Free festivals in London this summer
London is bursting with free festivals this summer, offering something for everyone to revel in. We may already be partway through the summer, but there are still lots of festivals ongoing and soon to be starting next month. From the return of the incredibly fun Summer in the Square at the National Gallery to King’s Cross's own music festival, and not forgetting the cherished Notting Hill Carnival. Here's our roundup of the must-see free festivals in London this summer.
Summer in the Square
Image: Summer on the Square, photo © James Ross, courtesy The National Gallery, London
#FLODown: Summer on the Square is the National Gallery's free festival of creativity and community, returning in August to Trafalgar Square. It features eight workshops led by artists focusing on child-led art, design, and play activities. The event aims to inspire the local community and visitors, and it is part of Westminster City Council's Inside Out Programme.Activities will include bamboo construction, collaborative art galleries, and immersive 20th-century art experiences.
Date: 1‒28 August 2023. Location: North Terrace, Trafalgar Square. Website: nationalgallery.org.uk
Festival14 Canary Wharf
Image: Festival14 Canary Wharf
#FLODown: Festival14 returns to Canary Wharf in July with a vibrant lineup of music, theatre, and comedy. Headliners include Soul II Soul, Yazmin Lacey, and the Ronnie Scott's Jazz Orchestra. Enjoy comedy acts by Desiree Burch, Shaparak Khorsandi, and Paul Chowdhry in the Monty Tent. Families can join the Big Fish Little Fish Family Rave and witness ballet and magical dances. The festival also features street performances, spoken word by Black voices, and grief and movement workshops. Don't miss the street food market and special offers at local bars, restaurants, and cafes!
Date: 26 – 30 July 2023. Location: Throughout Canary Wharf, London, E14. Website: canarywharf.com
King’s Cross Summer Sounds Music Festival
Image: King’s Cross Summer Sounds Music Festival
#FLODown: Get ready for the sensational return of King's Cross Summer Sounds this August! With 12 days of electrifying music, dance, and excellent performances from artists around the globe. Against the backdrop of the iconic Coal Drops Yard, this inclusive music festival boasts headliners like Black Voices, alongside jazz, classical, and folk musicians. Make sure not to miss the Queer Britain takeover, the mesmerising performances by English National Opera artists, the soulful jazz of Joe Stilgoe, and the enchanting National Youth Folk Ensemble. Experience the magic of free concerts every day from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm, and don't forget to mark your calendar for 'Family Sundays' from 1 pm to 6 pm. It's a celebration of art, culture, and unity!
Date: 9 - 20 August 2023. Location: Coal Drops Yard, Stable Street, N1C 4DQ.
Notting Hill Carnival 2023
Image: Notting Hill Carnival. August 2019. © Nike Akinfenwa
#FLODown: Notting Hill Carnival, Europe's biggest street festival celebrating Caribbean culture, has become an important aspect of London's summer, and a summer staple for locals and visitors alike. Taking place every August bank holiday weekend, this vibrant event features a lively parade, street food, music, and colourful costumes. With its rich history dating back to 1964, Notting Hill Carnival has become an iconic and cherished part of London's summer calendar, attracting millions of people to join in the festivities.
Date: 27- 18 August 2023. Location: Notting Hill. Website: nhcarnival.org
Canada Water Love Summer
Image: Canada Water Love Summer. British Lands
#FLODown: Love Summer, London's vibrant pop-up oasis, returns to Canada Water for its second year, offering a fantastic summer experience for both locals and visitors. Throughout July and August, the central waterside destination welcomes everyone to unwind and enjoy a plethora of free social activities, workshops, and live music. Located near Surrey Quays Shopping Centre, Love Summer provides a diverse range of activities, including arts classes, health and wellbeing workshops, Wallball, and climbing sessions, as well as a delightful Summer Terrace and Plant Pavilion.
Date: 21 July – 28 August 2023. Location: Canada Water. Website: canadawater.co.uk
Greenwich Peninsula Summer Sessions
Image: Greenwich Peninsula Summer Sessions
#FLODown: Greenwich Peninsula presents Summer Sessions, a season celebrating community, the outdoors, and the arts. Every weekend in August, enjoy a diverse lineup of events, including Yinka Ilori's colourful Mini Golf, Camille Walala's vibrant Ping-Pong course, dance workshops, live music, and more at the heart of Design District. The festivities also feature live jazz, a Big Music Weekend with Rhythm Section and Just Vibez, and an Outdoor Cinema hosted by Pop Up Screens. Whether you're a foodie, a film buff, or a dance lover, there's something for everyone to enjoy during this exciting summer season.
Date: throughout August. Location: Design District, Soames Walk, Greenwich, Peninsula, London, SE10 0AX. Website: greenwichpeninsula.co.uk
Totally Thames 2023
Image: Great River Race. Photo by Alan Skene.
#FLODown: Totally Thames 2023, London's annual river festival, commences in September. It showcases art installations, performances, river races, and more, focusing on sustainability and protecting the environment. The festival explores the intersection of art and everyday life amidst uncertainty. With events all month long and various weekend festival hubs, it celebrates the Thames and its role in inspiring and delighting people.
Date: throughout Summer. Location: along the Thames. Website: thamesfestivaltrust.org.
Summer by the River
Image: Summer by the River. @ldnbridgecity
#FLODown: Experience a blissful summer at Summer by the River — a riverside retreat in London Bridge with stunning views of the Thames. Enjoy music, film, theatre, and pop-up events at The Scoop. Tuesdays bring movie nights, while Thursdays offer new music showcases and sports screenings. Relax at their pop-up bars with delightful city views and mouthwatering food. Whether you're spending time with friends, having a trip out with the family, or enjoying a romantic summer date by the Thames, it's the perfect place for a great experience.
Date: until September 2023. Location: London Bridge. Website: londonbridgecity.co.uk
