London Festivals & Events Calendar: What's On Month by Month

London Festivals & Events Calendar 2026: What's On Month by Month

Welcome to the ultimate family guide to London's vibrant event scene in 2026! From dazzling New Year's celebrations to festive Christmas markets, London offers a year-round kaleidoscope of festivals, cultural events, and unique experiences. This month-by-month calendar is designed to help you plan your family trip and discover the best of London's offerings, ensuring an unforgettable adventure for everyone. We'll cover major events, insider tips, and even how events impact hotel prices, helping you maximize your budget.

January

New Year's Day Parade

Date: January 1st, 2026 What Happens: A spectacular parade featuring over 8,000 performers from across the globe, including marching bands, acrobats, dancers, and elaborate floats. It's a colorful and energetic way to kick off the new year. Where to Go: The parade route usually starts near Green Park, proceeds along Piccadilly, through Trafalgar Square, and finishes near Westminster. Prime viewing spots fill up quickly, so arrive early! Ticket Costs: Free to watch from the streets. Grandstand seating tickets are available for purchase in advance, typically ranging from £40-£70 per person. How to Participate: Simply find a good viewing spot along the route. Consider bringing portable chairs or blankets for comfort, especially if traveling with young children. Insider Tip: Check the official London New Year's Day Parade website for the exact route and start time. Pack snacks and drinks, as food vendors can be crowded and expensive. Hotel Price Impact: Moderate. Hotel prices are slightly elevated around New Year's Eve and New Year's Day.

London Art Fair

Date: Late January (usually the last week) What Happens: A showcase of modern and contemporary art from over 100 galleries. It's a great opportunity to see works by established and emerging artists. Where to Go: Business Design Centre, Islington. Ticket Costs: Day tickets range from £23-£30; multi-day passes are available. Family packages often offer discounts. How to Participate: Purchase tickets online in advance. The fair features talks, tours, and workshops suitable for different age groups. Insider Tip: Check the fair's schedule for family-friendly events and workshops. Islington has many family-friendly restaurants. Hotel Price Impact: Low. January is generally a quieter month for tourism, so hotel prices are more reasonable.

February

Chinese New Year

Date: Varies each year based on the lunar calendar (usually early to mid-February) What Happens: London's Chinatown comes alive with vibrant celebrations, including dragon dances, lion dances, street food stalls, and cultural performances. It's the largest Chinese New Year celebration outside of Asia. Where to Go: Chinatown (especially Gerrard Street), Trafalgar Square, and Shaftesbury Avenue. Ticket Costs: Free to attend the street festivities. Some performances may have ticketed entries. How to Participate: Simply join the crowds and enjoy the atmosphere. Be prepared for large crowds, especially in Chinatown. Insider Tip: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the parade and performances. Sample traditional Chinese New Year treats from the street vendors. Hotel Price Impact: Moderate. Hotel prices may increase slightly due to the popularity of the event.

Imagine Children's Festival

Date: Mid-February (usually during half-term school holiday) What Happens: A fantastic festival dedicated to children and families, featuring theater performances, music concerts, storytelling sessions, workshops, and creative activities. Where to Go: Southbank Centre. Ticket Costs: Varies depending on the event, ranging from free to £25 per person. Book tickets in advance, as popular events sell out quickly. How to Participate: Browse the festival program online and book tickets for the events that interest your family. Arrive early to allow time for registration and finding your seats. Insider Tip: Take advantage of the free activities and workshops offered throughout the festival. The Southbank Centre has plenty of food options and family-friendly facilities. Hotel Price Impact: High. Half-term school holidays tend to drive up hotel prices.

March

St. Patrick's Day Parade & Festival

Date: Around March 17th What Happens: A lively parade celebrating Irish culture, featuring marching bands, dancers, floats, and traditional Irish music. A festival with food stalls and entertainment follows the parade. Where to Go: The parade route typically starts near Hyde Park Corner, proceeds along Piccadilly, and ends in Trafalgar Square. The festival takes place in Trafalgar Square. Ticket Costs: Free to watch the parade and attend the festival. How to Participate: Find a viewing spot along the parade route or join the festivities in Trafalgar Square. Wear green to show your support! Insider Tip: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the parade. Enjoy traditional Irish food and drinks at the festival. Hotel Price Impact: Moderate. Hotel prices may increase slightly around St. Patrick's Day.

