Events, arts and culture
We deliver four main events that are part of Luton’s annual events calendar, as well as those linked to national celebrations and a range of arts and cultural activity across the town.
We work with partner organisations to make Luton a place where arts, culture and creativity brighten the lives and life chances of everyone in Luton.
The delivery and coordination of arts and culture activity is embedded within the Luton 2040 team, advancing the Luton 2040 outcome of ‘transforming lives throughout arts, culture and heritage’. See the arts, culture and the creative industries page to find out more about our strategic vision.
Special events
Christmas in Luton town centre
Discover free family events this Christmas at Luton town centre, Hat Gardens, Market Hill and more.
Lighting up Luton
An annual celebration when our Christmas lights are switched on by special guests.
Radio 1's Big Weekend round up
Luton hosted an incredible weekend of live performances from some of the biggest names in music in May.
Annual events
Luton International Carnival
Bringing the joy of carnival to the streets of Luton the town's biggest free family event.
Windrush generation
Commemorate, celebrate and educate about the arrival and contribution of the Windrush generation.
Pride in Luton
A community-driven street celebration featuring a variety of acts, speakers and performances.
Desi Fest Luton
Returning in 2024 to celebrate the music, art and culture of Southern Asia.
Diwali in Luton
Celebrating the Hindu Festival of Lights in October.
Black History Month
Come together during October to celebrate the positive role of Black people in shaping our communities.
Remembrance Day
A chance to remember those who gave so much in the service of their country.
Armistice Day
Commemorated every year, marking the end of World War 1 on 11 November.
Fireworks display
One of Luton’s most popular events, bringing communities together to enjoy entertainment in the sky.
Christmas
Lighting up Luton - an annual celebration when our Christmas lights are switched on by special guests.
St Patrick's Festival
Celebrating the patron saint of Ireland.
St George's Day
Entertainment and activities for our popular St George’s Day celebrations.
Step Forward Luton
There are lots of exciting events happening in Luton, and Step Forward Luton is your go-to-source. Whether it’s Luton Carnival, Diwali or Pride, check the Step Forward Luton ‘what’s on guide’ to find an event that sparks your interest.
Local events organisations
The Culture Trust Luton
A Luton based charity showcasing high quality arts and cultural events across multiple sites.
The Hat District
Creative, work, show and share spaces in the restored hat factories of Luton.
Luton Music Service
The lead organisation of the Luton Music Education Hub – ‘The Mix’.
Luton Libraries
Find out about events held in Luton libraries such as Happy Baby Group.
Revolution Arts
Events and programmes such as henna art, animation, dance and beat-boxing.
Organise a street party
Find out about hosting your own event.