August is an exciting time to be in the capital; colourful parades and Caribbean rhythms take over the streets of West London, the Olympic Park is transformed into a sandy stretch of beach, and London’s highest summer garden opens up in the midst of the city’s skyline. Here are some of the best events happening throughout London in August, when the city truly is bursting with life.
The Notting Hill Carnival
Having been hosted since 1964, Notting Hill Carnival is one of London’s most celebrated annual events, and what began as a small gathering for the local Afro-Caribbean community is now Britain’s biggest street party. See the vibrant parade of costumed dancers, feel the rhythm of the music and tuck into authentic Caribbean street food.
The Notting Hill Carnival
28th – 29th August 2016
BeachEast at The Park
The beach will return to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park this year as the 2,200-square-metre space is covered with sand. This year’s Rio themed edition is set to encompass funfair rides, two beach bars and volleyball games, with live entertainment and DJs. Live coverage of the Rio Olympic Games will be broadcast on a big screen from 6th to 12th August, too.
BeachEast at The Park
23rd July – 4th September 2016
Cutty Sark Theatre: Pre-Edinburgh Comedy Festival
Held in the atmospheric Michael Edwards Studio Theatre on the Cutty Sark, the Pre-Edinburgh Comedy Festival is now in its second edition. The space that was once where the ship’s tea would have been stored is now the setting for performances by some of the biggest names on the UK comedy circuit.
Cutty Sark Theatre: Pre-Edinburgh Comedy Festival
22nd July – 4th August 2016
The Summer Garden at The Shard
Throughout the summer, the View from The Shard – the open-air deck on Level 72 – will be transformed into London’s highest summer garden in celebration of the Year of The English Garden. While taking in the view across London amidst wild flowers, sip on a summer cocktail or treat yourself to an ice cream.
The Summer Garden at The Shard
2nd June – 18th September 2016
Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House
Throughout summer, open-air screenings and concerts are not hard to come by in the capital, but there are few venues as impressive as the courtyard at Somerset House. Here movie fans can catch screenings of both classic and all-time favourite films, with select films introduced by celebrities and DJ sets before some of them begin.
Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House
4th – 17th August 2016
The Great British Beer Festival
With over 900 different beers, ales and ciders from over 350 British breweries, this huge celebration attracts more than 66,000 people each year. Take the chance to try a selection of these different brews while meeting the people who’ve made them, and get a little more from your visit by joining in on a tutored tasting. With activities, live music and plenty to eat, this is a great day out in the capital.
The Great British Beer Festival
9th – 13th August 2016
There couldn’t be a better time to take to London’s river than in the height of summer. For the thrill of speeding across the water, join the Thames Rib Experience, hop on and off the City Cruises River Red Rover as you sightsee along the river, or opt for an evening river cruise with Bateaux London.
Image credits: Cover photo of The Notting Hill Carnival © Flickr / MikeT. A dancer at The Notting Hill Carnival © Flickr / Rob Schofield. At the funfair © iStock / dharmeson. Cutty Sark © Flickr / Visit Greenwich. Looking up at The Shard © iStock / Franz Wilhelm Franzelin. The courtyard at Somerset House © Flickr / Matt Brown. Beer Tasting © iStock / Silvrshootr.
