A colourful and family‑friendly sculpture trail is coming to Milton Keynes city centre this summer, with the launch of Elmer’s Art Parade – thanks to MyMiltonKeynes.

Inspired by the much‑loved children’s book character Elmer the Patchwork Elephant, the trail officially launches on Saturday 11 July and will run throughout the school summer holidays. The event sees 12 Elmer sculptures installed at key locations across Milton Keynes City Centre, transforming public spaces into a vibrant outdoor gallery.

Designed to engage children, families and visitors of all ages, Elmer’s Art Parade encourages exploration, movement and discovery throughout the city centre. Participants will be invited to follow the trails, uncovering each uniquely designed Elmer while experiencing different areas of the city along the way.

The trail forms part of MyMiltonKeynes’ ongoing commitment to boosting footfall and increasing dwell time across multiple city‑centre zones. By installing eye‑catching sculptures and memorable moments, Elmer’s Art Parade is expected to generate strong social media engagement, helping to amplify Milton Keynes’ profile organically through shareable content. The launch also comes as Milton Keynes celebrates being longlisted for UK City of Culture 2026, further highlighting the city’s growing cultural ambition and making this the perfect moment to introduce a vibrant, family‑friendly art trail.

Jill Farnsworth, representing MyMiltonKeynes, said: “Elmer’s story is all about celebrating difference and recognising that being unique is something to be proud of, and that message really resonates with Milton Keynes. We’re not like other cities and that’s exactly what we love about this place. Elmer’s Art Parade allows us to showcase that uniqueness and transform our city centre into a colourful and memorable art gallery during the summer months.  It is part of a wider programme of standout city‑centre events being developed by the BID, that will create genuine excitement, draw people in and help establish Milton Keynes as a place known for big, memorable experiences.”

Charlie Langhorne, Managing Director and Co-founder, Wild in Art, said: “We’re delighted to be bringing Elmer’s Art Parade to Milton Keynes this summer in partnership with MyMiltonKeynes. This much-loved story has a unique ability to spark imagination across generations, and this trail turns that magic into a captivating, outdoor experience for the whole community.

Our trails are designed to bring people together, encourage exploration, and create moments of joy in everyday spaces. As families discover each beautifully designed Elmer sculpture, they’ll enjoy a trail that’s fun, imaginative and bursting with creativity.”

You can DOWNLOAD OR VIEW THE BOOKLET or CHECK THE ELMER’S ART PARADE MAP

A journalist and author from Milton Keynes is writing a definitive history of the Milton Keynes Bowl – and she wants your memories for inclusion.

Sammy Jones has been a journalist in the new city for more than three decades, specialising in music and entertainment.

In 2021 she delivered the hugely successful book, Milton Keynes – Wired For Sound, which explored the history of the local music scene.

This time the spotlight is focused solely on the 65,000 capacity venue which has welcomed monsters of rock including Queen, Foo Fighters and Black Sabbath, aces David Bowie, Michael Jackson, Take That and Robbie Williams and dance deliverers Swedish House Mafia and Pendulum.

“It is such an important venue, not just locally, but nationally and internationally,” Sammy said, “Many of the artists who have played there have fond specific memories, and the venue is a beacon in Milton Keynes. A book charting its history, and bringing together memories from those artists who have graced its stage, was long overdue.

“But the Bowl is very much our venue, and I want to share the memories and anecdotes of city residents who remember shows there for specific reasons – maybe you met the love of your life while watching Green Day, remember getting plastered in the mud bath when U2 played, or perhaps you got so drunk that you don’t remember anything at all!

“Whatever you recall, I would love you to share with me.”

Sammy – who also runs the Milton Keynes Music Archive – is also interested in any photos and memorabilia you might have from any of those shows.

You’ll be in great company too; artists that have already contributed include Foo Fighters, Queen’s Brian May, Bon Jovi, Megadeth, Billy Bragg, Francis Rossi from Status Quo, and Skid Row’s Sebastian Bach.

“I’ve been fortunate that so many people have been happy to share their recollections of playing the venue with me, and I have some awesome never before seen images, too.

“The Bowl is a jewel in the crown of Milton Keynes and the book is a wonderful way to capture that history for everyone to enjoy. But this isn’t just about those who have played on its stage – it’s about everyone who has enjoyed time there.”

