The eventual relaxation of restrictions and increase in Covid vaccination uptake meant that more events could go ahead up and down the country this year and Northampton was no exception to this.
With the town's businesses opening back up came the iconic return of the Northampton Town Festival, the County Beer Festival, Pride and so much more. Many of these events were highly anticipated this year as they had to be cancelled in 2020 due to the pandemic.
Let's take a look back at some of the happiest times Northampton residents shared together in 2021:
13. The Weetabix Northamptonshire Food and Drink Awards 2021
The thirteenth annual Weetabix Northamptonshire Food and Drink Awards took place at Northampton' s Royal & Derngate theatre in October. The evening celebrated the successes and achievements of hundreds of Northamptonshire based food and drink businesses and individuals excelling in culinary excellence. There were 350 attendees at the event where 67 finalists in 13 award categories were championed, with most of the category results being revealed on the evening.
14. Diwali in Northampton town centre
Northampton town centre was lit up by family entertainment, delicious food and a lantern procession to mark Diwali in October after last year's annual celebrations were forced to 'go virtual' by the Covid-19 pandemic.
15. Remembrance Sunday parade
A parade, civic procession and a service at All Saints Church in Northampton town centre took place on Remembrance Sunday (November 14) to honour and remember our fallen soldiers.
16. Northampton Town Council's annual firework display
Northampton Town Council's annual firework display took place The Racecourse in November with a funfair, children's entertainment and food stalls beginning at 4.30pm before the highly anticipated fireworks display at 6pm. As if the explosions of colour were not enough to take the breath away from spectators, there were also fire performers that saw experienced stunts people dance, breathe and eat fire.