Luton will host a full year of celebrations in 2026 as the town marks 150 years since becoming a municipal borough.
The milestone was trailed at the weekend during the Luton Lights Up for Christmas event, where Mayor Amy Nichols outlined plans for a packed programme of festivities.
The anniversary, rooted in Luton’s 1876 shift to self-governance, will be used by the council to highlight the town’s growth, identity and ambitions. Officials say the year will mix new events with expanded favourites under the banner Luton 150.
Councillor Hazel Simmons MBE, leader of Luton Council, said: “2026 is set to be an exciting year for Luton, as we celebrate our 150th anniversary of borough status. We have lots of exciting events in the works as well as some surprises that we can’t wait to unveil.
“We know that Luton is much more than just the last 150 years, but we want to use this next 12 months to celebrate how far we have come and look forward to the future. We’ll be celebrating everything that makes Luton special: our heritage, diversity, communities, creativity, industrial legacy and the friendship of neighbours.”
A commemorative logo will sit at the heart of the celebrations, using familiar landmarks to tell the story of the town’s past, present and future. Its skyline features the airport’s air traffic control tower to mark Luton’s aviation links, Bute Mills to reflect its industrial roots, Luton Library Theatre to represent an expanding cultural scene, the Town Hall as a symbol of civic pride, and even a flamingo nodding to the statues that once stood in The Arndale Centre and now brighten Hat Gardens.
The council is urging local event organisers and community groups to get involved and help shape the anniversary year. Anyone interested is being invited to contact the authority by email at events@luton.gov.uk.
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