14 free events taking place in London this summer

Here are 14 free family-friendly events in London over the summer! Enjoy music, parades, workshops, and more without spending a penny.

Looking for affordable family activities this summer? We’ve got you covered!

London is packed with exciting free events and festivals, perfect for keeping the kids entertained and making lasting memories.

From colourful parades and music festivals to creative workshops and outdoor theatre, there’s something for everyone – all at no cost!

Free events in London summer 2024

London Northwestern Railway (LNR) has put together a list of 14 totally free events and festivals happening in London this summer 2024.

Note: Don’t forget to double-check event dates and details closer to the time, just in case there are any last-minute changes.

Meltdown at Southbank Centre, 14th to 23rd June

Kicking things off, we’ve got the Meltdown festival, curated by the legendary Chaka Khan.

Enjoy free performances like Funk This with New Movementz UK and Youth Voices: A Celebration of Chaka.

It’s music, dance, and pure joy!

Trooping the Colour, the King’s Birthday Parade, 15th June

Experience a classic London tradition with Trooping the Colour.

Join the crowds at St. James’s Park or The Mall to witness this grand parade and a spectacular flypast by the Royal Air Force. It’s a limited view, but free to watch from there.

A perfect family outing that your kids will love.

Early years studio: movement and transport at the Royal Academy, 19th June

For the little ones, the Royal Academy offers a fun and creative session led by artist Amy Leung. It’s free, but you do need to book online.

It’s a colourful playground of props and textures, perfect for under 5s and their guardians.

Family studio: summer celebration at the Royal Academy, 23rd June

Kids of all ages can get creative with artist Flora Bradwell, making vibrant flags inspired by the Royal Academy’s own banners.

It’s a drop-in session that promises lots of fun with colours and fabrics.

West End Live, 23rd June

Trafalgar Square transforms into a musical wonderland with West End Live.

Enjoy over 50 performances from top musicals, interactive exhibits, and delicious refreshments.

No tickets needed, but get there early!

Open House at Hyde Park, 29th June to 14th July

When the big concerts take a break, Hyde Park’s British Summer Time festival opens up for free family-friendly activities.

Think film screenings, workshops, arts and crafts, and live music.

It’s a slice of festival fun without the price tag (or the tents)!

Pride in London, 29th June

Celebrate diversity with Pride in London.

Enjoy theatre, dance, art, and cinema events, culminating in a vibrant parade and free performances.

Don your brightest outfits and join in the celebration.

Canada Day, 30th June

Trafalgar Square hosts Canada Day with live performances, Canadian food (hello, poutine!), and a hockey tent.

It’s a fun-filled day celebrating all things Canadian.

The Lord Mayor’s Balloon Regatta, 7th, 21st or 28th July

Watch up to 50 hot air balloons launch from Battersea Park in this stunning spectacle.

Keep your fingers crossed for good weather!

Free Wimbledon screenings, 1st to 14th July

Can’t get Wimbledon tickets?

No worries.

Catch all the action on big screens across London at Canary Wharf, Covent Garden Market, or Portman Square Garden.

Deckchairs included!

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival (GDIF), 12th to 14th July

Dubbed “London’s best free festival,” GDIF offers outdoor theatre, performing arts, and stunning art installations.

There’s so much to see, you’ll have a hard time choosing!

Summer Sounds at Kings Cross Coal Drops Yard, 15th to 26th August

Kings Cross becomes a musical hub with Summer Sounds.

Enjoy live concerts celebrating community spirit every Family Sunday from 1 – 6 PM.

Notting Hill Carnival, 25th to 26th August

Join the vibrant Notting Hill Carnival for a celebration of Caribbean culture.

With sound systems, street food, and parades, it’s a lively event for the whole family.

Not in London on these dates? Check out these major attractions to visit for just £1 in London with Universal Credit Days Out.

So there you have it – a summer full of fun without breaking the bank.

Grab your calendar, pick your favourites, and get ready to make some fantastic memories.