www.free-events.co.uk by Barry Griffin

Best free events in the UK - Festivals, Carnivals, Parades, Shows, Fireworks etc

A non-commercial listing of hundreds of amazing events - many free.

Updated 16 May 2012

Recent Events ...

St Patricks Day, London
Video 1 2 3 4 5
Reading Half Marathon
Video
Oxford Cambridge Boat Race London Marathon
Video
Brighton Festival Parade Video
"Barricade" Video1 2 3


Powerboat & Rib Show, Portsmouth 2012 Video - Free Rib Rides

Southampton VTS Cruise Ship Schedule

Southampton Sailings - Mayflower Park is an ideal viewing point.

15 May 2012 National Geographic Explorer
16 May 2012 Aurora 20:00, Saga Ruby
18 May 2012 Queen Elizabeth 16:30, Oriana 16:30, Adonia 16:30
19 May 2012 Grand Princess 16:00, Independence Of The Seas 16:30
19 May 2012 Azure 16:30, Aurora 16:30
20 May 2012 Ventura 16:30
21 May 2012 Crystal Symphony 21:00
22 May 2012 Queen Victoria 16:30, Queen Mary 2 16:30
23 May 2012 MSC Opera 16:30, Queen Elizabeth 16:30
24 May 2012 Silver Whisper
25 May 2012  Ocean 16:30, Oriana 16:30
26 May 2012  Balmoral 16:30, Celebrity Eclipse, Caribbean Princess
27 May 2012  Arcadia 16:30

Picture: P&O Ventura - 116,017 tons, 950 feet, 14 passenger decks.



05-27 May 2012 Brighton Festival Three weeks of arts & street theatre on a huge scale, many free.

05-26 May 2012 Brighton Fringe City 12:00-17:00 New Road, every Saturday throughout May. Free outdoor showcase of unique fringe performances.

 

 

09-26 May 2012 Norfolk & Norwich Festival

Two weeks of amazing events, circus, music and visual arts, both free and ticketed.

 

 

 

Ceremonial Events

Thu 17 May 2012 Rehearsal for the Queen’s Birthday Parade on Horse Guards Parade, Wellington Barracks 09:45 
Fri 18 May 2012 Olympic Torch Relay Begins 
Sat 19 May 2012 2,500 troops parade through Windsor Castle in honour of Queen's 60-year reign.
Sun 20 May 2012 Cavalry Sunday, Hyde Park; bands of the Household Cavalry, Heavy Cavalry and Royal Yeomanry 
Sun 20 May 2012 Grenadier Guards Regimental Remembrance Service & Parade, Wellington Barracks 14:40 
Sun-Tue 20-Tue May 2012 22nd Royal Canadian Mounted Police Mount The Queen’s Life Guard 
Tue 22 May 2012 Rehearsal for the Queen’s Birthday Parade on Horse Guards Parade, Wellington Barracks 09:45 
Thu 24 May 2012 Rehearsal for the Queen’s Birthday Parade on Horse Guards Parade, Wellington Barracks 09:45 
Tue 29 May 2012 The Guards Chapel Lunchtime Recital at 13.10 Guards Chapel, Birdcage Walk SW1E 6HQ. Free
Tue 29 May 2012 Rehearsal for the Queen’s Birthday Parade on Horse Guards Parade, Wellington Barracks 09:45



FREE exhibitions and events at gallery@oxo, Bargehouse, and Riverside walkway.

London SE1 9PH. Information line: 020 7021 1686

16 May - 03 Jun 2012 Culture in Stone 11:00-18:00 gallery@oxo Free.
17-20 May 2012
Animal Art Fair 11:00-18:00 Riverside walkway £8
14-17 June 2012
Made in Brunel 2012 11:00-18:00 Bargehouse Free.
15 Jun - 08 Jul 2012 Art in the Wild 11:00-18:00 gallery@oxo Free.
17 Jun 2012 Celebrating Sanctuary, Bernie Spain Gardens 14:00-19:00 Free.
29 Jun - 01 Jul 2012 Balance 11:00-18:00 Bargehouse Free.
01 Jul 2012 Coin Street Festival: Capital Age
, Bernie Spain Gardens 14:00-19:00 Free.
06-08 Jul 2012 Winchester Sch of Art: For the time being 11:00-18:00
Bargehouse Free.12-29 Jul 2012 The Raging Storm 11:00-18:00 gallery@oxo Free.
31 July- 12 Aug 2012
Sculpture and Sport 11:00-18:00 gallery@oxo Free.

The design studios at Oxo Tower Wharf provide an opportunity to see artists at work and commission or purchase a striking variety of furniture, fashion, fine art, jewellery, glass, ceramics and textiles.


 

Weymouth Events

17-18 May 2012 APS National Sailing Regatta - WPNSA
18-19 May 2012 May Chalk Legends, Drama and Dance
20 May 2012 Dorset Vintage Motorcycle Rally, Pavilion Forecourt
20 May 2012 The Hard Way Round the Rock - Portland. www.rmpac.co.uk
24 May 2012 Cutting Edge: Behind Sailing - WPNSA. www.rigb.org/cuttingedge2012
25 May - 10 Jun 2012 The Matchstick Fleet - Nothe Fort. www.nothefort.org.uk
26 May 2012 Must be Barking, Lodmoor
26 May - 10 Jun 2012 Dorset Art Weeks, various venues
27 May 2012 Dorset Tour Vintage Car Rally, Lodmoor Park
05, 12, 19, 26 Jun 2012 Evening Beach Volleyball www.weymouthbeachvolleyball.co.uk
01 - 09 Jun 2012 Skandia Sail for Gold Regatta
02 - 05 Jun 2012 Diamond Jubilee Celebrations
01 - 03 Jun 2012 Wessex Folk Festival, harbourside www.wessexfolk.co.uk
02 - 05 Jun 2012 Passage to Portland, marina
03 - 05 Jun 2012 Quayside Music Festival
03 June Weymouth and Portland Lions Diamond Jubilee Charity Walk 
03 Jun 2012 Jubilee Big Lunch, Nothe Gardens
03 Jun 2012 Hardy Country Run Vehicle Rally, Finish at Lodmoor


17-20 May 2012 Animal Art Fair, London

11:00-18:00 Riverside walkway, Gabriel's Wharf, South Bank SE1 9PP.

Animal Art Fair will showcase 40 world renowned artists in an event marquee and external sculpture garden. All the art will focus on the animal in both figurative and abstract form. The Animal Art Fair will host a fantastic cross section of celebrated artists and new talent - a vibrant mix of styles and mediums. From the contemporary to the traditional – there will be something for everyone.

The fair offers direct access to the artists and their art.

£8 entrance.

 

 

18 May 2012 Chamber Choir Concert, London

Fri 19:30 St James’s Church, 197 Piccadilly W1J 9LL.

Legato Tours are arranging a concert for The Pomona College Glee Club. This is an excellent Chamber Choir from California who are touring the UK, Poland and Germany in May.

A cappella programme, including works by Palestrina and Debussy.

Free entrance.

 

19-20 May 2012 Red Bull Empire of Dirt Alexandra Palace, London. 36 of the world's top BMX'ers on the toughest course yet. All tickets now sold out.

Marathons


Sat 19 May 2012 White Peak Marathon, Matlock
Sun 20 May 2012 Brathay Windermere Marathon, Ambleside
Sun 20 May 2012 Druridge Bay Half Marathon, Morpeth, Northumberland
Sun 20 May 2012 Druridge Bay Marathon, Morpeth Northumberland
Sun 20 May 2012 Eyam Half-Marathon, Derbyshire
Sun 20 May 2012 Imerys Clay Country Marathon, St Austell
Sun 20 May 2012 Jersey Half Marathon
Sun 20 May 2012 Tewkesbury Half-Marathon
Sun 20 May 2012 Whitebrook Wind-Up Half Marathon, Monmouth
Sat 26 May 2012 AdventureHub Welsh Coastal Ultra, Anglesey



19 May 2012 Meat Free in Manchester

Sat 11:00-16:00 Albert Square, Peter Street M2 5QR .

To celebrate the start of National Vegetarian Week, the Vegetarian Society is hosting Meat Free in Manchester, a free public event.

Cookery demonstrations, interactive fun, entertainment and amazing food.

 

Port of London Authority Events

19 May 2012 Twickenham Regatta
01 Jun 2012 London to Paris Cutter Race
03 Jun 2012 Queen's Diamond Jubilee Pageant Wandsworth to Tower Bridge 
09 Jun 2012 Barnes and Mortlake Regatta 
23 Jun 2012 Richmond Amateur Regatta
30 Jun 2012 13:30 Benfleet Yacht Club "Nore Race" Thames Estuary 
11 Jul 2012 Port of London Challenge HQS Wellington to Chelsea 
20 Jul 2012 Doggetts Coat and Badge Race London Bridge to Albert Bridge 
08-09 Sep 2012 Thames Festival
15 Sep 2012 Great River Race Millwall to Richmond 
10 Nov 2012 Lord Mayor's Flotilla Westminster to HMS President 
08 Dec 2012 Vesta Scullers Head Mortlake - Putney 


19-20 May 2012 Rickmansworth Festival Sat 10:30-22:30, Sun 10:30-17:30 Held on the third weekend in May at Batchworth Lock. Canal boats, boat tug of war, boat trips, guest speakers, environmental fair, live music and an animal farm for the children.
Rickmansworth Waterways Trust Inland Waterways Events   Map

 

05-27 May 2012 Brighton Festival - Fringe

700 events, about a quarter of which are free. Free taster sessions of music & street theatre. Saturdays 13:00-17:00 New Road, Jubilee Square, Pavilion Gardens during the three week Brighton Festival. Brighton Festival Fringe Video


Hovercraft Club of Great Britain

19-20 May 2012 Race Meeting, Rother Valley
02-05 Jun 2012 Race Meeting, Nottinghamshire
06-10 Jun 2012 [TBC] Hovercraft Fun Week, Nottinghamshire
23-24 Jun 2012 Race Meeting, Hackett Lakes
07-08 Jul 2012 Race Meeting, Towcester

Hovercraft Racing Hovercraft Race Events


Bulldog Toy & Collector Fairs

20 May 2012 Blackbrook Pavilion Leisure Centre, Blackbook Way, Taunton
10 Jun 2012 Royal Bath & West Showground
02 Sep 2012 Abbeywood Community School, New Road, Stoke Gifford, Bristol
16 Sep 2012 Blackbrook Pavilion Leisure Centre, Blackbook Way. Taunton
30 Sep 2012 Royal Bath & West Showground
28 Oct 2012 Abbeywood Community School, New Road, Stoke Gifford, Bristol
18 Nov 2012 Blackbrook Pavilion Leisure Centre, Blackbook Way, Taunton
16 Dec 2012 Royal Bath & West Showground

 

Old Royal Naval College Events Greenwich, London SE10 9LW. Tel 020 8269 4799

Sun 20 May, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00 & 15:30 Sir James Thornhill, creator of the amazing interior of the Painted Hall. £0
Fri 25 May - Sat 23 Jun 2012, 14:00-15:00 Royal Tour - tales of the forgotten royal palace. £5.
Sun 27 May, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00 & 15:30 Tales from Samuel Pepys, the great 17th century diarist. £0

 

 
Superheroes Challenge Created by Brighton Charity Pass It On Africa. Upcoming Events

Pass It On Africa (formerly Passing It On) is a Brighton-based charity working tirelessly to build schools and support education in some of the poorest parts of Africa.

