Ice Rink to bring Festive Magic to Northampton
A brand-new covered real ice rink is set to bring festive sparkle to Northampton this winter, as plans are announced for a 14m x 22m rink in the town centre.
The rink will be open from Thursday 4 December 2025 through to Sunday 4 January 2026 (closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day), offering residents and visitors the chance to enjoy an unforgettable winter experience whatever the weather.
The attraction will feature family-friendly and corporate ticket packages, possible themed DJ sessions, lessons and early-bird offers, with more details set to be confirmed soon. A licensed bar and supplementary festive activities will run alongside the rink to create a vibrant seasonal hub.
Festive events will include:
- Christmas Lights Switch On, taking place on Saturday 22 November in the Market Square delivered by Northampton Town Council
- Small Business Saturday on Saturday 6 December, the dedicated national day to support local businesses, with a town-wide Grinch takeover led by Northampton BID
- “Carols on the Square” on Friday 13 December, with a local choir and singers
- Additional activities, including a festive grotto and further entertainment, soon to be announced as plans develop.
The largescale ice rink is being delivered by West Northamptonshire Council in partnership with Northampton Town Council, Northampton BID and Discover Northamptonshire. Sponsorship opportunities are also open for local businesses keen to support and benefit from the event. Please email economy@westnorthants.gov.uk for further information.
Santa’s Grotto in the Grosvenor Centre will launch on Saturday 22 November, then open at weekends throughout December. Delivered by Northampton BID, supported by Northampton Town Council.
The Northampton BID Golden Ticket giveaway, giving entrants the chance to win vouchers to spend in Northampton, will launch at the Fireworks event on November 1 and will run throughout November until 14 December.
A dedicated Christmas radio station will run throughout December. Delivered by NLive Radio and supported by Northampton BID.
