London events calendar

Events in August 2018

Changing the Guard

Enjoy a striking display of British pomp and pageantry, as you watch the free Changing the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace, when the New Guard takes over from the Old Guard. Recurring Event

Centenary of the women's vote in London

Join in a series of special events honouring the 100th anniversary of the women's right to vote. 2 Jan-31 Dec

Centenary of the Royal Air Force - RAF100

Reflect on 100 years of the Royal Air Force with a series of concerts, exhibitions and galas. 31 Mar-30 Nov

Underbelly Festival in South Bank

Be treated to circus, cabaret and family-friendly shows on the South Bank, as well as one of London's biggest outdoor bars. 6 Apr-30 Sep

BBC Proms

Experience the biggest classical music festival on earth, with fun and affordable concerts open to all audiences at the Royal Albert Hall and across London. 13 Jul-8 Sep

School summer holidays in London

London is bursting with activities and attractions to keep children busy during the school summer holidays. 21 Jul-2 Sep

Buckingham Palace tour: summer opening

Explore the lavish interiors of the Queen's official London residence, and one of the world's few remaining working royal palaces, at Buckingham Palace this summer. 21 Jul-30 Sep

Kids Week

Enjoy a trip to a West End theatre show with free tickets and discounts for children, as well as family-friendly activities. 1-31 Aug

Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House

Bring a picnic and settle down for a movie on London’s largest outdoor screen set against the spectacular Somerset House for two weeks this summer. 9-22 Aug

Ladbrokes Challenge Cup Final at Wembley Stadium

Watch two of Rugby League’s top teams go head to head in this historic competition. 25 Aug

Notting Hill Carnival

The streets of west London come alive every August bank holiday weekend with a huge Caribbean party at Europe's biggest street festival. 25-27 Aug

More August events in London

Events in September 2018

Changing the Guard

Enjoy a striking display of British pomp and pageantry, as you watch the free Changing the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace, when the New Guard takes over from the Old Guard. Recurring Event

Centenary of the women's vote in London

Join in a series of special events honouring the 100th anniversary of the women's right to vote. 2 Jan-31 Dec

Centenary of the Royal Air Force - RAF100

Reflect on 100 years of the Royal Air Force with a series of concerts, exhibitions and galas. 31 Mar-30 Nov

Underbelly Festival in South Bank

Be treated to circus, cabaret and family-friendly shows on the South Bank, as well as one of London's biggest outdoor bars. 6 Apr-30 Sep

BBC Proms

Experience the biggest classical music festival on earth, with fun and affordable concerts open to all audiences at the Royal Albert Hall and across London. 13 Jul-8 Sep

School summer holidays in London

London is bursting with activities and attractions to keep children busy during the school summer holidays. 21 Jul-2 Sep

Buckingham Palace tour: summer opening

Explore the lavish interiors of the Queen's official London residence, and one of the world's few remaining working royal palaces, at Buckingham Palace this summer. 21 Jul-30 Sep

Totally Thames

Celebrate the Thames and its culture with a vibrant programme of river-inspired art, live performances, archaeology walks, boat races and more along London's famous river. 1-30 Sep

London Design Biennale

See inspiring work from some of the world's most talented designers during a three-week celebration of creativity and craftmanship. 4-23 Sep

100 Days To Peace at Westminster Central Hall

Pay tribute to the last days of the First World War with spectacular performances at this charity concert. 6 Sep

BBC Proms in the Park

Celebrate the grand finale of the two-month-long BBC Proms classical music festival, with live music, fireworks and cheery sing-alongs in Hyde Park. 8 Sep

London Design Festival

Dynamic and innovative design projects from some of the best creative talents pop up in venues across the capital for the annual festival. 15-23 Sep

Pearly Kings and Queens Harvest Festival

Celebrate the harvest with London’s Pearly Kings and Queens, decked in their pearl-button finery, as they stage an afternoon of traditional entertainment. 16 Sep

Open House London

Peer inside some of the most iconic buildings and architecturally unique spaces in London for free. 22-23 Sep

