London Events Calendar - What’s happening in London

London has so much happening all year round, with its vibrant events calendar popular with locals and visitors alike. Whether you're planning your visit in advance or looking for upcoming events last minute, take your pick from these exciting London events to make sure you don't miss out!

Whenever you visit, don't miss top London iconic attractions, such as the renowned Changing the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace, a spectacle that enchants visitors year-round.

London Events in January

Start off the year in style with a flurry of excitement as London comes alive with captivating events.

London’s New Year’s Day Parade

As one of the capital's most anticipated celebrations, the renowned London's New Year's Day Parade captivates spectators with its spectacular floats, marching bands, and colourful performances.

Held annually on January 1^st, it marks a festive beginning to the new year, drawing crowds from around the world. From iconic landmarks to bustling streets, the parade route showcases the city's charm and energy. Join in the excitement as London welcomes the new year in style, immersing yourself in this cherished tradition that epitomises the spirit of the capital.

Venue: Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, Whitehall and Parliament Street

Date: 1^st January

Admission: free entry

London Events in February

Be swept away by the romantic and enchanting ambiance of February’s events in London.

Chinese New Year Parade

Celebrate Chinese New Year 2024, the Year of the Dragon, with the grand festivities organised by The London Chinatown Chinese Association. This major event in London attracts hundreds of thousands annually, featuring a vibrant parade with colourful floats, over 50 teams, and the largest gathering of Chinese lions and dragons in Europe. In previous years, the parade started at 10am in Charing Cross Road, winding its way through Shaftesbury Avenue in Chinatown.

The Trafalgar Square festivities include a screen show, a Lions' Eye-Dotting Ceremony, traditional dragon and lion dances, music shows, martial arts displays, and delectable Far East street food. Immerse yourself in family activities at the National Gallery and don't miss the spectacular finale, featuring a techno lion dance and a pyrotechnic display.

Venue: Trafalgar Square

Date: varies in February (on the 1^st day of the lunar new year)

Admission: free entry

London Events in March

Spring into action with an array of diverse events across London, including the colourful St. Patrick's Day Parade

The Boat Race

The Boat Race is an iconic annual rowing competition between crews from the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. Established in 1829 for men and 1927 for women, it is one of the world's oldest and most prestigious amateur sporting events.

The Boat Race covers a 4.25-mile stretch of the tidal Thames in West London between Putney and Mortlake. The 2024 event will mark the 169^th Men's Boat Race and the 78^th Women's Boat Race, attracting over 250,000 spectators along the riverbanks and a global TV audience.

Venue: The River Thames in West London

Date: 30^th March

Admission: free entry

St Patrick’s Day

Join the lively festivities in London to celebrate Ireland's patron saint at St. Patrick's events. The vibrant and colourful parade wends its way through Central London before Irish musicians, rising stars, and special guests entertain the crowd in Trafalgar Square, where you’ll also find craft stalls and traditional and modern Irish fare.

Venue: Trafalgar Square

Date: 17^th March

Admission: free entrance

London Events in April

Revel in the charm of April as London bursts into bloom with events like the iconic Virgin Money London Marathon.

London Games Festival

Explore the epitome of gaming culture at the annual London Games Festival, the world's largest celebration of video games and interactive entertainment, drawing around 100,000 visitors annually. Organised by Games London, it fosters a convergence of talent, art, and culture, featuring an exhibition spotlighting diverse games professionals and showcasing new global games.

From trade missions to supporting local studios, Games London is a key industry player. The festival offers behind-the-scenes experiences at studios, LGF Fringe events, and various activities throughout London. Whether hosting official LGF events or participating in tournaments, seize the opportunity to engage in this vibrant London event.

Venue: Various venues across London

Date: 9^th – 25^th April

The London Marathon

Established in 1981, the iconic TCS London Marathon has grown into a global phenomenon, with over a million individuals having accomplished this feat since its inaugural run. Experience a vibrant atmosphere as the entire course is adorned with cheering spectators, providing an unforgettable journey.

Venue: Various venues covering iconic London landmarks like Buckingham Palace, The Cutty Sark, Tower Bridge, and Canary Wharf.

Date: 21^st April

London Events in May

Welcome the arrival of warmer days with an abundance of events in London, including the world-famous Chelsea Flower Show.

