As the festive season kicks off, we here in Oakley Vale have lots to celebrate throughout December, starting with our community heroes who have inspired the town.
As the Christmas lights are starting to twinkle and trees appear in every window, there’s an unmistakable festive chill in the air. December has absolutely arrived in many of our homes, and it comes bearing a whole new level of excitement – and a packed calendar of events.
Don’t be a grinch; stay a while, grab a mince pie, and read on!
Shining bright: The Spirit of Corby Awards 2025
The annual Spirit of Corby Awards, where 11 trophies were proudly presented at a celebration ceremony, has once again shown the heart and soul of our community.
Nine of these prestigious awards were decided by a public vote, showing how much we all value the dedication of our local heroes in Corby.
Among the winners were:
- 7-year-old Jessica Davison, who received the Young Spirit Award for her bravery, supporting her mother during a seizure.
- Emma Colquhoun, who won the Creative Spirit Award, dedicating it to her late daughter and continuing her dream of running Ignite Dance Space.
The event itself raised over £1,000 for the Mayor’s charities, including Lakelands Hospice and Home Start Corby – fantastic news for two vital local services.
For the list of winners, read the full article here.
What’s on? Make it a Corby Christmas at Willow Place
• Come and meet Santa! – Various dates
Santa will be arriving from Sunday, 5 December, along with his sleigh and REAL reindeer. He will also be around on Saturday 11th, Sunday 12th, and Saturday 18th – before he has to leave for the big day.
Make sure you bring your present list with you!
Time: Various dates
Where: Queen Square
• Christmas pop-up market – Various dates
Don’t miss Willow Place’s pop-up bar and market on Corby Boardwalk, a new decked entertainment space in Market Walk. Expect festive food, drink, and entertainment – as well as a mini Christmas market.
Time: Various dates
Where: Corby Boardwalk
• Light up a Light – Thursday 4 December
This gentle, heartfelt event is a chance to pause, reflect, and celebrate the lives of loved ones, hosted by Lakelands Hospice.
Dedications are represented by a shining light on the beautiful remembrance tree.
Time: 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Where: Lakelands Hospice
What's on this Christmas at Willow Place?
What else is on this December: Events near Oakley Vale
The calendar is overflowing with festive cheer. Grab your diary and mark down these local highlights…
• Christmas light switch on – Friday 5 December
Get ready for festive stalls, entertainment, and that magical moment when the town lights up! This is the perfect start to a Corby Christmas.
The lights on the town Christmas tree will be switched on at a festive market and family event, in the High Street of Corby Old Village. Expect a show from The Core pantomime, too!
When: 3 pm to 7 pm, with lights switched on at 6 pm
Where: Corby Old Village
• Fun Santa Run – Saturday 6 December
Run or walk with your Santa hat to support a great cause!
Time: 11:00 am
Where: West Glebe Park, Corby
Full details on Facebook, here.
• Winter Wonderland – Saturday 13 December
Visit Santa in his grotto, explore local stalls, and enjoy Christmas carols, live entertainment and delicious festive food.
Time: 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Where: Hermitage House Care Home
Don’t forget to enter the best festive dressed competition!
Grab your tickets here.
• Beanfield Community Meal and Entertainment – Friday 19 December
Enjoy a delicious free meal and entertainment with the community.
When: 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Where: Beanfield Community Centre
Registration is essential: contact beanfieldcommunitymeal@outlook.com or pop into the main office at the Community Centre.
• Beauty and the Beast – multiple dates
Come to the theatre for a must-see festive tradition for the whole family!
- When: Friday 12th December – Wednesday 31st December
- Where: Corby Core
Book your tickets here.
Your sports roundup in Corby
Steelmen snatch victory at Steel Park
Corby Town secured a massive 2-1 victory over title rivals Belper Town last month at Steel Park, reigniting their Pitching-In Northern Premier League Midlands Division title hopes.
It looked like a frustrating night as they trailed 1-0 late on, but the Steelmen never gave up. An 88th-minute equaliser from Hugh Alban Jones set the stage, and then, 11 minutes into stoppage time, Connor Tomlison scored a stunning, last-gasp winner. Setchell’s men showed fight and deserve the win with their performance.
With so many wonderful events on our doorstep, December is shaping up to be a festively fun month. We encourage you to make the most of the twinkling lights across town and create some happy memories with family and friends.
For now, we would like to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! See you in 2026.
What are your plans for the holidays? Let us know!
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