A Little Hashtag with a Lot of Heart: How #LoveMK Became Milton Keynes’ Favourite Day of the Year

Thirteen years ago, someone at Destination Milton Keynes had one of those ideas. The kind that starts with a cuppa and a “what if…” and ends up becoming a city-wide celebration that’s now a firm fixture in the calendar. What if there was a day dedicated entirely to showing some love for Milton Keynes? Not just with words—but with cakes, pizzas, Minecraft builds and (yes, really) lawn art?

Well, fast forward to today and that idea has grown into #LoveMK Day, the biggest one-day social media love-in for this city we call home. And this year, it’s landing on Thursday 1 May—so get ready to show off your MK pride.

Not just roundabouts and concrete cows (but we love those too)

Over the years, Milton Keynes has had its fair share of stick—mostly from folks who’ve never actually visited. But those who get it? They really get it. The green spaces, the grid roads, the endless sky. The sense of something quietly brilliant bubbling beneath the surface. And #LoveMK Day? It’s about giving all of that a big, joyful shout-out.

“We wanted to create a space for everyone who values the things that make MK special,” says Carys Underwood, Marketing Manager at Destination MK. “It started as a simple idea—to get people using the hashtag on Twitter—but it’s turned into this amazing, creative celebration. We’ve seen everything from flowerbeds and cakes to Lego builds and pies. In 2013, someone even mowed it into their lawn!”

Now that’s commitment.

From mayors to Minecraft: Everyone’s invited

One of the loveliest things about #LoveMK is how everyone gets stuck in. Local celebs, schools, businesses, sports teams, community groups—and loads of everyday residents who just really, really love their city. Over the years, the hashtag has been used more than 100,000 times, reaching over 35 million people. That’s a lot of love.

And this year? DMK wants to see even more. Whether you’re painting, baking, crocheting, chalking or emoji-ing your love for MK, get creative with that hashtag. And if all you’ve got in you is a quick post with #LoveMK? That’s perfect too.

“People still surprise us with their enthusiasm,” Carys says. “It doesn’t have to be a grand gesture. Just use the hashtag when you post that day. But if your business wants to run a special offer or you fancy doing something a bit quirky—we’ll help shout about it. We just want everyone involved.”

So, what can you do?

Simple. On Thursday 1 May:

• Share a photo or post using #LoveMK

• Get creative with how you show it—paint it, ice it, plant it!

• Follow @DestinationMK for inspo and shout-outs

• Encourage your mates, neighbours, kids, and colleagues to join in

Because whether you’re an MK lifer or a recent arrival, this is your city. And it deserves a little love.

To find out more, head to www.destinationmiltonkeynes.co.uk or give @DestinationMK a follow on socials.