Chelsea Flower Show

Marvel at the pinnacle of horticultural excellence at RHS Chelsea Flower Show. This prestigious event showcases the creativity of floral artists, designers, and growers from around the world. Explore amazing garden designs and gorgeous floral arrangements at one of the pinnacle spring events in London.

Venue: Royal Hospital Chelsea

Date: 21^st – 25^th May

Gala Festival

Groove to the finest electronic music, soul, afrobeat, and jazz alongside London’s clubbing elite at GALA, three-day music festival. Among those in this year’s line-up are Jordan Rakei, Amadou & Mariam, Overmono, and Kerri Chandler.

Venue: Packham Rye Park

Date: 24^th – 26^th May

Admission: from £37.50

London Events in June

Bask in the warm sun as London dazzles with a veritable feast of sizzling summer activities and events.

Taste Festivals

For those who want a culinary adventure, Taste will take you on a five-day experience in Regent’s Park, where 55,000 food enthusiasts converge for a remarkable garden party featuring London's finest restaurants and emerging culinary talents. Indulge in daily specials, diverse flavour experiences, and unique cocktails—an event shaping the future of gastronomy.

Delight your palate, explore sensory tastings, and be part of the vibrant culinary event in London. Arrive hungry and relish the excellence of London's diverse food offerings. Whether you're into coffee, tequila cocktails, or craft beers, Taste promises a feast for every taste bud.

Venue: Regent’s Park

Date: 12^th – 16^th June

Admission: subject to activities

Trooping the Colour

Witness a centuries-old tradition at the Trooping of the Colour, an iconic event marking the British Sovereign's official birthday for over 260 years. This grand spectacle is also known as 'The King's Birthday Parade' and features over 1400 soldiers, 200 horses, and 400 musicians showcasing military precision and horsemanship.

Join the crowds witnessing the Royal Family on horseback and in carriages. The spectacle concludes with an RAF fly-past, watched by the Royals from Buckingham Palace balcony. Experience the Royal salute, troop inspection, and vibrant military bands, making it an iconic celebration in the heart of London.

Venue: Buckingham Palace and The Mall

Date:  15^th June

Admission: free entry 

Hampton Court Palace Festival

Witness global music superstars up close at the Palace's Base Court stage in the heart of London. Don't miss the unique opportunity to experience live performances by world-renowned artists, including Nile Rodgers & CHIC, Sam Ryder, The Rest is History Live Presents: The Tudors, Sheryl Crow, Deacon Blue, and Paloma Faith at the 2024 event.

Secure your tickets now, with prices varying based on the featured artists. This promises to be an unforgettable addition to your calendar of upcoming events in London.

Venue: Hampton Court Palace

Date: 11^th – 22^nd June 

London Events in July

Dive into a sea of summer fun with events such as the iconic Wimbledon Championships, and the dazzling displays of the Hampton Court Palace Flower Show. 

Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival

Held against the backdrop of the historic Hampton Court Palace, the prestigious RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival offers a captivating blend of floral displays, garden designs, and horticultural delights.

As one of the highlights of the gardening calendar, it attracts enthusiasts and experts alike from all corners of the globe. From exquisite show gardens to interactive workshops, the festival provides a feast for the senses and a wealth of inspiration for green-fingered visitors. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature's creations amidst the grandeur of this iconic palace setting, making memories to cherish throughout the year.

Venue: Hampton Court Palace

Date: 2^nd – 7^th July

Admission: Ticket prices range from £22.75 to £72.75+

London Events in August

Immerse yourself in the height of summer excitement with an unforgettable array of events to discover in London this August.

Notting Hill Carnival in London

Held annually during the August bank holiday weekend, Notting Hill Carnival in London ignites the streets of West London with pulsating music, dazzling costumes, and infectious energy. Originating from the city's Caribbean community, the carnival has evolved into Europe's largest street festival, attracting millions of revellers each year.

From the rhythmic beats of steel drums to the tantalizing aromas of Caribbean cuisine, every corner exudes a kaleidoscope of cultures and traditions. Immerse yourself in the carnival's colourful procession, dance along to the sounds of Soca and Reggae, and experience the joyous atmosphere that defines this beloved London spectacle.

Venue: Notting Hill

Date: 25^th – 26^th August

Admission: free entry

London Events in September

Celebrate the arrival of autumn in style with an electrifying array of September events in London.

