack includes a themed lanyard, magic spell cards, stickers, a pencil, and a pop-out craft to create your very own witchy wand.

The Room on the Broom 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. Filled with woodland magic, captivating storytelling, and family fun, this new trail offers the perfect way for families to enjoy the great outdoors together throughout 2026.

For more details visit: www.forestryengland.uk/room-on-the-broom

Reggae Land has revealed their full line-up for its sixth and biggest edition to date when it returns to Milton Keynes National Bowl on Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd August 2026. With more than 120 artists due to perform across seven stages, the announcement proves that this will be the celebrated festival’s most ambitious year yet, with one of the biggest ever reggae and dancehall festival line-ups ever assembled anywhere in the world.

Since moving to Milton Keynes’ National Bowl, Reggae Land has transformed the iconic venue into a Caribbean cultural hub that carefully combines world-class performances with Caribbean food villages, rum bars, flea markets, museum spaces and immersive decor. In 2026, the festival expands further with the addition of two new stages, even higher levels of production and sound and up to 100,000 attendees across the weekend. All this and more makes Reggae Land a truly authentic and tastefully curated showcase of Caribbean music, food and art in many different forms.

Across the much anticipated August weekend, Reggae Land will once again celebrate a full spectrum from roots and reggae royalty to dancehall, dub, jungle and carnival energy, all while bringing together legendary names, global stars, emerging artists and scene-defining selectors.

Saturday’s Main Stage is led by the return of two reggae and dancehall legends, bringing their exclusive world debut of landmark supergroup The King & The Royals, which unites the king of dancehall himself, Beenie Man, alongside reggae royalty, Morgan Heritage, both returning to Reggae Land having performed separately in 2023 and 2025 respectively. The King & The Royals serve up a historic, unifying live experience that brings together their two Grammy-winning legacies for one powerful, deeply authentic celebration, with spiritual uplift and lyrical mastery at its core. Dancehall fire and reggae soul will collide and feature many of their global hits, timeless classics and an emotional, high-energy vibe designed for all ages and all generations. They will be joined by debut performances from Tarrus Riley, Barrington Levy and Jah9, as well as Konshens and Kranium, who both make their debut Reggae Land appearances.

On Sunday, the Main Stage welcomes one of the most sought after dancehall artists on the planet, making his long awaited Reggae Land debut, the one and only Vybz Kartel. He is one of dancehall’s most influential and prolific artists and has long redefined the genre with his razor sharp lyricism, endless creativity and unmatched cultural impact. He’s a global hit machine with standouts including ‘Summertime,’ ‘Wine to the Top’ and “Party With Me” plus a catalogue that spans street anthems, club classics and melodic crossovers. On stage, Kartel brings intensity, presence and unifying singalongs charged with attitude and an unmistakable sound that has shaped modern dancehall.

Alongside him is another debut Reggae Land performance from the incredible Grammy nominated Shenseea, as well as the return of one of Jamaica’s most commercially successful exports, Shaggy, making his first appearance since headlining the very first Reggae Land back in 2022. Super Cat, Inner Circle and Mo’Kalamity & The Wizards make up the rest of Sunday’s mainstage line-up, who all continue the festival’s tradition of showcasing iconic voices alongside contemporary global stars.

The One Love Stage continues to honour roots, culture and conscious sounds. Saturday’s lineup includes Richie Spice, Ken Boothe, Jesse Royal, Samory I, League of Rebelz and Ras Kwame, while Sunday sees performances from Sanchez, Mr Vegas, Alborosie, Third World and Hollie Cook.

New for 2026, the Dancehall Stage delivers high-energy performances and sound system culture across both days. Saturday features T.O.K, Charly Black, Stylo G, The Heatwave presents Hot Wuk and sets from Seani B, Kash & Pharaoh G, DJ Larni and DJ Dennyhus & Prime. Sunday brings Cham, Serani, Ding Dong, David Rodigan, Becca D, Shayna Marie, DJ Nate and DJ Davda.

The Carnival Stage brings crossover energy and bass-driven sounds. Saturday includes General Levy, the Jungle Cakes takeover featuring Ed Solo, Deekline, Benny Page, Navigator and Killa P, Eva Lazarus, Robbo Ranx, Prince Fatty & Horseman, Jamie Rodigan and Sugarkane. Sunday hosts Congo Natty, Fabio & Grooverider & MC GQ, Top Cat (Live), Ragga Twins Crew, Shabba presents Janelle Wynter, Serocee & Friends, Ras Kwame’s Reggae Recipe and Kaya Fyah.

The Dub Stage returns with heavyweight sound system culture across both days, including Mad Professor, Little Lion Sound, Reggae Roast, Scientist, Mungos Hi Fi  & Charlie P, Aba Shanti I, YNG CPTN Sound, Sisters in Dub, Saxon Sound, Side by Side Soundsystem, King Tubby’s Soundsystem and more.

Rompa’s Reggae Shack returns with Ayito, Clapper Priest, Chez, Boxer Banton, Daddy Nature, DJ Ardi, DJ Dansey, Uncle Dugs, Lionpulse and more across the weekend, while the newly introduced Bob’s Bar Stage provides a dedicated space for roots reggae, dub and lovers rock. Across the weekend, artists include Earl Gateshead, Don Letts, Iration Steppas, Channel One, Dub Pistols Sound System, Rhoda Dakar,  Greensleeves Hi Fi, Josh Skints, Mark Ryder, Gully B and Queen Bee. 

