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Hello Readers

Welcome to our May Half Term magazine. We’ve not long had the Easter break, but we are looking forward to the bank holiday weekend and half term coming up soon!

In our Family Events feature you will find a huge array of family-favourites, many of which take place annually and they are something we all look forward to! From trains to festivals and local shows, there is plenty for everyone to enjoy.

We have a selection of activities and days out to choose from in our Half Term Fun guide. Whether you need childcare options or time together you can plan ahead and book in now.

Don’t miss your Chance to Win on page 15. We have four amazing competitions running –including multiple festival and concert tickets up for grabs!

Our next issue will be our bumper one, covering the entire summer holidays and more. Bring on the sunshine!

Louise

Local NEWS

Introducing some local companies, giving you a brief glimpse into what’s on offer for young people across the county, from tuition to technology and music. There is even a work-based route into teaching available if you’re looking at career opportunities.

Developingtalentedteachersforourlocalschools

Great schools start with great teachers. Best Practice Network’s PGTA (Postgraduate Teacher Apprenticeship) is a high- quality, work-based route into teaching that helps schools grow the next generation of passionate, skilled educators right here in our local community.

Through the PGTA, trainee teachers work alongside experienced staff in local primary schools while completing nationally recognised teacher training. This means they gain real classroom experience from day one, developing the skills, confidence and understanding needed to support children’s learning and wellbeing. By training teachers locally, PGTA helps schools retain committed staff who understand their pupils, families and communities. Parents can feel confident that classrooms are supported by well-trained professionals who are invested in delivering the very best outcomes for children.

If you are interested in training to teach with Best Practice Network PGTA. Please contact teach@bestpracticenet.co.uk for more information.

Watch their skills and confidence grow

With over 60 years of experience and more than 3.5 million students worldwide, it’s no surprise that Kumon is the world’s leading supplementary education provider. The Kumon Maths and English Programmes help children build confidence, improve focus, and develop independent study skills that last a lifetime.

Now is the perfect time for your family to discover the benefits of Kumon, as the Kumon Study Centres are now offering Free Registration to new and returning students from 1st to 30th June. Take this opportunity to save money and help your child stand out from their peers.

Impact Academies & Camps – coding and technology education for children

As parents themselves, the team at Impact understand how important it is to prepare children for a digital future, while making sure they truly enjoy learning. Impact Academies & Camps help children aged 5-17 discover coding, robotics, and technology through fun, hands-on activities that build real skills and confidence. At the end of each module, they organise a Project Fair, where children proudly present what they have created. Their weekly classes are highly practical, with students creating their own games, programming robots, and learning how technology really works – not just how to use it. They focus on developing problem-solving skills, creativity, logical thinking and teamwork in a supportive environment. Classes take place in small groups, with all equipment provided and experienced tutors who support every child at their own pace.

T: 07768 994330

W: www.impactacademies.co.uk/northampton

Join NMPAT’s County Ensembles: Free Open Rehearsals and Auditions

Northamptonshire Music and Performing Arts Trust (NMPAT) are looking for young musicians to join their award-winning County Ensembles, including choirs, orchestras, jazz, brass, wind, guitar and percussion groups.

For more information and to book your child’s Kumon free assessment, contact your local Instructor via the website, or give them a call.

W: www.kumon.co.uk

FREE Registration Offer

To help your child decide if it’s right for them, free open rehearsals for junior ensembles are taking place throughout May – a great, no pressure way to try things out before committing. If your child is keen to join, audition applications are open until 22nd May. New this year, children can opt for a group audition, making the experience that bit less nerve-wracking and more enjoyable for everyone!

Find out more about the open rehearsals: www.nmpat.co.uk/countyensembles

Apply for an audition: www.nmpat.co.uk/auditions

Bingsy Bakes

Creativecakes&bespoke treatsforeveryoccasion

Bingsy Bakes brings a fresh, personal touch to celebrations, combining creativity with a genuine love for baking. Founded by 26-yearold Niyah, the business reflects a lifelong passion that she is proud to turn into her own exciting venture.

Niyah first discovered her love for baking as a child, and over the years it has grown into something she truly takes pride in. With a creative background in face painting, media makeup and event makeup, she has a natural eye for colour, detail and design, helping her create bakes that feel thoughtful, fun and made especially for each occasion.