Head of the River Race

Date: Late March What Happens: A major rowing race on the River Thames, featuring hundreds of crews from around the world. It's a thrilling spectacle to watch. Where to Go: The race takes place on the River Thames between Mortlake and Putney. Ticket Costs: Free to watch from the riverbanks. How to Participate: Find a viewing spot along the riverbank and cheer on the crews. Pack a picnic and enjoy the atmosphere. Insider Tip: Check the race schedule online for the start times and best viewing locations. The towpath along the river provides excellent views. Hotel Price Impact: Low. This event doesn't typically have a significant impact on hotel prices.

April

London Marathon

Date: Late April What Happens: One of the world's most famous marathons, attracting thousands of runners and spectators. The atmosphere is electric. Where to Go: The marathon route covers a large part of London, starting in Greenwich and finishing near Buckingham Palace. Popular viewing spots include Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf, and The Mall. Ticket Costs: Free to watch from the streets. Grandstand seating tickets are available for purchase in advance. How to Participate: Find a viewing spot along the route and cheer on the runners. Be prepared for large crowds and road closures. Insider Tip: Check the marathon route online and plan your viewing location in advance. Bring signs and banners to support the runners. Hotel Price Impact: High. The London Marathon is a major event that significantly increases hotel prices.

Shakespeare's Birthday Celebrations

Date: April 23rd What Happens: Celebrations marking the birthday of William Shakespeare, including performances, workshops, and talks. Where to Go: Shakespeare's Globe and other theaters and cultural venues across London. Ticket Costs: Varies depending on the event. Some events are free, while others require tickets. How to Participate: Check the schedule of events online and book tickets in advance. Attend a performance or workshop to celebrate Shakespeare's legacy. Insider Tip: The Shakespeare's Globe offers family-friendly tours and workshops. Explore the surrounding Bankside area, which has a rich history. Hotel Price Impact: Low. This event typically doesn't have a major impact on hotel prices.

May

Chelsea Flower Show

Date: Late May What Happens: A prestigious flower show showcasing stunning garden designs, floral displays, and horticultural innovations. It's a feast for the senses. Where to Go: Royal Hospital Chelsea. Ticket Costs: Tickets are expensive and sell out quickly. Prices range from £40 to £80 per person. RHS members get priority booking. How to Participate: Purchase tickets online well in advance. Explore the show gardens and floral displays, and attend talks and demonstrations. Insider Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Consider visiting in the late afternoon to avoid the largest crowds. Hotel Price Impact: High. The Chelsea Flower Show is a popular event that increases hotel prices in the surrounding area.

Underbelly Festival

Date: May to September What Happens: A pop-up festival featuring a mix of circus, cabaret, comedy, and family shows. It's a fun and vibrant atmosphere. Where to Go: Southbank Centre. Ticket Costs: Varies depending on the show, ranging from £15 to £35 per person. Family packages are often available. How to Participate: Browse the festival program online and book tickets for the shows that interest your family. Enjoy the street food and entertainment in the festival village. Insider Tip: Check the festival website for family-friendly shows and discounts. The Southbank Centre has plenty of food options and family-friendly facilities. Hotel Price Impact: Moderate. Hotel prices may increase slightly during peak weekends.

June

Trooping the Colour

Date: Usually the second Saturday in June What Happens: A spectacular military parade celebrating the Queen's official birthday. It's a display of precision marching, horsemanship, and pageantry. Where to Go: Horse Guards Parade and The Mall. Ticket Costs: Tickets for the seated stands are allocated by ballot. It's free to watch from The Mall, but arrive very early to secure a good viewing spot. How to Participate: Enter the ballot for tickets or find a viewing spot along The Mall. Be prepared for large crowds and security checks. Insider Tip: Arrive very early to secure a good viewing spot along The Mall. Bring a portable chair or blanket for comfort. Hotel Price Impact: High. Trooping the Colour is a major event that significantly increases hotel prices.

