Amazing Things To Do in London in September 2023

September in London may be ‘back to school’ time, but it’s also when the city comes alive. A lot of London’s cultural scene goes into semi-hibernation mode over the summer, but come autumn it kicks back into gear with landmark museum exhibitions, new theatre and art shows and brand new food and drink openings.

There’s also a whole host of city-wide fests taking over the capital, including Open House London – giving us a chance to get a sneak peek inside usually private buildings – London Design Festival and Totally Thames – the brilliant celebration of London’s watery main artery complete with an illuminated flotilla installation.

1. Celebrate London’s watery main artery at Totally Thames Festival

🌟 Festivals 📍 Bloomsbury  📅 Until 9 Dec 2023

🌟 Festivals 📍 South Kensington  📅 16 Sept to 23 Sept 2023

🌟 Quirky events 📍Clapham  📅Until 17 Sept 2023

by Blackstones

Things to do in London in August 2023

It’s the height of summer, but the weather is anything but balmy. Raincoats and jumpers are the order of the day, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have a good time in London this weekend. The city is always buzzing with energy, no matter what the weather, and there are plenty of things to do to keep you entertained.

1. Dance in the W11 streets at Notting Hill Carnival

Dancing, music and masquerade – make the most of the Notting Hill Carnival with our full guide to all the info, dates, timings details and tips.

For a lot of Londoners, Notting Hill Carnival on the August Bank Holiday Weekend flashes by in a blaze of feathers, Red Stripe and tinnitus. To those who make it happen, it’s a year-round operation to create one of the biggest and oldest street parties in the world. This Carnival weekend, it’s expected that more than two million people will flock to west London to dance in the streets of W11. It’s free to join family day on the Sunday and the Monday which is for the hard partiers. It’s a celebration of freedom and Caribbean culture, with an iconic parade showcasing the best of mas, soca, calypso, steel bands and soundsystems. What are you waiting for?

When is Notting Hill Carnival 2023? 

West London is getting taken over again with dazzling floats, kaleidoscopically dressed performers, rib-shaking soundsystems, the sweet, smoky smell of jerk chicken and steel bands over the August Bank Holiday weekend from Sunday August 27 to Monday August 28.

When is family day for Notting Hill Carnival?

Family day is on Carnival Sunday August 27 2023. The official opening ceremony will take place from 10am to 10.30am on Great Western road, before the children’s day parade and Carnival Parade kicks off and runs until 5pm.

Which is the better day at Carnival?

If you’re after a more chilled NHC experience, go for family day on Sunday, or if you like the sound of a hard-partying parade, make sure to go on Carnival Monday. The festivities kick off with an opening ceremony on Sunday morning, with the parade starting at 10am. Monday’s adult’s day parade starts at 10.30am and afterparties run until after dark. There’s nothing stopping you from going both days, of course.

Do I need a ticket for Notting Hill Carnival?

The NHC parade is free for anyone to attend and everyone is welcome. But, if you want to join in with the parade, you need to be part of a group authorised to do so, or pay to join the procession. If you want to continue the festivities into the night, you will need to buy a ticket for one of the countless afterparties across the city.

 

How to get to Notting Hill Carnival 2023?

Travel by tube:

As Notting Hill’s roads will be closed off throughout the Bank Holiday weekend, you won’t be able to get an Uber or catch a bus into the heart of the action. But there are plenty of nearby tube stations are within walking distance of the main event including Notting Hill Gate, which will be ‘exit only’ from 11am to 7pm each day, to accommodate the hundreds of thousands of people using the station that day. FYI: there will be no interchange between the Circle and District line and Central Line on both days.

Royal Oak and Westbourne Park will be ‘exit only’ from 11am to 6pm, with Royal Oak closing thereafter and Westbourne Park closing after 11.30pm. Also don’t forget: Latimer road will be closed from 11.30pm on both days. Avoid Ladbroke Grove and Holland Park as they’re both closed on Sunday and Monday.

Want a Carnival hack? Don’t forget to pick a meeting point in advance for when you inevitably lose your mates in the crowd.

2. Glowing animatronic swans will fill the Thames at this year’s Greenwich + Docklands Festival

London’s spectacular free outdoor Greenwich + Docklands International Festival is back for 2023. The free line-up once again features the sort of spectacular installations that have become its hallmark since the pandemic moved the focus away from street theatre. Look out for ‘Cygnus’ by Denis Bivour and Florian Giefer, which will see illuminated animatronic swans fill the Thames at the Royal Docks (Aug 31-Sep 3), the festival opener ‘Open Lines’ (Aug 25) and the return of GDIF regulars Greenwich Fair (a big Greenwich-wide family fun day on Aug 26).