From cupcakes and cookies to themed cakes, Bingsy Bakes is all about making every order feel individual and memorable. Whether it is a birthday, event, family gathering or special celebration, each creation is made with care, imagination and attention to detail. To order or find out more, get in touch today.

T: 07482 525122 @bingsybakes

See our competition on page 15 for your chance to win a tray of cupcakes or cookies!

Family EVENTS

We absolutely love this time of year and all the annual family-friendly events that take place across the county. The variety is huge, meaning there really is something for everyone to enjoy, whether you like trains, music or even dog shows!

PAW Patrol Weekend at The Northampton & Lamport Railway

Sunday24th&

Monday25thMay

Chase and Rubble from PAW Patrol are visiting the Northampton and Lamport Railway over the May Bank Holiday! The children’s TV favourites will “be there on the double”, making appearances throughout both days with photo opportunities.

Your ticket includes a return Heritage Steam train journey through the countryside. Trains depart hourly between 10am and 3pm from Pitsford and Brampton Station (close to the village of Chapel Brampton), where there is complimentary parking, a Souvenir Shop, and Platform 3 Buffet serving a variety of hot and cold drinks, yummy snacks, and freshly prepared meals.

Your train journey will take you to Boughton Station where you can stay as little or as long as you like before commencing your return journey. The return train ride lasts approximately 40 to 45 minutes. With local walks and public houses, you can extend your day out, creating happy memories for all the family. Family tickets are available and under 2s go free.

Plus, look out for other upcoming events too, including Sunday 21st June, Father’s Day, where dads travel free, and there are Cream Teas Specials running! Sunday 12th July is Double Diesel Day.

W: www.nlr.org.uk

Big Doggy Day Out at Kelmarsh Hall

Sunday7thJune

Visit Kelmarsh Hall for Big Doggy Day Out, perfect for dog lovers and their four-legged friends! Explore a variety of dog-friendly stalls with treats, toys, grooming services and unique gifts. Enjoy interactive activities like Flyball, agility, enrichment games and scent workshops, all led by expert trainers and suitable for all abilities. Don’t miss the Fun Dog Show, where your pup can shine and compete for prizes, including Best in Show. There’s also a royalthemed photoshoot, giving dogs the chance to be crowned “Royal Champion of Doggy Day,” plus free bandanas for the first 150 visitors. With the tearoom and beautiful gardens open, it’s a wonderful day out for the whole family; two legs and four!

W: www.kelmarsh.com

Kettering Comic Con

Saturday13thJune

Don’t miss the debut Kettering Comic Con, taking place at Kettering Leisure Village on Saturday 13th June!

Take selfies with Optimus Prime and Bumblebee, check out super fun props including the Monsters Inc Door and E.T. Closet, browse lots of stalls with amazing merchandise, partake in free activities including retro gaming, workshops, green screen, board gaming and more! Why not go along in costume and enter the competition, with prizes available for toddlers, children and adults. Tickets are available online now!

W: www.bolt-events.com/kettering-comic-con

WellingboroughCarnival&PartyinthePark

Saturday4th&Sunday5thJuly

Get ready, Wellingborough! Wellingborough Carnival & Party in the Park weekend returns to Croyland Park on 4th & 5th July, promising a weekend bursting with colour, music and community spirit. Saturday kicks off with the Carnival parade, winding its way from Broad Green, through the town to Croyland Park for an afternoon of entertainment, attractions and family fun. On Sunday, Party in the Park continues from 12noon with live music, attractions, food and a chilled-out festival vibe for all ages. Whether you’re dancing by the stage, enjoying local food stalls, taking a ride on the fair or just enjoying the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone. It’s a celebration of the town’s vibrant culture, creativity and community spirit – don’t miss it! Take your friends, family and festival spirit for a weekend to remember! Check online for more information. www.wellingboroughtowncouncil.gov.uk/party-weekend-2026

Live at the Abbey

Friday17th–Friday24thJuly

Summer evenings don’t get better than this. Live at the Abbey presents three unforgettable open-air concerts at one of Northamptonshire’s most iconic outdoor settings!

