The free, family-friendly celebration is inspired by the summer solstice and takes place along Midsummer Boulevard – a unique street famously designed to align with the rising and setting sun. For the festival, the boulevard and surrounding public spaces are transformed into a lively hub of activity, with performances, creative workshops, live music, art installations, street food and plenty of things to enjoy for all ages.
So far, more than 14,000 people have joined in the celebrations, and each year brings fresh ideas, new artists and more ways for the community to get involved. The 2026 festival will take place on Sunday 21 June and promises to be bigger, brighter and packed with even more to see and do.
To help shape this year’s event, the city council is inviting artists, collectives and creative practitioners to submit ideas for a new commissioned artwork or related projects. They’re looking for bold, engaging proposals that explore midsummer themes such as light, nature, connection and renewal.
Projects should be designed for outdoor public spaces, be inclusive and accessible, and encourage people to take part or experience something together. Ideas could include temporary installations, performances, digital or light-based works, interactive sculptures, immersive experiences or community co-created projects.
Further information about the commission and how to apply is available here.
“The Midsummer Festival has become a real highlight of our cultural calendar and a celebration of what makes Milton Keynes special. Each year it brings people together in the heart of the city for creativity, colour and fun. We are excited to see ambitious ideas from artists who want to help shape an unforgettable 2026 festival. This is a chance to create something joyful for the whole city to experience.”
– Cabinet Member for Planning and Placemaking, Cllr Shanika Mahendran
Earlier this year, Milton Keynes City Council also announced that Milton Keynes will bid to become UK City of Culture 2029. The title could bring significant investment to the city, supporting jobs, creativity and new cultural opportunities for residents, businesses and young people.
Main Image from Midsummer Festival 2024