Send your submissions to freelancesammy@googlemail.com or through FB: @miltonkeyneswiredforsound

MERKUR Casino Milton Keynes has announced its renewed partnership with the city’s National Ice Hockey League team, MK Lightning, becoming a Diamond Sponsor for the 26/27 season.

Founded in 2002 and re-formed in 2019, MK Lightning competes in the National Ice Hockey League and finished 2^nd in the 2024/2025 season. Based at Planet Ice Arena in Milton Keynes, the team is known not only for its on-ice success, but also for its active community involvement, hosting fundraisers and themed match events throughout the year, reflecting MERKUR’s company values.

MERKUR Casino Milton Keynes opened its doors at the Xscape complex last November, unveiling a landmark destination, bringing state-of-the-art gaming, live entertainment and premium hospitality to the region.

As part of the continued partnership, the MERKUR Casino Milton Keynes logo will feature on the players’ kits, on each shoulder and the bottom of the jersey, as well as on two of the rink barrier boards at Planet Ice. In addition, MERKUR will proudly sponsor MK Lightning players Bradley Johnson and Harry Gulliver, whose experience and skills have made them key members of the squad.

Mark Schertle, Chief Operating Officer at MERKUR Casino UK, said: “We’re delighted to be continuing our partnership with MK Lightning by becoming a Diamond Sponsor. At MERKUR, we’re committed to investing in the communities where we operate, not only by bringing cutting-edge entertainment but also by supporting local initiatives and sports teams that bring people together.

Partnering with MK Lightning allows us to share in their energy and passion while giving back to the city that’s not only home to our head office, but now our newest flagship casino as well.”

Tom Roberts, a Director at MK Lightning, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome MERKUR Casino Milton Keynes as a Diamond Sponsor. Their casino is an exciting addition to the city, and we’re looking forward to continuing a fantastic partnership throughout the season.”

For further information on MERKUR Casino UK, visit www.merkurcasinouk.com

Milton Keynes Pride Festival has announced Tulisa as the headline artist for this September’s event at Campbell Park.

The N-Dubz star, singer-songwriter and television personality will headline the Main Stage as thousands of visitors from Milton Keynes and across the UK come together for one of the region’s largest free celebrations of LGBTQ+ community, culture and inclusion.

Taking place on Saturday 12 September 2026, the festival will feature live entertainment, community organisations, family activities, independent traders, food and drink vendors throughout the day.

Less than 35 minutes from London Euston by train, Milton Keynes Pride Festival continues to attract visitors from across the country while showcasing Milton Keynes as a welcoming, inclusive and vibrant destination.

Keith Emmett III, Director of Milton Keynes Pride Festival, said:
“We’re incredibly excited to welcome Tulisa to Campbell Park as our headline artist this September. Milton Keynes Pride Festival continues to grow year on year, and we’re looking forward to welcoming visitors from across the region and beyond for what promises to be a fantastic celebration.”

FREE Milton Keynes Pride Festival tickets are now available.

Further artists will be announced throughout July.

For tickets and festival information, visit: www.mkpridefestival.com

With the big school holidays fast approaching, The Parks Trust’s summer events are perfectly lined up to keep everyone entertained whatever the weather!

Make the most of longer days and luscious landscapes with an exciting programme of outdoor activities and events taking place across Milton Keynes’ parks.

Summer Holiday Open Mornings

Every Tue, Wed & Thu at Howe Park Wood | 9.30am-12.30pm

Free nature activities for families, exploring the ancient woodland and learning about the wildlife that lives in Milton Keynes’ parks. Visit again and again to enjoy different weekly themes including Marvellous Minibeasts, Super Creatures, Nature Games, Wildlife Warriors and more. Plus, some weeks feature ticketed sessions such as bug hotel building – book these online before you visit to avoid disappointment!

Home to endangered animals and plant species, Howe Park Wood is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest by Natural England for its wildlife value.

Golden Summer Picnic

Sat 25 July at Woughton Community Orchard | 1.30-4pm

Relax into a lazy afternoon at the orchard, with friends and family. Pack a blanket and tasty treats to enjoy a summer picnic surrounded by the sights, scents and sounds of summer in this historic orchard celebrating 50 years feeding the community.

