The Ultimate Guide to Festivals in London: Music, Culture, and More
Last Updated on April 3, 2025 by Amitylux
London thrives on creativity, diversity, and celebration. Throughout the year, festivals in London bring people together from all walks of life. Music lovers can enjoy world-class performances, foodies can indulge in top culinary events, and culture enthusiasts can explore art, film, and heritage celebrations. There’s something for everyone.
From massive music festivals in Hyde Park and Victoria Park to vibrant street parades like Notting Hill Carnival, the city becomes a festival hub in every season. Beyond music, arts and cultural festivals highlight London’s rich diversity, while food and drink festivals showcase its dynamic culinary scene. Whether you’re planning a summer weekend of outdoor concerts or searching for festive winter markets, this guide covers the best festivals in London you won’t want to miss.
Top Music Festivals in London
If you’re a music lover, London offers an incredible selection of festivals covering every genre, from pop and electronic to jazz and classical.
All Points East
Photo: AEG Worldwide
All Points East is held in Victoria Park, this multi-day festival brings some of the biggest names in music alongside emerging artists. Expect an eclectic mix of rock, indie, and electronic acts.
British Summer Time (BST) Hyde Park
Photo: BST Hyde Park
One of London’s most iconic festivals, BST Hyde Park hosts legendary headliners across various music genres in the stunning setting of Hyde Park.
Wireless Festival
Photo: Ticketmaster
The go-to festival for hip-hop, R&B, and grime fans, Wireless takes over Finsbury Park with performances from some of the biggest global artists.
Lovebox Festival
Photo: NME
Lovebox is a vibrant festival that blends electronic, hip-hop, and indie music with a lively party atmosphere.
Field Day
Photo: Eric Aydin-Barberini
A one-day festival focusing on underground electronic music, Field Day attracts some of the biggest DJs and producers to its unique urban setting.
Cultural and Arts Festivals
Beyond music, London is a hub for cultural and arts festivals that celebrate creativity and diversity.
Notting Hill Carnival
Photo: Bernd Dittrich
Notting Hill Carnival is Europe’s biggest street festival, this vibrant Caribbean celebration takes over West London every August Bank Holiday with parades, live music, and delicious food.
Greenwich + Docklands International Festival
Photo: Greenwich Peninsula
Greenwich + Docklands International Festival is a spectacular outdoor arts festival featuring theatre, dance, and immersive performances in public spaces.
London Design Festival
Photo: London Design Festival
London Design Festival is a must-visit for creatives, this festival celebrates design innovation with exhibitions, workshops, and installations across the city.
Food and Drink Festivals
Photo: Taste of London
For foodies, London’s festival scene is just as mouthwatering as its restaurant offerings.
- Taste of London – Hosted in Regent’s Park, this festival gathers the city’s top chefs and restaurants, offering tasting menus and cooking demonstrations.
- London Coffee Festival – A dream for caffeine lovers, this festival in the Truman Brewery celebrates London’s thriving coffee culture with tastings, workshops, and live music.
- Meatopia – A paradise for meat lovers, this event focuses on high-quality, ethically sourced grilled and smoked dishes.
- London Wine Week – A week-long celebration of fine wines, featuring tastings, masterclasses, and exclusive wine-pairing dinners.
Seasonal and Niche Festivals
Photo: Devon Rogers
London’s festival calendar wouldn’t be complete without unique and seasonal events that cater to all kinds of interests.
- Winter Wonderland (Hyde Park) – A festive extravaganza featuring Christmas markets, an ice rink, and carnival rides.
- Lunar New Year in Chinatown – A lively celebration of Chinese New Year with parades, performances, and street food in the heart of Chinatown.
- Underbelly Festival – A mix of comedy, cabaret, and circus performances set along the South Bank.
- Pride in London – A vibrant celebration of LGBTQ+ rights, featuring a parade, live performances, and community events throughout the city.
Plan Your Festival Experience
To make the most of London’s festival scene, keep these tips in mind:
- Book Early – Popular festivals sell out quickly, so secure your tickets in advance.
- Check the Weather – Many festivals are outdoors, so be prepared for London’s unpredictable climate.
- Explore the Local Area – Many festivals take place in historic or scenic locations, making them a great excuse to discover new parts of the city.
- Stay Connected – Follow festival social media accounts for real-time updates, special events, and last-minute ticket releases.
Conclusion
Whether you’re into live music, cultural celebrations, or foodie experiences, London’s festival scene has something for everyone. With events happening year-round, there’s always an opportunity to experience the city’s vibrant energy and creativity.
Want to explore London beyond the festivals? Join Amitylux’s expert-guided tours to uncover hidden gems, cultural landmarks, and the best local experiences. Book your tour today!
FAQ
One of the most popular festivals in London is Notting Hill Carnival. Held every August Bank Holiday, it’s Europe’s largest street festival, celebrating Caribbean culture with colorful parades, live music, and incredible food. Other major festivals include British Summer Time (BST) Hyde Park, which brings global music icons to the heart of London, and Winter Wonderland, a festive extravaganza that transforms Hyde Park into a Christmas wonderland.
Beyond London, the UK is home to some of the world’s most famous festivals. Glastonbury Festival is the country’s most legendary music event, attracting global superstars and thousands of fans every year. Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the world’s largest arts festival, featuring comedy, theatre, and performances across Scotland’s capital. Other notable events include Creamfields for electronic music, Hay Festival for literature lovers, and The Great British Beer Festivalfor craft beer enthusiasts.
London’s event calendar is packed with world-class experiences. Some of the most popular annual events include New Year’s Eve Fireworks on the Thames, London Fashion Week, and the Chelsea Flower Show. Sports fans can enjoy Wimbledon, one of the most prestigious tennis tournaments in the world, while cultural highlights include London Prideand the Thames Festival. Seasonal favorites like Winter Wonderland and Lunar New Year in Chinatown also attract thousands of visitors each year.