Nowhere in the country, or arguably anywhere in Europe, serves up such a rich, tasteful blend of Caribbean music and culture than Reggae Land, as of 2 February 2026 – tickets were all sold out. Keep an eye on our socials for additional ticket releases.

Friday 23 January marks a major milestone for Milton Keynes: exactly one year until the city is 60 years old, having been officially designated as a New Town on 23 January 1967.

The countdown begins now to mark six decades of community spirit, growth, and creativity.

Over the years, Milton Keynes has grown from a bold idea into one of the UK’s most successful and fastest growing cities. Home to major national and international companies, world leading innovation, and one of the most diverse and welcoming populations in the country, Milton Keynes has truly made its mark. Its energy, ambition and strong community networks helped it achieve official city status in 2022, recognising the important role the city plays on both a national and global stage.

Milton Keynes City Council, working closely with partners, has begun exploring ideas for an exciting cultural programme for 2027 to celebrate the city’s achievements and shine a light on everything that makes Milton Keynes a special place to live, work and visit. The city council is inviting residents and community groups to share their ideas on what local events could help bring communities together, focusing on neighbourhood celebrations on the day itself, to a high profile summer event, and opportunities during the International Festival.

Cllr Shanika Mahendren, Cabinet Member for Planning and Placemaking, said: “We want 2027 to be a truly outstanding celebration of culture, one where everyone can take part, share their stories and come together. It’s a chance for people across Milton Keynes to showcase their heritage, their ambitions and the ideas that continue to build our reputation as a city of innovation and imagination. I look forward to working with communities across Milton Keynes to create an unforgettable year of celebration.”

The Milton Keynes Museum team has been working closely with the city council and communities across the city for the past two years to develop the New City Gallery and to collect and celebrate the city’s shared story.

Bill Griffiths, Director of Milton Keynes Museum said: “Milton Keynes is one of the most important national city building projects of the twentieth century, and it continues to grow and evolve. It is a unique example of what can be achieved by people and communities coming together to build their own city and culture. The 60th birthday is a tremendous opportunity to celebrate this and look to the future together with optimism.”

There will be many other opportunities for local people to get involved, starting with a series of workshops consulting on a new Creative and Cultural Strategy, which is also due to begin in 2027.

For more information about the 60th anniversary plans, how to get involved, and the development of the new Creative and Cultural Strategy, visit:
City Council’s Culture Page

Milton Keynes is set for a night of big laughs as The Comedy Cow returns to The Venue MK on Friday 27 February, delivering an unmissable evening of live stand-up comedy.

Doors open at 19:00, with the show starting promptly at 20:00.

Headlining the night is the brilliantly anarchic Spencer Jones, star of Live at the Apollo, 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, and winner of the Edinburgh Comedy Award for Best Show. Known for his surreal storytelling, musical madness, and unpredictable charm, Jones promises a headline set packed with originality and laughter.

Opening the show is comedy veteran Mike Gunn, one of the UK circuit’s most respected acts, bringing razor-sharp wit and masterful timing to kick the night off in style.

Holding the night together as MC is the ever-reliable Julian Deane, whose slick crowd work and warm delivery make him a favourite at comedy clubs across the country. Completing the line-up is rising star Ed Hedges, taking the middle spot with his clever, relatable humour and fast-growing reputation.

Event details:

• Event: The Comedy Cow
• Venue: The Venue MK
• Date: Friday 27 February
• Doors: 19:00
• Show starts: 20:00

With a carefully curated line-up of established names and exciting talent, The Comedy Cow continues its reputation for bringing high-quality comedy nights to Milton Keynes.

Tickets are expected to sell fast, so early booking is strongly advised.

BOOK HERE

The Community Orchard at Woughton on the Green celebrates its 50th anniversary this year!

Planted in 1976 by the Milton Keynes Development Corporation, the orchard is the largest of its kind in the city and is now cared for by The Parks Trust alongside volunteers from the Mid Shires Orchard Group.

Home to 19 native apple varieties, the orchard continues its original purpose of offering free fruit for local people to enjoy. To mark the golden anniversary, several community events will take place in 2026, including a traditional Wassail Ceremony on 24 January, a Spring Picnic on 9 May, a Summer Picnic on 25 July, and the popular Apple Day on 17 October. Full event details are available on theparkstrust.com/goldenorchard

The orchard’s history stretches back even further to its days as Cottage Farm, once home to Patch, a much‑loved Shire horse whose name lives on in the nearby allotments. As part of the anniversary, The Parks Trust is inviting residents to share personal memories and stories of the orchard. Visitors are reminded to collect apples from the ground rather than picking from the trees to help protect them.

Amy Gerhard, Events & Community Engagement Assistant at The Parks Trust says “The orchard has always been for the people of Milton Keynes, and this anniversary is a chance to celebrate that together. From the Wassail to picnics and Apple Day, these events are all about bringing neighbours, families, and friends together to share in its rich history and vibrant future.”

Find out more on theparkstrust.com/goldenorchard