3. Dance to Stormzy, The Strokes, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, HAIM, Erykah Badu and more at All Points East

Since its inception in 2018, All Points East has earned a reputation for a varied blend of musical styles and genres. Back in Vicky Park for another instalment, it’s confirmed big-hitting headliners Stormzy, HAIM, The Strokes, Jungle and Dermot Kennedy. The support acts are just as enticing, with the likes of Erykah Badu, Amyl and the Sniffers, Confidence Man, Angel Olsen, Tove Lo and more warming up the stage. This all comes bookended with free activities around the local area from In The NBHD.

Line-up: Stormzy, The Strokes, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, HAIM, Erykah Badu, Dermot Kennedy, Jungle.

This year’s headliners are Stormzy (August 18), Field Day (August 19), The Strokes (August 25), Jungle (August 26), Dermot Kennedy (August 27) and Haim (August 28).

The rest of the line-up features a huge range of artists, from the Yeah Yeah Yeahs and Erykah Badu to Angel Olsen, Confidence Man, Sampha and Kehlani.

How to get tickets

You can get tickets for each day on the official website here.

Ticket prices differ depending on the tier and entry time you choose. Some dates still have primary entry available, and ticket prices can start from £57.05. However, it looks like it’s selling out, so be sure to book now to avoid disappointment.

4. Tuck into six-course tasting menu inspired by fantastical tales at Six by Nico

Get a nostalgic captivating dining experience, inspired by fantastical tales

Word about Six by Nico has spread across the country thanks to its novel concept: its ever-evolving six-course tasting menu changes every six weeks each time with a different theme inviting you on a journey of discovery to experience new flavours. Whether you are a food novice or connoisseur, enjoy a carefully curated experience with everything from an amuse-bouche to an indulging dessert. Right now you can tuck into the ‘Once Upon A Time: Chapter II’ menu inspired by fantastical tales.

Highlights

• A carefully curated six-course tasting menu inspired by nostalgic memories
• Offer also includes a glass of Prosecco
• Vegetarian menu also available
• Over 30% off

Time Out says

Famed for its ever-evolving restaurant concept, where the menu changes every six weeks, Six By Nico invites you on a journey of discovery to experience new flavours. Whether you are a food novice or connoisseur, enjoy a carefully curated experience with a six-course tasting menu with everything from an amuse bouche that pleases the palate to an indulging dessert. Enjoy the ‘Once Upon A Time: Chapter II’ menu, a captivating dining experience, inspired by fantastical tales that are sure to delight with every bite.

What’s on the menu?

Once Upon A Time: Chapter II

Course One

Bird Pie – The Twits; Chicken & Duck Leg Ragu, Pickled Celeriac, Prune & Caramelised Puff Pastry

Course Two

Just Right Porridge – Goldilocks; Spaetzle, Barbecue Maitake, White Turnip, Black Garlic Dressing

Course Three

I Like Them, Sam-I-Am! – Dr. Seuss; Smoked Ham Hough Sandwich, Garden Pea Pesto, Egg Yolk Jam

Course Four

Dip Face, Have A Carrot – Matilda; Sole Ballotine, Tandoori Baked Carrot, Carrot Top Pesto, Lobster Jus

Course Five

I’ll Huff, And I’ll Puff! – Three Little Pigs; Pork Roulade, Pumpkin, Sweet & Sour Choucroute, Smoked Ash Emulsion, Bourguignon Jus

Course Six

Brucey! Brucey! – Matilda; 54% Chocolate Cremeux, Miso Caramel, Mango & Passion Fruit

Need to know

• This voucher is valid for six courses and a glass of Prosecco at Six By Nico.
• To redeem, please book here, with your preferred date and time. Please include your voucher, and security code in the comments section.
• The Once Upon A Time: Chapter II menu will be available to book during the valid dates of this voucher. Please visit Six by Nico to view all menu options at both Fitzrovia and Canary Wharf locations.
• The six-course tasting menu is priced at £48 per person with the option to enjoy an expertly selected wine. Specialist drinks pairing for an additional £35 at each restaurant.
• All Six by Nico menus can cater to dietary requirements and can be made vegan upon request and if enough notice is given to our team of chefs.
• Voucher valid until September 24, 2023.
• Please present your voucher upon arrival.
• Offer not valid on Saturdays.
• Maximum booking of six people.
• One voucher per person.
• Menu subject to change.
• The restaurant must be informed of any changes/cancellations – if the booking is cancelled within 24 hours of your booking, the voucher will be deemed to have been redeemed for the current booking and cannot be used towards a new booking.
• Location(s): Six by Nico Fitzrovia, 41 Charlotte Street, London W1T 1RR and Six by Nico Canary Wharf, Chancellor Passage, London E14 5EA.
• This voucher cannot be cancelled, amended, exchanged, refunded or used in conjunction with any other offer. For full terms and conditions.

by Blackstones

The Best Upcoming Events in London in July 2023

The Best of London in July 2023: Your Ultimate Guide to Events and Things to Do.

July is a great time to be in London. The weather is warm and sunny, the city's parks are lush and green, and there are plenty of exciting events happening.