Wet Wet Wet and ABC co-headline a huge open-air summer concert on Friday 17th July with support from Marc Almond and Johnny Hates Jazz. Expect wall-to-wall anthems, big choruses and pure 80s throwback magic! (Family friendly)

On Saturday 18th July the festival season is in full swing with four stages of music and DJs. Featuring headline sets from Tinie Tempah and Wilkinson plus Sigala, Ms. Dynamite, Artful Dodger and more. (18+)

Then on Friday 24th July – Relive some of the biggest hits of the 90s and 00s with an unmissable performance from Five, with support from The Wanted 2.0. (Family friendly)

Live at the Abbey takes place from 17th to 24th July at Delapré Abbey. Check online for more information and tickets! W: www.yoursummerlive.co.uk

Shambala Festival

Thursday27th–Sunday30thAugust

Held at the stunning countryside estate of Kelmarsh Hall and Gardens each August Bank Holiday, Shambala is the UK’s fiercely independent, seriously silly, wildly creative and radically sustainable festival.

A vibrant playground of music, performance, arts, dance, wellbeing and woodland parties, it’s a family-friendly festival with a wild side –designed to spark curiosity and fuel creativity no matter your age. This year, organisers have responded to years of local demand by introducing limited Local Sunday Day Tickets – an ideal way for those living nearby (within LE or NN postcodes) to dip into the festival’s unique atmosphere.

Sunday at Shambala is anything but a wind-down, bringing big energy, joyful connection and a standout musical line-up including EmmaJean Thackray, Orchestra Baobab, Penguin Café, Los Bitchos and Hollie Cook, alongside the iconic closing ceremony and Shambolympics Grand Final. With hands-on workshops, inspiring talks, family fun and a wealth of delicious veggie and vegan food, Sunday offers a delicious slice of Shambalan goodness for locals looking to get involved! W: www.shambalafestival.org/buy-tickets

Sunday Local Tickets on sale now!

Half Term FUN

We have some great ideas of places to visit and things to do over the upcoming half term. From holiday clubs to family days out and activities, there are lots to choose from to keep everyone entertained.

Softplay for all ages at Beanz Barn

Set within a converted grain store on a small farm in a quiet village location, Beanz Barn is a forest and treehouse-themed softplay and café designed to spark imaginations and bring families together. The air-conditioned space invites children up to the age of 10 to explore, climb, and play in a safe & engaging environment. The playframe is built with active and adventurous play in mind, offering older children a chance to challenge themselves with slides, ladders, swings, nets, and a variety of exciting obstacles. For younger visitors, a dedicated under-3s area ensures safe and stimulating play away from the hustle and bustle of the bigger kids. Planning a party? There is a private party room which is ideal for birthdays and special celebrations. With free private parking on site, your visit is easy from start to finish.

Discover Beanz Barn this half term – where little explorers grow, big imaginations thrive, and families feel right at home.

W: www.beanzbarn.co.uk

Hit the track at Kart Silverstone

Looking for a half term activity that puts the whole family in the driver’s seat? Get behind the wheel at Kart Silverstone, the brand-new, world-class outdoor karting circuit at the home of British Motorsport. Whether you’re karting for the first time or ready to battle for the podium, Kart Silverstone has sessions for every racer to enjoy. Plus, after the chequered flag drops, refuel the whole crew at Box Box Pizza, serving hand-stretched sourdough pizzas with unbeatable views across the track! W: www.kart.silverstone.co.uk

Plan a half term trip to Tigers

Tigers Indoor Play has two venues, one in Daventry and one in Kettering. Both offer fantastic soft play facilities and are open Wednesday to Sunday, with three time slots available to choose from each day. With Go-karts, thrilling slides, and a large under 5’s play area, there is something for children of all ages, alongside a café, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Perfect for school holiday fun, whatever the weather!

W: www.tigersplay.co.uk

Family fun at Weston Favell this half term

Get the whole family together at the dedicated Favell Fun Club, a welcoming space where children and parents can play, have fun, and create lasting memories. Running from 23rd May to 30th May, from 11am till 3pm, it’s a great way to keep everyone smiling during the May half term break. From the moment you arrive, the team ensure each visit is filled with family fun and moments loved ones won’t forget. Head down to spend your half term at Weston Favell Shopping Centre.

W: www.westonfavellshopping.com

A-MAY-zing adventures await at Wicksteed Park

Visit Wicksteed Park from Saturday 23rd to Sunday 31st May,10.30am until 5pm each day, for an action-packed May Half Term adventure that the whole family can enjoy!

