SUMMER SOLSTICE SPECTACULAR! ☀️🎪

Well hello there, lovely Harpendenites! 👋

Isn't our gorgeous town looking absolutely stunning in the summer sunshine? The only thing slightly dampening spirits around here seems to be those pesky parking fines appearing on windscreens... anyone else get one recently? (Asking for a friend, obviously! 😅)

But let's focus on the fabulous instead! This week is absolutely packed with incredible events that showcase exactly why we love living here. We've got everything from wellness workshops and charity car washes to circus performances and fine dining experiences. Whether you're into early morning yoga sessions, lunchtime runs, afternoon tea, or late-night quiz challenges, there's honestly something happening at every hour of the day!

So grab your diary (and maybe double-check those parking meters while you're out and about! 🅿️😉) - here's your complete guide to all the wonderful happenings around Harpenden!

Thursday 19th June 🌅

9:30am - Little Fishes Toddler Group 🐠
Running until 11am at Crabtree Church, AL5 5RD during term time only. Perfect for parents wanting a coffee and chat while your little ones burn off energy in a safe, welcoming environment. There's plenty of parking available, so no stress about finding a spot!

10am - Menopause Morning ☕️ 
At Harpenden Medical Health and Wellness Clinic. This dedicated morning is open to everyone - whether you're currently experiencing symptoms or simply want to learn more about this important life stage. Dr. Vidya Kanthi, a menopause and women's health specialist, will cover key topics like symptom management and how they can support you. You'll also have the chance to ask questions and connect with others, all while enjoying delicious coffee and pastries. Plus, founder Janne Richardson will share valuable insights on how menopause affects your skin! Tickets available here.

10am & 11:30am - Baby Rhyme Time 📚
A lovely way to introduce your little ones to the joy of books and music at Harpenden Library, in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere!

10am - "Selfies, Self-Expression, Celebrity & the Victorian Carte de Visite" 📸
The Arts Society Harpenden Area presents this absolutely fascinating lecture at The Eric Morecambe Centre, exploring a historical craze that feels surprisingly modern! Who knew Victorians were the original selfie enthusiasts?!

7pm - Regenify Health Open Night 🌟
Free community event at 7 Hollybush Lane running until 9pm! They're hosting this exciting evening in collaboration with AL5 Aesthetics and Human Regenerator Wellness, combining skincare expertise with advanced wellness technology. It's an evening of insights, innovation, and community connection to help you feel and look your absolute best - from radiant skin to full-body rejuvenation! Tickets available here.

8pm - The Harpenden Arms Pub Quiz 🧠🍺
The popular weekly tradition continues! £2 entry per person with teams enjoying that irresistible "Burger and a Pint" deal for just £18. Perfect for testing your knowledge while enjoying great food and company!

Friday 20th June 🎉

9:30am - Classes with Rachel - Body Tone 💪
At The Harpenden Trust (above the Co-Op in Southdown). Get your Friday started with an energizing body tone session! Perfect for building strength and stamina to power through your weekend adventures. Book online at bookwhen.com/classeswithrachel to secure your spot!

11am - Ballet with Zoe (Ages 2-3) 🩰
At The Harpenden Trust (above the Co-Op in Southdown). These lively ballet lessons are perfect for your little ones aged 2-3 years! A wonderful introduction to movement, music, and the joy of dance in a fun, supportive environment. For a trial class, email [email protected]

12pm - Run Club 🏃‍♀️
The Harpenden Collective hosts this free lunchtime social run at THC - a brilliant opportunity to get some fresh air, exercise, and meet fellow fitness enthusiasts! Perfect for breaking up the workday with some energizing movement.

2pm - Ballet with Zoe (Ages 3-4) 🩰
At The Harpenden Trust (above the Co-Op in Southdown). The slightly older tots get their turn to twirl and dance! These engaging ballet sessions help develop coordination, creativity, and confidence in 3-4 year olds. Email [email protected] for a trial class.

Evening - Top Hat Stage School 🎭
At Roundwood Park School for ages 4-17. These Friday evening sessions are perfect for budding performers! No experience needed and they offer a free trial - what a fantastic way to build confidence, creativity, and performance skills.