1. The BBC Proms is back with a whole load of classical treats

☆ Music, ☆ South Kensington, ☆ Until 9 Sept 2023

Another year, another spectacular line-up of classical music, kicking off with a series of Nordic music and a world premiere from Ukrainian composer, Bohdana Frolyak on July 14, and waving us off in the traditional flurry of Union Jacks and bow ties on September 9. In 2023 the BBC Proms will be treating us to a huge range of programming featuring composers and orchestras from Berlioz to Bollywood, large scale symphonic and choral work, as well as intimate chamber concerts and exciting debuts. Look out for big classical hitters like Sir Stephen Hough, Sir Simon Rattle and Chineke! orchestra as well as more off-the-wall editions like orchestral collaborations with non-classical artists, including Rufus Wainwright, Self Esteem and Jon Hopkins, the first Bollywood Prom, Northern Soul Prom and the first concert featuring fado with Portuguese singer Mariza. For little ones, the Horrible Histories present ‘Orrible Opera, while unusual experiences for young and old include a late night Moon and Stars Prom and the Fantasy, Myths and Legends Prom featuring music from film, TV and gaming. Booking ahead is recommended.

2. Head to London Zoo after dark" with "Embark on a unique adults-only adventure

☆ Zoo Nights are back for 2023!

A reincarnation of Zoo Lates (which ended in 2015), Zoo Nights brings ‘after hours’ fun to ZSL London Zoo. Explore the zoo without crowds or kids in the way (this is an adults only experience), hear the Birds and The Bees guided tour where expert guides reveal what animals get up to after dark, play animal-themed games, graze on delicious international street food (there’s plenty for herbivores and carnivores alike) or grab a drink at one of the bars. Time to unpack that elephant onsie?

Highlights

• See the zoo without the kids or the crowds!
• Animal-themed games
• Street food and bars also available
• Get tickets now for just £19.50

When and where?

Fridays, June 9 until July 28 from 6 pm at London Zoo

Need to know

• This is valid for a ticket to Zoo Nights at London Zoo.
• This event is restricted to those aged 18 and over.
• This booking is only valid for your selected date/time option.
• Arrival from 6 pm, last entry at 9 pm, event ends at 10 pm.
• Please note the majority of the animal exhibits will close at 9 pm, with some exceptions closing at 9.30 pm.
• *Additional charges apply for the Birds and The Bees guided tour.
• Please present your booking confirmation upon arrival.
• Location: Outer Circle, Regent’s Park, London NW1 4RY.
• This ticket cannot be cancelled, amended, exchanged, refunded or used in conjunction with any other offer.

Book Now

3. Immerse yourself in the excitement of Wimbledon on a giant screen

☆ Things to do

Missed out on tickets in the Wimbledon Tennis Championships ballot? Can’t face camping out on the street for day tickets? No problem. London is a city that gives back and this summer it will be peppered with big screens showing all the Murray Mound (okay, Henman Hill) action in so much blown-up high-res glory that you might as well be court-side.

This year the tournament (which started in 1877!) runs from Monday 3rd July 2023 to Sunday 16th July 2023 and you’ll catch screens across the capital showing most matches on each day of the event, so there are plenty of opportunities to spend an afternoon or evening in a sweet viewing spot.

There will be more big screens announced nearer the time, many of which will also have extras such as special edition cocktails, food offers and even pop-up tennis coaching. Take that Centre Court.

4. Ballie Ballerson: The ultimate adult playground for kidults

Highlights

• Ticket includes all-night entry, two-hour ball pit session and a cocktail
• Ball pits, dance floor & more
• Just £6!

Need to know

• This voucher is valid for a two-hour ball pit session, all-night bar entry and 1 signature cocktail at Ballie Ballerson.
• Availability: Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 6 pm until close.
• Please present your Time Out booking confirmation to the door team upon arrival to claim your cocktail.
• To book your ball pit session, select your preferred time slot and enter the unique voucher code from your Time Out booking confirmation, here.
• Voucher must be purchased and ball pit session booked before entry to the venue.
• Voucher valid until 30 September 2023.
• This offer is restricted to those aged 18 and over. Valid ID is required for entry.
• Offer not valid on student nights.
• Ballie Ballerson reserves the right to offer another cocktail choice of the same value if necessary.
• Location: 97-113 Curtain Road, London EC2A 3BS.
• This voucher cannot be cancelled, amended, exchanged, refunded or used in conjunction with any other offer. For full terms and conditions, please see here.

5. Sit down and tuck into a grand Italian feast at the Museum of the Home

☆ Things to do,  ☆ Food and drink events   ☆ Hoxton,   ☆ 30 Jul 2023

Think of your dream dinner party... then dial that vision up to 11 because mightly quaffable Italian beer Birrificio Angelo Poretti is offering Londoners a seat at it’s very own summer banquet and you can expect something straight out of your tablescaped dreams. Poretti has teamed up with Insta famous Mob Kitchen for the feast with recipe developer Jordon Ezra King creating an authentic three-course Italian menu that pairs perfectly with, you guessed it, ice-cold carafes of Poretti beer.