Wristbands start from just £22 when booked in advance, giving you unlimited access to over 25 rides and attractions. There are also family tickets available starting from just £56 for a family of three! Children under 0.9m get to experience the joy of Wicksteed Park for FREE with an accompanying paying adult. Don’t miss out on this a-MAY-zing half-term, book online NOW!

W: www.wicksteedpark.org

Please see the website for details of height restrictions. Rides and attractions may be closed for maintenance or may not operate during inclement weather. The Garden Wheel will be closed for ongoing maintenance. Please check our website for the latest availability updates.

May Half Term Track Club

Experience the thrill of the Athletics track this half term with OnYourMarks Athletics! Running from Wednesday 27th to Friday 29th May, their England Athletics Coaches will guide your young athlete through warm-ups and technique drills across events of Run, Jump and Throw. Experience the Speed of the Sprint. Spring into the air on the High Jump. Launch yourself across the sand in the Long Jump. Test your throwing might in the Shot Put, or team up with a new friend and take on everyone in the relay. Suitable for children aged 6+, each session is packed with fun games, relays, and the chance to win a daily medal and be crowned Athlete of the Day. They also offer 1-2-1 coaching, Afterschool Clubs, and a popular Saturday Track Club for ages 6+. Book your spot now and give your child an unforgettable athletics experience this half term!

W: www.onyourmarksathletics.co.uk

WOW

What’s on Where in Northamptonshire

ONGOING

Softplay Fun

Beanz Barn Softplay and Café

www.beanzbarn.co.uk

Your little adventurers can explore while you enjoy this family-friendly venue. Open seven days a week, with three sessions a day; 10am-12.30pm, 12.30-2.30pm and 3.30-5.30pm. Suitable for 0-10yr olds, there’s a dedicated U3’s area and a challenging playframe for the bigger kids.

Tigers Indoor Play

Daventry and Kettering Venues

www.tigersplay.co.uk

Saturday 16th May

Woof Wag Festival

Wicksteed Park

www.wicksteedpark.org

There is something for all age groups and you will be able to take part in a wide range of activities.

Open Morning

NMPAT Centres

www.nmpat.co.uk/centreopenmornings

Open Morning locations, including Brackley, Daventry, Duston, Kettering, Northampton, Oundle, and Wellingborough. Open to school-aged children with a love of the performing arts. NMPAT Centres welcome beginners through to Grade 3.

Friday 22nd – Monday 25th

May

300mph Drag Racing

Santa Pod Raceway

www.santapod.com

It’s Round 1 of the FIA/FIM European Championships. That means hundreds of race teams, some of the fastest cars and bikes in Europe, and enough horsepower to make the ground shake. And it’s not just the racing that makes it special. There’s a full weekend of entertainment for all ages: jet cars, monster trucks, stunts, music, food, and family fun.

Saturday 23rd – Saturday 30th May

Favell Fun Club

Weston Favell Shopping Centre www.westonfavellshopping.com

A welcoming space where children and parents can play, have fun, and create lasting memories. Running 11am-3pm each day. Each visit is filled with family fun and moments loved ones won’t forget.

Saturday 23rd – Sunday 31st

May

A-MAY-zing Adventures

Wicksteed Park www.wicksteedpark.org

An action-packed May Half Term adventure the whole family can enjoy! Open 10.30am until 5pm. Wristbands start from just £22 when booked in advance, giving you unlimited access to over 25 rides and attractions. There are also family tickets available starting from just £56 for a family of three! Children under 0.9m are FREE with an accompanying paying adult.

Sunday 24th & Monday 25th

May

PAW Patrol Weekend

Northampton & Lamport Railway www.nlr.org.uk

Chase and Rubble from PAW Patrol will be making appearances throughout both days. Tickets include a return steam train journey. Trains depart Pitsford & Brampton Station hourly between 10am and 3pm.

Tuesday 26th – Friday 29th

May

Impact Academies & Camps

St. Lukes Centre, Main Rd, Duston www.impactacademies.co.uk/northampton Where creativity meets coding – perfect for young tech enthusiasts who love games, design, and innovation! Tuesday to Thursday 9.30am-1pm is Minecraft: from Hobby to Learning for children aged 5-7, and 1.30-7pm for age 8-11 with Coding in Minecraft & Roblox Game Development. Then on Friday the younger group has LEGO Laboratory in the morning, whilst children aged 11+ can attend an AI & Prompt Engineering course in the afternoon.