20 May 2012 Sun 11:00 Brighton seafront.
13 Oct 2012 Sat 11:00 Southampton Common.
14 Oct 2012 Sun 11:00 Poole Park.
01-02 Dec 2012 Grim Challenge.
8 mile run over the Army's track at Aldershot.

 

May to Sep 2012 Dragon Boat Racing

Dragon boat racing originated in China over 2000 years ago, and is now one of the fastest growing water sports in the UK.
Gable Events Dragon Boat Races:

Sun 20 May 2012 Roundhay Park, Leeds LS8 2ER 
Wed 23 May 2012 Salford Quays Watersports Centre, Manchester M50 3SQ 
Sun 27 May 2012 Nicholas Everitt Park, Lowestoft NR33 9JR 
Mon 04 Jun 2012 Broughton Castle, Banbury OX15 5EB 
Sat 09 Jun 2012 Rother Valley Country Park, Sheffield
Sun 10 Jun 2012 Leicester Riverside Festival LE3 5LW 
Sat 16 Jun 2012 Peterborough Dragon Boat Festival PE1 1EF 
Sun 17 Jun 2012 Bristol Docks, BS1 6XG 
Sun 24 Jun 2012 Willen Lake, Milton Keynes MK15 0DS 
Sun 01 Jul 2012 Manvers Lake, Rotherham S63 7DG 
Thu 05 Jul 2012 West Reservoir, Hackney, London N4 2HA 
Sat 07 Jul 2012 Dover Regatta CT17 9BU 
Sun 08 Jul 2012 River Chelmer, Chelmsford CM2 6LU 
Sat 14 Jul 2012 Lakeside Doncaster DN4 5JW 
Sun 15 Jul 2012 River Nene, Midsummer Meadow, Northampton 
Sat 21 Jul 2012 Bedford River Festival 
Sat 21 Jul 2012 Regatta Fields, Burton-upon-Trent DE14 3AH 
Sun 22 Jul 2012 Immingham Dock DN40 2LZ

The British Dragon Boat Racing Association run a national league calendar together with national championships held annually.


20 May 2012 Ipswich Waterfront Market

Sun 10:00-16:00.

Over 40 craft, vintage and gift stalls along the waterfront.
A family day out with free entrance.

Organised by Ipswich Waterfront Action with support from Ipswich Borough Council.

 

Bognor Regis Events

20 May 2012 Bognor Prom 10k Race. 10:30-12:00 West Park, Aldwick. Bognor's Biggest Annual Sporting Event.

20 May 2012 Dunstable Downs Radio Club Boot Sale Sun 09:00. Annual event at Stockwood Park, Luton. Amateur Radio, home computing and test equipment etc. Food and toilets available. M1 J10. Free entrance - free/modest parking charge. DDRC Boot Sale

Bupa Great Runs

15 Apr 2012 SPAR Great Ireland Run. 13:00 The Phoenix Park, Dublin. 10km.
20 May 2012 Great Manchester Run. 10:00 City Centre. 10km.
22 Jul 2012 Bupa Great North 10k, Gateshead.
02 Sep 2012 Bupa Great Yorkshire Run. Sun. Sheffield City Centre. 10km.
16 Sep 2012 Great North Run. Sun 09:00 Newcastle, Gateshead. 13.1 miles.
07 Oct 2012 Bupa Great Edinburgh Run. Sun. 5km & 10km.
21 Oct 2011 Great Birmingham Run. Sun 09:00 City Centre. 13.1 miles.
28 Oct 2011 Great South Run. Sun 10:30. 10 miles & 5km.

Bupa Great Runs

20 May 2012 London-Brighton Mini Owners Run Sun 08:00-17:00 Crystal Palace to Madeira Drive. Annual Mini-Owners run organised by the London & Surrey Mini Owners Club.  Trade stands and auction etc.

21-26 May 2012 St Ives Food & Drink Festival Culminates in a food and drink producers’ market and cooking demonstrations on West Pier. Taste, try, meet, buy, and enjoy the finest flavours and tastes of Cornwall. See some of the best chefs in the county giving cooking demonstrations. What's On

Royal Horticultural Society Shows RHS Gardens

22-26 May 2012 RHS Chelsea Flower Show
13-17 Jun 2012 BBC Gardeners’ World Live
03-08 Jul 2012
Hampton Court Palace Flower Show
18-22 Jul 2012 RHS Flower Show Tatton Park

One of the world’s leading horticultural organisations, and the UK's leading gardening charity.

 

 

Science Museum, London Events

10:00-18:00 daily, Science Museum, Exhibition Road SW7 2DD. Tel 0870 870 4868.

Entry to the Museum is free, but charges apply for some special exhibitions.

23 May - 08 Jul 2012 Universe of Sound - Philharmonia Orchestra projection with touch screens.
21 Jun 2012 - Jun 2013 Alan Turing Exhibition. Computer pioneer and Enigma code breaker.


25 May-09 Jun 2012 The Salisbury Festival 16 days of events - many free.

25 May 2012 Le Concert de Feu Fri 21:15-22:00 Hudson's Field, Castle Road. World-renowned French company Les Commandos Percu will bring the magic of music and flames to Salisbury. Prepare to be dazzled by their astonishing precision drumming and beautiful pyrotechnics. Free entrance. Video

All Free Events

25 May 2012 Gumball 3000 Rally Over one hundred rich and famous each pay tens of thousands to drive their supercars 3000 miles in seven days. 2012 Route is in the USA. London pictures Video

25-27 May 2012 The Willow Festival, Peterborough 

Three days on the Peterborough Embankment - estimated attendance: 50,000.

120 bands, six stages - format as in previous years, but with further attractions.

Bands perform at their own cost. TWF is run by unpaid volunteers, and is non-profit making.

Free event with quality music from punk to jazz.

Welcome back after 9 years.

25-27 May 2012 Old Gaffers Boat Festival, Yarmouth Fri-Sun. Yarmouth's picturesque harbour will be filled with life and colour with more than 100 visiting traditional sailing, steam and motor vessels, including the cream of the Old Gaffers fleet. Race in the Solent on Saturday morning. On shore there will be street entertainment, live music, spectacular classic and gaff-rigged boats in the harbour, classic vehicles, craft fair, flower festival and lifeboat demonstration.

25 May - 10 Jun 2012 Bath Fringe Festival. Multiple events and locations. Attendance 16,000.

26 May 2012 Brighton Festival - Waterlitz by Générik Vapeur

Sat 21:30 for 21:45, Black Rock, Brighton.

A 30-ton metal figure towers against the city skyline...
With nerves of steel it keeps watch: silent and sentinel. Its 20-metre high body is made of eight huge shipping containers. But what lies behind their bolted doors, and what happens once the totem stirs?

Waterlitz is an astounding spectacle, exploring the ghosts of globalisation and 
the environmental impact of our ever more mechanised world. Yet, in the final 
reckoning, it suggests that the human mind and our indomitable spirit can never be contained.
Free event.

Breathtaking Aerial Ballet - Anarchic Street Theatre - Explosive Pyrotechnics.

 

26 May 2012 Pentecost Festival Sponsored Firewalk

Sat 10:00-12:30 St John’s Church, Waterloo, London SE1 8TY.

Walk barefoot over red-hot coals to end poverty!

You’ll receive a full 2-hour training session and then perform your amazing fire walk in front of friends and family.

Register in advance for just £15 and commit to raising at least £50 for Christian Aid to help communities in poverty.
 

 

 

26 May 2012 Gala Concert, Dewsbury

Sat 19:30 Dewsbury Minster, Rishworth Road, Dewsbury WF12 8DD. Tel 01924 457057.

The Glories Of Venice - The Friends of Dewsbury Minster present a Gala Concert featuring St Peter’s Singers, under the Musical Direction of Dr. Simon Lindley, in honour the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty The Queen. Tickets £5.

26 May 2012 [TBC] World Custard Pie Championship Sat 14:00 Coxheath, Kent. Teams parade, custard pie throwing, family fun and craft stalls. Entrance is free and all are welcome. Contact Les Mitchell lesm1984@gmail.com, Leslee Hardy Harris 07776 301888 or Mike FitzGerald 01622 743270.

26-27 May 2012 Southend Airshow

Sat-Sun. One of Europe's largest free air shows. Attendance 500,000. Nine hours of flying. One mile of ground attractions on the seafront. 01702 390333.

 

World Naked Bike Ride

An oil-dependency protest and celebration of the human body.