The beautiful Museum of the Home in Hackney will be hosting a huge banqueting table where 100 guests will sit down and tuck in over three sittings (12.30pm-2.30pm; 4pm-6pm; 7.30pm-9.30pm). Expect dishes you’ll want to photograph for posterity, the chance to chat to new people and decorations that’ll transport you straight to northern Italy. Bellissimo.
Buy Ticket

by Blackstones

Experience an array of unmissable events and things to do in London June 2023.

Discover a vibrant lineup of exciting events taking place in London throughout the month of June. Immerse yourself in the cultural, entertainment, and artistic offerings that the city has to offer during this time.

June in London is one of those months that’s filled with a sense of excitement. It’s that ‘school’s out!’ feeling, until you remember that you left school years ago, and ‘summer holidays’ don’t really exist for adults. Shame.

June is also the start of summer in London, which means the capital’s beer gardens are at their prime, the city parks are at their prettiest, the open-air theatre season gets into full swing and eating alfresco is on the cards at some of London’s best restaurants. Plus, expect to see long queues in south west London as tennis fans line up to bag a place at the epic Wimbledon championships.

it’s back. The RA’s annual showcase of all the artists you need to know about right now returns for its 255th edition to brighten up the summer holidays. The world’s oldest open submission exhibition (which means anyone can enter their work to be considered for inclusion), the artist with the big job of sifting through the works and curating them this year is David Remfry. He’ll be exploring the theme ‘Only Connect’, inspired by a quote from the novel ‘Howards End’ by E. M. Forster.  

Here are the three things you'll see at the Summer Exhibition

Big names

Now in its 255th year, the Summer Exhibition still knows how to get the big art names in. Expect work from the likes of Frank Bowling, Michael Craig-Martin, Tracey Emin, Gillian Wearing and the late Paula Rego, as well as Honorary Royal Academicians Mimmo Paladino, Pipilotti Rist and Kiki Smith. Newly elected Royal Academicians Roger Hiorns, Hew Locke, Veronica Ryan and Barbara Walker will be submitting works, as well as newly elected Honorary Royal Academician Kara Walker. 

Little names

The great thing about the Summer Exhibition is that it’s open to all, and the selectors pick from thousands of entries. That means that your mate’s mum’s weird little whittled sculptures of George Michael might be shown alongside something by Antony Gormley. It’s a good opportunity to spot an art star of the future. And also see weird stuff by your mate’s mum.

And a huge amount of art

There are usually hundreds of works in this sprawling show. From miniature paintings to enormous canvases, architectural models to photography, there’s something for everyone. And hey, most of it is for sale, so you may just be able to nab a bargain.

2. Serpentine Pavilion

✡ till June 25 at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre, Wembley

Highlights

• • Olivier Award-winning musical now in the UK
  • Performing at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre
  • Tickets from just £16.50!

Imagine a cross between ‘Annie’, ‘Les Miserables’, and one of those elaborate gymnastic-based spectacles staged by communist countries and you’re halfway there to imaging Disney’s cult classic musical ‘Newsies’ about striking that has finally hit the UK. The Troubadour Theatre’s high-octane production captures all its vigorous spirit, sending its huge cast of plucky, rebellious paperboys tumbling and leaping across its mammoth stage as they stand up to the big bosses who are determined to grind them down.

Need to know

• This is valid for a ticket to Disney's Newsies at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre.
• This booking is only valid for your selected date/time option and band.
• E-tickets will be sent directly from the box office via email, please present your tickets upon arrival at the venue. If you do not receive your e-tickets by the day of your performance, please contact the box office via wptboxoffice@kxtickets.com, for assistance.
• Time Out booking confirmations cannot be used to gain entry as seats are allocated by the box office and not by Time Out. Customers purchasing multiple tickets in the same transaction under the same name will be sat together.
• Doors open 30 minutes before each performance. The show runs approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, including interval.
• Location: 3 Fulton Road, Wembley Park, Wembley HA9 0SP.
• This voucher cannot be cancelled, amended, exchanged, refunded or used in conjunction with any other offer.

7. Gouqi

Chef Tong Chee Hwee, who helped earn Mayfair Chinese spot Hakkasan its Michelin star is back on the London food scene cooking up elevated and refined dishes using techniques and ingredients from across China at Gouqi. Try the Angus tenderloin beef with black pepper sauce, sautéed crystal jumbo prawns with yellow chive in XO sauce, or clay pot silken egg tofu with wild mushroom and vegetable for yourself with this eqclusive deal letting you enjoy top-tier dining for just £45 per person.