Wednesday 27th – Friday 29th

May

OnYourMarks Athletics –May Camp

Moulton Athletics Track www.onyourmarksathletics.co.uk

Every day at camp is packed with variety, energy and fun. They rotate through all the core athletics events – sprints, hurdles, long jump, high jump, throws, relays and more – so no two days are ever the same. Qualified England Athletics coaches create a supportive, inclusive environment where children can thrive, whether they’re sporty or just starting out. The focus is always on fun, effort and personal progress. Camps run 9am-3pm each day.

Monday 1st – Tuesday 30th June

Free Registration Offer Kumon

www.kumon.co.uk

The Kumon Study Centres are offering Free Registration to new and returning students throughout June. Take this opportunity to save money and help your child stand out from their peers. For more information and to book your child’s Kumon free assessment, contact your local Instructor via the website.

Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th June

Truck Takeover

Santa Pod Raceway

www.santapod.co.uk

Expect drag racing duels, monster truck mayhem, jet-powered madness, and enough entertainment to keep the kids smiling. Take your earplugs and camera, and get ready for a weekend that’s bigger, louder, and more unforgettable than anything on the road.

Sunday 7th June

Big Doggy Day Out

Kelmarsh Hall

www.kelmarsh.com

Explore a variety of dog-friendly stalls with treats, toys, grooming services and unique gifts. Enjoy interactive activities like Flyball, agility, enrichment games and scent workshops, all led by expert trainers and suitable for all abilities. Plus, fun Dog Show to enter, a royal-themed photoshoot and a free bandana for the first 150 visitors. The tearoom and gardens will be open.

We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip …or promise!

Friday 12th – Sunday 14th

June

Podstock

Santa Pod Raceway

www.santapod.co.uk

Podstock is Santa Pod’s brand new, budget-friendly tribute music festival at a drag strip, perfect for families who want a full weekend of live entertainment without the big festival price tag. Enjoy a feel-good line-up of top tribute acts celebrating iconic artists, and there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained between sets too, with kids’ activities, arts and crafts, and a great selection of food and drink traders.

Saturday 13th June

Corby Pride

Coronation Park, NN17 1SY

www.corbypride.co.uk

A family-friendly afternoon. A joyful celebration of love, diversity, and inclusivity with live entertainment and refreshments available. There will be a children’s zone, traders, information, safe space and street entertainers. 12noon to 6pm. FREE. All are welcome.

Kettering Comic Con

Kettering Leisure Village

www.bolt-events.com/kettering-comic-con

Use code Primary10 for 10% OFF standard entry tickets!

Northampton Carnival 2026

The Racecourse, Kettering Road www.northamptoncarnival.co.uk

Step into a vibrant world of colour, music, and spectacle from 12noon! The carnival is uniting communities and cultures with the enchanting theme of Unity In Masquerade – Many Stories One Parade. Savour global cuisines, thrill at the lively funfair, explore ethnic arts and crafts, and discover local charities. Don your finest mask and join the parade as it leaves the park at 2pm, down Kettering Road, winds through Northampton town centre, and returns via Wellingborough Road by 4.30pm. Plus, soak up the sounds of local talent live on stage from midday, crowned by an electrifying headline act to bring the celebrations to a close from 6.45pm to 7.30pm.

Sunday 21st June

Cream Tea Specials

Northampton & Lamport Railway www.nlr.org.uk

A return train journey through the beautiful Northamptonshire countryside, hauled by a classic steam locomotive while you enjoy your specially prepared cream tea. Dad’s have the train ride portion of the fare free if accompanied by a full fare paying customer, as part of their Father’s Day offer.

digital literacy & soft skills Ages 5–17, future-ready 07768 994330

Medieval Joust

Rockingham Castle

www.rockinghamcastle.com

The Knights of Nottingham and the Medieval Sokemen return to Rockingham Castle! Experience the sights, sounds and smells of medieval England in King Edward IV’s encampment before enjoying the hoof-thundering thrill of the joust on Rockingham’s historic Tilting Lawn. 11am-4pm. Don’t miss the drama and excitement come to life with this living history experience!

