It’s been ages since our last bank holiday, and we’re all itching for a three-day weekend filled with fun and excitement. Luckily, August 24-26 is almost here, and London has something for everyone!
This article has got you covered, with a curated list of exciting events, festivals, exhibitions, and more to make your bank holiday truly memorable. So, put on your dancing shoes, grab your picnic blanket, and get ready to dive into a weekend of fun in London!
Celebrate Caribbean Culture at Notting Hill Carnival
No bank holiday weekend in London is complete without the vibrant energy of Notting Hill Carnival. This annual celebration of Caribbean culture is Europe’s largest street festival, drawing over 2 million visitors every year.
Prepare to be swept away by the infectious rhythms of live steel bands, the mouthwatering aromas of Jamaican jerk chicken and Trinidadian roti, and the dazzling spectacle of the colorful masquerade bands.
While the traditional J’ouvert celebration has been canceled for 2024, the main parades on Sunday, August 25, and Monday, August 26, are sure to be a kaleidoscopic highlight of your bank holiday.
Whether you’re dancing in the parade or watching from the sidelines, Notting Hill Carnival is an experience you won’t want to miss!
Beyond the Carnival: Alternative Adventures
If the bustling crowds of Notting Hill Carnival aren’t your cup of tea, but you’re still craving the carnival spirit, don’t worry! There are plenty of alternative events happening across London this weekend.
BOXPARK Croydon is hosting a two-day festival filled with live music and street food. Get your groove on with iconic DJ sets, live disco and soul performances, and delicious eats and drinks.
For a unique beauty experience, head to the Hair Lounge in Notting Hill on Carnival Sunday and Monday, where award-winning hairstylist Charlotte Mensah will be offering her famous braiding services.
Indulge in a mouthwatering nutmeg cake while getting your hair braided and enjoy the festive atmosphere of Notting Hill, without the crowds.
Unleash Your Inner Speed Demon at the Formula 1® Exhibition
Calling all motorsports enthusiasts! The brand-new Formula 1® Exhibition opens just in time for the bank holiday weekend at London’s ExCeL Centre.
This must-see exhibition features an impressive collection of memorabilia, rare film and photography, and artefacts from the history of Formula 1®. You’ll get up-close and personal with some of the most iconic cars in F1® history, including the legendary Lotus 72 and the Red Bull RB16B, which helped Max Verstappen win the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
A Culinary Adventure for You and Your Furry Friend
SushiDog is serving up a special Secret London sushi roll inspired by the beloved British classic, the prawn cocktail.
Head to one of SushiDog’s seven locations across London and order this delicious and unique creation. You might even be able to guess the secret ingredient in the Marie Rose sauce!
Calling all dog lovers! Barket Place, the UK’s first-ever street food market for dogs, is setting up shop at Market Place Vauxhall for one weekend only.
In honor of National Dog Day, vendors will be serving up free dog-friendly versions of popular human food, from chicken tacos to salmon poke bowls and fish and chips.
Bring your furry friend and enjoy a unique and delicious dining experience together.
Immerse Yourself in Art and Culture
The Moco Museum, renowned for its modern and contemporary art collections, has recently opened its doors in London.
See masterpieces by renowned artists such as Damien Hirst, Banksy, Andy Warhol, Yayoi Kusama, and more, all in one incredible location.
Enjoy Music and Entertainment Under the Stars
Battersea Park In Concert is bringing three days of open-air picnic concerts to the park over the bank holiday weekend.
Pack your picnic blanket and enjoy the sounds of the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra, jazz stars from Ronnie Scott’s, singer Myleene Klass, and the world’s greatest composers.
This is a perfect opportunity to enjoy a romantic evening under the stars with beautiful music and delicious food.
Escape to the Wild West at Moonshine Saloon
Step back in time and immerse yourself in a Wild West adventure at Moonshine Saloon.
You’ll be transported from Aldgate to a world of sheriffs, gambling, and illicit booze smuggling. Enjoy four fancy cocktails crafted by the saloon’s talented bartenders and interact with live actors as you become part of a larger storyline.
Don’t miss out on a 20% discount on tickets to Moonshine Saloon this bank holiday by using the code BANKHOL20MSH at checkout.
Challenge Your Perception at the Paradox Museum
Get ready to have your mind blown at the Paradox Museum, located opposite Harrods in Knightsbridge.
This mind-bending museum features over 50 optical illusions, some you can observe and others you can step right into. Explore the science behind these illusions and discover how our brains can be tricked by our eyes.
Indulge in Apple-Themed Delights at the Apple Hideaway
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and head to Dalston Roofpark’s Apple Hideaway with Jack Daniel’s.
Enjoy stunning city views, delicious Jack Daniel’s cocktails, live DJs, and fun games.
The Apple Hideaway is open every Wednesday to Sunday from 5pm until September 26, but Dalston Roofpark is hosting special ticketed events for the bank holiday weekend.
Experience the Beauty of South Korea in London
PULSE: Beyond Delight is a digital art exhibition that takes you straight to the heart of Seoul without leaving London.
Explore the culture, tradition, and innovation of South Korea through state-of-the-art media, sound, and light. This immersive experience is a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of central London.
Get a 20% discount on tickets with the code BHOLS20PUL at checkout.
A Final Chance to Catch the Wes Anderson-Inspired Exhibition
Accidentally Wes Anderson: The Exhibition is coming to a close this bank holiday weekend.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant photography that showcases locations around the world that could have been straight out of a Wes Anderson film.
Get Your Bingo on with Bongo’s Bingo
Experience the award-winning game of Bongo’s Bingo, combining traditional bingo with dance-offs, audience participation, and mini-raves. This bank holiday Saturday, get ready for a noughties-themed bash with stripping men, a shower of Coco Pops, sing-alongs, and more.
Sizzle Up Your Weekend at Brigadiers
Brigadiers, the Indian BBQ restaurant, is hosting a weekend of delicious food, live music, and sporting action.
Kick off the bank holiday with classic BBQ dishes from the tandoors, charcoal grills, and Indian smokers, along with live DJ sets and new cocktail creations.
On Saturday, enjoy the Premier League action on the big screen with free-flowing beer and sizzling kebabs.
This bank holiday weekend is packed with exciting opportunities to make unforgettable memories in London. From celebrating Caribbean culture to exploring the world of art and music, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, grab your friends and family and get ready for a long weekend filled with laughter, excitement, and adventure.