Highlights

• Three courses of Chinese fine dining from seven Michelin-starred chef Tong Chee Hwee
• Plus a glass of wine
• Now just £45 per person (minimum booking of two required)

Everyone loves a comeback. This restaurant marks a return to London’s restaurant scene for Chef Tong, who worked across Singaporean and Malaysian restaurants, before securing a spot at Hakkasan (when the restaurant earned its Michelin star). Now, he’s cementing his place as a figurehead at Gouqi, where he creates elevated and refined dishes using techniques and ingredients from across China. Enjoy top-tier dining for just £45 per person, where you indulge in dishes like Angus tenderloin beef with black pepper sauce, sautéed crystal jumbo prawns with yellow chive in XO sauce, or clay pot silken egg tofu with wild mushroom and vegetable. How dreamy does that sound?

What's on the menu?

Starter - choose one:

Crispy aromatic duck salad

Lotus root salad with courgette and black fungus (V)

Main - choose one:

Angus tenderloin beef with black pepper sauce

Sautéed crystal jumbo prawns with yellow chive in XO sauce

Claypot silken egg tofu with wild mushroom and vegetable (V)

with seasonal vegetables and steamed Jasmine rice (V)

Dessert - choose one:

Banana, Miso, Caramelised White Chocolate and Coffee

Mango, Passion Fruit and Coconut (V)

Need to know

• This voucher is valid for three courses and a drink at Gouqi.
• Minimum of two people to book
• Availability: Monday to Friday noon - 2.30 pm, daily 5.30 pm - 6.30 pm / 9.30 pm - 10 pm. Blackout dates may apply. Subject to availability.
• To redeem, please send your booking confirmation to reservations@gouqi-restaurants.co.uk or call 0203 771 8886 with your preferred date and time. Your voucher, security code and QR code must be clear.
• Please present your voucher upon arrival.
• Voucher valid until > July 30, 2023.
• Menu subject to change. Offer includes house wine only.
• Please inform the restaurant of any allergies or dietary requirements in advance.
• The restaurant must be informed of any changes/cancellations within 48 hours of your booking. If the booking is cancelled after this time, the voucher will be deemed to have been redeemed for the current booking and cannot be used towards a new booking.
• Dress code is smart casual.
• Prices and menus online are subject to changes.
• Gouqi is located opposite the Canadian Embassy on Cockspur Street, and next to Trafalgar Hotel.
• Location: 25-34 Cockspur Street, London, SW1Y 5BN.
• This voucher cannot be cancelled, amended, exchanged, refunded or used in conjunction with any other offer.

by Blackstones

The best Easter events and activities in London

The first bank holiday of the year is also a double one – here are our top ten things to do over the Easter weekend in London.

Easter weekend isn’t just a time to scoff loads of chocolate and have a big roast dinner: it’s also a double bank holiday. We get four whole days off between Good Friday on April 7 and Easter Monday on April 10, so the world – or at least London – is our oyster.

Worried about filling up all your extra time off? Time Out has your back. There’s plenty to do in the capital over the Easter weekend: from checking out spring flowers and other kid-friendly Easter activities to swinging by one of London’s top rooftop bars and coffee shops. Hopefully, the weather will be glorious and hanging out in the park for four days straight won’t involve dashing away from freak rain storms.

But if not, you can still spend your time checking out a free art exhibition, seeing some top theatre or treating yourself to a proper pub roast on Easter Sunday. If you’re looking for something truly special to do over the extra-long April break, read on for our top ten things to do in London this Easter. From a resurrection-themed pub crawl to Good Friday club nights, there’s absolutely no way you’ll be bored.

How to spend your Easter weekend in London

1. Kick off your four-day weekend with a ‘very, very good Friday’ party at The Cause

by Blackstones

Mega Events To Make The Most of March 2020 In London

St Patrick’s Day in London

You don’t have to go to Ireland to enjoy the party atmosphere of St Patrick’s Day 2020, there’s plenty going on right here in London

The Irish really know how to celebrate, so when it comes to St Patrick’s Day in London, the city’s Irish community have no problem showing us how it’s done. A day to celebrate the patron saint of Ireland, the occasion is always one big welcoming bash. Expect lots of dancing, hearty traditional dishes, a huge parade and as many pints as you can handle.

The official holiday lands annually on March 17 (a Tuesday in 2020), but this year the main London celebrations take place in Trafalgar Square March 13-17.

At this year’s three-day shindig, more than 50,000 revellers are expected to descend on Trafalgar Square for a lively parade of music and ceilidh dancing, plus plenty of things to do with the kids, from an Irish folk show and film festival to Irish walking tours. Feeling peckish? Fill up on traditional grub from the Irish Street Food Market.

If you can’t face the crowds, we’ve rounded up the best St Patrick’s Day happenings below. Or if you want more cultural inspiration, check our pick of the best London events in March. Get ready for a very green weekend.

When is St Patrick’s Day?

It’s always March 17, but in true Irish fashion, St Patrick’s Day sessions usually run throughout Paddy’s weekend.

What is St Patrick’s Day?