Father’s Day Trains

Northampton & Lamport Railway www.nlr.org.uk

Dad’s travel FREE accompanied by a full fare paying customer per booking! Steam trains depart hourly between 10am and 3pm from Pitsford and Brampton Station.

Saturday 4th & Sunday 5th July

Wellingborough Carnival & Party in the Park Croyland Park www.wellingboroughtowncouncil.gov.uk

Saturday kicks off with the Carnival parade, winding its way from Broad Green, through the town to Croyland Park for an afternoon of entertainment, attractions and family fun. On Sunday, Party in the Park continues from 12noon with live music, attractions, food and a chilled-out festival vibe for all ages.

Sunday 12th July

Double Diesel Day

Northampton & Lamport Railway www.nlr.org.uk

A return train journey through the beautiful Northamptonshire countryside in the comfort of coaches built by British Rail in the 1950s and 60s hauled by a classic diesel locomotive.

Friday 17th – Friday 24th July

Live at the Abbey Delapré Abbey www.yoursummerlive.co.uk

Friday 17th July

Wet Wet Wet and ABC co-headline a huge open-air summer concert with support from Marc Almond and Johnny Hates Jazz. Expect wall-to-wall anthems, big choruses and pure 80s throwback magic! Family friendly.

Saturday 18th July

Enjoy four stages of music and DJs. Featuring headline sets from Tinie Tempah and Wilkinson plus Sigala, Ms. Dynamite, Artful Dodger and more. Age 18+.

Friday 24th July

Relive some of the biggest hits of the 90s and 00s with an unmissable performance from Five, with support from The Wanted 2.0. Family friendly.

Thursday 27th – Sunday 30th August

Shambala

Kelmarsh Hall and Gardens www.shambalafestival.org

The UK’s fiercely independent, seriously silly, wildly creative and radically sustainable festival! A vibrant playground of music, performance, arts, dance, wellbeing and woodland parties, it’s a familyfriendly festival with a wild side –designed to spark curiosity and fuel creativity no matter your age.

Box OFFICE

Local theatres have a variety of stage shows and film screenings scheduled to entertain families over half term and beyond, with tickets available to book online now.

Castle Theatre

www.castletheatre.co.uk

Tuesday 26th May

THE SUPER MARIO GALAXY MOVIE (PG)

An animated film based on the world of Super Mario Bros., and following The Super Mario Bros. Movie, which was released in 2023. Film 2pm.

Wednesday 27th May

THE MAGIC FARAWAY TREE (U)

The Magic Faraway Tree follows Polly and Tim Thompson and their children Beth, Joe and Fran who find themselves forced to relocate to the remote English countryside. There, the children set on a series of adventures into fantastical worlds at the top of a magical tree in an enchanted forest. Film 2pm.

Friday 29th May

HOOPERS (U)

In Hoppers, scientists have discovered how to “hop” human consciousness into lifelike robotic animals, allowing people to communicate with animals as animals! Using the new technology, Mabel (Curda) will uncover mysteries within the animal world that are beyond anything she could have imagined. Produced by Nicole Paradis Grindle, Hoppers also features the voices of Bobby Moynihan and Jon Hamm. Film 2pm.

Sunday 7th June

MINISTRY OF SCIENCE LIVE!

The UK’s favourite science team are back and more explosive than ever! Join the presenters as they dive deep into the world of science and look at how science shapes the modern world we live in, with a few loud bangs along the way!

Tuesday 16th June

THE SHEEP DETECTIVES (PG)

In this witty, new breed of mystery, George (Hugh Jackman) is a shepherd who reads detective novels to his beloved sheep every night, assuming they can’t possibly understand. But when a mysterious incident disrupts life on the farm, the sheep realise they must become the detectives. As they follow the clues and investigate human suspects, they prove that even sheep can be brilliant crimesolvers. Film 7.30pm.

Tuesday 28th July

TOM GATES EPIC STAGE SHOW

Based on the bestselling books by Liz Pichon, Tom Gates EPIC Stage Show comes to the theatre bringing alive the illustrations and music that makes Tom Gates hugely popular around the world! With catchy tunes and hilarious performances, this fantastic new stage show brings the best of the Brilliant World of Tom Gates into one live show. It’s pure fun for the whole family whether you’re a lover of the books or new to Tom and his friends!

