Elevate Northamptonshire

December 23: Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas period whilst elevating Northamptonshire in Business and Wellbeing!

As it’s Christmas, we will include all kinds of events happening in the region. Have a wonderful Christmas, everyone!

A Fresh Start for the New Year: Try the 10 Days of Happiness

Instead of making the usual New Year’s resolutions, why not start 2024 by cultivating practical, positive habits that set you up for lasting well-being? We highly recommend checking out 10 Days of Happiness. Each day offers a tiny, doable action—from celebrating small successes to focusing on what truly matters—that helps you build meaningful habits rooted in the 10 Keys to Happiness.

It’s simple, uplifting, and a great way to launch into the new year with a positive mindset. Please share this opportunity with your friends, family, and colleagues. Let’s see how many of us can begin 2024 on a happier, healthier note together!

Festive Performances & Experiences

Cinderella Pantomime at Royal & Derngate
Dec 10, 2024 – Jan 5, 2025 (various showtimes)
Celebrate the holidays with a classic pantomime throughout the New Year. Fun, laughter, and a touch of magic await families looking for an uplifting festive treat.
More Info

The Nutcracker Ballet at Castle Theatre, Wellingborough
Dec 20, 2024 – Dec 30, 2024 (evening and matinee performances)
It is a graceful, enchanting adaptation of the holiday ballet classic. Ideal for all ages, this performance offers a calming and beautiful escape into a world of festive fantasy.
More Info

Delapré Abbey Winter Lights & Mindful Walks
Dec 23, 2024 – Jan 2, 2025 (5pm–9pm)
Stroll through the abbey’s gardens lit by festive illuminations. Quiet spots are set aside for reflective moments and guided mindfulness sessions. A serene start or end to a busy holiday.
More Info

Business Events (yes, there are still some happening!)

£5 Online Taster in Public Speaking: 40 mins that will change your life!
Dec 28, 2024 (11:30 AM – 12:10 PM)
An online “taster” webinar packed with practical tips on how to present and speak confidently in public. Led by expert coach John Deery, this short session helps boost your self-esteem, communication skills, and overall well-being. Attendees receive a discount code on the day for future courses.
More Info (Online Event)

The Power of Coaching, Professional ICF Level 1 Expert Coach
Jan 3, 2025 (8:00 PM – 9:30 PM GMT)
Kickstart your coaching career and develop your professional coaching skills with this online event. Led by Mental Sea Academy, this session offers insights into ICF Level 1 Certification and practical techniques to help you guide clients more effectively.
More Info (Online Event)

Empowering Tomorrow’s Entrepreneurs: The Future of Online Wealth
Jan 2, 2025 (7:00 PM – 8:00 PM GMT)
Part of the “Empowering Tomorrow’s Entrepreneurs” collection, this virtual event focuses on supporting aspiring business owners as they explore strategies for building online wealth. Hosted by Danny Ploutos, it offers insights into innovative tools, growth tactics, and the mindset needed to thrive in a digital marketplace.
More Info (Online Event)

Community & Well-Being Events

Free Christmas Day Community Lunch – The Hope Centre, Northampton
Dec 25, 2024 (12pm–3pm)
Open to anyone feeling isolated or in need of company. Enjoy a warm meal, conversation, and support from volunteers. An excellent opportunity to connect with others on Christmas Day.
More Info

Winter Well-Being Workshop – Northamptonshire Mind
Dec 28, 2024 (10am–1pm)
Practical sessions on managing holiday stress, self-care techniques, and maintaining emotional well-being. Free literature and signposting to mental health services will be available.
More Info

Carers’ Coffee & Support Morning – Northamptonshire Carers, Wellingborough
Jan 2, 2025 (10am–12pm)
A relaxed morning meet-up for those who care for loved ones, featuring well-being tips, support networks, and practical advice for the year ahead. Refreshments provided.
More Info

Wellness Walk at The Racecourse, Northampton
Dec 29, 2024 (11am)
Join a guided group stroll focused on gentle movement and mindfulness. Perfect for easing post-holiday tension, soaking up fresh air, and connecting with new friends.
[No pre-booking required; meet at the pavilion entrance]

Family & Inclusive Gatherings

Chester House Estate Festive Market & Craft Workshops
Until Dec 24, 2024 (10am–4pm)
Last-minute Christmas crafts, local produce, and a family-friendly atmosphere. After Christmas, they’ll host gentle New Year’s Eve walks (Dec 31) and family yoga sessions (Jan 3) to reset after the festive bustle.
More Info

Post-Christmas Calm at West Lodge Farm Park, Desborough
Dec 27, 2024 – Jan 3, 2025 (10am–4pm)
After the holiday rush, families can enjoy animal feeding sessions, nature trails, and child-friendly well-being activities. Perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature during the winter break.
More Info

Ongoing Support & Resources

Holiday Helpline – Northamptonshire Mental Health Services
Available throughout the festive season
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious during the holidays, trained volunteers and professionals are on hand to provide listening support and connect you with local resources.
Call: 0800 448 0828 | More Info

Warm Spaces & Drop-In Hubs
Multiple venues across Northamptonshire from Dec 23, 2024 – Jan 5, 2025
Community centers, churches, and libraries are offering warm, welcoming spaces to anyone in need of company, warmth, or quiet reflection. Some offer free hot drinks and information on local support services.
Check Local Listings: Northamptonshire Libraries

That’s all for this special holiday edition! Wishing everyone a supportive, kind, and peaceful Christmas and New Year. Remember to look after yourselves, reach out if you need help, and make time for joy and reflection during this festive season.

Sporting Fixtures

Northampton Weather

Let it snow, let it snow, let it now!!! OK, maybe not then.

The Happiness Hub

Check out the Happiness Hub in partnership with Action for Happiness! This resource will provide free tools and guidance to help Northamptonshire’s businesses excel in workplace wellbeing.

The Purpose of the Newsletter

We’re connecting Northampton businesses to get us all working together and elevate our well-being, making this incredible county a (happy) UK business powerhouse. Please share it with your friends and colleagues to benefit them.