What to Do in London This Weekend: Top Picks from London Living Blog
If you are wondering what to do and where to go in London this weekend, we've got you covered! From community-driven festivals to iconic large-scale productions, these recommendations will definitely keep you busy!
Read on for our curated selection of events that showcase the best of London’s dynamic and vibrant culture. Get ready for a weekend filled with unique experiences, handpicked for you by London Living Blog. Whether you're into music, art, fitness, or just exploring the city's hidden gems, there's something here for everyone.
Celebrate Musical Diversity at the Islington Festival of Music
Dates: Ongoing this week
The Islington Festival of Music is a celebration of "The Homeland," exploring composers' relationships with their roots. The festival kicks off with Smetana’s "From the Homeland" and features a diverse array of performances. Look forward to "Postcards from Home," which takes audiences on a musical journey from India to Scotland, and "Towards the New World," showcasing influences from Australia and America. Notable artists include Kati Debretzeni, Fran Hills, and new faces like Su-a Lee and Sky Ingram. Performances are held at charming venues like The Green in Clerkenwell and the Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration.
Enjoy World-Class Entertainment at Underbelly Festival, Cavendish Square
Dates: July 4 – September 21
Underbelly Festival returns to Cavendish Square, transforming it into a vibrant hub of entertainment. The famous Spiegeltent hosts a stellar line-up of circus acts, cabaret, comedy, and family-friendly shows. Highlights include "Marcel Lucont’s Cabaret Fantastique," offering a mix of comedy, circus, and magic, and "The Gods, The Gods, The Gods," a unique gig theatre inspired by Greek mythology. The festival also features The Handlebards' rendition of "A Midsummer Night’s Dream," performed with their signature energy and creativity. Enjoy alfresco dining and drinks in the beautifully decorated square, with various food stalls serving up everything from smoked meats to Mexican street food.
Discover Barbie’s World at Barbie: The Exhibition, Design Museum
Dates: July 5 – February 23
Marking the 65th anniversary of the iconic Barbie brand, this extensive exhibition at the Design Museum delves into Barbie’s evolution through fashion, architecture, furniture, and vehicle design. Visitors can marvel at over 180 dolls, including the rare first edition Barbie from 1959, the Day to Night Barbie from 1985, and the best-selling Totally Hair Barbie from 1992. The exhibition also showcases the diversity within the Barbie range, featuring the first Black, Hispanic, and Asian Barbies, as well as dolls with disabilities and diverse body types. Don't miss the friends of Barbie and the dedicated section to Ken, tracing his evolution since 1961. The display includes various Dreamhouses and vehicles, highlighting Barbie's influence on modern design.
Get Active at Elefit Festival, Castle Square
Date: Saturday, July 13
Get ready for a day of health and wellness at the Elefit Festival in Castle Square. This free event offers a variety of fitness classes such as Qigong Flow, Afrobeat Dance, chair yoga, kickboxing, and Latin dance aerobics. It’s an excellent opportunity to meet new people and experience different cultures through activities like writing and gardening classes. The festival also celebrates the multicultural essence of Elephant & Castle, with local restaurants like The Original Caribbean Spice and Kaieteur Kitchen serving delicious food throughout the day. The event runs from 11am to 5pm, promising a fun-filled day for the entire community.
Immerse Yourself in ‘Cloud Songs On The Horizon’ at the Barbican Conservatory
Dates: Ongoing until July 2024
Experience the serene beauty of Ranjani Shettar’s large-scale sculptures at the Barbican Conservatory. Her installation, "Cloud Songs on the Horizon," is her first major show in Europe and features five stunning, suspended sculptures crafted from materials like wood, stainless steel, muslin, and lacquer. Drawing inspiration from nature, Shettar’s work transforms the conservatory into a magical space, offering visitors a tranquil retreat in the heart of London. Don’t miss the special late-night openings on Fridays, perfect for an enchanting evening out.
Dance and Enjoy at Kaleidoscope Festival, Alexandra Palace
Date: Saturday, July 13
Kaleidoscope Festival is back at Alexandra Palace, featuring an exciting line-up of live music, DJs, and comedy. Headliners include Ministry of Sound Classical, Soul II Soul, and The Go! Team. Enjoy DJ sets from Mr. Scruff and Erol Alkan on the Cloud 10 Stage, and catch comedy acts like Simon Amstell and Sophie Duker on the Fringe stage. The festival also offers a variety of family-friendly activities, such as Silly Science Workshops and African Acrobatics Circus. With a stunning backdrop of the iconic Alexandra Palace, it’s a summer event not to be missed.
Rock Out at Somerset House Summer Series with American Express
Dates: July 11 – July 21
Somerset House Summer Series returns with eleven nights of live music in the beautiful courtyard of Somerset House. The line-up features a mix of breakthrough artists and established acts. Highlights include Pip Millett opening the series, a celebration of Malian music with Fatoumata Diawara and Amadou & Mariam, and a special live show by Corinne Bailey Rae. The series also features performances by The Amazons, The Big Moon, and the legendary Patti Smith Quartet. Enjoy an evening of music under the stars, with enhanced bar options for a premium experience.
Make the most of your weekend in the capital with these unique and exciting events.
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