The Old Savoy

www.theoldsavoy.co.uk

Sunday 24th May

SCIENCE MUSEUM – THE LIVE STAGE SHOW

The brand-new stage show from Mark Thompson Productions will ignite your curiosity and inspire you in new and exciting ways.

Monday 25th May

K-POP FOREVER!

Featuring all-live performances of smash-hits including Blackpink, BTS, Twice, Soda Pop, Golden and many more

Thursday 28th May

UNICORN LIVE!

Harmony, Melody and Starlight are the best of unicorn friends… Watch in amazement as they use the power of song and dance to create the band, Unicorn Live!

We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip …or promise!

Friday 29th May

DINOSAUR ADVENTURE LIVE

Join the intrepid rangers on a quest to recover the data crystal, restore power to the island and save the dinosaurs! An unforgettable Jurassic experience for all the family to enjoy.

Sunday 31st May

TAYLOR FEVER

The ultimate tribute to the sensational Taylor Swift. Alongside a talented squad of dancers, this tribute act will have you grooving and belting out Taylor’s iconic tunes.

Sunday 28th June

FIREMAN SAM PIRATES ADVENTURE

With clues, pirate songs and swashbuckling adventure, Fireman Sam’s new live show is perfect for all budding pirates!

Royal & Derngate www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Friday 22nd May

FEVER: BALLET OF LIGHTS

Unique fusion of classical ballet and modern technology, where local dancers literally light up the stage with glittering routines and glow-in-the-dark costumes.

Sunday 24th May

MY FIRST CONCERT

Perfect for ages 2-7, this heartwarming, high-energy experience shows how being kind, working together, and having fun can make the world a happier place.

Tuesday 2nd-Thursday 4th May

THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA

Packed with oodles of magic, singa-long songs and clumsy chaos! A stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem… expect to be surprised!

Saturday 6th June

CBEEBIES HOUSE PARTY

LIVE

A family fun-packed stage show with sensational songs, stupendous surprises and mega moments.

Chance To WIN

To enter these competitions please email competitions@primarytimesmag.com When you enter make sure you give us your name, address, email, child’s age and school. T&Cs apply. Closing date is Friday 19th June. Good Luck! Please note: Primary Times will only use your details to contact the competition winner.

WIN FOUR VIP TICKETS TO A LIVE AT THE ABBEY SHOW OF YOUR CHOICE

Live at the Abbey takes place in July at Delapré Abbey, with three amazing shows!

Then on Friday 24th July – Relive some of the biggest hits of the 90s and 00s with an unmissable performance from Five, with support from The Wanted 2.0. (Family friendly)

We have four VIP tickets to give away… to the show of your choice!

Simply email your entry titled Live at the Abbey and let us know which show you would like to win tickets to. Good luck!

WIN A TRAY OF DELICIOUS CUPCAKES OR COOKIES

Bingsy Bakes brings a fresh, personal touch to celebrations, combining creativity with a genuine love for baking.

For your chance to win a complimentary tray of delicious cupcakes or cookies, email your entry titled Bingsy Bakes to be placed into our price draw.

WIN A FAMILY TICKET FOR A NORTHAMPTON & LAMPORT RAILWAY JOURNEY

The Northampton & Lamport Railway (NLR) is a volunteerrun heritage railway just a few miles north of Northampton. It uses part of the former LNWR Northampton to Market Harborough line, which was closed by British Rail in 1981. Volunteers have rebuilt the railway from scratch since 1984. They now offer heritage steam and diesel train rides in the heart of the Northamptonshire countryside, between Pitsford & Brampton and Boughton stations.

For your chance to win a family ticket for four to enjoy a return journey, simply answer the question below: What is the name of the village that the railway is close to?

Hint: see page six.

Email your answer titled Northampton & Lamport Railway to be placed in the price draw.

Prize is to be used on a non-event operating day.

Closing Date: Friday 19th June 2026 | T&C’s apply.

WIN A FAMILY SUNDAY DAY TICKET TO SHAMBALA

We have a Sunday Day Ticket for a family of four up for grabs! This includes two adult tickets and two tickets for those under 18 (either child or teen tickets) for the event on Sunday 30th August Email your entry titled Shambala to be placed into our prize draw.

The terms and conditions for entry: www.shambalafestival.org/terms-and-conditions/#localsundaytickets