MK’s International Festival 2025

Last weekend saw the closing of the Milton Keynes International Festival for another two years, and what an incredible 10 days it’s been.  

These bi-annual Festivals began in 2010 and are produced by The Stables, the Milton Keynes-based arts charity. Their aim is to create unique, memorable experiences that invite residents and visitors to see a different side of the city.

Members of the Yellowyoyo team have been volunteering throughout the festival, proudly wearing the iconic pink tees.  There’s been rain, wind, blazing sunshine (often all in the same day) and still the festival has delivered.  Bold, brilliant installations and experiences have brought the city to life.

Stand out acts for us have to include…

• DNA, Vertical Odyssey by Transe Express. A breathtaking aerial dance performed on a 40‑metre structure under a 200‑tonne crane, with original music and precision choreography. 
• Noise Next Door  The UK’s legendary improv comedy group brought rapid-fire laughs in the Spiegeltent. They were hilarious.
• Luke Jerram’s Mars  The 7 metre illuminated planet sculpture that uses NASA imagery, complete with a cosmic soundscape and live early-music concert by Ensemble Augelletti beneath it.
• Les Colombes The Doves Project by Michael Pendry. A stunning, thought-provoking art installation of white origami doves based on environmental themes and displayed in centre:mk.

The Spiegeltent has also hosted an eclectic mix of live music, cabaret, circus and visual art, with performances ranging from Lucy Spraggan to The Selecter.

We’re incredibly fortunate to have this level of creativity served to us, often at no cost, every two years.  

Plans for 2027 are already in progress – we’re looking forward to it being part of it. 

Photographs ©The Stables