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The carpark is locked at 7pm. The Visitor Centre closes at 5pm. Café is open until 3pm, or 4pm during weekends and the school holidays.//

Please note, the waterplay feature is closed Monday mornings for routine cleaning and maintenance. Winter Hours come into effect from 3rd November 2025.

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The Festival Of Midwinter

Celebrate the Return of the Light & 10,000 years of traditions!

Home > The Festival of Mid-Winter (2025)

Sunday 14th December

A mystical day for the whole family filled with festivities and enchanting entertainment, celebrating thousands of years of traditions and ancient beliefs.

Join us from midmorning until sunset to celebrate the season.

11am – 3pm. 

(parking charges apply)

This special event, now in its third year, celebrates the returning of the light.
We invite you to take part in the unique festivities of the day, suitable for all the family to enjoy. This event is a celebration of heritage and presents a distinctive atmosphere to re-imagine Mid-Winter as it may have been. It is a gathering of enthusiasts interested in experiencing the spirit of the season in a festive, fun and educational environment! We’re able to offer an enlightening and authentic experience with the help of our partners and National Lottery funding.

Event Highlights

Viking Festival Camp with The Bifrost Guard

Immerse yourself in an authentic Viking festival camp complete with costumed reenactors who will transport you back in time through crafting, cooking and weapons demonstrations throughout the day.

Ancient Traditions with Northampton Pagans

Join in with shamanic drumming and pagan carols around a crackling fire.

Learn about ancient Midwinter beliefs, and make a Yule offering to take home.

 

Midwinter Craft Activities

Get creative with Midwinter themed activities for the whole family. Create a Christmas keepsake with our festive themed pottery, or decorate your own shield or wooden round to take home as souvenirs.  Costs apply.

 

Heritage Craft Demonstrations and wares on display

Experience Blacksmithing demonstrations and ancient textiles with the Northants Guild of Spinners, Weavers and Dyers in our beautiful craft barns. Why not treat yourself to a hand made item?

Feast with us!

Satisfy your cravings with a variety of delicious foods and refreshments available throughout the day including mulled drinks and festive foods, toasted marshmallows and chestnuts. Savour the flavour of the season while taking in the atmosphere!

Tickets

Reserve your free tickets in advance to secure your spot at this one-of-a-kind event. This event reached capacity last year and we are expecting the same this year, so book early to avoid disappointment.


Useful information:

Parking

This event has been £5 per ticket in previous years. This year, thanks you National Lottery Funding, we are able to lay on this event with free tickets. Parking charges apply, for which all proceeds go directly to the Rocking Forest Trust that manages Stanwick Lakes, to fun the heritage, education and conservation work that takes place on site.

Family-Friendly

The Festival Of Mid-Winter is a family-friendly festival, and children of all ages are welcome. There will be activities and entertainment suitable for everyone.

What to Bring

To fully enjoy the festivities, bring warm clothing, comfortable footwear, and your sense of wonder. Don’t forget to bring your creative spirit for the craft activities!

Don’t miss out The Festival of MidWinter, a day filled with magic, merriment, and a touch of Viking and Pagan mystique. Join us as we celebrate the season and embrace the spirit of the season. We look forward to seeing you on December 15th for an unforgettable day of fun and tradition.

Cancellation Policy:

In the event of adverse weather conditions, this event may be adjusted or cancelled to ensure the safety of visitors and volunteers on the day.  

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