London’s Summer Festivals

So, we’ve finally had a dose of sun, which means that the job of enjoying the London summer can begin in earnest. We take a look at the biggest London festival events over the coming weeks…
London’s Summer Festivals picture

It’s not like we need the sun to enjoy the myriad outdoor action on offer in London this summer, but it does help get us in the mood. From festivals to one day spectaculars, welcome to alfresco fun.


Carnaval Del Pueblo

London’s second biggest festival returns to its brand new location at the London Pleasure Gardens. Celebrating all things Latin America, Carnaval del Pueblo is a day of music, dancing, eating and drinking. Cachaca anyone? Expect Mexican dance groups, Columbian Salsa and the sounds of Oi Brazil – one of Europe’s biggest Brazilian bands. Not just a party for South American expats, this is sure to be one of London’s biggest outdoor parties of the summer. The Carnaval comes to town on Saturday August 18th.


Shoreditch 1234 Festival

After past success The 1234 Shoreditch Festival is back this year on September 1st. Eschewing stratospheric stars in favour of a line up of new and exciting bands and DJs it will not fail to deliver. Somehow we just know it. The likes of Let’s Wrestle, Dirty Beaches and Visions of Trees take over Shoreditch Park for a day of musical mayhem. Early bird admission £15.


Kick Olympic Festival

The sibling bars of Café Kick and Bar Kick embark on a mammoth Olympic event for the coming weeks that will see them screening non-stop coverage of the world’s biggest sporting event. There’s no camping, unless you really want to pin down a pop-up tent outside, but the atmosphere of festival fun is going to transcend sporting boundaries into love for one another. That’s the Olympics!


Notting Hill Carnival

The Notting Hill Carnival is back in its millionth year in the capital. Okay, it’s not quite that much of a mainstay but it has been going since 1966. This year Europe’s biggest street festival means Red Stripe, Caribbean chow and some of the best live music to be found in town this summer. We’re particularly excited about the soca this year, not to mention the Red Bull Academy Stage, which is bringing noise. Diplo and his Major Lazer crew play from a huge soundsystem supported by none other than Sean Paul. It, will, be, Dutty!

Published Jul 27, 2012