More September events in London

Events in October 2018

Changing the Guard

Enjoy a striking display of British pomp and pageantry, as you watch the free Changing the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace, when the New Guard takes over from the Old Guard. Recurring Event

Centenary of the women's vote in London

Join in a series of special events honouring the 100th anniversary of the women's right to vote. 2 Jan-31 Dec

Centenary of the Royal Air Force - RAF100

Reflect on 100 years of the Royal Air Force with a series of concerts, exhibitions and galas. 31 Mar-30 Nov

London Restaurant Festival

Sample exclusive menus and enjoy unique restaurant experiences in award-winning eateries during this annual London foodie festival. Oct TBC

Frieze London and Frieze Masters in Regent's Park

Explore two of the most influential events in the art scene in one place with the world-renowned Frieze London and Frieze Masters art fairs. 4-7 Oct

NFL London Games 2018: Oakland Raiders v Seattle Seahawks at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

Prepare for thrilling on-field action as the NFL returns to London for the first of three matches in 2018. 14 Oct

October half-term in London

Take the kids to London's top family-friendly attractions this half-term, and enjoy special interactive activities during the October school break. 20-28 Oct

NFL London Games 2018: Tennessee Titans v Los Angeles Chargers at Wembley Stadium

See the Titans take on the Chargers in one of three NFL London Games contests in 2018. 21 Oct

Six Day London at Lee Valley VeloPark

Enjoy six days of world-class cycling, music and entertainment at Lee Valley VeloPark. 23-28 Oct

Museums at Night - October

Explore museums, galleries and heritage sites after hours and enjoy spooky events, themed talks and immersive workshops late into the evening. 25-27 Oct

Halloween in London

Step inside terrifying dungeons, discover London's gory history, go ghost hunting and take part in chilling activities with Halloween events and scary attractions in London. 26-31 Oct

NFL London Games 2018: Philadelphia Eagles v Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley Stadium

See the Jaguars take on the new Super Bowl champions in this exciting NFL encounter. 28 Oct

More October events in London

Events in November 2018

Changing the Guard

Enjoy a striking display of British pomp and pageantry, as you watch the free Changing the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace, when the New Guard takes over from the Old Guard. Recurring Event

Centenary of the women's vote in London

Join in a series of special events honouring the 100th anniversary of the women's right to vote. 2 Jan-31 Dec

Centenary of the Royal Air Force - RAF100

Reflect on 100 years of the Royal Air Force with a series of concerts, exhibitions and galas. 31 Mar-30 Nov

Regent Street Motor Show

See vehicles new and old in the iconic central London shopping street, and enjoy car-themed activities and motorcycle stunt shows. 3 Nov

Bonfire Night in London: London's top fireworks displays

Remember, remember the fifth of November... Celebrate Bonfire Night (Guy Fawkes Night) at a spectacular London fireworks display. 3-5 Nov

Christmas in Leicester Square

Explore a magical Christmas haven in Leicester Square, and watch fabulous festive shows inside the Belgian spiegeltent. Nov-Jan TBC

Lord Mayor's Show

Watch the elaborate parade, featuring dancers, horses, military marching bands and more, as the City of London celebrates its newly elected mayor with the 800-year-old tradition. 10 Nov

Remembrance in London

Each year, London remembers those who lost their lives in war, with Silence in the Square, Remembrance Sunday and more commemorative events. 11 Nov

Nitto ATP Finals 2018 at The O2

Celebrate the climax of the men's professional tennis season, as the Nitto ATP Finals return to The O2 with the world's best singles players and doubles teams. 11-18 Nov

EFG London Jazz Festival

Enjoy spectacular live performances and events celebrating all things jazz across the capital. 16-25 Nov

Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park

Get together with family and friends for a festive adventure in Hyde Park, with ice skating, fairground rides, big top shows, Christmas markets and seasonal food under sparkling Christmas lights. Nov-Jan TBC

Hogwarts in the Snow at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter

See iconic Harry Potter film sets transformed for the winter season in a self-guided walking tour of the Warner Bros. Studio in London. 17 Nov-27 Jan

Thanksgiving in London

Celebrate the US holiday of Thanksgiving in London with traditional American food and special events. 22 Nov