26 May 2012 Portsmouth Fri 13:00 for 14:00 Rose Gardens, Esplanade
01 Jun 2012 Manchester Fri 18:00 for 19:00 All Saints Park
02 Jun 2012 York Sat 16:00 Millenium Bridge
08 Jun 2012 Southampton Fri 18:00 for 18:30 Southampton Common, East side, next to Highfield Road
09 Jun 2012 London Sat 15:00 for 15:30 S.E. corner Hyde Park
09 Jun 2012 Cardiff Sat 14:00 for 15:00 National Museum
09 Jun 2012 [TBC] Edinburgh Sat 15:00 Middle Meadow Walk
09 Jun 2012 [TBC] Exeter Sat 10:00 for 12:00 Duckes Marsh
10 Jun 2012 Brighton Sun 12:00 for 13:30 Preston Park BN1 6DT
17 Jun 2012 [TBC] Sheffield Sun 10:00 Endcliffe Park
17 Jun 2012 [TBC] Bristol Sun 11:00 for 13:30 Stokes Croft

London Pictures Brighton Pictures

 

 

26 May - 04 Jun 2012 Suffolk Open Studios Showcase Exhibition

11:00-17:00 Blackthorpe Barn, Rougham, Bury St Edmunds IP30 9HZ.

Water colours, oil paintings, sculptures, wood carvings, drawings, prints, photography, jewellery, ceramics, glassware, textiles and mixed media from over 100 Suffolk artists. Visitors can collect a free pocket directory giving artists details.

Free admission to the public.

27 May 2012 UK Backward Run Sunday, Heaton Park, Manchester M25 2SW.

UK Ultra Running Championships

27 May 2012 Shires & Spires, Northants. 35 miles.
23 Jun 2012 Classic Quarter, South Coast. 44 miles.
07 Jul 2012 Osmotherley, North Yorks. 33 miles.
11 Aug 2012 Long Tour of Bradwell, Peak District. 33 miles.
01 Sep 2012 Bullock Smithy,  Peak District. 56 miles.
15 Sep 2012 High Peak 40, Peak District. 40 miles.
29 Sep 2012 Hardmoors 60, North Yorks. 60 miles.
20 Oct 2012 Round Rotheram, Yorkshire. 50 miles.


Space Hopper Events - Craft & Gift Fairs

27 May 2012 Baby & Toddler Fair, Sutton Coldfield
06 Oct 2012 Birmingham Vintage & Craft & Pre-Loved Extravaganza, Aston University

 

 
27 May 2012 BUPA London 10,000 Road Race

Sun 10:00 The Mall.

10k Circular route through Westminster and The City.

 

 
27 May 2012 Race For Life, London

Sun 11:00 Hyde Park.

Women's 5k charity run.


27 May 2012 Holistic & Mystic Fair, Hove

Sun 10:00-17:30 Hove Town Hall, Norton Road BN3 4AH.

About 70 exhibitors, including holistic and complementary products, plus free talks and workshops. £3.50.

27 May - 03 Jun 2012 Rainbow Film Festival, London Various venues. Films, both documentary and features, celebrating the diversity of Asian culture, all with English sub-titles.

 

Love Food Festivals

27 May 2012 Love Food Festival, Dyrham Park


Bath & West Showground - Upcoming Events

30 May - 02 Jun 2012 Royal Bath & West Show - biggest event in the rural calendar
10 Jun 2012 Toy Fair - up to 300 stalls
19-24 Jun 2012 Gerry Cottle's 50 Years Of Circus & Magic - daily shows with 50 acts
23-24 Jun 2012 Bristol & West Landrover Show - displays & off road course
30 Jun - 01 Jul 2012 Truckfest SW - customised trucks & main arena

 


Pride 2012

02-03 Jun 2012 Birmingham Pride Sat-Sun. Hurst Street area. Pictures
09-10 Jun 2012 Blackpool Pride. Parade Saturday. Party near the pier.
16 Jun 2012 Gloucester
16 Jun 2012 Calderdale Pride
23 Jun 2012 Swansea
23 Jun 2012 Outburst Black London
23 Jun 2012
Edinburgh
06-08 Jul 2012 Manchester Sparkle
06-09 Jul 2012 Bournemouth
07 Jul 2012 London Parade 13:00 Oxford St to Whitehall. Stages in Trafalgar Sq, Leicester Sq, Dean St, Carlisle St, Soho Sq. Pictures Video

07 Jul 2012 Lincoln
14 Jul 2012 Sheffield 13:00-19:00 Endcliffe Park
14 Jul 2012 Thanet
21 Jul 2012 Hull
28 Jul 2012 Torbay
Party in the park
28 Jul 2012 Nottingham
28 Jul 2012
Belfast
04 Aug 2012 Liverpool
04 Aug 2012 Stoke
11 Aug 2012 Black London
11 Aug 2012 Plymouth
11 Aug 2012 Swindon
17-27 Aug 2012 Manchester
18 Aug 2012 Doncaster
25 Aug 2012 Truro
01 Sep 2012
Brighton Parade 11:00 Seafront. Party at Preston Park, ticketed.
01 Sep 2012
Reading
02 Sep 2012 Barnsley
19 Oct - 10 Nov 2012 Glasgow

 

County & Agricultural Shows 2012

30 May - 02 Jun 2012 Royal Bath & West Show - Shepton Mallet
04 Jun 2012
Surrey County Show - Guildford
07-08 Jun 2012
Suffolk Show - Trinity Park, Ipswich
21-24 Jun 2012
Royal Highland Show - Edinburgh
06-08 Jul 2012
East of England Country Show - Peterborough
10-12 Jul 2012
Great Yorkshire Show - Great Yorkshire Showground
24-26 Jul 2012 New Forest Show - Brockenhurst
25 Jul 2012
Stranraer Show - Playing Fields, Stranraer
28 Jul 2012
Oxford & Thame Show - Thame
19 Aug 2012
Mid-Somerset Show - Shepton Mallet
01 Sep 2012
Alresford Agricultural Show - Tichborne Park
15-16 Sep 2012
Royal Berkshire Show - Newbury Showground
20-21 Oct 2012
Countryside Live.- Great Yorkshire Showground

30 May - 02 Jun 2012 The Royal Bath & West Show The country's biggest rural festival with something for everyone. 600+ trade stands.

31 May-10 Jun 2012 How The Light Gets In, Philosophy Festival, Hay on Wye. Philosophical talks, live music and workshops. Some events free, others tickets available on the website.

31 May-10 Jun 2012 Hay Festival

01 Jun 2012 Cotswold Olimpicks Fri 19:30 Dover's Hill, Chipping Campden. Morris Men, Coventry Corps of Drums, Campden Academy of Dance, St Andrews Pipe Band, German Shepherd Dogs, Fighting Arts, Tae Kwan Do, Tug of War, Fairground Rides, Birds of Prey, Climbing Wall, Gurning. Hot and cold food. £3 entrance.

19:30 Cannon fire awakes the Games
19:45 Parade of the teams, rural sports and Obstacle Race.
20:15 Five Mile Run
20:30 Throwing the Hammer, Putting the Shot, Standing Jump
20:45 Shin-Kicking Heats
21:15 Tug-of-War Final
21:30 Shin-Kicking British Championships
21:45 Bonfire & Fireworks
22:10 Torchlit Procession to Chipping Campden Square.
Live Band and dancing till midnight
Cotswold Olimpicks   Procession Map Video: 1 2 3 4 5 6

01 Jun 2012 Saddleworth & District Brass Band Contests Whit Friday. Described as the greatest free show on Earth. Over a hundred open air performances at 20 venues around the moorland villages and towns. There can be 50 or more bands at the busier venues, and you can expect some world class playing. Each band plays two pieces - one on the march. Competition is fierce, and adjudication can last into the early hours. Venues Video

01-04 Jun 2012 Fishguard Folk Festival, Pembrokeshire Fri-Mon. Concerts, dance, busking, real ale and guided smugglers walk.

01-04 Jun 2012 Sompting Jubilee Festival  Fri-Mon. Multiple community events.

Arthur Swallow Antique Fairs - Lincolnshire Showground LN2 2NA.

Antiques, collectables, reproduction and reclamation items for home and garden.
3000 stalls and thousands of buyers.
The show is held six times a year. Mon 09:00-17:00, Tue 07:00-17:00, Wed 08:00-16:00. Forthcoming dates:

01-03 Jun 2012 (Fri-Sun)
10-12 Aug 2012 (Fri-Sun)
01-03 Oct 2012
03-05 Dec 2012


01-03 Jun 2012 Wessex Folk Festival, Weymouth Fri-Sun. Around Hope Square and the Old Harbour in Weymouth. Free and ticketed events. On Saturday there will probably be Morris dancing on the promenade and Brewers Quay and a parade on the promenade at 13:00. Various venues and pub sessions - check web site for details. A rover ticket for all events costs about £20.

01-04 Jun 2012 Chippenham Folk Festival. Fri-Mon. Over 200 events in the town centre. Ceilidh and concert events in the riverside park. Multiple pub sessions, workshops, concerts and dances. Full program of children's events, craft marquee, catering facilities and an open air arena in the park. The High Street and historic Market Square are traffic-free, and feature buskers, street theatre and processions. There is a large street fair on Monday.

01-04 Jun 2012 The Gate to Southwell Folk Festival

Fri-Mon Southwell, Nottinghamshire NG25 0PT. Roots and folk, dancing on two marquee stages, children's festival, events around town and in local pubs. Real ale, cider, quality food and craft stalls. Camping in adjacent fields and good toilets. Lineup includes Jools Holland & his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra (Friday), plus many others including: Dougie MacLean, Le Vent du Nord, Brass Monkey, Breabach, Jon Boden and the Remnant Kings, Beoga, Martyn Joseph, Karine Polwart Trio, Morris On, Calan.

01-02 Jun 2012 The Big Knock - British Diesel Bike Rally Fri-Sat. Bat And Ball Inn, Wisborough Green, Sussex. Small, but enthusiastic annual gathering of riders with their machines. The event features a group ride-out to a scenic location. Camping is available in the rally field, opposite the pub. Food at the pub. www.dieselbike.net

02 Jun 2012 Epsom Derby

Sat Epsom Downs Racecourse. A day at the races. Free entrance to the central area. 120,000 revelers, music stage with a party atmosphere, lots of market stalls, food, drink and picnics.

2010 Party Video 2009 Party Video Race Times

 

02 Jun 2012 [TBC] Kemptown Carnival, Brighton

Sat 11:00 St Georges Road. Parade of Flowers & Samba Parade with over 200 performers.

5 live stages with over 25 bands. A small army of street performers, Capoeira displays, choirs, dance troupes, break dancing, a fashion event, art and book fairs, crafts, community market, a children's area, magicians, creative workshops, and more!

