10 Things to do in London October 2024

Published: 29 Sep 2024
It's October and the evenings are getting darker. There are various types of events this month, and there is something for everyone.
Decorex is held at Olympia Events
A view of Decorex exhibition hall

Decorex

Decorex is a premier event for interior design professionals, and it is also open to the public, featuring over 280 international exhibitors, design talks with 85+ speakers, and hands-on workshops. Celebrating its 46th edition, the show is the perfect opportunity to explore the latest trends, innovations, and eco-friendly solutions in interior design for five days.

Olympia London | 6 – 10 October

London Cocktail Week

London Cocktail Week is the world’s greatest celebration of cocktail culture, occurring each October. This 11-day city-wide festival is dedicated to exploring the art of mixology through specially created Signature Cocktails crafted in London’s finest bars. Over 200 of the best bars in London will participate in the event and offer £8 Signature Cocktails that are available as long you’ve bought the London Cocktail Week wristband.

Around London | 3 – 13 October 6 October

Japan Matsuri Festival

Trafalgar Square will host the Japan Matsuri festival, which celebrates Japanese culture with authentic street food, traditional and contemporary performances, and a costume catwalk. Enjoy Nihon Buyo dance, taiko drumming, Japanese Tango, music, kendo demonstrations, and contemporary Japanese artwork.

Trafalgar Square | 6 October

NFL London Games

The NFL London Games are bringing three matches of what Americans call football to London. Tottenham Hotspur Stadium will kick things off with the Minnesota Vikings taking on the New York Jets on October 6. The Jacksonville Jaguars will then face the Chicago Bears on October 13. The action then shifts to Wembley Stadium, where the Jacksonville Jaguars will meet the New York Patriots on October 20.

Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and Wembley Stadium | 6, 13 and 20 October

London Film Festival

The 68th BFI London Film Festival showcases new films, series, and immersive storytelling across London. Visitors can attend red carpet premieres, themed film strands, and Screen Talks with cinema leaders. You can also enjoy global series premieres and free events and dive into immersive storytelling and games with LFF Expanded.

Around London and the UK | 9 – 20 October

The Other Art Fair

The Other Art Fair is an art exhibition that enabled more people to enjoy and own affordable original artwork. This year, the fair is celebrating 100 global editions. You can experience a unique blend of affordable original artwork from over 200 independent artists alongside immersive installations, performances, DJs, and a fully stocked bar.

The Truman Brewery | Brick Lane | 10 – 13 October

Now You See Us: Women Artists in Britain 1520–1920

The exhibition Now You See Us: Women Artists in Britain 1520–1920 focuses on the contributions of over 100 women who pursued art as a professional career over a span of 400 years. It sheds light on their struggles to gain recognition in a male-dominated art world and examines the societal biases they faced.

Tate Britain | Until 13 October

Octoberfest

Oktoberfest comes to London each October for two weekends, capturing the spirit of Germany’s most famous festival. The first weekend happens in St. Paul’s Green, while the second is at Walpole Park. The events feature authentic Bavarian music, traditional foods like bratwurst and pretzels, and, of course, plenty of beer.

St Paul’s Green | 17 – 19 and Walpole Park 25 – 26 October

Halloween

London offers a variety of Halloween-related activities, including ghost tours at the Tower of London and Hampton Court Palace, themed parties, and unique museum events like those at the Natural History Museum and Science Museum. Visitors can also enjoy immersive experiences and themed club nights, such as the Sky Garden’s Halloween party with stunning views. You can also experience Halloween at Kew Gardens, wandering along eerie pathways and encountering surprises hidden in the darkness.

Around London | 31 October

Formula 1 Exhibition

You can experience the world of Formula at the Formula 1 Exhibition at the ExCel London. The Pit Wall delivers an exciting multimedia journey through Formula 1’s history, while the Design Lab reveals how teams create car components. Once Upon a Time in Formula 1® highlights iconic cars and key moments, celebrating the British Grand Prix. Drivers & Duels showcases legendary rivalries and champions, featuring helmets, memorabilia, and interactive exhibits.

ExCeL London | Until 31 December

Activities from Get Your Guide