Saturday 21st June 🎪

9am Kick Off - Harpenden Rugby Club National Pub Sevens 🏉
This absolutely massive all-day tournament and festival runs until 11pm on Redbourn Lane! Featuring Elite, Social, Open and Vets rugby teams, this is so much more than just sport - expect delicious food from the likes of Brad & Dills and Boomting Pizza, flowing drinks, and fantastic live music. It's the perfect Saturday out for rugby fans and families alike! Plus, the Harpenden Hopper will be doing collections from the bus stop by Chef Peking 9:30 - 11am and 5-7pm. 🚌

10am - Harpenden Fire Station Charity Car Wash 🚒
Running until 2pm with minimum £5 donation supporting the Fire Fighters Charity. Our local heroes are giving back to their own charity while making your car sparkle! Big thanks to Milehams in Southdown for their generous donation.

11am - Cricket Match 🏏
Harpenden Cricket Club's 1st XI take on Hertford CC at home on Harpenden Common, in the Hertfordshire Premier Cricket League. Perfect for cricket enthusiasts wanting to support our local team in what promises to be an exciting match!

2pm - Puzzle Battle Royale 🧩
At Harpenden Trust Halls (90 Southdown Road, AL5 1PS) running until 5pm. Calling all local puzzle enthusiasts to compete and show off those brain skills! This is your chance to prove you're the ultimate puzzle master in Harpenden! Book your spot here.

6pm- Fine Dining at Rothamsted Manor 🍷
£80 for an exquisite evening featuring creative dishes, seasonal ingredients, and carefully selected wine pairings. This is fine dining at its absolute best - treat yourself to a truly memorable culinary experience!

7pm - "A Season To Sing" 🎵
Harpenden Choral Society presents their summer concert at the beautiful St Nicholas' Church. Perfect for culture lovers wanting to enjoy some beautiful music in a stunning setting!

9:30pm - Head2Head (Rock & Pop covers) 🎸
At The Plough & Harrow until midnight! This fantastic covers band will have you singing along to all your favourite rock and pop hits - perfect for dancing off that fine dining experience or just having a brilliant Saturday night out!

Sunday 22nd June 🌞

9:30am - Redbourn Car Boot Sale 🚗
At The Herts Showground running until 2pm. Operating most Sundays (and now Bank Holiday Mondays too) from the first Sunday in April until the last Sunday in October. Pitch charges start at £13 for cars, £15 for small vans, £17 for large vans, with early 9am setup pitches at £23 and extra-large 16m pitches for £28.

10am - Harpenden Farmers Market 🥕
On Harpenden Common until 2pm! This monthly gem managed by Harpenden Town Council is a fantastic opportunity to browse and buy from a wonderful range of local producers. You'll find everything from specialty cheeses and quality meats to freshly baked goods and beautiful handcrafted gifts. Support local businesses while treating yourself to the best our area has to offer!

2:30pm - Sunday Afternoon Tea and Chat ☕️
At The Harpenden Trust's Well Bean Cafe (above the Co-Op in Southdown) until 4pm. Perfect for Sunday socializing and community connection over a lovely cuppa!

Monday 23rd June 💪

9:30am - Monday Morning Yoga 🧘‍♀️
Running until 10:45am at Batford Memorial Hall. What a perfect way to start your week with some gentle movement and mindfulness! Free trial session available - just email [email protected] to get started!

10am - Citizens Advice Drop-in Session 🤝
Invaluable support and advice to residents at The Salvation Army. No appointment needed - just drop in for confidential, professional guidance on whatever's concerning you.

10am - Bennets Coffee Morning 👶
Until 12pm at Bennet's Royal British Legion, 21 Leyton Road. Perfect for parents and toddlers - take a well-deserved break and enjoy adult conversation while your children play safely in this welcoming space. It's a lovely way to connect with other local parents!

10:30am - Harpenden Library Coffee Morning ☕️
Running until 12pm every Monday - the perfect midweek social catch-up over coffee and friendly conversation in our beautiful library setting!

2pm - Memory Lane Café 💙
Until 3:30pm at The Salvation Army. This wonderful weekly gathering provides a welcoming, supportive space specifically for people living with dementia and their families. It's all about connection, understanding, and community support.

3:45pm - Lego Club 🧱
Ages 5+ until 4:45pm at Harpenden Library. £4.50 per session and you must book in advance for guaranteed fun! Let the kids' creativity run wild with unlimited Lego building possibilities!

7:30pm - Harpenden Town Council Public Meeting 🏛️
A fantastic opportunity for residents to observe local governance in action and see how decisions affecting our community are made. Democracy in action right here in Harpenden!

Tuesday 24th June 📚

6:30am - BNI Chariots Business Networking Meeting ☕️💼
At Harpenden Common Golf Club - this long-standing event is perfect for early bird professionals wanting to connect and grow their local business networks over coffee and conversation.