Biggest carnival event happening in Brighton and Hove in 2012

02 Jun 2012 Strawberry Fair, Cambridge Sat 11:00-23:00 Free festival on Midsummer Common. 11:00 Spectacular parade from Christ's Pieces, through the town to Midsummer Common. Three music stages, including live dance acts & DJs. Attendance: 35,000. Strawberry Fair Map

Ruby Country Market, Devon

02 Jun, 11 Aug, 01 Dec 2012. Saturdays 10:00-16:00 at Hatherleigh. Tel 07855 187 364.

Traditional country market held on an 11 acre site, with parking for over 600 cars.
Great family day out with 100 local stalls, live music, kids merry-go-round, face painting etc.

The Devon Air Ambulance is the charity we have chosen to support throughout 2012.

 

National Trust Chilterns Gateway Centre

Chilterns Gateway Centre, Dunstable Road, Whipsnade LU6 2GY.

Tel. 01582 500920 ~ 01582 500925.

Sun 20 May 2012 Wildlife & Nature Walk 11:00-13:00
Sat 02 Jun 2012 Jubilee Arts Celebration Day 11:00-17:00
Sun 03 Jun 2012 Jubilee Big Lunch 11:00-17:00
Mon 04 Jun 2012 History Festival 11:00-22:00
Tue 05 Jun 2012 Jubilee Family Fun Day 11:00-17:00 
Wed-Thu 06-07 Jun 2012 Bugs and Beasties Hunt 11:00, 12:00, 13:00
Wed 13 Jun 2012 Evening Ramble 18:00-20:00
Sat 16 June 2012
Nature and Orchid Walk 11:00 
Sun 17 Jun 2012 Cycling Fit Fathers Day 07:15
Sat-Sun 14-15 Jul 2012 Kite Festival 11:00

02 Jun 2012 British Beach Week Finale, Hastings. Jubilee pier party on Saturday. The fun-packed pier picnic and party offers a perfect day out for families looking for a way to make the most of the Diamond Jubilee weekend festivities. British Beach Week is hosted by www.cottages4you.co.uk and runs across the UK from 26 May to 02 Jun 2012.

02-03 Jun 2012 Birmingham Pride Sat-Sun. Hurst Street area. 12:00 Sat - parade Victoria Square, New Street, Temple Street, Temple Row, Colmore Row and Bull Street, and into the Gay Village area. Birmingham Pride

40 acre site.

World fusion food.

See link for more info & tickets.

02-03 Jun 2012 Happy Days Festival, Surrey

Sat-Sun 14:00-22:00 Imber Court, East Molesey KT8 0BT.

3 decades of amazing music with other entertainments including themed retro bars, pyrotechnics, games area, family fun activities and an after show party (featuring Heatwave for 2012).

Sat - Jocelyn Brown, Joyce Sims, Gwen McCrae, D Train (James Williams), Colonel Abrams, Light Of The World, Andy Abraham (X Factor), 308.
Sun - Level 42, Billy Ocean, Soul II Soul, Maxi Priest, Modern Romance, Errol Reid (China Black), cLuMsY, Matt Woods.

02-05 Jun 2012 Margam Park Kite Festival Kite festival, Margam Country Park, just  off the M4 near Port Talbot, Wales. Amazing variety of kites and other attractions, in a relaxed environment, close to good beaches. Free entrance.

02 Jun 2012 Liverpool Lord Mayors Pageant Sat 13:00 Pall mall. 0151 228 2255.

02-03 Jun 2011 Morris Minor National Rally Sat-Sun. Nebworth.

02-05 Jun 2012 Bedford International Kite Festival Russell Park. Giant parafoils, stunt flights, street theatre, crafts, dragon boat racing, flower and gourmet markets along the promenade, music stage in Russell Park and a motor show on Mill Meadows. Arena for the public to fly their own kites. 50,000 spectators. Free entrance. 01234 221955 events@bedford.gov.uk

02-03 & 09-10 Jun 2012 Wandle Jubilee Weekends, London Sat-Sun. Activities for all ages along the river in Wandsworth, Merton, Sutton and Croydon. Events include arts and crafts, heritage and nature discovery activities, archaeology 'digs', historical displays and talks, river clean-ups and music. There are also guided cycle rides, fun runs and other sports activities and a variety of long and short guided walks in parks or along the river. Mostly free.

02-03 Jun 2012 Hamstreet Country Fayre, Ashford, Kent Sat-Sun 11:00-17:00 Marsh Road, Hamstreet. Steel Band, Tunbridge Twirlers, Dance Academy, party bus, horse rides, falconry, children's train rides, fun fair, bucking bronco, gladiator challenges, bouncy castle, wood turners, apple press, rope modelling, Magic etc. Hog roast, BBQ, tea rooms, bar, beer festival, cider, Ice Cream. Music till late. Host to the British Lawn Mower Races. Entrance about £6.

03 Jun 2012 Diamond Jubilee Festival. Sun 12:00 Battersea Park, London. Full on line up of DJs, live music, dancing, games, a pop up pub, makeovers and an alternative village fete. Live entertainment from The Noisettes, The Selector, Fairey Acid Brass Band, and Urban Soul Orchestra. £5.

02-03 Jun 2012 Jubilee Family Festival. Sat-Sun 10:30-19:30 Hyde Park, London. Two days of entertainment for kids and big kids. Queen's Cavalry and marching bands, parades, children's television characters, dance stage, motorbike stunts, equestrian events, celebrity performers, food and drink. Finale Disney concert to finish each day. Adults £20, children £12.50 ticketed - capacity 50,000.

03 Jun 2012 Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant

One of the largest flotillas ever assembled on the River Thames, as London celebrates The Queen's 60th year as the reigning monarch.

Up to 1,000 boats are expected to take part in the pageant, including those used by the armed forces and emergency services, as well as historic boats, wooden launches and steam vessels. Each craft will be decorated with streamers and Union Jack flags, and the passenger boats will carry up to 30,000 members of the public. Music barges, boats spouting geysers, pyrotechnic barges releasing smoke and daytime fireworks. Family fun at Battersea Park, with music, a traditional funfair and Jubilee-themed entertainment. 50 big screens along the route.

Lead vessel is expected to pass under Battersea Bridge at 14:30 and reach Tower Bridge at 15:30. The last vessel passes through Tower Bridge at 17:00.
More. Picture: William Dudley

03 Jun 2012 Preston Caribbean Carnival 12:00-20:00. The parade begins at Moor Park and parades through the city centre, following a procession route through to Avenham Park where the music continues in to the evening. 01772 903660

03 Jun 2012 [TBC] Lavender Festival, London Sun 11:00-17:00 One mile of family friendly attractions, entertainment and games by the Trader's Association of Lavender Hill - live music, competitions, market stalls, farm animals to pet, face painting, Punch and Judy, plus a display of entries to the inter-school Lavender Creative Writing Competition. The event is working to support the Rainbow School for autistic children in Wandsworth.

03 Jun 2012 [TBC]  London-Brighton Classic Car Run. Sun 09:00 Mercedes-Benz World Museum at Brooklands, Weybridge, Surrey.

03 Jun 2012 [TBC] Great Midlands Fun Run. Sunday. Sutton Park, Sutton Coldfield. 8.5 mile charity fund raiser. Map

03 Jun - 09 Sep 2012 [TBC] Sky Ride

Car-free routes around major cities. Sky Ride aims to get one million more people onto bikes by 2013.

03 Jun 2012 [TBC] Bath
10 Jun 2012 [TBC] Ipswich
01 Jul 2012 [TBC] Birmingham
08 Jul 2012 [TBC] Middlesbrough
22 Jul 2012 [TBC] Bournemouth
29 Jul 2012 [TBC] Hillingdon
29 Jul 2012 [TBC] Bradford
05 Aug 2012 [TBC] Manchester
12 Aug 2012 [TBC] Blackpool
12 Aug 2012 [TBC] Southampton
19 Aug 2012 [TBC] Barking and Dagenham
19 Aug 2012 [TBC] Hull
26 Aug 2012 [TBC] Leicester
26 Aug 2012 [TBC] Milton Keynes
02 Sep 2012 [TBC] London
09 Sep 2012 [TBC] Glasgow

Video www.goskyride.com

04 Jun 2012 Public Holiday - Spring Bank Holiday

Soap Box Derbys

04 Jun 2012 Whitehill Bordon 11:00 Chalet Hill. Fete in Jubilee Park
23 Jun 2012 Avon 15:00 Avon Dassett, Warwickshire.
08 Jul 2012 Hinckley 11:00 Castle Street.
0
4-05 Aug 2012 Dalby Forest Pickering, North Yorks. Very fast.
01 Jan 2013 Sharlston 11:30 The Green, Sharlston,Wakefield.

04 Jun 2012 Surrey County Show. Bank holiday Monday. 09:00-18:00 Stoke Park, Guildford. Largest one-day agricultural show in the UK. 40 acres of shopping malls, packed with 350 trade stands selling everything from tractors to garden furniture. Two and a half miles of tents and marquees; 71 judges scrutinizing everything from bulls to hens. The traditional end to the day is the mass launch of hot air balloons.

04 Jun 2012 Soham Heavy Horse Show 09:00-17:00. Bank holiday Monday. The Recreation Ground, Fountain Lane. Heavy Horse Show from 9.00am until 1.00pm. The Carnival Parade of Decorated Vehicles will start at Townsend at 1.00pm. Vintage & Classic Vehicle Show Starts at 3.45pm. Live Bands Plus DJ’s, Real Ales Beer Tent, Soham Fenlander Majorette Troupe, Stalls from Local Tradesmen, Charities, Children’s Races, BBQ, Punch & Judy etc.

Luton Caribbean Carnival - new date: Sat 07 Jul 2012

04 Jun 2012 [TBC] Reading Community Carnival Monday. 12:30-19:00. Caribbean style carnival, Prospect Park and surrounding streets. Reading Community Carnival Video

04 Jun 2012 [TBC] Cheese Rolling, Brockworth, Gloucester Mon 12:00 Coopers Hill, Brockworth. Foolhardy souls cartwheel down a 1 in 1 gradient, chasing a 7lb cheese. There are five downhill & four uphill races. No advanced booking for competitors, and free viewing for the public, but a modest parking charge. This long-standing Gloucester tradition is held on common land. The hill is very steep - competitors & spectators must do their own risk assessment.

