Summer in London rocks!
London is probably at its most vibrant in August. As the summertime heat reaches its peak, the capital comes alive with a wide range exciting events. Green spaces are full of people enjoying picnics and sunning themselves. The Capital empties slightly for periods during the summer holidays.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s something for everyone. Every day offers a new experience and opportunities for fun.
Have a look at what happens every year in the month of August in London so you can plan your trip! Get ready to immerse yourself in the dynamic energy of London in August!
Notting Hill Carnival is Europe’s largest street festival in West London celebrating Caribbean culture, featuring vibrant parades, live music, steel bands, and delicious Caribbean cuisine. This takes place over the August Bank Holiday Weekend.
One of the largest street festivals in London, the Notting Hill Carnival takes place over the August bank holiday weekend. The Notting Hill Carnival is a street-party of legendary status: a vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture and the diversity of London!
BBC Proms: Attend the world’s largest classical music festival taking place from July through September, held at the Royal Albert Hall and other venues, showcasing a diverse range of orchestral performances. The last night is famous for patriotic music and countless flags but advanced booking is essential.
Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House: Enjoy outdoor film screenings in the picturesque courtyard of Somerset House on the Strand, featuring classic and contemporary films.
Royal Park Summer Music Concerts: Various Royal Parks in London host outdoor music concerts and events during the summer months. Look out for world class concerts on listings, and free classical concerts expeically in Regents Park, St James Park and Greenwhich Park.
Thames Festival: Taking place over the August Bank Holiday Weekend, is a riverside celebration showcasing London’s diverse culture with live music, dance performances, art installations, fireworks, and a grand finale along the River Thames.
London Craft Beer Festival: A beer lover’s paradise, featuring a wide selection of craft beers from local and international breweries, along with live music, food stalls, and interactive workshops in various venues across London.
Summer Exhibition at the Royal Academy of Arts (June to August): An annual showcase of contemporary art, displaying works in various mediums by established and emerging artists. Visitors can explore and purchase unique artworks. At the Royal Academy of Arts, Piccadilly.
Greenwich and Docklands International Festival: A dynamic outdoor arts festival, featuring large-scale performances, street theatre, dance, circus acts, and interactive installations, celebrating creativity and community spirit.
West End Kids Week: A special theatre initiative where children aged 16 and under can go to shows in London’s top theatres for free or at heavily discounted prices, encouraging young audiences to experience live performances. Although titled as being a long, the offers lasts for at least 6 weeks. Advance booking highly recommended – keep an eye on dates when tickets are released every year.
Serpentine Pavilion is an annual art installation that is an extension of the Serpentine Gallery, and a highlight of the summer cultural season. Every year, an internationally renowned architect is invited to create a pavilion. These installation often house other events and are well worth a visit.
All Points East Music Festival is an annual music festival in Victoria Park. It is held over ten days incorporating two weekends. It presents major headline acts and the main events are bookended by free, fun-filled community events during the week. Its well attended by locals to if you want to see how local Londoners build their communities, head to Tower Hamlets.
Hampton Court Palace Food Festival is an annual food and drink festival in the stunning gardens of Henry VIII’s stunning palace. The festival showcases mouthwatering food, craft beers and curated wines. You can buy picnic lunches to eat in the gardens. Family activities are provided, as is music on a grandstand.
The London Triathlon: The London Triathlon is an annual triathlon event in London, England. Until 2015, the London Triathlon was the largest triathlon in the world, and is the only triathlon to take place in central London.
Kew the Music: Open-air concerts at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Camden Fringe Festival: Alternative and experimental performances in various venues in Camden. The Camden Fringe is a performing arts festival, established in 2006, and set up to rival its more famous sister in Edinburgh. Events include new writing, opera, musicals, stand-up, sketch comedy, dance, cabaret, poetry, opera, mentalism, improvisation and Q&As.
Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre: Enjoy open-air productions in the beautiful surroundings of Regent’s Park.
Underbelly Festival: Comedy, circus, and cabaret performances on the South Bank.
London Craft Week: A showcase of exceptional craftsmanship and creativity.
International Youth Arts Festival: Celebrating young artists with performances and exhibitions.
And there is so much more!
London Design Festival: Showcasing the best in design across the city.
Royal Greenwich Tall Ships Festival: A maritime festival with impressive tall ships on the Thames.
Summer by the River Festival: A summer-long festival with live music, food, and outdoor cinema.
Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre Performances: Enjoy Shakespearean plays in a historic setting.
RideLondon: A cycling festival with various events, including a mass-participation ride.
London Permaculture Festival: Focusing on sustainable and eco-friendly living.
London Korean Film Festival: Showcasing the best of Korean cinema.
London Fintech Week: Focusing on the future of financial services and technology.
House Festival at Marble Hill: A summer festival with music, food, and entertainment.
London Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival: A thrilling dragon boat race and cultural festival at London Regatta Centre.
London Greek Wine Festival: Celebrate Greek wines and culture in the heart of London.
Duck & Waffle Rooftop Film Club: Enjoy classic films with a stunning view of the city skyline.
Museum of London Docklands Rum Festival: Discover the history and flavors of rum in this unique festival.
Covent Garden Comedy Club: Enjoy stand-up comedy in the heart of Covent Garden.
Richmond Runfest: A series of running events in Richmond Park, suitable for all ages and abilities.