The date supposedly marks the death of this guy called (yep, you guessed it!) St Patrick, who travelled to Ireland in the fifth century to convince Irish pagans that Christianity is where it’s at. Do you associate Ireland with shamrocks? That’s down to him too: the story goes that St Patrick used the three-leaved clover to describe the Holy Trinity to non-believers. Oh, and legend says he banished snakes from the country by chasing them into the sea. Best mull that last part over with a Guinness.

Where is the London St Patrick’s Day Parade?

London’s St Patrick’s Day parade lines the streets from Piccadilly to Trafalgar Square and cheers on a stream of leprechaun floats, traditional musicians and squads of Irish dancers. The main stage at Trafalgar Square will be surrounded by a street food market and a ‘tea tent’, with a line-up of Irish bands. Basically, it’s a big, rip-roaring one-day festival, only the pints are a shade of Gaelic green.

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Rare Birds Bohemian Market

The festival-themed market at 93 Feet East has everything you want in a market and more. Head along to Brick Lane to gobble down street food, sip on cocktails, pick up wavey garms from independent designers and vintage stalls and join denim customising workshops, all to a soundtrack from banging DJs and live acts.

Details

Event website:	https://www.rarebirdsmarket.com

Venue name:	93 Feet East
Address:	150 Brick Lane London E1 6QL
Transport:	Tube: Liverpool St
Price:	Free entry

 

Dates And Times

• Su Mar 15 2020  93 Feet East 11:00am Free Entry
  

  Rare Birds Bohemian Market

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The Oxford v Cambridge Goat Race

Polish your horns and belt out those bleats, because London’s favourite farmyard fracas is back for an eleventh year in 2020. The Goat Race is fast becoming as popular as its Thames-based rival (at least around the Time Out office), and sees two goats – one representing ‘Oxford’, the other ‘Cambridge’ – take part in a dash around the farm.

The gates open at noon with lots to enjoy on the farm, including bands, booze and other fun, goat-related nonsense. The race takes place at some point between 4.30pm, although the exact time depends on the mood of the athletes. There’s an official bookie and sweepstake if you or your nanny fancy a flutter. Young bucks at heart can join the Goat-e-oke, take part in the Coat Race or the Goatry Slam. By the end of it, you might just pass out from goat-pun fatigue. Book tickets well in advance – the animals mustn’t get overcrowded and places sell out fast.

This year you can upgrade your goat race ticket to a VIP experience. For out £50 and as well as a front-row seat at the goat race, you’ll also get close up and personal with the farm’s goats. Help groom, feed and walk them and bring along up four people with you to help you do it. All proceeds go to the upkeep of Spitalfields City Farm.

Details

Event website:	https://www.thegoatrace.com/

Venue name:	Spitalfields City Farm
Address:	Buxton Street London E1 5AR
Transport:	Tube: Whitechapel
Price:	£17.50, kids £5

Dates And Times

• Su Mar 29 2020
  • Spitalfields City Farm 12:00pm £17.50, kids £5 Book online
  • Spitalfields City Farm 12:00pm £17.50, kids £5 Book online

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The Mikvah Project

Orange Tree Theatre, Richmond Until Mar 28 2020

Achingly intimate remounting of Josh Azouz’s drama about two men drawn to each other at a Jewish bath

Two men exist awkwardly, nakedly together in a single Jewish ritual bath (the title’s ‘mikvah’). Josh Azouz’s tender story is soaked in healing water and other, harder-to-shift substances: tradition, self-doubt, hypocrisy.

‘The Mikvah Project’ was first staged at The Yard; translated to the more intimate Orange Tree, Georgia Green’s production is an example of the alchemy that happens when you get the perfect combination of play and theatre. In Cory Shipp’s set, a mosaic-tiled pool is recessed into the stage, its water reflecting Eitan and Avi’s limbs as they meet, first by accident, then more deliberately. The Orange Tree’s in-the-round set-up means that the audience becomes the walls of the mikvah. Sometimes the two performers are showmen, acknowledging us and explaining snippets of Jewish tradition from their warm, if sometimes claustrophobic, community. Sometimes they act like they’re alone.

Josh Zaré plays 17-year-old Eitan. He’s still a kid, really, and Zaré has this incredible energy that makes him visibly fizz with excitement as he mimes driving his first car, or drifts into confused monologues about the girls he’s meant to fancy. Avi doesn’t have time to help him work things out, because he’s married and trying for a kid. In theory. Alex Waldmann captures the contradictions of this man who always knows the right thing to say, the right thing to do, but can’t make himself stay within those lines he’s drawn out so neatly.

Religious tradition. Forbidden lust. We’ve seen it all before. Except we haven’t, because Azouz’s play takes what could be a familiar clash between religion and homosexuality and makes it strange. His writing dances, torturing unspoken truths into weird metaphors, like when Avi tries to use football to codedly explain why Eitan should choose a heteronormative life. It doesn’t work. But Azouz’s play doesn’t soar into queer wish fulfilment fantasies either: there’s an incredibly tense pattern of release, denial, release which makes it impossible to look away.

