London Fairs

London Fairs

15 April, 2009
by: Spoonfed Team

Whether you’re looking for a fair, faire, fete or festival, once the weather turns pleasant city-dwellers turn out en mass to create the best London fairs you can imagine. The poet Samuel Johnson once said, “When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life.” Though London has surely changed since he uttered these words in 1777, the fact remains that the city is vibrant and eclectic, and can satisfy even the most demanding thirst for entertainment. There are numerous special events that take place in London over the course of a year, and here is Spoonfed’s choice for which of these are worth checking out.

Sci-fi London
April 29th – May 4th
The largest sci-fi event in the UK, Sci-fi London focuses on the development of the genre in film, and features UK premieres as well as shorts, workshops and documentaries.

The Real Food Festival
May 8th – 10th
A gastrophile haven, the three-day event is focussed on promoting healthy eating habits with a collection of debates, workshops, stalls and live demonstrations. Vendors from across the country would also be at the event selling their products.

Spitalfields Festival
June 8th – 19th
The famous market features music concerts at venues in the area, as well as daily events in the marketplace itself.  Some of the genres featured are classical, opera and jazz.

Paradise Gardens
June 20th – 21st
Situated in East London’s Victoria Park, the festival transforms the park and provides a varied list of entertainment, including circus performers, a tea dance tent, a steam fair, and a food and craft market.

Ealing Comedy Festival
July 17th – 18th, 22nd – 24th
Though the line up is yet to be announced, expect a range of comedians, award winners and newcomers alike, to bring laughs to Walpole Park in West London.
 
Great British Beer Festival 2009
August 4th – 8th
Held every year in Earl’s Court, the GBBF is Britain's biggest beer festival and brings together a wide range of real ales, ciders, perry and international beers. There will be at least 450 beers available throughout the festival, as well as a range of food, souvenirs, traditional pub games and live music.

London International Animation Fest
August 30th – September 6th
Organised by animators themselves, this festival is dedicated to providing a showplace for exciting underground cartoons and animated flicks.

The Mayor’s Thames Festival
September 12th - 13th
Taking place between Westminster Bridge and Tower Bridge, The Mayor’s Thames Festival is a celebration of London’s history and the River Thames. There are activities and entertainment for all ages, as well as lots of food and drink.

London Design Festival
September 19th – 27th
Taking place at venues across the city, the festival consists of hundreds of events, including lectures, exhibitions, and design themed fun and games.

The Times BFI 53rd London Film Festival
TBA
The London Film Festival stands along side other recognised names such as Cannes and Sundance, as one of the premier events of the film year. Specifics are yet to be announced, but expect a selection of high quality international films vying for the top prize.

Keen for more? See more about:
London For Kids
London Events

Spoonfed Team