London's Summer Festivals

Get a load of people who are into the same thing, shove 'em all in one place and let them go mental together - that basically what a festival is - and there are some great ones in London this summer...
London's Summer Festivals picture


The London Wonderground
7 May - 27 Sept
The playground for the people returns for a fourth year in 2015 featuring the best in cabaret, circus, comedy, music and kids' shows to delight and amaze, all taking place in a dazzling 1920s-style Spiegeltent.



London Burlesque Festival
15 - 31 May
The London Burlesque Festival acts as a centre stage for the world's finest performers, raising the global profile of burlesque and quickly establishing itself as the most prestigious event in the international burlesque calendar.


London Festival of Architecture
1 - 30 June
This month-long, citywide celebration of architectural experimentation, thinking and practice is a time for speculation, public debate and new ideas. Alongside a programme of exhibitions, installations, talks and debates, film screenings, family activities, architecture evenings, walking tours and cycle rides, LFA provides unprecedented access to architects across London.


City of London Festival
22 June - 10 July
Each summer the City of London Festival brings the City's unique buildings and outdoor spaces to life with an extensive artistic programme of music, visual arts, film, walks and talks, much of it free to the public.


Streatham Festival
4 - 11 July
This year's annual festival of music, comedy, drama and art has a theme of Coming of Age. There will be lots to see with over 40 events throughout the week.


Walthamstow Garden Party
18 & 19 July
Once again, Lloyd Park will be filled with an eclectic mix of non-stop entertainment, with top international music, dance and theatre acts as well as arts & crafts, food and family activity.


Citadel Festival
19 July
Citadel is a new festival celebrating the summer Sunday pleasures of musicianship, feasts, markets and literary talks. Line-up includes Ben Howard, Bombay Bicycle Club and Roots Manuva.


Archikids Festival
25 & 26 July
This weekend festival hosts more than 30 activities, workshops, tours, DIY events, and competitions including the On your Scooter trail; the cardboard master-planning City of a Thousand Architects workshop; the Postcards From London photography competition; and many more explorations.


South West Four Weekender
29 & 30 August
On the August Bank Holiday weekend all roads lead to London’s scenic Clapham Common as the world’s most prestigious DJs and live electronic acts congregate in South West London for two days of sonic anarchy.


Great British Beer Festival
11 - 15 August
With over 800 real ales, ciders, perries and foreign beers to choose from is plenty for both the experienced and inexperienced visitor to enjoy but it is not all about the drink. There is also plenty of food, music and traditional pub games.

Published Apr 13, 2015