Butterfly Strolls

Wed 22 July in Ouse Valley Park | 1pm
Thu 6 August at Floodplain Forest Nature Reserve | 6pm

Ever spotted a blue butterfly and didn’t know what species it was? Want to take part in The Big Butterfly Count but don’t know your Painted Ladies from your Peacocks? Transform your skills on an introductory butterfly identification stroll and help to record the species living in the parks!

Community Volunteering: Meadow Makers
Sat 25 July in Campbell Park | 12-2pm

Join The Parks Trust to help give hogweed the heave-ho! This’ll boost native species in the wildflower meadows of Campbell Park, perfect for pollinators like bees and butterflies!

Parkland Play Sessions | 12-3pm
Wed 5 August in Oxley Park, Wed 12 August in Waterhall Park, Wed 19 August in Glebe Farm & Wed 26 August at Bancroft Roman Villa

A series of inclusive summer play sessions in neighbourhood parks! Enjoy face painting, crafts, animal encounters, storytelling sessions, and exciting water safety games with The Parks Trust’s Community Rangers.

Community Volunteering: Orchard Haven Build
Sat 8 August at Woughton Community Orchard | 10am-12.30pm

Get hands-on with nature to help construct essential hibernacula and bug hotels to provide safe and cosy winter homes for wildlife like hedgehogs, amphibians, reptiles and insects.

Walk & Talk: Wildlife Wander
Tue 11 August in Waterhall Park | 2pm

Book now to explore this secret slice of greenery, sandwiched between two waterbodies in one of Milton Keynes’ lesser-known parks. This event offers a fantastic way to discover what species might be living right on your doorstep!

Family Bat Walk
Fri 14 August at Great Linford Manor Park | 8.15pm

Led by a knowledgeable guide and equipped with a bat detector, you and your family will venture into the park around sunset to learn about the incredible bat species living in Milton Keynes. You’ll listen out for the incredible sounds of bats whilst you discover the differences between species found in the area – and hopefully have the chance to spot them in flight! Limited spaces, booking required.

Orienteering with South Midlands Orienteering Club
Sat 25 July at Woughton Community Orchard | 1.30pm-4pm

Join the South Midlands Orienteering Club at Howe Park Wood for a challenging outdoor adventure sport, enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities.

Love Wetlands Day
Fri 21 August at Floodplain Forest Nature Reserve | 12-4pm

A fun-filled afternoon discovering and celebrating the wetlands of Milton Keynes. Take part in themed crafts and activities, learn about habitats and the fascinating creatures living in them, meet local wildlife groups and enjoy some tasty treats.

International Bat Night
Sat 29 August at Howe Park Wood | 6.30-9pm

An evening celebrating the world’s only flying mammal, with fascinating talks and activities led by The Parks Trust team and local societies before heading out into the park on a guided walk, using detectors to try and locate bats in flight! Limited capacity, booking required.

Julie Dawes, Events and Community Engagement Manager at The Parks Trust says “We can’t wait for another summer packed with fun and adventure in MK’s Parks, featuring loads of family-friendly events and activities to keep everyone entertained!”

Milton Keynes has over 40 different parks to explore and enjoy, with a huge choice of free play areas, walking and cycling routes, trim trails, and world-class outdoor artworks. There are many more activities and events in the city’s parks to take part in, including:

Woof Walk 25 July at Waterhall Park

Milton Keynes Barrio Fiesta 25 & 26 July in Campbell Park

Parks & Ride 26 July at Floodplain Forest Nature Reserve

Community Litter Pick 27 July at Canal Broadwalk

MK Gospel Festival 8 August in Campbell Park

MK Weekender 14, 15 & 16 August in Campbell Park

Love Wetlands Day 21 August at Floodplain Forest Nature Reserve

Arthur Ellis Mental Health Wellbeing Festival 23 August at Great Linford Manor Park

Community Litter Pick 26 August at Bancroft Roman Villa

Inclusive Stroll 27 August at Furzton Lake

Woof Walk 29 August at Howe Park Wood

Milton Keynes Tribute Festival 29 & 30 August in Campbell Park

Parks & Ride 30 August in Ouzel Valley Park

Big Park Hangout 5 September at Willen Lake

For full listings, visit theparkstrust.com/events

As Milton Keynes Dons prepare for an exciting new era of League One football at Stadium MK, they have launched their all-new Dons Membership schemes for 2026/27 – and they’ve been built with fans in mind.

