For the most unforgettable city moments, London has an art of celebrating. Whether by means of music and cuisine, art, or culture, the festival life in the city reflects the diversity of the city. Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend of fun or a visitor eager to dive into London’s cultural calendar, these festivals promise excitement, colour, and plenty of unforgettable moments. Here’s our round-up of the 10 best festivals to go to in London.
1. Notting Hill Carnival
A legendary street party that takes over West London every August Bank Holiday, Notting Hill Carnival is Europe’s biggest celebration of Caribbean culture. Expect dazzling costumes, booming sound systems, steel bands, and some of the best jerk chicken you’ll ever taste. Dance through the streets, soak in the atmosphere, and don’t forget your whistle!
2. British Summer Time (BST) Hyde Park
For music lovers, BST Hyde Park is the highlight of summer. Global superstars and icons welcome this iconic park for two weekends of unbridled live music. Pop and rock, jazz and soul, the bill always has a treat in store, and the festival village has plenty of food, drink, and entertainment to keep you dancing all day.
3. Taste of London
Foodies, listen up. Organized twice a year at Regent’s Park, Taste of London brings together some of London’s leading restaurants and chefs to put together a lip-licking festival of all the stuff on the plate. Dishes of succulent food to sample, cooking demonstrations live on stage, cocktails, and chances to hear what’s hot and new in food.
4. Wireless Festival
If you’re into hip hop, R&B, grime, and rap, Wireless Festival in Finsbury Park is an unmissable event. Featuring some of the hottest names in the music world, it’s a full-on, high-energy weekend packed with beats, bass, and brilliant vibes.
5. London Film Festival
For film enthusiasts, the BFI London Film Festival is paradise. Each October, the festival hosts a showcase of the world’s best cinema, from tiny indie gems to A-list premieres. Reap a red carpet experience, view trailblazing films, and possibly a couple of celebrity spot sightings.
6. Hampton Court Palace Festival
Want fancy live music amidst an absolutely beautiful location? Hampton Court Palace Festival provides exactly that. In the historic palace grounds of Henry VIII, this boutique music festival brings big names in an intimate setting, with picnics, prosecco, and loads of Tudor charm.
7. Southbank Centre’s Meltdown Festival
Every year, a music legend curates Meltdown Festival at the Southbank Centre. The past curators include Yoko Ono, David Byrne, and Grace Jones. The outcome is a unique, boundary-pushing lineup of performances. Rivers of bars and stunning views of the Thames make up for a perfect London festival experience.
8. London Pride
London Pride is more than a parade — it’s an enormous celebration of love, equality, and community. Every summer, rainbows decorate the city as the Pride Parade weaves its way through central London, accompanied by street parties, live music, and non-stop dancing. It’s one of the capital’s happiest and most inclusive celebrations.
9. Field Day
A heaven for an electronic music lover, Field Day boasts forward-thinking DJs and acts performing in Victoria Park. With its offbeat bill and rave vibe, this day festival is packed with dancefloor magic, cool visuals, and a rave-friendly crowd from doors to close.
10. Christmas at Kew
For a winter wonderland experience, visit Christmas at Kew. This magical light trail transforms Kew Gardens into a radiant fantasy world, with giant illuminated sculptures, light tunnels, and mulled wine bars. It’s one of the most fascinating fun things to do in London during Christmas.
Final Thoughts
Whatever your passion — music, food, movies, or culture — London’s festival calendar is packed with moments to treasure. So grab your diary, muster your friends, and get ready to make the most of this fantastic city. There’s never a better excuse to get out and join the party!