Pride in London

Date: Late June/Early July What Happens: A vibrant celebration of LGBTQ+ culture, featuring a parade, street performances, and community events. Where to Go: The parade route typically starts near Hyde Park Corner, proceeds along Piccadilly, and ends in Whitehall. The festival takes place in various locations across London. Ticket Costs: Free to attend the parade and most of the festival events. How to Participate: Join the parade or attend one of the many festival events. Show your support for the LGBTQ+ community. Insider Tip: Check the Pride in London website for the parade route and schedule of events. Be prepared for large crowds and a festive atmosphere. Hotel Price Impact: Moderate to High. Pride in London is a popular event that can increase hotel prices.

July

Wimbledon

Date: Late June/Early July What Happens: One of the world's most prestigious tennis tournaments, attracting top players and fans from around the globe. Where to Go: All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, Wimbledon. Ticket Costs: Tickets are highly sought after and can be expensive. Prices range from £40 to £250 per person. The Wimbledon Queue is a famous tradition for obtaining tickets on the day. How to Participate: Enter the ballot for tickets or join the Wimbledon Queue. Enjoy the matches, soak up the atmosphere, and indulge in strawberries and cream. Insider Tip: If you don't have tickets, watch the matches on the big screen at the nearby Wimbledon Park. The atmosphere is still great, and it's free. Hotel Price Impact: High. Wimbledon significantly increases hotel prices in the Wimbledon area and across London.

BBC Proms

Date: Mid-July to Mid-September What Happens: A series of classical music concerts held at the Royal Albert Hall and other venues across London. It's a celebration of classical music for all ages. Where to Go: Royal Albert Hall and various other venues. Ticket Costs: Prices vary depending on the concert, ranging from £10 to £80 per person. Promming tickets (standing tickets) are available for many concerts at a lower price. How to Participate: Purchase tickets online or at the box office. Attend a concert and enjoy the music. Consider attending a family-friendly concert. Insider Tip: Check the BBC Proms website for the schedule of concerts and family-friendly events. The Royal Albert Hall offers tours and workshops. Hotel Price Impact: Moderate. The BBC Proms can increase hotel prices, especially during peak weekends.

August

Notting Hill Carnival

Date: August Bank Holiday Weekend (late August) What Happens: A vibrant street carnival celebrating Caribbean culture, featuring colorful costumes, music, and food. Where to Go: Notting Hill. Ticket Costs: Free to attend. How to Participate: Join the crowds and enjoy the atmosphere. Be prepared for large crowds and loud music. Insider Tip: Arrive early to avoid the largest crowds. Take public transport, as roads will be closed. Sample Caribbean food from the street vendors. Hotel Price Impact: High. Notting Hill Carnival significantly increases hotel prices in the Notting Hill area and across London.

Summer Opening of Buckingham Palace

Date: July to September What Happens: Buckingham Palace opens its doors to the public for a limited time each summer, allowing visitors to tour the State Rooms and see the Royal Collection. Where to Go: Buckingham Palace. Ticket Costs: Tickets range from £30 to £70 per person. Book tickets online in advance. How to Participate: Purchase tickets online and take a tour of the palace. Learn about the history and significance of Buckingham Palace. Insider Tip: Book your tickets well in advance, as they sell out quickly. Allow plenty of time for your visit, as there is a lot to see. Consider the Royal Mews tour too. Hotel Price Impact: Moderate. The Summer Opening of Buckingham Palace can increase hotel prices, especially during peak season.

September

Totally Thames

Date: Throughout September What Happens: A month-long celebration of the River Thames, featuring a variety of events, including boat races, art installations, guided walks, and talks. Where to Go: Various locations along the River Thames. Ticket Costs: Varies depending on the event. Some events are free, while others require tickets. How to Participate: Check the Totally Thames website for the schedule of events and book tickets in advance. Explore the river and learn about its history and significance. Insider Tip: Take a boat trip on the Thames to see the city from a different perspective. Visit some of the historic riverside landmarks. Hotel Price Impact: Low. Totally Thames typically doesn't have a major impact on hotel prices.