Christmas at Kew

Go on a twinkling after-dark adventure around Kew Gardens, lit up with more than 1 million sparkling Christmas lights. 22 Nov-5 Jan

St Andrew's Day

Get ready for bagpipes, haggis and Scottish whisky as London celebrates Scotland's national day. 30 Nov

More November events in London

Events in December 2018

Changing the Guard

Enjoy a striking display of British pomp and pageantry, as you watch the free Changing the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace, when the New Guard takes over from the Old Guard. Recurring Event

Centenary of the women's vote in London

Join in a series of special events honouring the 100th anniversary of the women's right to vote. 2 Jan-31 Dec

Christmas in Leicester Square

Explore a magical Christmas haven in Leicester Square, and watch fabulous festive shows inside the Belgian spiegeltent. Nov-Jan TBC

Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park

Hogwarts in the Snow at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter

See iconic Harry Potter film sets transformed for the winter season in a self-guided walking tour of the Warner Bros. Studio in London. 17 Nov-27 Jan

Christmas at Kew

Go on a twinkling after-dark adventure around Kew Gardens, lit up with more than 1 million sparkling Christmas lights. 22 Nov-5 Jan

Greenwich Winter Time Festival at the Old Royal Naval College

Experience a contemporary twist on the traditional Christmas festival in the grounds of the historic Greenwich college. Dec TBC

Christmas Festival at Royal Albert Hall

The iconic Royal Albert Hall resounds with seasonal cheer, as music, carols, dance and songs fill the grand hall in the countdown to Christmas. 1-31 Dec

Christmas in London

From Trafalgar Square's giant Christmas tree and Christmas lights across the city, to pantomimes, ice skating rinks and Christmas markets, experience the magic of Christmas in London. 1-31 Dec

Menorah on Trafalgar Square

Celebrate Chanukah, the Jewish festival of lights in Trafalgar Square. Dec TBC

Christmas Tree at Trafalgar Square

See the famous Norwegian Christmas tree sparkle with hundreds of lights in Trafalgar Square, and sing along to carols around the tree during the countdown to Christmas. Dec-Jan TBC

Wintertime at Southbank Centre

Celebrate the winter season at Southbank Centre with festive shows, a Christmas market, seasonal food and drink, and family activities under the glittering lights. 8 Dec-6 Jan

Christmas Carols in Trafalgar Square

From Deck the Halls to Ding Dong Merrily on High, come and watch carol singers perform festive favourites around the famous Norwegian Christmas tree. Dec TBC

TISSOT UCI Track Cycling World Cup at Lee Valley VeloPark

Cheer on the world’s best track cyclists as this prestigious event returns to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. 14-16 Dec

The Peter Pan Cup

Watch brave outdoor swimmers compete in the icy waters of the Serpentine Lake in Hyde Park at the annual Christmas Day race. 25 Dec

Christmas Day in London

Experience a different side of the capital as London falls quiet on Christmas Day, and find out about public transport, attractions, tours and church services. 25 Dec

London New Year's Eve Fireworks

See in 2019 with London's spectacular New Year's Eve fireworks display at the Coca-Cola London Eye, an event famous around the world. 31 Dec

New Year's Eve in London

Welcome in the new year in London with New Year's Eve fireworks, late-night parties, lavish dinners and other celebrations. 31 Dec

More December events in London

Events in January 2019

Changing the Guard

Enjoy a striking display of British pomp and pageantry, as you watch the free Changing the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace, when the New Guard takes over from the Old Guard. Recurring Event

Christmas in Leicester Square

Explore a magical Christmas haven in Leicester Square, and watch fabulous festive shows inside the Belgian spiegeltent. Nov-Jan TBC

Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park

Hogwarts in the Snow at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter

See iconic Harry Potter film sets transformed for the winter season in a self-guided walking tour of the Warner Bros. Studio in London. 17 Nov-27 Jan

Christmas at Kew

Go on a twinkling after-dark adventure around Kew Gardens, lit up with more than 1 million sparkling Christmas lights. 22 Nov-5 Jan