Whether you’re a Season Ticket Holder, a supporter based in the UK, a Dons fan living overseas, or a young supporter just starting your journey with the club, there’s a membership for you.

With four new tiers to choose from – All Dons, Premium Dons, Young Dons and Worldwide Dons – the new programme is designed to bring supporters closer to the club, reward your loyalty and give you more ways to be part of the Dons story throughout the season.

And that’s not all – they’re also introducing a brand-new loyalty points system, giving every supporter even more reason to get behind the Dons, home and away.

There’s plenty to discover across all four membership options…find out everything you need to know below.

MK DONS MEMBERSHIPS

The Parks Trust has announced the return of the much-loved Big Park Hangout, a free event designed especially for young people aged 11–17 and excitingly backed this year by a £10,000 grant from The National Lottery Community Fund.

Taking place on Saturday 5 September, Big Park Hangout provides local teenagers with an afternoon packed full of music, sport, creative workshops, games and wellbeing activities, all set within a safe and relaxed outdoor environment.

Alongside entertainment and activities, attendees will also have the opportunity to connect with organisations supporting young people, helping to build trust, confidence and awareness of the help available to them.

With youth provision under pressure, Big Park Hangout plays an important role in bringing young people together and strengthening community bonds. Ensuring a wide range of voices and expertise shape the event, Big Park Hangout is delivered in partnership with organisations including Community Action MK, the Youth Council, Milton Keynes Arts Centre, VICTA, Girl Pack, Arthur Ellis, CHUMS MK Young Carers and more.

Sandra Adjei, Events Assistant at The Parks Trust says: “Big Park Hangout is all about giving young people in Milton Keynes a free, welcoming space where they can spend time with friends, try something new and feel connected to their community. We know how important it is for teenagers to have safe spaces where they can build confidence, explore what the city has to offer and find out about the services available to them, and we’re really pleased to be bringing that opportunity back to Willen Lake this summer.”

The National Lottery Community Fund grant recognises the event’s strong alignment with priorities to reduce isolation, improve wellbeing and empower communities.

For young people, families and community partners to find out more, visit theparkstrust.com/bigparkhangout

Join Salcey Forest for a day of family fun this summer with a special visit from Witch on 31 July & 1 August.

Witch will appear at intervals throughout the day – remember your camera for that all-important selfie!

What’s happening:

• Explore the Room on the Broom activity trail and meet Witch
• Enter our colouring competition for a chance to win a year’s Salcey Forest membership
• Face painting
• Fun activities including story telling, bubble art, build your own forest and broom making with Acorn Early Years
• Get active with challenges and games with Go Ape
• Ice cream from Gallones

There’s no need to book — just turn up and enjoy the fun.

Witch appearances and storytelling performances will take place throughout the day. Meet-and-greets are on a first-come, first-served basis and can get busy.

Can’t make the date? Don’t worry – their Room on the Broom trail is open all year round.

Room on the Broom © 2001 Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler. Licensed by Magic Light Pictures Ltd.

Matthew Bourne’s award-winning dance thriller The Car Man will return for a 2026 UK tour, including performances at Milton Keynes Theatre from 7 – 11 July.

Loosely based on Bizet’s ever-popular opera, Matthew Bourne’s The Car Man has one of the most thrilling and instantly recognisable scores in New Adventures’ repertoire. The familiar 19th-century Spanish cigarette factory becomes a greasy 1950s garage-diner in the American Midwest, where the dreams and passions of a small town are shattered by the arrival of a handsome and enigmatic stranger. Fuelled by heat and desire, the inhabitants are driven into an unstoppable spiral of greed,
lust, betrayal and revenge.

Matthew Bourne said: “I never dreamed when we created this show at the beginning of the new millennium that it would still be around, thrilling audiences, 25 years later! Inspired by vintage movie film noir classics, it holds a unique and special place in the New Adventures repertory as the only piece based on an opera and possibly the first ballet to feature a bisexual anti-hero! I’m particularly happy that we are taking the show “on the road” again after more than 10 years, and I can’t wait to revisit the hot and steamy town of Harmony USA – the best place to be next Summer!”

