This August promises sun, fun and plenty to do — from carnivals and comedy to art classes and gin festivals!

notting hill carnival
Photo by Valters Krontals used under CC

Notting Hill Carnival

This year’s Notting Hill Carnival is back and bigger than ever. Taking over the streets of London for the August Bank holiday weekend, London’s largest street festival is more family-friendly on the Sunday with a Children’s Parade in the morning. Monday gets a bit more chaotic as everyone gets into the carnival vibe – expect parades, DJs, steel bands, Caribbean food and LOTS of dancing. The grand finale will feature over 60 bands performing in Powis Square on Monday, although once the parades have finished there are plenty of after-parties to keep the tempo going.


West Norwood Feast

A market with crafts, vintage stalls and foodie treats – this is the perfect Sunday afternoon stroll. From April to December the event is held on the first Sunday of the month.

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Live at Morocco Bound – Comedy Night

There’s a new line up every month at this regular comedy night. Tickets are just a fiver and you can buy craft beer, wine or Bermondsey G&Ts on the night. Why not grab some mates and head into the weekend with a smile on your face?


London Unseen: Heritage Tours and Trails
London Unseen: Heritage Tours and Trails

London Unseen: Heritage Tours and Trails

London Unseen is a season of free trails, tours and events that celebrate the many incredible histories of the city, as told by communities, practitioners, artists and activists. See your city through a fellow Londoner’s eyes.


Relaxerette at GDIF 2022 | Photo by Sophie-Sijpheer-Terluin

GDIF: Greenwich & Docklands International Festival

This free outdoor performing arts festival has events at a number of locations across the Greenwich and Docklands area. Check the website for details of the full programme, including theatre, circus, dance and street arts. Don’t miss some breathtaking performance art – for free!


Great British Beer Festival

An annual event run by the Campaign for Real Ale, this festival has been running for over 40 years so it attracts the best breweries around. There are over 900 drinks to choose from, along with a range of street food. It’s nicknamed the biggest pub in the world, so grab a stool and spend an afternoon sipping the best of Britain (and the rest of the world too).


Model for Neon Naked
Model for Neon Naked | Photo by Neon Naked

Neon Naked Life Drawing

Get that Full Moon Party vibe without leaving London. These classes give you professional life models in UV-reactive neon paint with fluoro accessories, a tutor, a dark room and all the colourful materials you need. The idea is to be creative and have fun, not to turn out a perfect portrait; beginners are welcome and drinks available to buy onsite.


This Bright Land

This Bright Land transforms the courtyard at Somerset House into a magical, colourful playground with day-and-night performances, music, dance, talks, workshops and more.

Ongoing Events

london june events
Photo by Underbelly Festival used under CC

Free Tango Classes  |  Until Sept 22nd  |  Spitalfields

Crate Brewery and Beer Tasting Tour | Until September 28th | Hackney

Underbelly Festival  |  Until September 29th  |  South Bank

Summer Season at Shakespeare’s Globe  |  Until October 18th  |  South Bank

Brixton Windmill Open Days | Until October 13th | Brixton

Written by:
BIO: Freelance writer, flâneuse and former blogger at London Girl About Town, Amanda is dedicated to sharing the latest on London's restaurants, bars, hidden quirks and general wonderfulness.
Filed under: Things to Do

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