Christmas Tree at Trafalgar Square

See the famous Norwegian Christmas tree sparkle with hundreds of lights in Trafalgar Square, and sing along to carols around the tree during the countdown to Christmas. Dec-Jan TBC

Wintertime at Southbank Centre

Celebrate the winter season at Southbank Centre with festive shows, a Christmas market, seasonal food and drink, and family activities under the glittering lights. 8 Dec-6 Jan

New Year's Day Parade

Celebrate 2019 with this annual parade through central London, featuring thousands of performers and colourful floats from across the world. Watch for free along the parade route, or book grandstand tickets. 1 Jan

New Year's Day in London

From the New Year’s Day parade, special tours and festive activities, to January sales, iconic attractions and walks in the park, there are plenty of reasons to get out in London this New Year’s Day. 1 Jan

Waltham Forest: The Mayor’s London Borough of Culture 2019

The Mayor’s London Borough of Culture celebrates Waltham Forest’s cultural heritage, diversity, talent and places, during a 12-month programme of events. 1 Jan-30 Dec

London Short Film Festival

Watch short film screenings from emerging filmmakers and attend industry events in independent cinemas and venues across London. 11-20 Jan

The London Art Fair at Business Design Centre

Wander through more than 100 galleries presenting the great names of 20th-century modern British art and exceptional contemporary work. 16-20 Jan

NBA London Game 2019 at The O2

Don’t miss the New York Knicks and Washington Wizards in action, as the NBA returns to London. 17 Jan

Burns Night in London

Celebrate Scottish poet Robert Burns' birthday with poetry readings, slap-up dinners, traditional dancing and a toast with the best Scottish whisky in London. 25 Jan

More January events in London

Events in February 2019

Changing the Guard

Enjoy a striking display of British pomp and pageantry, as you watch the free Changing the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace, when the New Guard takes over from the Old Guard. Recurring Event

Waltham Forest: The Mayor’s London Borough of Culture 2019

The Mayor’s London Borough of Culture celebrates Waltham Forest’s cultural heritage, diversity, talent and places, during a 12-month programme of events. 1 Jan-30 Dec

Cancer Research UK London Winter Run

Get active with London's only winter-themed run along a route passing London icons. 3 Feb

Valentine's Day in London

Find things to do on the most loved-up day of the year, from stunning panoramic views to Valentine's restaurants, romantic daytime activities to charming after-dark events. 14 Feb

The London Classic Car Show at ExCeL London

Examine some of the best classic cars that have ever been created, see racing greats and meet car manufacturers at this celebration of motoring. 14-17 Feb

February half-term in London

Take the kids to the capital's top family-friendly attractions this half-term, and spark their curiosity with special interactive activities during the school holiday. 16-23 Feb

London Fashion Week Festival at The Store Studios, 180 The Strand

Get an insight into the fabulous world of fashion, with designer catwalks, expert talks and pop-up shops at this industry event open to the public. Feb TBC

More February events in London

Events in March 2019

Changing the Guard

Enjoy a striking display of British pomp and pageantry, as you watch the free Changing the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace, when the New Guard takes over from the Old Guard. Recurring Event

Waltham Forest: The Mayor’s London Borough of Culture 2019

The Mayor’s London Borough of Culture celebrates Waltham Forest’s cultural heritage, diversity, talent and places, during a 12-month programme of events. 1 Jan-30 Dec

Pancake Day in London

Feast on a mountain of pancakes on Shrove Tuesday and watch runners flip their pans in one of London's charity pancake races. 5 Mar

St Patrick's Day

See the spectacular parade, catch free performances in Trafalgar Square, and enjoy Irish food and Guinness, as you celebrate St Paddy's Day in London. Mar TBC

Head of the River Race

Cheer on rowers from around the globe as they race along the Thames in one of London's longest-running sporting traditions. 16-30 Mar

Mother's Day

Say thank you to mum with a wonderful day out in London on Mother’s Day, from restaurants with a view to West End shows, and beautiful gardens to helicopter rides. 31 Mar

More March events in London

Events in April 2019

Changing the Guard

Enjoy a striking display of British pomp and pageantry, as you watch the free Changing the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace, when the New Guard takes over from the Old Guard. Recurring Event