The mikvah is an acceptable place for men to be naked, together, and this play is an often-hilarious interrogation of all the intimacies that makes room for. This production doesn’t always find the more mystical side of the mikvah’s symbolism: Avi’s meant to be a talented singer but his voice lacks the strength to bring a spine-tingling spirituality into this small space. But it has the power to transport you from tiny room to bustling synagogue to snatched moment in the sun, with a still, cold pool of water at its heart.

Details

Event website:	https://www.orangetreetheatre.co.uk/whats-on/the-mikvah-project

Venue name:	Orange Tree Theatre
Address:	1 Clarence Street Richmond TW9 2SA
Transport:	Rail/Tube: Richmond
Price:	£15-£32, £15 concs. Runs 1hr 5min

Dates And Times

• Fr Mar 13 2020
  • Orange Tree Theatre 7:30pm £15-£32, £15 concs. Runs 1hr 5min
• Sa Mar 14 2020
  • Orange Tree Theatre 2:30pm £15-£32, £15 concs. Runs 1hr 5min
  • Orange Tree Theatre 7:30pm £15-£32, £15 concs. Runs 1hr 5min
• Mo Mar 16 2020
  • Orange Tree Theatre 7:30pm £15-£32, £15 concs. Runs 1hr 5min
• Tu Mar 17 2020
  • Orange Tree Theatre 7:30pm £15-£32, £15 concs. Runs 1hr 5min
• We Mar 18 2020
  • Orange Tree Theatre 7:30pm £15-£32, £15 concs. Runs 1hr 5min
• Th Mar 19 2020
  • Orange Tree Theatre 2:30pm £15-£32, £15 concs. Runs 1hr 5min
  • Orange Tree Theatre 7:30pm £15-£32, £15 concs. Runs 1hr 5min
• Fr Mar 20 2020
  • Orange Tree Theatre 7:30pm £15-£32, £15 concs. Runs 1hr 5min
• Sa Mar 21 2020
  • Orange Tree Theatre 2:30pm £15-£32, £15 concs. Runs 1hr 5min
• Sa Mar 21 2020
  • Orange Tree Theatre 7:30pm £15-£32, £15 concs. Runs 1hr 5min
• Mo Mar 23 2020
  • Orange Tree Theatre 7:30pm £15-£32, £15 concs. Runs 1hr 5min
• Tu Mar 24 2020
  • Orange Tree Theatre 7:30pm £15-£32, £15 concs. Runs 1hr 5min
• We Mar 25 2020
  • Orange Tree Theatre 7:30pm £15-£32, £15 concs. Runs 1hr 5min
• Th Mar 26 2020
  • Orange Tree Theatre 2:30pm £15-£32, £15 concs. Runs 1hr 5min
  • Orange Tree Theatre 7:30pm £15-£32, £15 concs. Runs 1hr 5min
• Fr Mar 27 2020
  • Orange Tree Theatre 7:30pm £15-£32, £15 concs. Runs 1hr 5min
• Sa Mar 28 2020
  • Orange Tree Theatre 2:30pm £15-£32, £15 concs. Runs 1hr 5min
  • Orange Tree Theatre 7:30pm £15-£32, £15 concs. Runs 1hr 5min

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by Blackstones

The best Things to do in February

London events in February

Our guide to the best events, festivals, workshops, exhibitions and things to do throughout February 2020 in London

February 2020 in London is going to be great. We’ve said goodbye to January and now London is beginning to brighten up. Use the – slightly – longer days to enjoy the month’s brilliant batch of events and celebrations. Get loved-up in London or join in the heaps of brilliant events, fun pop-ups and exciting new exhibitions happening. Here are our February 2020 highlights. February in London is also the month of Kew Garden’s Orchid Festival, London Fashion Week Festival, the London Classic Car Show and Brew LDN.

Hey, and while you’ve got your diary out, remember that it’s never too early to start planning for March either.

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Pancake Day in London

Have your frying pans at the ready because Pancake Day is just around the corner. In 2020 Shrove Tuesday falls on Tuesday February 25 and London’s best restaurants will be going flipping mad for it.

Make the most of the flipping marvellous Pancake Day in London with our guide to races and celebrations happening around Shrove Tuesday

Have your frying pans at the ready because Pancake Day is just around the corner. In 2020 Shrove Tuesday falls on Tuesday February 25 and London’s best restaurants will be going flipping mad for it. Others will be perfecting their toss at a pancake race and some will be going for the DIY approach and creating crepes at home. Have a blast whatever you get up to, just don’t get too battered in the process. Here’s our guide to Pancake Day in London and our pick of the best races, celebrations and other events across the capital.

What is Pancake Day?

Shrove Tuesday marks the last day before Lent, traditionally a period of abstinence, associated with clearing your cupboards of things like sugar, fat and eggs. It’s known as Pancake Day because it represents a good opportunity to use up such ingredients. Easy peasy lemon squeezy. 

When is Pancake Day?