Cheese Rolling Video Map

04 Jun 2012 Wool Sack Races, Tetbury Bank Holiday afternoon. Wacky event where dozens of hopefuls race up and down Gumstool Hill in Tetbury town center carrying 60lb sacks of wool (35lb for the ladies). The course runs the 280 yards, between The Royal Oak and The Crown, and is a very steep 1-in-4. Street fair, entertainment, market, craft show, and a charity auction. Races from 14:00. Attendance 10,000. Free. Wool Sack Races

04 Jun 2012 [TBC] Lord Mayor's Parade, Oxford 11:00-12:00 Parade with dancing and music - Carfax, Cornmarket, George St, New Inn Hall Street, Bonn Square, Oxford Castle. Ceremonial robing of the new Lord Mayor at 11:30 in Bonn Square. Parade led by the new Lord Mayor John Goddard, Mayor of Bonn, Oxford University Brass Band and the Stadsoldatten Band. 12:00-17:00 Oxford Castle - family picnic, music, dance, medieval re-enactments, street entertainers, puppet show, juggler, magician, community stalls, farmer’s market, food and drink.

04 Jun 2012 [TBC] Lord Mayor's Family Show, Birmingham 11:00-17:00 Victoria Square and Chamberlain Square, City Centre. Free entry. Live entertainment, stalls and attractions, picnic areas, children's rides and entertainment, spitfire aircraft, vintage vehicles and lots more. We look forward to seeing you at this fun filled event

04 Jun 2012 Family Fun Day & Music

Mon 16:00 till Late, The West Arms Hotel , Llanarmon Dyffryn Ceiriog , Denbighshire LL20 7LD. 01691 600 665.

Live music, DJ, cask ales and ciders, BBQ. Free entry.

04 Jun 2012 [TBC] Hove Lions Carnival, Brighton. Mon 12:00-18:00 Community Fun Day, Hove Park.

Bolton Steam Museum

Mornington Road, Chorley Old Road, Bolton BL1 4EU. 01204 846490. 

27 old stationary steam engines have been rescued and restored - some of the engines which once drove the cotton mills and woollen mills of the north of England. Most will be running in steam on these days only. Free admission, although donations towards the cost of running the boiler would be appreciated.

04-05 Jun 2012 Mon-Tue 10:00-16:00
26-27 Aug 2012 Sun-Mon 10:00-16:00
08-09 Sep 2012 Sat-Sun 10:00-16:00
29-30 Dec 2012 Sat-Sun 10:00-16:00

 

05 Jun 2012 Public Holiday - Diamond Jubilee Holiday

The More London Free Festival at The Scoop

Riverside, London SE1 2DB

A summer of free outdoor theatre, music & film.

06-22 Jun 2012 Fringe. Up-and-coming and more experimental arts.
05 Jul - 05 Aug 2012 Theatre 18:00, 20:00 and 21:30.
08-31 Aug 2012 Music - Including AllStars Collective every Friday evening.
12-28 Sep 2012 Film. Every Wed & Fri 19:30. Classic, cult, contemporary.

Full Listings

 

 

07-13 Jun 2012 Appleby Horse Fair, Cumbria Highlight of the year for Gypsies and Travelers and an opportunity to have some fun, see old friends and do some business. Lots of people, lots of horses, lots of hustle and bustle, but no dodgems, no carousels, no big stage. Attendance 40,000.

07 Jun 2012 [TBC] Admiral of the Port's Challenge, London Thu 19:00 Palace of Westminster to Westminster Boating Base - 1.33 miles. Race of traditional Thames Waterman's Cutters, each 34 feet long with seats for up to six rowers and room for a cox and passengers.

08-10 Jun 2012 [TBC] Maidenhead Carnival Town centre & Kidwels Park. Saturday - town centre, live music in Kidwells Park & fireworks at 22:30. Sunday 12:00 Carnival parade, Kidwells Park.

Parade Music & Fireworks Maidenhead Net 07789 990924

08-10 Jun 2012 [TBC] Wimborne Folk Festival, Dorset. Traditional English and Celtic music and dance, Irish, Scottish and clog dancing displays, market stalls, clothing, jewellery and gifts.

09 Jun 2012 Northampton Carnival 10:45 Delapre Park

09 Jun 2012 [TBC] Great Knaresborough Bed Race, Yorkshire Saturday. 90 teams of six runners and passenger run for charitable and community causes. Thousands of spectators. 10:00 Bed preparation, Castle Ground. 11:00 Fete and entertainment, Conyngham Hall Field. 11:30 Judging, Castle Ground.
13:00 Procession, Castlegate to Conyngham Hall. 15:00 Race Start. 16:30 Presentation of Prizes

09 Jun 2012 [TBC] Oxford Pride Parade. Sat 12:00 from Cornmarket.

09 Jun 2012 [TBC] Marlow Town Regatta & Festival Saturday - Regatta and rowing programme set in the beautiful and scenic riverside town of Marlow, with a garden party atmosphere. Sunday Marlow Dragon Boat Festival 600+ participants in 42 teams, combined with overwhelming numbers of supporters creating a fantastic day out. 0845 130 2248 lauren@dragonsalive.co.uk for more details.

09 Jun 2012 [TBC] The Old Fair of Abinger. Sat 14:00 Village green. Procession, maypole dancing. tug-o-war, Punch & Judy, Church music, cantata choir, sideshows, tossing the sheaf, aerial archery, mediaeval stocks, story teller, stalls, arts and crafts, cakes, farm and garden produce, toys, books, pies, sweet meats, bric a brac and souvenirs. Exhibition of Flowers of Abinger and photographs from fairs gone by will be held in the Church. Spend a quiet interlude away from the hubbub of the Fair. Roast sheep, refreshments, beers, cider, soft drinks and ices are available throughout the afternoon. Cream teas are served in the village hall. 

09 Jun 2012 [TBC] Man v Horse Marathon, Wales Sat 11:00 Llanwrtyd Wells. Start at the Town Square, finish at Victoria Wells, a mile away. Lots of vantage points for spectators. Madcap race where the fittest of the fit race against horses. The 22 mile hilly course, down tracks and over moorland, is crafted to make it just possible for man to win.

09 Jun 2012 [TBC] Jewellery Charity Event and Family Fun Day, Herts 09:45-17:00 Harriet Kelsall Jewellery Design, Fairclough Hall Farm SG4 7DP. Meet the jewellery designers, see goldsmiths at work, children’s jewellery making workshops, charity raffle. Outside - free classic car rally with bar, jazz band and lots of fun things for the kids. Bring a picnic for a great free family day out. Free entrance - held twice a year, in aid of the NSPCC.

09 Jun 2012 [TBC] Throckmorton Airshow Saturday, Throckmorton Airfield. The UK's premier Emergency and Armed Services fun day, attracting 15,000 visitors, in aid of Help for Heroes. Central Motorway Police Group & West Mercia Police Partnership. An amazing line up of static and flying exhibits, as the date coincides with the Cosford Air Show and many of the flying display's from there will diverting to display at Throckmorton. UK Emergency and Armed Service exhibits. Telly Cops Extravaganza! - Motorway Cops, Traffic Cops, Road Wars, Police Interceptors, Sky Cops and Coastline Cops all at the show.

09 Jun 2012 [TBC] Pangbourne Village Fete Sat 12:00-17:30 The Riverside Meadow. Commercial, charity and craft stalls. Main arena with Fire Show, Welly Throwing, Novelty races and Egg-throwing. Coconuts, hoopla, bungee trampoline, ice cream, bouncy castle, lucky dips and all the usual kids stuff. Food & drink -beer tent, hog roast, curry, BBQ, bacon rolls, French Cafe with wine and cheese. Probable dragon boat racing 09:00-17:30. Entrance is about £3 (programme) for a family and £4 with car parking. Pangbourne Village Fete. Video

Vauxhall UK Beatbox Championships

Vocal percussion of drum beats, rhythm, and musical sounds using mouth, lips, tongue and voice.
Back for its biggest year, with performers throughout the UK keen to show off their vocal skills - everyone’s in with a chance to win a new Vauxhall Car.

GRAND FINAL
09 Jun 2012 [TBC] Fri. London Islington O2 Academy. Time TBC, Tickets - www.ticketweb.co.uk
 

09-10 Jun 2012 Ritchey Bristol Bikefest  Sat-Sun 09:00 upper area, Ashton Court. Fast figure of eight course with bridge and short climbs. 12 hour event on Saturday. Sunday is aimed at newer sport riders, and lasts 6 hours. Saturday night live music and bar. Broad selection of the latest bikes and kit available for testing. Camping available for competitors - booking essential. Food and drink in the event village. Spectators welcome.

09-10 Jun 2012 Evesham Balloon Festival Sat-Sun About 20 balloons. Saturday - dawn and dusk launches, hovercraft, fun fair on Crown Meadow, live music, night glow and fireworks. Sunday - family fun run.

09 Jun 2012 London Green Fair Sat 12:00-19:30 Regents Park. Music, dance, fashion, crafts, bike fest, healing area, global cuisine, ethical markets and bars. Attendance 25,000. Free entrance. London Green Fair

09-10 Jun 2012 [TBC] Amthai Thai Festival, Wimbledon One of the largest Thai events in the UK. Organised by Amthai Newspaper, the first Thai newspaper in the UK. Authentic Thai culture including Thai music, Thai massage, Thai cultural performances, Thai products and of course Thai foods. There will also be stalls selling Thai goods and crafts and a fun fair for the children. Wimbledon Park (Athletic Stadium) London 11:00-19:00. £3 entrance. Trafalgar Square London Thai Festival - pictures

09-10 Jun 2012 [TBC] Blackpool Pride Parade Sat 10:30-12:00. 3 music stages, party near the pier, wrestling, fair, pub events.

09-10 Jun 2012 [TBC] Adur Festival, Beach Dreams Sat 12:00-18:00. Beach Green, Shoreham-by-Sea. Imagination, costume, freedom of expression, music, dance, food and drink. Two huge processions, one from The Beach School, and one from the Church of the Good Shepherd. Both leaving at 12:00. Sun 10:00-20:00. Mellow & chilled music. Free entrance. Beach Dreams Map

09-10 Jun 2012 [TBC] Amthai Thai Festival, London Sat-Sun 11:00-19:00 Wimbledon Park. Thai food, musicians, martial artists, dancers, massage, funfair.