Waltham Forest: The Mayor’s London Borough of Culture 2019

The Mayor’s London Borough of Culture celebrates Waltham Forest’s cultural heritage, diversity, talent and places, during a 12-month programme of events. 1 Jan-30 Dec

The Cancer Research UK Boat Races

Pick a side and cheer on the rowers at the annual Oxford and Cambridge Boat Races, one of the world's oldest sporting events, and one of London's most popular. 7 Apr

Easter Weekend

From London Easter egg hunts and interactive family attractions, to a spectacular Good Friday performance and traditional Easter Sunday lunch, find Easter activities and opening times in London. 19-22 Apr

Virgin Money London Marathon

Be part of the Virgin Money London Marathon: whether you run, walk or cheer from the sidelines, this is a London sporting institution. 28 Apr

More April events in London

Events in May 2019

Changing the Guard

Enjoy a striking display of British pomp and pageantry, as you watch the free Changing the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace, when the New Guard takes over from the Old Guard. Recurring Event

Waltham Forest: The Mayor’s London Borough of Culture 2019

The Mayor’s London Borough of Culture celebrates Waltham Forest’s cultural heritage, diversity, talent and places, during a 12-month programme of events. 1 Jan-30 Dec

Women's FA Cup Final at Wembley Stadium

See two of the biggest names in women's football battle it out to be crowned FA Cup winners. May TBC

Museums at Night - May

Take part in special events, tours, talks and activities at night, as museums, galleries and historic spaces open the doors after hours. 15-18 May

FA Cup Final

Watch the climax of English football's biggest competition at London's Wembley Stadium, or live on TV from a London pub or bar. May TBC

RHS Chelsea Flower Show

Be dazzled by colourful flowers, innovative garden designs and amazing horticultural exhibits at this prestigious flower show. And find out how else to soak up the atmosphere around Chelsea. 21-25 May

May half-term in London

Treat the family to a half-term filled with exciting activities, interactive attractions, outdoor playgrounds and children's shows over the May school holiday in London. 25 May-2 Jun

State Opening of Parliament

See the Queen travel in the traditional carriage procession through Westminster to open the new parliamentary session. May TBC

ICC Cricket World Cup 2019

Watch the world’s best teams battle it out for the biggest prize in cricket. 30 May-14 Jul

More May events in London

Events in June 2019

Changing the Guard

Enjoy a striking display of British pomp and pageantry, as you watch the free Changing the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace, when the New Guard takes over from the Old Guard. Recurring Event

Waltham Forest: The Mayor’s London Borough of Culture 2019

The Mayor’s London Borough of Culture celebrates Waltham Forest’s cultural heritage, diversity, talent and places, during a 12-month programme of events. 1 Jan-30 Dec

May half-term in London

Treat the family to a half-term filled with exciting activities, interactive attractions, outdoor playgrounds and children's shows over the May school holiday in London. 25 May-2 Jun

ICC Cricket World Cup 2019

Watch the world’s best teams battle it out for the biggest prize in cricket. 30 May-14 Jul

Open Garden Squares Weekend

Explore rooftop gardens, city centre plantations, and the gardens of the rich and famous, as green spaces across London are unlocked for one weekend only. 8-9 Jun

Pride in London

Celebrate the diversity of the LGBT+ community with the colourful Pride in London Parade through central London, free festivities in Trafalgar Square and city-wide events. Jun-Jul TBC

Taste of London in Regent's Park

Join London's top restaurants and celebrity chefs for the ultimate alfresco feast in Regent's Park. Jun TBC

Trooping the Colour

Watch troops from the Household Division honour the Queen's official birthday with a fantastic military parade that has taken place in London for two centuries. Jun TBC

West End LIVE at Trafalgar Square

Be dazzled by free performances from top West End musicals and shows in Trafalgar Square. Jun TBC

Father's Day in London

Spoil your dad this June with our top Father’s Day ideas and activities in London, from culture and sports, to food and theatre. 16 Jun

Royal Ascot

Surround yourself with fast horses and fancy hats at the world-famous Royal Ascot race meeting. 18-22 Jun

More June events in London

Events in July 2019

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