Pancake Day takes place 47 days before Easter Sunday. Because the date of Easter Sunday is dictated by the cycles of the moon, Pancake Day can occur anytime between February 3 and March 9. This year’s batter action takes place on Tuesday February 25 2020.

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Imagine Children’s Festival

Southbank Centre, South Bank Until Feb 23 2020

Bringing much-needed pizzazz to an otherwise dreary February half term holiday, Imagine is a mix of family-oriented shows and workshops, play experiences and exhibitions, music, art and literature. With events for all ages (from babies to teens) and lots of options which are free and drop-in, Imagine is the perfect way to fire young minds and allow the kids to let off steam when the weather is usually foul and parks are knee-deep in mud.

How cool that one of London’s greatest annual arts festivals is for an audience half of which are scarcely out of training pants

Bringing much-needed pizzazz to an otherwise dreary February half term holiday, Imagine is a mix of family-oriented shows and workshops, play experiences and exhibitions, music, art and literature. With events for all ages (from babies to teens) and lots of options which are free and drop-in, Imagine is the perfect way to fire young minds and allow the kids to let off steam when the weather is usually foul and parks are knee-deep in mud. The festival takes place at Southbank Centre, February 12-23.

On any day during half term you can swing by the Royal Festival Hall and join colourful, weird and wonderful family events. Some of them are free; just turn up and enjoy the eco-inspired games of ‘Earth Activity Trail’, scrawl your designs on the fest’s ‘Giant Chalkboard’, drop into the buzzing line-up kid-friendly music performances in the venue’s Clore Ballroom or, if you’re a worn-out grown-up, get a luxurious hand massage at the ‘Imagine Wellbeing Zone’.

Alternatively, book in advance for special events targeted at kids of all ages. Imagine started life as a literature festival for children and there is still a strong showing of authors and illustrators – this year, Michael Rosen, Dermot O’Leary, Cressida Cowell and Konnie Huq will all be running kid-oriented storytelling and poetry sessions. Many of these sell-out before the festival starts so it’s worth checking the website now.

There’s also a pretty hefty array of theatre shows to pick from. ‘Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo’ (February 15-21) will thrill Jurassic-obsessed kids with its strokable display of puppet lizards. There’s also ‘Slime’, a slug-inspired movement piece for toddlers (February 15-16); hip hop and classical Indian dance storytelling in ‘Same Same… But Different’ (February 23); and a chance to meet a pigtailed literary icon in ‘Meet Astrid Lindgren’s Pippi Longstocking’ (February 23).

You’ll find the full schedule on the Southbank Centre website.

Event phone:	0844 847 9910

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London Bookshop Crawl

Various London locations, London Until Feb 23 2020

Get the rounds in on a crawl of London’ß finest establishments. By ‘rounds’ we mean indulgent flicks through novels, and by ‘establishments’ we mean nice bookshops – but who says you can’t get drunk along the way too?

Back for its fifth year, the London Bookshop Crawl takes the basic premise of a pub crawl – only instead of drowning in beer, you’ll be drowning in books. Join one of the guided group tours or strike out on your own route using one of the free maps. One thing’s for sure: snubbing Amazon will be a lot easier once you know where all the good bookshops are.

Dates And Times

• Fr Feb 21 2020
  • Free
• Sa Feb 22 2020
  • Free
• Su Feb 23 2020
  •   Free

Details

Event website:	http://www.bookshopcrawl.co.uk

Venue name:	Various London locations
Address:
Price:	Free

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Orchids Festival at Kew

Kew Gardens, Kew Until Mar 8 2020

Kew Gardens’ celebration of the orchid returns for its twenty-fifth year, this time with a focus on the plant life of Indonesia. Kew’s Orchids Festival will see the botanical gardens’ tropical greenhouse bursting with colourful species, and in 2020 they will reflect the country’s diverse landscape – from tropical rainforests to spectacular volcanos.

Kew Gardens’ celebration of the orchid returns for its twenty-fifth year, this time with a focus on the plant life of Indonesia. Kew’s Orchids festival will see the botanical gardens’ tropical greenhouse bursting with colourful species, and in 2020 they will reflect the country’s diverse landscape – from tropical rainforests to spectacular volcanos.

The Prince of Wales Conservatory will be filled with the sights, smells and sounds of Indonesia. Highlights will include a dramatic central pond display filled with bright orange orangutans, life-sized animals and an erupting volcano all made up of hundreds of stunning orchid blossoms. There’ll also be an impressive carnivorous pitcher plant archway.

Don’t miss rare flowers that can only be found on certain islands in the archipelago. Take the infamous Titan Arum aka ‘corpse flower’ from the island of Sumatra, it gets its name from the unbearable smell of rotting flesh it produces when in bloom.

Details

Event website:	https://www.kew.org/kew-gardens/whats-on/orchids-festival

Venue name:	Kew Gardens
Address:	Royal Botanic Gardens London TW9 3AB
Transport:	Tube: Kew Gardens/Kew Bridge rail
Price:	Free with admission price

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by Blackstones