Open House London

Date: Mid-September What Happens: A weekend-long event that allows the public to access hundreds of buildings across London that are usually closed to the public. Where to Go: Various locations across London. Ticket Costs: Free to participate, but some buildings require pre-booking. How to Participate: Check the Open House London website for the list of participating buildings and book tickets in advance if required. Explore the city and discover its architectural gems. Insider Tip: Plan your itinerary in advance, as there are many buildings to see. Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Hotel Price Impact: Low. Open House London typically doesn't have a major impact on hotel prices.

October

Frieze London & Frieze Masters

Date: Mid-October What Happens: Two major art fairs showcasing contemporary and historical art from around the world. Where to Go: Regent's Park. Ticket Costs: Tickets are expensive, ranging from £30 to £50 per person. Book tickets online in advance. How to Participate: Purchase tickets online and explore the art fairs. See works by leading artists and discover new talent. Insider Tip: Check the fair websites for talks, tours, and workshops. Regent's Park is a beautiful place to relax after visiting the fairs. Hotel Price Impact: Moderate. Frieze London & Frieze Masters can increase hotel prices, especially during the fair weekend.

BFI London Film Festival

Date: Mid-October What Happens: A major film festival showcasing new films from around the world. Where to Go: Various cinemas across London. Ticket Costs: Tickets vary depending on the film, ranging from £10 to £20 per person. Book tickets online in advance. How to Participate: Check the BFI London Film Festival website for the schedule of films and book tickets in advance. Attend screenings, Q&As, and other events. Insider Tip: Check the festival website for family-friendly films and events. The Southbank Centre is a hub for the festival. Hotel Price Impact: Low to Moderate. The BFI London Film Festival can increase hotel prices, especially during peak weekends.

November

Bonfire Night

Date: November 5th What Happens: Celebrations marking the anniversary of the Gunpowder Plot, featuring bonfires, fireworks displays, and traditional treats. Where to Go: Various parks and public spaces across London. Ticket Costs: Varies depending on the event. Some events are free, while others require tickets. How to Participate: Attend a bonfire and fireworks display. Enjoy the atmosphere and traditional treats like bonfire toffee. Insider Tip: Check local listings for the best bonfire and fireworks displays in your area. Dress warmly, as it can be cold in November. Hotel Price Impact: Low. Bonfire Night typically doesn't have a major impact on hotel prices.

Winter Wonderland

Date: Late November to early January What Happens: A large Christmas-themed amusement park featuring rides, ice skating, Christmas markets, and shows. Where to Go: Hyde Park. Ticket Costs: Entry to Winter Wonderland is free, but rides, ice skating, and shows require tickets. Prices vary depending on the activity. How to Participate: Visit Winter Wonderland and enjoy the attractions. Book tickets for rides, ice skating, and shows in advance. Insider Tip: Visit Winter Wonderland during the day to avoid the largest crowds. Dress warmly, as it can be cold. Consider purchasing a package deal for multiple attractions. Hotel Price Impact: High. Winter Wonderland significantly increases hotel prices in the Hyde Park area and across London.

December

Christmas Markets

Date: Throughout December What Happens: Festive markets selling Christmas gifts, decorations, food, and drinks. Where to Go: Various locations across London, including Southbank Centre, Leicester Square, and Covent Garden. Ticket Costs: Free to enter the markets. Prices vary for goods and food. How to Participate: Visit the Christmas markets and browse the stalls. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and sample the seasonal treats. Insider Tip: Visit the markets during the week to avoid the largest crowds. Dress warmly, as it can be cold. Enjoy mulled wine or hot chocolate to warm up. Hotel Price Impact: High. Christmas markets significantly increase hotel prices in central London.

New Year's Eve Fireworks

Date: December 31st What Happens: A spectacular fireworks display over the River Thames, celebrating the arrival of the new year. Where to Go: The fireworks are launched from the London Eye and surrounding area. Viewing areas are ticketed. Ticket Costs: Tickets are required to enter the official viewing areas. Prices range from £15 to £25 per person. Tickets sell out quickly. How to Participate: Purchase tickets online well in advance. Find a viewing spot and enjoy the fireworks. Insider Tip: Book your tickets well in advance, as they sell out quickly. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. Take public transport, as roads will be closed. Hotel Price Impact: Very High. New Year's Eve is one of the most expensive times to visit London, and hotel prices are significantly higher than usual.

FAQs About London Events