09-10 Jun 2012 [TBC] Blackheath Bike and Kite Festival 11:00-16:00. Displays and stunts from international kite fliers and bike racers, with an emphasis on fun for all the family. Inflatable kites and kite train, synchronised kite ballet and kite traders. Held during National Bike Week. UK mountain bike stunt display team, Team MAD, electric bikes and mopeds, Dr Bike and specialist bike traders. Children’s Funfair for under 12's. More info 0208 314 3674.

09-24 Jun 2012 Broomhill Festival, Sheffield. A multiple events.

10 Jun 2012 Liverpool Backward Run Sunday, Pier Head, Liverpool.

10 Jun 2012 [TBC] Twickenham Carnival Sun 12:00-17:00. 12:00 Vibrant carnival parade, bursting with spectacular costumes, dancers and drummers, will set off from York House and wind its way along the riverside to the Carnival Village in the grounds of Orleans House Gallery. Join the crowds dancing to traditional steel pans and the carnival sound system playing everything from Samba to Soca. The Carnival village will showcase the best in traditional music and dance from around the world, along with a craft bazaar, performance workshops, arts activities and a vast array of global food and drink for sale. This annual event is free to attend. Attendance 3,000 and growing.

Video Video2 Map Twickenham Carnival

10 Jun 2012 [TBC] Classic Motor Cycle Meet & Run, Eastbourne 09:45-16:45 Western Lawns. 250 classic motorcycles, fun walk, funfair, dancing, live music, morris dancing, charity stalls and refreshments. Classic Motorcycle Run at 11:00 - 60 miles through scenic East Sussex.

10 Jun 2012 [TBC] Classic & Veteran Car Rally, Kent Sun 10:30 The South of England Rare Breeds Centre, Woodchurch, Ashford. Auto jumble, Crafts, Stalls etc. Entry fee gives free access to the Rare Breeds Centre, for the driver and up to two passengers. Charity event. Tel 01233 861 493

10 Jun 2012 [TBC] Weymouth Vintage Bus Running Day 10:00. Free.

10 Jun 2012 [TBC] Royal Windsor Triathlon. Sunday. Sprint Triathlon: 750m Swim, 30km Bike, 5km Run. Full and Elite Triathlon: 1.5km Swim, 42km Bike, 10km Run. 2500 competitors. Amazing event, with many BTA awards in the last few years. Race focused in and around Alexandra Gardens in the centre of Windsor. Bike course takes in villages around beautiful Berkshire and returns through Windsor Great Park. The multi-lap run course winds around the Castle, over Eton Bridge and along Eton High Street. Start Times: Sprint Waves from 6:00am, Full Waves from 6:20am, Elite from 9:00am. Several thousand spectators will pack the streets to watch the race on the warm summer morning. Map

Eastbourne Lions Club

10 Jun 2012 Classic Motorcycle Event, Western Lawns
13 Oct 2012 Swimathon, Sovereign Swimming Pool

Full details and more events

10 Jun 2012 Nuneaton Carnival Sun 13:00 Caldwell Road - 25 decorated floats, carnival queen, marching bands, majorette troupes, cheerleaders and over 100 walking entries. One of the largest voluntary organised town Carnival's in the country.

10 Jun 2012 [TBC] Peterborough Kite Festival. Sunday. Organized by the Great Ouse Kite Fliers club, and held at Ferry Meadows. The eleventh annual kite festival. Many displays from small kites to large inflatables - as an example last year included a 3m lizard, a 3m scuba diver, a pair of legs, a giant Manta ray and novel features like teddy bears being parachuted down and dropping sweets for children. Expect to see exciting club flying. Free to enter but there is a car parking charge.  Packed arena program with some excellent kite flying skills on display.  Ferry Meadows offers plenty of room for everyone to fly with a huge field for sports and power kites, a single line arena and a childrens workshop and their own arena to fly in.

10-17 Jun 2012 Nudefest, Cornwall A weekend of events and activities run by British Naturism that takes place a short distance from Newquay at 25-acre, 400-pitch Newperran Holiday Park. Exclusive use of the park, and nudity will be permitted throughout the event, from midday, Thursday to midday, Sunday. Heated pool, sunbathing terraces, pub, shop & cafe. Two live music sessions, disco, pub quiz, sacred dance, body-painting, yoga, life coaching, sports and exhibitors from the naturist world.

11-17 Jun 2012 [TBC] South Norwood Arts Festival Fancy yourself as a 15th century swordsman? How about morris dancing? Or maybe it's the history of the people buried in the cemetery which fascinates? Art exhibitions or be present at the premier of a new play?  All of these opportunities and over 30 more will be available to residents of South Norwood, and visitors at the People for Portland Road's annual arts festival. contact@peopleforportlandroad.org.uk 07982 444773 Full Programme

15-17 Jun 2012 [TBC] Oceanfest, Devon Fri-Sun Croyde Bay. Beach ocean sports and music festival. Friday - acoustic. Saturday 12:00 - 23:00 live bands. Sunday until 21:00. See link for tickets.

15-17 Jun 2012 Fuse Medway Festival Fri-Sun. Street entertainment, music and pyrotechnics in and around Rochester, Kent. Fireworks Saturday. Video www.fusefestival.org.uk

15-17 Jun 2012 [TBC] Nantwich Festival Of Arts Most events are free of charge. Programme

15-23 Jun 2012 [TBC] The Hoppings, Newcastle Europe's largest traveling fair, Town Moor. Last week in June. Over 60 rides appealing to all ages - from roller coasters and funhouses to teacups and big wheels. Alongside all of these rides are dozens of catering units. 13:30-23:00 daily.

16 Jun 2012 Trooping The Colour, London Sat 11:00 Horse Guards Parade & The Mall. Official birthday of HM The Queen. The five Household Regiments - Grenadier, Coldstream, Scots, Irish and Welsh Guards take their turn each year. After 12:00 RAF fly-past, watched by members of the Royal Family on the Palace balcony. Trooping The Colour

16 Jun 2012 Peterborough Dragon Boat Festival Sat 10:00-18:00 River Nene, Town Bridge. Britain’s largest dragon boat event, with races every 10 minutes throughout the day. Over 50 crews and 10,000 spectators. Ancient Chinese tradition and the fastest growing water activity. Up to 10 people paddle each 30’ boat with a drummer at the front and a helm at the tail steering. Food and drink, beer tent, live music. Continuous activities on the bank include mini hovercraft, aeroball, paintball and crossbow shooting, the giant slide and dragon bouncer, fun inflatables, fairground rides, games and sidestalls, rodeo bull, donkey rides and children’s quads. Media sponsor - Hereward FM. More from Gable Events

16 Jun 2012 Crystal Palace Overground Festival

Sat 11:00 Westow Park & Crystal Palace Triangle, London SE19 3AN.

The best local live music, poetry, theatre, comedy, film, food and fashion. Gourmet food market, crafts, and children's arts workshops.
Local bars and shops will host stalls, gigs and DJs into the night. Art market in Victory Place, plus antique and vintage shopping at the Church Road market.
Free entrance.

16 Jun 2012 [TBC] Newhaven Fort Open Day, Sussex. Saturday. Community open day with free admission to Newhaven Fort. Family fun, with live music, craft workshops, face painting, Punch & Judy, guided tours, stalls and demonstrations. Supported by Newhaven Town Council.

16 Jun 2012 [TBC] Tottenham Carnival and Festival Sat 11:00 Parade from Eade Road, along Tottenham High Road to Bruce Castle Park, Lordship Lane. Organised by Tottenham Community Festival and Carnival, a registered charity. Free. www.tottenhamcarnival.co.uk

16 Jun 2012 [TBC] Hanwell Carnival, Ealing Sat 11:00 Procession Hanwell Community Centre to Elthorne Park. Local bands, dog show, craft fair, fun fair, food stalls including English, Indian and Caribbean. The oldest continuous carnival in London - 15,000 visitors.

16 Jun 2012 Calderdale Pride Sat 12:00-19:00 Halifax Piece Hall. Festival-style celebration of diversity, with a stage line-up of fantastic local and national interest. Numerous commercial, craft, food and information stalls offering a huge variety of goods and information. Attendance: 9000. Winner of Halifax Courier’s Best New Charity 2011. Previous headline acts have included X Factor's Diva Fever. Free entrance.

16 Jun 2012 [TBC] Proms in the Park, Bognor Sat 19:30-21:30 Hotham Park. Bring a picnic and a bottle of wine. Last night of the prom’s classics by the Bognor Regis Concert Band. Free entrance. Bognor Regis Town Council Marketing, Tourism & Events Dept. 01243 825535 Bognor Proms

16 Jun 2012 [TBC] Shrewsbury Carnival 10:30-17:00 Entertainment in The Quarry. 14:00 town centre parade of floats & walkers, led by the carnival princess on a horse drawn carriage. Trade stands, charity stalls and displays at Quarry Park. Shropshire Team Challenge - 19:30-21:30 - dressed in Victorian costume each team will compete for a grand prize in one of the following sports: Tilting, 8 Legged Race, Pig Catching, Canon Ball Throw, Tossing the Hay sack, Jingling, Wheelbarrow Race. Info: 01743-233378. Part of the 3 day Shropshire Olympian Festival

16 Jun 2012 [TBC] The Sumo Run. Sat 10:00 Bandstand, Battersea Park, London.  Fancy Dress Charity 5k fun run in which participants dress in inflatable Sumo Suits.

16 Jun 2012 [TBC] Lewes Carnival. Saturday. Procession from County Hall to Malling Fields, Fairground, Stalls, Displays. Organised by Rotary Club of Lewes Castle.

16 Jun 2012 Portchester Gala Sat 12:00 Portchester Castle. Arena events, brass band, fun fair etc. Free entrance. Alan Simpson, 29-31 West Street, Portchester, Hants PO16 9XB. 02392 201629.

16 Jun 2012 [TBC] Nettle Eating Contest, Dorset Saturday PM, Bottle Inn, Marshwood. Events begin at lunchtime with a beer festival. Live music in the afternoon and the Nettle Eating Contest at 18:30, followed by live music and evening Hog Roast. Camping available.

16-17 Jun 2012 Southampton Kite Festival 10:00-17:30 Lordshill Recreation Ground, Redbridge Lane. Free entry and parking.

