Luton is turning 150 in 2026!
Luton celebrates 150 years of borough status throughout 2026!
Back in 1876, Luton made history by officially becoming a borough, unlocking the power to govern itself with its very own elected council.
To celebrate, the council & partners are hosting a line-up of around 150 exciting events, public art installations, exhibitions and a massive music event in September.
This year is about celebrating every aspect of Luton’s rich and diverse history – with more surprises to come! Here’s all you need to know:
Get involved
Make your event part of the celebrations.
See what's on
Join the party all year long.
Through the ages
Look back on Luton’s past through photos.
Join the biggest celebration weekend of the year
All the stops have been pulled out for this anniversary year, you won’t want to miss these two major events! These events have been made possible by headline sponsorship from Luton Council’s airport company, Luton Rising.
Luton’s officially 150 years old…
On the anniversary week of Luton gaining borough status, Luton Council hosted a special tree planting ceremony in the churchyard of our stunning St Mary’s Church.
A soon-to-be beautiful cherry blossom tree was planted by His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire Mrs Susan Lousada, High Sheriff of Bedfordshire Mrs Camilla King, and Mayor of Luton Councillor Amy Nicholls.
Residents added their wishes and messages of hope for our town onto the church’s ‘Tree of Hope’ with stunning bright orange ribbon.
Local poet Lee Nelson did a live reading of his powerful original poem about our town and our proud history.
A glimpse of Luton’s story over the last 150 years…
What the logo means for our town
The Luton 150 logo design celebrates our town’s vibrant past, present, and future – but there’s a few little easter eggs you might’ve missed out on first glance.
Air traffic control tower
Highlighting Luton’s strong travel links and aviation industry
Bute Mills (now Youthscape)
A nod to our industrial heritage, especially hat making
Flamingo
Symbolising Luton’s adaptability; these statues once stood in The Arndale Centre (now Luton Point) and now live in Hat Gardens
Luton Library Theatre
Representing the town’s growing arts, culture, and heritage scene
Town Hall
Marking the civic pride of this anniversary year as we celebrate becoming a municipal borough
What’s on
There’s so much going on across the town to celebrate this historic milestone, from public art and exciting exhibitions, to surprises we can’t wait to be unveiled! Find it all here.
This isn’t everything, and there’s plenty more to come. So, check back soon – we’ll be sure to keep you up to date as the year goes on.
Join us for a guided heritage walking tour of Luton's historic Bury Park, led by local historian Paul Hammond.
18th July @ 9:30 am - 11:00 am
‘Funk & Soul’ is a music event coming to the Hat District in Luton town centre for the very first time.
18th July @ 2:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Bring a picnic and head to the iconic Rotary Bandstand in Wardown Park to enjoy four dates of free live music.
19th July @ 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Start your day with a rejuvenating yoga practice by the River Lea.
21st July @ 8:00 am - 8:45 am
Bring your little ones to the party of free imaginative play, featuring interactive games and a lively dance party.
21st July @ 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm
Join our community boxing fitness sessions for a fun, challenging workout in the square (16+ only).
22nd July @ 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Head down to the steps for children’s storytelling and let your imagination soar with captivating tales.
24th July @ 1:00 pm - 1:30 pm
Join us for a guided heritage walking tour of Luton's historic George Street, led by local historian Paul Hammond.
25th July @ 9:30 am - 11:00 am
Bring a picnic and head to the iconic Rotary Bandstand in Wardown Park to enjoy four dates of free live music.
26th July @ 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Join Luton BID’s Tidy Days and help keep Luton looking its best
28th July @ 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Join us in the square for a day of family play featuring lots of fun games & activities suitable for children and parents.
1st August @ 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
Luton Henge Festival returns louder, bolder and more powerful after its unforgettable 2025 debut that united hundreds and sparked community pride.
1st August @ 12:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Don’t miss a thing
Stay updated on everything happening in Luton this year – we’re keeping track of all the news as it happens.
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