MyMiltonKeynes has announced it bring a colourful and family‑friendly sculpture trail to the city centre this summer, with the launch of Elmer’s Art Parade.

Inspired by the much‑loved children’s book character Elmer the Patchwork Elephant, the trail will officially launch on Saturday 11th July and will run throughout the school summer holidays. The event will see 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 will encourage 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.”

Full details of sculpture locations, trail maps and supporting activities will be released closer to the launch date.

A massive summer of sport in nearly here with the World Cup, Commonwealth Games and Wimbledon coming soon…and there’s no better place to build excitement ahead of the action than at Xscape Milton Keynes.

Whether you’re looking to get active, challenge your friends or simply soak up the competitive spirit, Xscape is the ultimate destination to gear up for an unforgettable summer. Packed with thrilling experiences, sporting inspiration and great places to eat, drink and catch the big games, there’s something for everyone under one gigantic roof.

Take on the challenge

Inspired by all the sporting action coming up this summer? If it’s got you raring to go and ready to challenge your nearest and dearest to a spot of friendly competition, we know just the place. It’s time to step up, get active and put your skills to the test at Xscape Milton Keynes! Planning a family day out or group visit? Don’t leave it to chance – book your adventure in advance to avoid missing out.

• Speed & reflexes
  Get your adrenaline pumping and put your reactions to the test with exciting competitive experiences at Xscape Milton Keynes. Step into immersive new worlds at InstaVR, where fast-paced virtual reality adventures challenge your coordination and focus, or head to Hollywood Bowl for friendly competition across bowling lanes, arcade games and glow bowling fun.
• Precision & focus
  Head to Volcano Falls Adventure Golf and put your focus and precision to the test. From immersive themed courses to competitive family fun, it’s the perfect way to spark some friendly rivalry inspired by the summer sporting season.
• Agility & endurance
  Bounce into action at Gravity Active, where high-energy challenges help build agility, coordination and stamina in a fun and fast-paced environment. Looking for even more adrenaline? Take on climbing challenges and action-packed experiences at Gravity Rocks, designed to keep the whole group entertained!
• Balance & confidence
  Feel inspired to try something new? Snozone offers the chance to sharpen your balance, control and confidence on real snow, whether you’re a complete beginner or already slope-ready. Ski lessons and slope sessions are incredibly popular during the summer months, so don’t leave your booking until the last minute. Or maybe learn to indoor skydive at iFLY Milton Keynes for an adrenaline rush like no other.
• Reaction & competition
  Funstation is packed with quick-fire challenges, leaderboards and competitive fun. Test your reactions, chase high scores and challenge friends and family to see who comes out on top in a fast-paced gaming environment designed for all ages.

Gear up like a Pro

Ready for summer adventures, but still need the gear to match? Whether you’re planning fun days outdoors, cycling adventures or active family weekends, Xscape Milton Keynes has everything you need to look and perform your best. Visit Ellis Brigham, Evans Cycles and Trespass for outdoor clothing, sporting essentials, adventure-ready accessories and expert advice before your next challenge.

Summer of Sport – Where to watch

You’ve built up your competitive spirit – now it’s time to enjoy the main event.

At Xscape Milton Keynes, Wing Kingz continues to be a go-to destination for live sport, flavoured wings and match-day atmosphere seven days a week, while at The Moon Under Water you can expect tasty food, cask ales and plenty of big-screen sporting action. Plus, don’t forget that MERKUR Casino will be screening live World Cup action throughout the tournament.

Planning to visit? Don’t leave it until the last minute – activities, dining reservations and group experiences are likely to book up quickly throughout the summer season.

Secure your spot, plan ahead and get ready for an unforgettable day out at Xscape Milton Keynes!

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

With the arrival of sunshine and warmer weather, it’s the perfect time to head outdoors and make the most of Milton Keynes’ amazing green spaces, but don’t forget to Love Your Parks.

The simplest way to show your love for parks and green spaces is by acting responsibly whilst enjoying the great outdoors. Help spread the word so others do the same!

With over 6,000 acres to explore, there’s plenty of fun activities from walks and cycling to events, family games and picnics. To help keep these spaces clean and safe, The Parks Trust asks that we all follow some guidance so that everyone can have a fun, enjoyable and safe time in the sunshine.

• Don’t use BBQs, gas stoves or fires
• Take litter home or use bins where provided
• Respect other park users, wildlife, livestock, and habitats
• Care for nature – don’t cause damage or disturbance
• Act safely, especially around water
• Keep dogs under control and clear up their waste
• Be considerate to those volunteering and working in the park
• No overnight parking or camping

If you’re looking to explore somewhere new or find a spot to get closer to nature, discover Milton Keynes’ parks at theparkstrust.com