The title role of the magnetic Luca, “The Car Man”, will be played by Will Bozier and Harrison Dowzell, both former lead Swans in Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake, alongside New Adventures’ much-loved stars, Cordelia Braithwaite and Ashley Shaw as the alluring Lana. Rising stars, Leonardo McCorkindale and Harry Ondrak-Wright play the troubled misfit, Angelo, whilst Anna Maria de Freitas with Kurumi Kamayachi make their leading role debuts as Lana’s devoted sister, Rita. Danny Reubens and the original “Car Man” himself, Alan Vincent will portray Lana’s jealous husband, Dino.

Matthew Bourne said: “…it’s interesting to reflect on how iconic, unique and sought after the leading roles in this show have become since it was made in 2000. We are still the only company in the world to perform this production and yet the roles of Luca, Lana, Angelo, Rita and Dino have become as legendary as the show itself and a unique part of the UK dance landscape for several generations of young dancers. I’m proud that New Adventures never just “revives” a show; we re- invent, question and grow with each new cast which is why I’m so excited to revisit the small town of Harmony this summer and, much like Luca himself, shake things up a bit!”

THE CAR MAN was first seen in 2000, winning the Evening Standard Award for Musical Event of the Year and the Los Angeles Drama Critics Award for Best Choreography. It was last seen in a unique revival for The Royal Albert Hall’s 150th Birthday in 2022. This expanded production received rave reviews and nightly standing ovations. However, this will be the first time The Car Man has toured since 2015.

Performances run at Milton Keynes Theatre from Tue 7 – Sat 11 Jul 2026. Tickets are available now.

For further information and to book tickets, visit ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes.

LISTINGS
Matthew Bourne’s The Car Man
Performances: Tue 7 – Sat 11 Jul 2026
Access bookings: 0333 009 5399
Group bookings: 0207 206 1174
Online Booking: ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes*

The country is gripped by football fever once again as England compete in the FIFA World Cup Finals and they now face Argentina in the Semi Finals.

England vs Argentina – Wednesday 15 July – kick off 8pm

If you want to watch all the action with others to soak up that atmosphere and cheer on the team, here are a few ideas on where you can watch the England match live in Milton Keynes…

Milton Keynes Dons FC

The League One club will be hosting a Semi Final World Cup screening on 15 July. Join them at Stadium MK to watch the match live in their Club Red hospitality area. Entry through Gate 1 from 8pm. £5 per ticket (includes complimentary drink voucher).

Purchase your entry ticket for the England v Argentina match viewing HERE

Xscape Milton Keynes

At Xscape, you have a few options on where to watch the England match. If you’re over 18, head to MERKUR Casino Milton Keynes where you can watch in their multi-screen sports bar, where the drinks are cold, the food hot, and the atmosphere unbeatable.

You can also choose to go to Wing Kingz where they have the tastiest chicken on offer alongside multiple screens to make sure you don’t miss a thing or at The Moon Under Water you can expect good value food, cask ales and plenty of big-screen sporting action.

The Hub

At The Hub, you can enjoy dining and the England games at Maaya Indian Kitchen & Bar where they’ll be offering in game offers and all the food and drink you need, brought direct to your table. Booking is a must CLICK HERE

At The Residence, they’ve got multiple 60” TVs plus immersive surround sound for the best viewing experience, and they’ll keep the ice-cold drinks flowing and have game day bites ready for you. Table bookings now open.

At Maaya Indian Kitchen & Bar you can enjoy top-class Indian food plus Kingfisher beers and watch the big game on a big screen in a fully air-conditioned restaurant – bring it on! BOOK HERE

Unity Place

Watch England take on Argentina this Wednesday at Unity Place, on one of Milton Keynes’ biggest sports screens. Everyone is welcome – expect an unmissable match-day atmosphere, with food and drinks available throughout. Bar & food stalls open from 4pm, with kick off at 8pm.

Tickets are £5 per person – limited availability – BOOK HERE

Holiday Inn – Central Milton Keynes

The hotel will be showing the match live in their Open Lobby and on the Terrace. Whether you’re staying with them or simply looking for a great place to watch, why not head down. They also have some great food & drink offers during matches.

