London's free art show, Art After Dark, returns to the West End this Feburary - here's everything you'll be able to during the 2026 programme.
What is Art After Dark in London?
Bringing you closer to London’s cultural scene, Art After Dark is a week-long programme run by Art of London, transforming the West End into a celebration of art, music and creativity after hours.
In 2026, internationally acclaimed London-based artist Lakwena Maciver headlines the programme with Rise and Shine, a large-scale public artwork unveiled in the heart of Piccadilly Circus. Made from stacked disco lightboxes, the installation draws inspiration from London’s influential music scene, channelling the energy of Caribbean sound systems, disco dance floors and Black British music culture.
Over the week, Art After Dark offers audiences the chance to experience major cultural institutions after hours, alongside free outdoor artworks, digital installations and late-night events across the West End.
When and where is Art After Dark 2026?
Art After Dark runs from 3 to 10 February 2026 across London’s West End. Key locations include Piccadilly Circus, The National Gallery, Royal Academy of Arts, and surrounding galleries, public spaces and cultural venues.
What's on during Art After Dark 2026?
With a packed programme of public art, late-night openings and live events, there’s plenty for art lovers to experience during Art After Dark 2026. Highlights include:
- Art After Dark: Music Sessions: From live jazz at Haymarket Hotel’s Brumus Bar (4–5 Feb) and a 90s-themed DJ night at Blind Spot (6 Feb) to sing-alongs at U9, London's cosmic-theme karaoke bar, there’re plenty of ways to unwind with music.
- Art After Dark: Friday Lates: A limited number of after-hours events take place at the National Gallery, National Portrait Gallery and Royal Academy of Arts, with access to permanent collections and selected ticketed exhibitions.
- Exclusive dining offers: Art After Dark attendees can enjoy exclusive dining offers across the West End, including 20% off at Brumus, 30% off at Box Piccadilly, a complimentary glass of bubbles at J Sheekey, plus many more. See the full list of offers on the official Art After Dark website.
Planning your visit
Art After Dark is designed to be enjoyed at your own pace, whether you’re dipping into a single event or making a full evening of it in the West End.
Free vs ticketed events
Many public artworks and installations are free to enjoy, while some late-night events at major galleries are ticketed and may require advance booking.
Best times to visit
Events run from early evening into the night. Public artworks can be seen throughout the evening, while gallery lates and talks often have set time slots, so arriving early is recommended.
How to plan an evening route
Events are spread across the West End, making it easy to combine multiple stops. Start around Piccadilly Circus, then walk between nearby galleries and cultural venues hosting late openings.
Pairing art with food or music
Many venues across the West End are offering exclusive dining deals alongside live music, DJ sets and performances. Plan your evening around a gallery visit, followed by dinner, drinks, or a music event.