16- 17 Jun 2012 [TBC] West End Live, Trafalgar Square, London Sat 11:00-18:00. Sunday 12:00-18:00. Showcase of West End theatre productions. Free entrance.

What's On www.westendlive.co.uk

 

16- 17 Jun 2012 Bristol Festival Of Nature

Sat-Sun Harbourside, Bristol.

Voted Bristol’s ‘Tourism Event of the Year’, the Festival of Nature unleashes the city’s wild side once again this summer, taking over the Harbourside.

The UK’s largest free celebration of the natural world, the Bristol Festival of Nature lets loose wildlife enthusiasts of all ages to explore, enjoy, and get close to nature in the heart of the city.

Throughout the weekend, the festival site will be packed with exciting free activities from over 150 organisations.

What's On

16- 17 Jun 2012 [TBC] Midsummer Watch Parade, Chester Sat-Sun 14:00-15:30. Cavalcade of medieval characters including giants, beasts, animated tableaux and a kaleidoscope of costumed characters. Town Hall Square, St Werburgh Street, Eastgate Street, Watergate Street, Bridge Street, Northgate Street, Town Hall Square. Gallery Video

16-22 Jun 2012 [TBC] Veterans Awareness Week, Weymouth Includes Beach Assault & War Games 12:00 Weymouth Seafront. Part of the Veterans Awareness Week, the Royal Engineers will undertake a Beach Assault and Bridge Building Demonstration. 13:30 Portland Castle - wartime games and tours and see the vehicles end their convoy at approximately 13:30. Also - Nothe Fort,  Colourful parades, drills, evolutions, cannon and musket firing.

16-24 Jun 2012 [TBC] Polperro Festival Annual community event run by volunteers for the benefit of this historic and beautiful Cornish village and it’s surrounding environment. Live music of all genres daytime and evening, inside and out, street theatre and entertainment, parades, morris dancers, arts and crafts, drama, poetry, children’s entertainment, coastal walks, treasure hunt, new music day & schools day. Marketing & PR, Robert Springett 07813 303445. Please come and support us. The2010  theme is ''Portrait of Polperro'' - Past and Present. For more information pick up a souvenir programme during the week or see website.

16-24 Jun 2012 [TBC] Swindon Old Town Festival Jazz concert, ghost walk, hog roast, dog show, beer tent, stalls. Sat 27 Jun family fun day - procession at 11:00.

16-24 Jun 2012 [TBC] Bike Week. A national celebration of freedom, Bike Week is an annual opportunity to promote cycling as a source of fitness and fun. Up and down the UK, thousands of free cycling events will provide the opportunity for everyone from total novices to passionate cyclists to get on their bikes.

16 Jun - 01 Jul 2012 [TBC] St Albans Festival The best in entertainment, film, literature, theatre, live music, dance and family fun. Multiple events and venues - many free.

16 Jun - 01 Jul 2012 [TBC] Bucks Open Studios Largest visual arts event in the county. 400 artists in 150 venues across Bucks open their studios and run exhibitions and events for the public to visit. Go behind the scenes, talk to artists and see work in progress. Demos, workshops and exhibitions, showcasing a wide range of arts and crafts.www.commercialsquarestudios.co.uk - High Wycombe HP11 2RH. 11:00-17:00 daily. A variety of artwork, with practical demonstrations and refreshments.

Littlehampton Events

17 Jun 2012 Arun Boat Jumble. Sun 10:00 Caffyns Field, Beach Road Littlehampton. £2.50. 01903 761773.
30 Jun 2012 Littlehampton Armed Forces Day. Sat 10:30-17:00 Seafront Greens.
07 Jul 2012 Littlehampton Carnival. Sat.
23-28 Jul 2012 Wick Community Events. Mon-Sat.
18 Aug 2012 Jubilee Summer Concert & Fireworks, Seafront. Sat 19:00
27-31 Aug 2012 Space. Mon-Fri Various locations across Town. Free sports and arts 8-17yrs.
08 Sep 2012 Town Show & Family Fun Day. Sat 12:00-16:30 Rosemead Open Space. Family activities & crafts
30 Nov 2012 Christmas Lights Switch on & Late Night Shopping. Fri 17:00-20:00 High Street

17 Jun 2012 Congleton Food and Drink Festival Sunday town centre activities include, festival food and farmers market, demos and competitions in the town hall, music and street entertainment, wine tasting, a wild food forage and Beartown Brewery tours.

17 Jun 2012 [TBC] Greenfest, London Sun 13:00-17:00. Furnival Gardens, Hammersmith. Environmental groups - London Cycling Campaign, Friends of the Earth, Greenpeace, World Wildlife Fund, and kids face painting.

17 Jun 2012 [TBC] London to Brighton Bike Ride Sunday. 27,000 take part in this annual 54 mile cycle ride for charity. Organised by the British Heart Foundation. Start about 07:00 from Clapham Common. Video BHF Events

17 Jun 2012 [TBC] Gladstone Park Festival, London Sunday 13:00-19:30 Gladstone Park, Kendal Road, NW10. Live music, junior funfair, dog show, community stalls, sports,  Dr Bike, green fair, beer tent, food and drink. Free entrance. Gladstone Park Festival

17 Jun 2012 [TBC] Manchester Day Parade Sunday. The city's biggest summer event. Over 1800 participants - amazing wheeled structures, vibrant costumes, fantastic street dance and performance. Produced by outdoor events experts Walk the Plank.

17 Jun 2012 [TBC] RMAS Heritage Day, Sandhurst Sun 11:00-16:30 Royal Military Academy, London Road, Camberley, Surrey. Visitors can watch a variety of sporting and military events including polo, cricket, military music and Gurkha Kuhkri dancing, explore some of the famous buildings and enjoy the Academy's beautiful grounds. Admission is free and gates open at 10.30 am. Last entry is at 3.30 pm. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead at all times. For further details please call 01276 412088 / 412179.

17 Jun 2012 Newbury & District Amateur Radio Boot Sale Annual boot sale organised by the Newbury & District Amateur Radio Society. Amateur radio, test equipment, computers etc. Newbury Showground, M4, J13. From 09:00. Entrance £1.00. Newbury ARS Rally & Boot Sale

17 Jun 2012 Wellesbourne & Shakespeare Raft Race Sun 09:00. Annual event raises over £10,000 pounds for charity. 7.5 mile course down the river Avon from Wellesbourne to Stratford upon Avon recreation ground.

17 Jun -15 Jul 2012 [TBC] Earl’s Court Festival, London A month of fresh, vibrant dance, film, theatre, live music, visual art, street performers, literary and scientific events - free or reasonably priced.

18-23 Jun 2012 [TBC] Emerge Festival Sun 13:00-17:00 Shipley Country Park. Bi-annual world music and dance festival. Local young bands, street dancing, craft stalls etc. Shipley Country Park Visitor Centre: 01773 719961.

19-23 Jun 2012 Royal Ascot Tue-Sat 14:30-18:00. Premier annual horse racing & society event. Ascot request both ladies and gentlemen dress in a smart manner in keeping with the occasion. Ladies Day Thursday. Military bands perform on the bandstand and in the Silver Ring on each day of the Royal Meeting. Free entrance to the heath, inside the course. Royal Ascot

20-24 Jun 2012 [TBC] Thames Ring 250 mile Race

20-25 Jun 2012 [TBC] Midsummer Fair, Cambridge One of the country’s most historic traditional fairs – a perfect, fun-packed outing on Midsummer Common for all the family with thrilling rides to suit everyone from little ones upwards. Civic opening procession Wednesday.

21 Jun 2012 Summer Solstice, Stonehenge Watch the new dawn arrive. English Heritage provide managed, Free access and a free, lit, marshaled car park, located close to Airman’s Cross A344/A360 junction. You will be given a site map. Please note your row number to locate your vehicle later. Monument and car park open from 19:00. 1km grass walk to Stonehenge - a small torch may be useful. Sunrise about 05:00. Food and toilets available. Bag search at entrance, with a modest alcohol limit. Attendance 20,000 to 35,000.

Video Solstice 2011 Entry Conditions Solstice Map

 

21 Jun 2012 On The Nightshift

Thu 22:00-22:45 The Glebe, Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria LA23 3HE. (following the Torch Relay celebration event).

A blend of musical rhythms, amazing effects, fireworks, and soundtrack that you'll remember for a very long time. More

Free event - tickets not required.


21-24 Jun 2012 Leigh Folk Festival Thu-Sun. One of the largest free folk roots music and dance events in the UK. 100's of performers and thousands of spectators at various locations. Fri evening pub sessions, Sat pm family events in Leigh Library Gardens and Broadway, Sat evening barn dance and music in the Old Town. On Sunday, the Festival completely takes over the Old Town with dancing and stage events happening all along the High Street, on the wharfs and on every piece of open space. In the evening there is the family barn dance and music sessions in local pubs. Sunday 13:00 - procession of Dance Sides from Belton Flyover to Victoria Wharf. Leigh Folk Festival

21-24 Jun 2012 Taste of London Festival Thu-Sun Regents Park. The capital’s biggest food and drink event with an attendance of 50,000. Taste of the World festivals are held in 15 major cities around the world. Tel 020 7471 1092. More

21-24 Jun 2012 [TBC] The Royal Highland Show Thu-Sun. About £20 per day (accompanied under 16's free). Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston 0131 335 6200. Map

21-30 Jun 2012 Greenwich Festival

Ten-day rollercoaster of theatre, dance and spectacle. The best of UK and international street arts will bring extraordinary sights and sounds to Greenwich and East London in this historic Olympic Year.

Prometheus Awakes
Crow - book now!
Motor Show - book now!
Greenwich Fair
Word On The Street

Dancing City
Spectaculars

Greenwich Festival

 

22-23 Jun 2012 [TBC] Morris Minor National Rally Sat-Sun. Haynes Motor Museum. Traders, music, food & bar etc.

22-24 Jun 2012 [TBC] Dent Music And Beer Festival A weekend of family fun set in a beautiful location on the the western edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, 16 miles east of Kendal. 25 mainly Acoustic Acts covering Folk, Blues, Country, Bluegrass and Jazz on 2 stages. Free admission.