1IRON Indoor Golf

Milton Keynes Disability Awareness Day 2026 will now take place at Camphill Milton Keynes, Willen Park, on 14 July from 12pm to 2.30pm, providing visitors with access to indoor and outdoor spaces following concerns about the hot weather.

The FREE community event, which celebrates the talents, achievements and contributions of people with disabilities, will be hosted across Camphill’s Theatre and Green, creating a welcoming and accessible environment for everyone to enjoy.

Visitors can look forward to an afternoon packed with activities, performances and opportunities to try something new. Highlights include:

• Live performances from local musicians, including Dale O and Melody Woman
• Dance and performance sessions from MacIntyre, Suzie Birchwood Consultancy and Spectrum CA
• Football goal-scoring with MK Dons Community Trust
• Sports activities from MK SNAP
• DJ workshops with On The Decks Group
• Wellness workshops led by D’Rose
• Health walks and bug hunts with The Parks Trust
• A community Silent Disco hosted by Camphill MK

There will also be a range of information stalls covering topics including neurodiversity, dementia, disability sport, wheelchair services, DJ-ing and local support services.

Bring along your picnic, find a spot to settle and enjoy the entertainment.

John Moffoot DL, Chair of the organising committee, said:

“Disability Awareness Day is all about celebrating what people can do. We’re delighted that Camphill MK has stepped forward to host this year’s event, allowing us to offer a fantastic programme of activities in a comfortable and inclusive setting.”

The event is open to everyone, with families, schools, community groups and local residents all encouraged to come along, get involved and celebrate disability inclusion in Milton Keynes.

Event Details

Milton Keynes Disability Awareness Day 2026
📅 Tuesday 14 July 2026
🕛 12.00pm – 2.30pm
📍 Camphill Milton Keynes, Willen Park
🎟 Free and open to all

12th Street in Central Milton Keynes will be transformed into a vibrant festival hub on Saturday 11 July as part of the Milton Keynes Comedy Festival, offering a full day of free family entertainment, live performances and the exciting launch of Elmer’s Art Parade.

Running from 10am to 7pm, the 12th Street hub will be completely FREE to enter and open to the public, making it the perfect destination for families, friends and festival-goers of all ages.

Comedy Festival Hub

With a programme of live music and family friendly performances throughout the day, visitors can expect to encounter a stilt walker, a balloon artist and festival compère Dave Allen, who will bring a touch of magic and fun to the streets.

Food and drink will be available during the day, with a range of options including ice cream, fresh pizza and barista coffee, alongside a pop-up bar hosted by Mulligans, ensuring visitors can relax and enjoy the atmosphere from morning through to early evening.

While the 12th Street hub is free and open to everyone, the wider Milton Keynes Comedy Festival will see 20 shows taking place across the day, ranging from family-friendly performances to evening stand-up. With tickets starting from just £5 and selling fast, audiences are encouraged to book early to avoid missing out.

The Comedy Festival runs from 9–12 July, bringing a packed programme of live comedy to venues across the city centre, and positioning Milton Keynes as a growing destination for live entertainment.

Launching Elmer’s Art Parade

The day also marks the launch of Elmer’s Art Parade, a brand-new public art trail in for the summer, featuring 12 large Elmer the Elephant sculptures, each decorated in bold, colourful designs inspired by famous artists. The trail will invite visitors to explore Milton Keynes city centre in a fun and creative way, while celebrating art, storytelling and community.

12th Street will act as the starting point for the trail, with a lively programme of activity to mark the occasion. Younger visitors can take part in free Elmer-themed craft activities throughout the day, while the first 250 attendees will be able to pick up a special goody bag. Families will also have the chance to meet Elmer himself at intervals across the day, thanks to Gulliver’s Land, creating plenty of memorable moments.

Both the Milton Keynes Comedy Festival and Elmer’s Art Parade are funded by city centre businesses via MyMiltonKeynes Business Improvement District (BID), reflecting a shared commitment to creating vibrant events that bring people into the city and support local trade.

For more information on Elmer’s Art Parade, visit www.elmermk.co.uk, and for full comedy listings and tickets, visit www.miltonkeynescomedyfestival.com