2:15pm - StoryTime 📖
At Harpenden Library until 4:45pm - all ages welcome for some wonderful literary adventures! A relaxed, friendly session perfect for book lovers of all ages.

8pm - Local History Society Double Bill 🎤
At their new venue, High Street Methodist Church. This fascinating evening features Rev Mark Hammond discussing 'Methodism in Harpenden', followed by Alison Bourke (the talented designer of our new Station Road mural) presenting 'Selection of Harpenden Folk' - she'll share the stories behind the figures depicted in the mural! Free for members, with a suggested £5 donation for visitors. A perfect blend of local history and community stories!

9pm - The Engineer Quiz Night 🧠💰
Teams of maximum 6 people, just £1 entry per person with cash prizes to be won! Test your knowledge across a variety of topics while enjoying great company and maybe a pint or two.

Wednesday 25th June 🎪

9:30am - The Construction Collective Networking Event 🏗️
At Harpenden Golf Club for £20 (plus booking fees). This popular industry event includes a valuable 15-minute masterclass for construction professionals wanting to network and learn in a relaxed setting.

10:30am - Pilates (50+ Gentle Class) 🧘‍♀️
At The Harpenden Trust (above the Co-Op in Southdown). This gentle class is specifically designed for the 50+ community, focusing on flexibility, strength, and wellbeing. Check pushmefitherts.com for more information!

11am - Story Time 📚
In the children's corner at Harpenden Library - a completely free session discovering favourite picture books both old and new! All are welcome to this delightful literary adventure that celebrates the joy of reading.

2:15pm - Active Rhyme Time 🎵
Until 3pm at Park Hall Community Hall. This energetic, free 45-minute session combines fun, active rhymes and songs perfect for babies and toddlers. Older siblings are absolutely welcome too - it's all about family fun and movement!

7pm - Circus Zyair First Performance ✨
The much-anticipated arrival on Harpenden Common! This major family attraction promises magical entertainment that continues through the rest of the week. Perfect for families wanting some spectacular live entertainment!

7pm - Tarot Card Embroidery Workshop 🪡
At The Harpenden Arms - what a wonderfully unique craft experience! Combine the mystical world of tarot with the meditative art of embroidery for a truly one-of-a-kind creative evening.

8pm - The Amble Inn Quiz 🧠
Another chance to test your knowledge and have fun with friends in a relaxed pub atmosphere. Every Wednesday brings new questions and friendly competition!

Coming Up Soon! 🎉

Saturday 28th June, 12noon-6pm - Harpenden Carnival 🎪
On Harpenden Common! This fantastic community event has been rescheduled but it's going to be absolutely worth the wait! Completely free to enter, featuring activities, entertainment acts, live bands, and a wonderful variety of stalls offering food and drinks. It's our biggest community celebration of the year!

Ongoing Community Support 💙

Herts Domestic Abuse Helpline - Call 08 088 088 088, available 9am-9pm Monday-Friday and 9am-4pm weekends. This confidential, free support and signposting service helps anyone affected by domestic abuse. Confidential email support also available: [email protected] 📞

Playing Out - This brilliant nation-wide concept allows residents to apply for temporary road closures so children can safely cycle, scoot, and play together in the street! It's a fabulous way to build communities, giving neighbours chances to create support networks while children get fresh air, exercise, and unstructured play with kids of all ages. 🛴

Litter Angels - Help pick up litter at a time that suits you! You'll receive a complete pack including litter picker, high-vis waistcoat, protective gloves, and a roll of black sacks. Email [email protected] to get your kit! 🗑️

The Harpenden Trust Volunteers - Always needed for a wide variety of community roles! Whether you have an hour a week or a day a month, there's a volunteering opportunity that's perfect for you. 🤝

What an absolutely incredible week we have lined up! From dawn yoga sessions to midnight quiz fun, charity car washes to circus performances, fine dining to farmers markets - our wonderful town truly offers something special for everyone at every time of day. See you around Harpenden! 🏡✨

Got a local event or special day you'd like us to feature? We'd love to hear from you! Just drop us a line at [email protected] and we'll shine our spotlight on your community happenings! ✨

P.S. Love staying in the know about local happenings? Spread the word! Tell your friends and neighbors about Harpenden Highlights so they don't miss out on the best events in town. Subscribe at https://harpenden-highlights.beehiiv.com/subscribe and never miss a local update again! 📱✨