Bartholomew Fair
Bartholomew Fair is a three-week event with performances and cultural events in the City of London. There are various exciting entertainment and live performances throughout the Square Mile. The origins of Bartholomew Fair date back to the 12th century and was previously held in 1855. The programme contains dance, theatre and other contemporary culture-related performances from UK and international artists.
The revival of Bartholomew Fair in the City of London offers a comprehensive experience featuring more than 250 free events, live performances, and unique spectacles. 31 August - 16 September
Totally Thames
Totally Thames is an annual celebration taking place over the course of September, dedicated to the River Thames. The festival brings together a lineup of riveting events along the 43-mile stretch of the river from Hampton Court Bridge to Dartford Crossing, offering a blend of arts, cultural, and river events presented by the Thames Festival Trust. Visitors can engage in various activities, from immersive art exhibitions to live performances, and participate in river races or contribute to environmental initiatives. This event is a unique platform that encourages collaboration among local communities, artists, environmentalists, and businesses, aiming to increase people’s appreciation for this iconic river. September – 1 October
Pub in the Park
Pub in the Park has become the UK’s largest food and music festival tour. Attendees can anticipate various culinary delights expertly crafted by esteemed chefs from award-winning restaurants, complemented by live performances from some of the nation’s finest musical talents, such as Ronan Keating, Hoosiers and McFly. The weekend is going to offer plenty of food and lots of fun! The event takes place on two weekends in September. The first event is held in Chiswick from 1-3 September, and the second in St. Albans from 8-10 September. 1 – 3 September
The Great River Race
The Great River Race in London is a renowned maritime spectacle, frequently dubbed London’s River Marathon. This captivating boat race along the River Thames draws nearly 300 teams worldwide. Covering a distance of about 21.6 miles, the race commences in Millwall and concludes in Richmond, journeying beneath some of London’s most famous bridges. Beyond being a competitive event, it’s also a celebration of London’s deep-rooted boating traditions. The variety of classic river vessels participating gives the race a touch of historical charm. River Thames | 16th September
Open House Festival
The London Open House Festival is a yearly event spanning two weeks, during which numerous buildings from various eras and styles welcome the public without any fees. It offers a rare chance for the inquisitive and architecture aficionados to delve into some of London’s most captivating old and modern structures, often not open to the general public. This event provides a window into the city’s architectural gems, historic sites, and pioneering residences, reflecting London’s rich history and evolving future. There are many interesting guided tours in buildings participating in the festival, from offices to government buildings. 6 – 17 September
Chelsea History Festival
The Chelsea History Festival is an annual event held in London that celebrates the history of Chelsea. It brings historians, authors, performers, and enthusiasts together for talks, tours, and performances at historic venues like the National Army Museum and Royal Hospital Chelsea. Launched in 2019, the festival is a collaborative effort by the National Army Museum, Royal Hospital Chelsea, and Chelsea Physic Garden. It aims to offer an engaging exploration of local, national, and global history while providing entertainment, education, and inspiration. The festival’s venues are situated along the historically significant Royal Hospital Road in the heart of Chelsea. Several tours are available during the event, including Family Wren Tour and Fashion and the King’s Road. 26 September– 1 October
Design Festival London
The Design Festival London is a prestigious yearly event celebrated in the UK capital, gathering designers, artists, architects, and creatives from around the globe. It is a platform for emerging artists and reputable designers to display their work and exchange ideas. The festival spans nine days and showcases the work of designers, architects, and artists and their creative prowess within various districts across London.
Design Festival London showcases various works spanning architecture, digital art, graphic design, furniture, and fashion. The festival is known for its exhibits, talks, and immersive workshops, offering a unique exploration of design and its impact on modern life. To name a few specific events, the landmark projects Aura, a sound and light installation by Pablo Valbuena in St. Paul’s Cathedral and Halo by Studio Waldemeyer, a light installation in St. Stephen Walbrook Church, sound like unforgettable experiences. 16 – 24 September
London Design Fair
The 2023 London Design Fair is a premier event spotlighting top-tier modern design from around the world. Nestled in the heart of London, this event spans four days and acts as a melting pot for design enthusiasts, architects, interior designers, and other industry insiders. Visitors can look forward to many engaging exhibitions, interactive installations, and talks led by design pioneers, all offering a glimpse into the design world’s forthcoming trends and directions. 21 - 24 September
Gabrielle Chanel. Fashion Manifesto
Victoria and Albert Museum will open the “Gabrielle Chanel. Fashion Manifesto” on 16 September. The inaugural UK showcase of the renowned French fashion designer Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel traces the foundation and growth of the House of CHANEL. The exhibition showcases over 180 designs from her first boutique in Paris in 1970 to her final collection in 1971 and highlights her timeless design approach that still shapes modern women’s fashion. There are also different talks and sessions for drawing a Chanel design. 16 September-
Frieze Sculpture 2023
Regent’s Park is a great place to enjoy a nice day as it is, but in September, it’s made even better due to the return of Frieze Sculpture, a renowned free public art exhibit. The event is back in The Regent’s Park from 20 September to 29 October 2023. Coinciding with Frieze London and Frieze Masters, which run from 11-15 October, the exhibition this year is curated by Fatoş Üstek. It features 22 international artists, including the likes of Ghada Amer, Yinka Shonibare, and Hank Willis Thomas, showcasing their works in The Regent’s Park’s English Gardens. Üstek expresses her enthusiasm for the diverse artistic practices on display, emphasising the juxtaposition of monumental and fleeting artworks. Eva Langret, Frieze London’s Director, commends Üstek’s curatorial approach, highlighting the exhibit’s embodiment of London’s artistic spirit. The 2023 edition of Frieze Sculpture spotlights a mix of emerging talents and established artists, with works exploring themes like transformation, empowerment, and contemporary rituals.
Batman Unmasked
A pop-up event for Batman Unmasked will be held on Piccadilly in September. In honour of the annual global Batman Day, the event celebrates multiple milestones: the 15th anniversary of “The Dark Knight,” Warner Bros’ 100th anniversary, and the upcoming 85th year of Batman in 2024. “Batman Unmasked” offers fans an immersive experience, guiding them through Batman’s iconic history, from 1989’s “Batman” to 2022’s “The Batman.” The exhibit will showcase rare props and costumes worn by actors like Michael Keaton, Christian Bale, and Robert Pattinson. Additionally, with The Joker returning to cinemas in 2024’s “Joker: Folie à Deux,” attendees can delve into The Joker zone, displaying exclusive items like Heath Ledger’s (for the first time in the UK) and Joaquin Phoenix’s costumes. Tickets, available on See Tickets, also offer a family day option on September 17th, featuring face painting and Batman-themed activities.
15 - 17 September
