February is a month of romance, gluttony and cutting-edge arts in London, with dragon dances and children’s theatre thrown in for good measure. From frivolous fun to high culture and the arts, be a part of these compelling events to make the most of your trip to London in February.
Chinese New Year
To see in the Year of the Monkey in what is said to be the biggest Chinese New Year celebration outside of Asia, festival goers gather in London’s Chinatown, as well as Trafalgar Square and Shaftsbury Avenue, where celebrations spill over. Wear something red – the colour of good fortune – and head on over to catch the dragon parade and street performances, before settling in for a celebratory meal at one of Chinatown’s renowned restaurants. The main parade will be held on February 14th.
8th February 2016
Pancake Day
Each year, Shrove Tuesday (the day before Lent), is celebrated by cooking and feasting on pancakes. In London, this has been taken a step further with pancake races taking place across the city, in which competitors race against each other while tossing pancakes in a pan; the Better Bankside charity race is one of the best known. To indulge in pancakes on the day, find a seat at one of the city’s many creperies and brunch spots, such as The Breakfast Club, which has sweet and savoury options.
9th February 2016
Imagine Children’s Festival
In addition to a schedule of children’s theatre, literature and music performances, Imagine Children’s Festival 2016 will include workshops and activities for visitors to enjoy. And in honour of the centenary of legendary author Roald Dahl’s birth, Southbank Centre will be hosting The Wondercrump World of Roald Dahl interactive exhibition and The Minpins orchestral performance, as a part of the festival programme.
12th – 21st February 2016
Imagine Children’s Festival
Champagne Life
To celebrate its thirtieth year, the Saatchi Gallery will be hosting an exhibition of female artists’ artworks that have been collected by Charles Saatchi since the gallery first opened. The Champagne Life will showcase works by artists such as Tracey Emin and Paula Rego.
13th January – 6th March 2016
Champagne Life
Valentine’s Day
On one day each year the restaurants, bars and hotels of London all lay on romantic dinners and experiences. For sky-high views across the capital and a sophisticated setting to dine in, it’s hard to beat Aqua Shard. For something a little more intimate, dine at classic French restaurant Clos Maggiore in Covent Garden. And for views of London’s landmarks from the river, join a Bateaux London Valentine’s Thames Cruise, where each couple is welcomed with Champagne and a single red rose.
14th February 2016
London Fashion Week
London Fashion Week will be back in February for its AW16 edition. Held on Brewer Street in Soho, with events and shows also taking place at venues across the capital, the week-long event of exhibitions and runway shows is guaranteed to draw in fashion lovers and media from around the world, making for great people watching, too.
19th – 23rd February 2016
London Fashion Week
While getting involved in these events and celebrations, don’t miss out on London’s most iconic sights. Hop on the Big Bus London, or take the Original London Sightseeing Tour, to combine walking tours with a river cruise.
Header image: Be a part of the Better Bankside Pancake Day Race © Better Bankside
