School’s out, the sun’s shining, and summer is in full swing here in Luton. But if you’re wondering how you’re going to keep the kids entertained for another 4 weeks, we’ve got you covered.
Our town is bursting with activities to help fill the days. From magical storytelling to interactive exhibitions, there’s plenty to keep young minds busy. Let’s check out the top picks for kids in Luton this summer.
Summer Cinema
Saturday 24 August | 3-7pm | Hat Gardens, Bute Street
Grab a deck chair or bean bag and enjoy free family movies under the sky. Head down to the gardens at 3pm for ‘Encanto’ sing-a-long, followed by ‘Migration’ at 5pm.
As the sun begins to set, families with older children can enjoy ‘Mamma Mia 2: Here We Go Again’. The perfect end to a summers day.
Price – free
Game on! The Evolution of Video Games
20 July – 1 September | 11.30am – 3.30pm | Stockwood Discovery Centre
Journey through the history of video games in this interactive exhibition. From Pac-Man to PlayStation, there’s something for gamers of all ages.
Fancy making a day of it? You might as well wander around Stockwood Park and pop into the Discovery Centre and Museum while you’re there!
Price – £3.50 + £1 booking fee.
Luton Junior Parkrun
Every Sunday in August | 9am – 10am | Wardown Park
For parents looking to get their kids moving, Parkrun happens every Sunday morning at the park. It’s a free 2k run for 4-14 year olds. Kids can walk, jog, or sprint – whatever suits them.
It’s a good way to end the weekend and let the little ones burn off some energy. Plus, it doesn’t cost anything, which is always a bonus.
Price – free
Stockwood Garden Party
Tuesday 6 August – Thursday 8 August | 11am – 3pm | Stockwood Discovery Centre
Looking for a free day out? Head to Stockwood for their annual Garden Party. There’s plenty to keep the kids busy with outdoor theatre, puppets, and hands-on activities.
It’s a great chance to enjoy the gardens and let the little ones get creative.
Price – free
The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck
Saturday 3 August | 11.30am – 4pm | Stockwood Discovery Centre
Hop into a delightful adaptation of Beatrix Potter’s classic tale in the perfect outdoor setting. Will Jemima outsmart the charming ‘gentleman’ fox? Join Quantum Theatre for this enchanting outdoor performance.
Price – £13.50 Adult, £9 Child/£40.90 for 2 adults and 2 children + 10% booking fee
Giant Hexagon Doodle
Saturday 3 August | 11am – 4pm | Market Hill
For one day only, there’s a huge 6-meter hexagon at Market Hill filled with Luton-themed doodles. Grab some crayons and help bring our town to life in bright colours.
Price – free
The Short Tail Trail
6 July – 12 September | Various locations across Luton
It’s time to hunt for 90 colourful hare and tortoise sculptures this summer, in Luton’s biggest-ever free arts trail. This free event offers a fun way to explore the town and get creative, as well as grab a few selfies along the way.
Find our tortoise ‘Lovely Lou’ on the Short Tail Trail app for a chance to win prizes.
Price – free
Summer Giant Maze
Monday 22 July – Wednesday 28 August | 11am – 4pm | Luton Point (formerly The Mall)
Lose yourself in the Giant Maze this Summer at Luton Point’s FREE family summer event. Explore the 7ft tall Giant Maze, find all 6 hidden letters, and make a word for a chance to win one of three £50 The Entertainer gift vouchers.
Keep an eye out for small sculptures from The Short Tail Trail too!
Price – free
Tape That
Thursday 15 August | 11.30am – 3pm | Stockwood Discovery Centre
Looking for something different to do? Watch in amazement as two performers create a world of wonder using nothing but colourful tape! This non-verbal acrobatic show combines juggling, physical theatre, and plenty of laughs.
Price – £7 + £1 booking fee
Storytelling on the Steps
Every Friday until 30 August | 3pm | Hat Gardens, Bute Street
Luton’s popular storyteller from ‘A Children’s Story’ returns to Hat Gardens this summer, offering free themed stories for children. Plus, you’ll hear The Short Trail Trail story every week (except on 30 August).
Don’t miss a special edition on Friday 30 August, when Taleshakers presents a new flamingo tale. Children can even get involved in the storytelling by helping name the flamingo character in our latest competition. Learn more about the competition.
Price – free
Youthfest
Monday 12 August | 12pm – 4pm | Wardown Park
Fancy a free day out packed with fun? Youth Fest at Wardown Park has it all – crafts, sports, games, quizzes, and food vans. Local young musicians will be showing off their talents in the bandstand too.
It’s also a great chance to meet organisations and see what Luton offers for families and young people.
Price – free
Thursdays at the Pop Up Park
8 August – 29 August | 1pm – 4pm | Market Hill
Discover Luton BID’s beautiful new pop-up parklet on Market Hill. Every Thursday this summer, enjoy different free activities for kids, including face painting and magic shows. Drop by to see what’s on and join the fun.
Price – free
For more fun this summer holidays, check out our what’s on guide for other events happening in Luton. Enjoy!
About the Author
Laura Redmond
Laura is a passionate supporter of the Step Forward Luton campaign and a Place Activation and Marketing Coordinator. Armed with a journalism degree and unwavering love for her university town, she believes there's more to Luton that meets the eye. From charity work to market management, Laura's professional journey has explored every corner of Luton. When she's not busy being a marketing maven, she's lacing up her walking shoes to explore the town's green spaces or unearthing Luton's hidden foodie gems.
