Thousands Celebrate Stevenage Day 2026 in the biggest event yet
Thousands of residents and visitors flocked to King George V Playing Fields over the weekend (Sunday 14 June) for what proved to be the biggest and busiest Stevenage Day yet.
This year's event celebrated Stevenage 80, marking 80 years since Stevenage became the UK's first New Town, and brought together the community for a packed day of entertainment, activities, attractions and family fun.
The event was officially opened by the Mayor of Stevenage, Councillor Lloyd Briscoe, and featured more than 200 stalls, fairground rides, a bustling STEM Village, live entertainment throughout the day and the welcome return of the Pride Stage.
Local businesses, community groups and organisations were out in force, showcasing everything that makes Stevenage such a vibrant and diverse place to live, work and visit.
Stevenage Day is one of the biggest events in the town’s calendar and there’s always lots happening throughout the afternoon - Adding to the excitement, one very special guest proved extremely popular with younger visitors. Baxter, a life-sized T-Rex stomped its way around the event, delighting children and families alike with plenty of roars, a very large toothy smile and plenty of photo opportunities.
Thankfully, he was in a good mood as the sun shone throughout the day, helping to create a fantastic atmosphere from start to finish.
Visitors enjoyed an incredible programme of performances from local bands, singers, dancers and entertainers, who kept the crowds entertained throughout the afternoon.
Councillor Lloyd Briscoe, Mayor of Stevenage, said:
"Stevenage Day was absolutely fantastic. There was so much happening throughout the day and it was wonderful to see thousands of people enjoying everything on offer. The atmosphere was brilliant, the entertainment was outstanding and our community spirit was on full display. As Mayor, I am incredibly proud of Stevenage and of everyone who helped make this event such a tremendous success.
"Councillor Myla Arceno, Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Wellbeing, said:
"It is fantastic to see so many people from across our community coming together to celebrate this wonderful day. Stevenage Day is all about bringing people together, showcasing local talent and creating lasting memories for residents and visitors alike. Seeing everyone enjoying themselves in the sunshine made all the hard work worthwhile.
"The council would like to thank the hundreds of volunteers, performers, stall holders, community groups and businesses who helped make the event possible.
A special thank you also goes to Everyone Active, the event's Headline sponsor, whose continued support helps ensure Stevenage Day remains one of the town's most anticipated community celebrations.
Also, a big shout out to our other key sponsors - North Herts College (STEM Village), Tollers Solicitors (Rock in the Park) and Spectrum GSK (Stevenage PRIDE Stage).
Without the support of volunteers, sponsors and partners, events of this scale would become increasingly difficult to deliver for the Stevenage community.
Stevenage Day once again demonstrated the very best of the town, with people of all ages coming together to celebrate, connect and enjoy a memorable day filled with fun, laughter and community spirit.