London Design Festival

London Design Festival, initiated in 2003 by Sir John Sorrell CBE and Ben Evans CBE, positions London as a global design capital. Over two decades, the festival has attracted leading thinkers, practitioners, and enthusiasts, evolving into a major cultural event. In 2019, it drew a record-breaking 600,000 visitors from 75 countries.

Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2022, the vision remains as strong as ever, as the festival underscores London's role in design's growth and the city's global prominence in business, culture, and tourism. Recognised as a model for design weeks worldwide, it remains a pivotal moment on the cultural calendar and a testament to London's open creativity and innovation, endorsed by Mayor Sadiq Khan.

Venue: The Victoria and Albert Museum

Date: 14^th – 22^nd September

Admission: free entry

BBC Proms

Experience the pinnacle of classical music at the world-renowned BBC Proms, an annual festival hosted at London's Royal Albert Hall. Founded in 1895 by conductor Henry Wood, the festival's mission is to make classical music accessible to all.

The grand finale, the Last Night of the Proms, promises a musical extravaganza featuring fanfares, dances, anthems, arias, and a blend of timeless classics with new compositions. Immerse yourself in this spectacular event, capturing a season's worth of highlights in one unforgettable evening.

Venue: The Royal Albert Hall

Date: 5^th July – 14^th September

London Events in October

Delight in the spooky season with a host of Halloween events in London, with frights and fun around every corner.

BFI London Film Festival

Experience the renowned Times BFI London Film Festival, an annual cinematic celebration held for 16 days every mid-October since 1956. With over 200 films showcased across approximately 15 venues, the festival has become one of the premier film events in Britain.

Featuring a diverse selection, including major productions, short films, and animated movies, the festival attracts filmmakers and enthusiasts alike. Explore a global array of films, transcending language barriers, and immerse yourself in the cinematic excellence of this upcoming event in London, esteemed by both industry professionals and the wider audience.

Venue: British Film Institute and various cinemas

Date: two weeks in October – exact dates to be confirmed

Admission: from £10

London Events in November

Enjoy the calm before the festive season kick-off with a jam-packed events calendar across London this November.

EFG London Jazz Festival

mmerse yourself in the vibrant rhythm of the EFG London Jazz Festival, a city-wide music extravaganza that has evolved into London's largest and one of the leading international jazz events. Spanning ten days in November, this acclaimed festival features over 300 shows across 70 venues, captivating a live audience of over 100,000.

From intimate clubs to grand concert halls, each year brings a unique character and momentum. Recognised as the capital's premier jazz celebration, the festival remains dedicated to showcasing global talent while celebrating London's cultural diversity. Don't miss this extraordinary musical experience among the upcoming events in London.

Venue: Various venues across London

Date: 15^th – 24^th November

London Events in December

Get into the holiday spirit with a flurry of festive events in London, including the unforgettable celebrations of New Year's Eve in the capital.

London New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Experience the exhilarating grand finale of London events in January with the spectacular London New Year’s Eve Fireworks display. Held along the iconic River Thames, this dazzling extravaganza marks the transition into the new year with a mesmerizing showcase of pyrotechnics and light.

As the clock strikes midnight on December 31^st, the sky above the city erupts into a breath-taking symphony of colours, illuminating landmarks like the London Eye and Big Ben. Join thousands of revellers from around the world along the riverbanks or tune in from afar to witness this unforgettable spectacle that symbolizes hope, joy, and the promise of a fresh start in the heart of London.

Venue: Thames Riverside

Date: 31^st December

Admission: £20

Where to stay in London for upcoming events

Situated in South Kensington, our serviced apartment hotel in central West London offers an ideal location to enjoy the plethora of events throughout the year in the capital. From Fraser Suites Queens Gate, guests are within easy reach of iconic venues like the Royal Albert Hall and the Victoria and Albert Museum, immersing themselves in the city's vibrant cultural scene.

With spacious, well-appointed suites and convenient amenities like fully equipped kitchens, and we cater to family breaks in London, helping to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay. Our hotel provides a convenient retreat after a day of exploration amidst the energy of London's events. Whether attending a world-class concert, festival, or indulging in exhibitions, Fraser Suites Queens Gate offers an elegant haven amidst the excitement of the capital's festivities. Take advantage of our latest hotel deals in London to start planning the trip of a lifetime.