22 Jun - 01 Jul 2012 [TBC] Furzedown Festival, London Local venues and Furzedown recreation ground.

22 Jun - 14 Jul 2012 Chichester Festivities Multiple events. Night Carnival on the first Saturday, produced in partnership with Same Sky - 21:00 City Centre, Cathedral and Precincts. Video 01243 576227.

23 Jun 2012 Pi-Leau - Close Act, Hastings

Sat 22:00 The Stade Open Space, Rock-a-Nore Road.

Spectacular performance by Dutch company Close Act, previously featured at the Greenwich Festival, and simply not to be missed.

Free event.

 

 

23-24 Jun 2012 AfricaOye, Liverpool

Sat-Sun 12:00-21:30 Sefton Park.

The largest free African music festival in the UK.

 

23 Jun 2012 CARE Gold Bike Ride

Saturday. Join us to cycle a London and Surrey loop based on the Olympic Road Race. This is the perfect challenge for cycling enthusiasts and novices as you will have the opportunity to complete a significant part of the Olympic circuit. You will set off on your bike through Richmond Park, crossing over the Thames at Richmond Bridge. After passing Hampton Court, you will enjoy a riverside stretch to Weybridge before reaching the suburbs of Surrey. After pedalling through idyllic country lanes of rural Surrey, you will gradually climb onto the North Downs. The final stretch of the route takes you up Box Hill, via the Zig Zag Hill, where you will be rewarded with stunning views of the area. After a well-deserved break, you will continue to cycle along the route via Esher and Richmond Park to finish near Putney.

23 Jun 2012 [TBC] Heart of the Forest Festival Sat 11:00 Measham, Leicestershire. Street entertainers, parade, marching bands, vintage vehicles, funfair, dog show, donkey rides, tug of war, biplane aerobatics, 100 stalls, plus the amazing SHAOLIN WARRIORS.

23 Jun 2012 [TBC] Armed Forces Day Multiple national events. www.armedforcesday.org.uk/Listing.aspx

23 Jun 2012 [TBC] Tiptree Carnival, Essex Sat 13:30 Procession - Tiptree Fiveways, Church Road, Rectory Road, Anchor Road, Station Road, Church Road, Grove Road Playing Field. 14:30-19:00 live music from local bands, classic & military vehicles, hog roast, stalls, games, face painting and raffle. New event raising money for charity, so please give generously. Info: info@tiptreecarnival.org.uk 07800 893435

23 Jun 2012 [TBC] World Tin Bath Championships, Isle of Man. Saturday Castletown Harbour. A hundred competitors and thousands of spectators. There are also snake races, short entertainment displays, and even a rope drop. A fun afternoon for the whole family, as wacky races hit the Isle of Man.

23 Jun 2012 [TBC] Newshem Park Arts Festival, Liverpool. 12:00-16:00. Family event with food and craft stalls, exhibitions and performances. Free.

23 Jun 2012 [TBC] World Worm Charming Championships, Cheshire Sat 14:00 Willaston County Primary School, Willaston, Nantwich. Spectator entrance £1.

23 Jun 2012 [TBC] Newcastle Balloon Spectacular. Newcastle Upon Tyne.

23 Jun 2012 [TBC] Bournville Village Festival 14:00-22:30 Cadburys Recreation Ground, Linden Road, Bournville B30 1UE. Family day out, with maypole dancing and a full day's arena events. Fireworks at 22:00. Entrance about £2.50.

23 Jun 2012 [TBC] Clapham Street Party Sat 14:00-22:00 Kazbar, Edgeley Road.

23-24 Jun 2012 [TBC] Biggin Hill International Air Fair

23-24 Jun 2012 Petersfield Festival of Food & Drink 120 stalls selling food and drink, cookery demonstrations from celebrity chefs, live music and entertainment.

23-24 Jun 2012 BBC Radio 1 Hackney Weekend

Sat-Sun Hackney Marshes.

The BBC's biggest ever free ticketed live music event, 80+ international and UK artists, bands and DJs, 6 stages, 100,000 people. Highlight of the London 2012 Festival. The majority of tickets will go to people living in Hackney and surrounding boroughs.

 

23-24 Jun 2012 [TBC] Ambient Green Picnic Sun 12:00-22:00 Losely Park, Guildford. Combined with the 'Celebrate Surrey Festival'. 5 stages of music and performance. Free parking. Ambient Lounge festival hub with mad décor, sofas and walls of television sets. Expect the usual great selection of stalls and catering, The Pineapple Tribe Bar and Healing area.

Jellytree Productions on 01483 569295.

23-24 Jun 2012 [TBC] Swanage Armed Forces Weekend Window displays, parades, war time vehicles, dance demos, food and music. Likely 1940’s style sea front street party, with tea, home made cakes and Spam sandwiches`, giving a real flavour of times past. swanageverterans08@swanageveterans.com

23-29 Jun 2012 [TBC] NatWest Island Games XIV, Isle of Wight. Largest multi sporting event in Great Britain in the year before the Olympic Games

23-29 Jun 2012 [TBC] Purley Festival A free festival of events, workshops and music. Finale on the Rotary Fields (Brighton Road, opposite Christchurch CR8 2BN) on Sat-Sun with a music stage, beer tent, food, activities, stalls and more for all ages. A community, not-for profit event.

23 Jun - 08 Jul 2012 [TBC] TakePart, Brighton & Hove A two week programme for schools with over eighty different taster activities including sailing, windsurfing. skateboarding, volleyball.

24 Jun 2012 Thai Festival, Epsom Sun 10:00-18:30 Hook Road Arena KT19 8QH. Music & dance, Thai Boxing, Thai carving. About £3.

24 Jun 2012 [TBC] Meditation in the Park Sunday 12:00-17:00 Russia Dock Woodland Ecological Park, London SE16 (old South London docks). Free community event with an attendance of 2500 - one of London’s best kept secrets. Relax in an urban woodland sanctuary, win prizes for the best healthy picnics and try out various hands-on workshops. Instruction in yoga and meditation, cheese, yoghurt and pasta making, guided nature walks, fruit smoothies and Make Your Own Muesli stands. Similar to a village fete, with plenty to do. The only requirement is to bring a homemade picnic in order to win one of the many prizes. Organised by local professionals who volunteer their time and skills to give something back to their community.

24 Jun 2012 [TBC] Companion Dog Show - People and Dogs Society. Sunday, Carr Lodge Park, Horbury, W Yorks. In aid of the charity, People And Dogs Society. Classes for all dogs and bitches over 6 months of age - pedigree, crossbreed and mongrel. Heat for Crossbreed of the Year competition, Junior Handlers Classes, Kennel Club Good Citizens Test. More. Tel: 01977 678593.

24 Jun 2012 Derbyshire County Show Shardlow showground. Parade ring. Horses, dogs, vintage vehicles, horticultural and floral tent. 01332 793068

24 Jun 2012 [TBC] London Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival. Sunday 10:00 London Regatta Centre, Royal Albert Docks (opposite City Airport). 40 teams. Shore entertainment & food. Organised by the London Chinatown Lions Club.

24 Jun 2012 [TBC] Barge Driving Match, London. Saturday. Unique 7 mile barge row between the Palaces of Greenwich and Westminster. The event is very skilled, navigating under oars, using strength, experience and the tide to propel craft, which can weigh up to 30 tonnes. No more than three crew members can row at any time using the 20ft oars. Two of the rowers power the craft whilst the third steers. Popular with spectators, who watch from pleasure craft or vantage points on the bridges. Other barge events

24 Jun 2012 Olney Duck and Raft Races Sunday, Emberton Park. 13:00 Duck Race, 14:00 Raft Race, from the weir. At the finishing line by the town steps there are amusements, refreshments and live music. Tel 07743 983686.

24 Jun 2012 [TBC] Strawberry Hill Music & Fun Day, Twickenham Sunday 11:30-19:30 Strawberry Hill House, Waldegrave Road. Supporting the restoration of Strawberry Hill House, an important castle in the Gothic revival. Live Music, Fairground Rides, Craft Stalls, Community Stalls, Children's Entertainment, Food Stalls, Beer Tents and more. Entry by donation, suggested £2 - Children 0-14 free. Friends of Strawberry Hill

24 Jun 2012 [TBC] Brighton Baby Expo. Sunday 10:30-17:30 Brighton Racecourse. Premium parenting event. 100 companies participating, showcasing a large range of goods and services for the pregnancy, birthing, baby and early years.

24-30 Jun 2012 [TBC] Mevagissey Feast Week Sun-Sat 6 days. Mevagissey, Cornwall. Live music, dancing, processions, raft races and more. Provisional details, subject to change: Sunday 15:00 big fish procession, 16:30 air-sea rescue. Friday 20.00 live music on the quay. Saturday 19:30 carnival, 22.45 fireworks. Festival Office, 53 Lavorrick Orchards, Mevagissey, PL26 6TL. Tel: 01726 74014.

27 Jun - 01 Jul 2012 [TBC] Henley Royal Regatta About 100 races over five days, on a 1 mile 550 yard course, which takes approximately seven minutes to cover.

29 Jun 2012 Moonriders London-Brighton Night Bike Ride

Fri Alexandra Palace to Brighton Seafront.

Iconic London to Brighton route. Hundreds of Moonriders in aid of some special charities. A party atmosphere at the start, full hospitality enroute, and a celebration at the finish, its open to all types of bike and to riders of all abilities; some will speed through the night and others take a more leisurely pace.

Riders aim to complete the 100km course just as the sun rises over Brighton seafront. Moonriders is the ultimate Capital to Coast charity night cycle and is already into it's second year.

29 Jun 2012 [TBC] Canada Day, London Friday 10:30-22:00 Trafalgar Square. Bringing Canada to the Heart of London. Traditional Canadian Barbeque with Bison Burgers, Steak Sandwiches, Poutine, ICE COLD BEER and Okanagan wine, coffee, iced cappuccino and goodies in the square. Cooking demonstrations, Street performances, Live Music from some of Canada’s hottest bands and teams battle it out in the Trafalgar Cup Street Hockey tournament. Free entrance.

29 Jun - 01 Jul 2012 [TBC] Southwark Irish Festival, London Fri St.Thomas More Hall SE22. Ceili night. Sat 11:00-18:30 Peckham Common. Irish dancing, music & sports. Sun 11:00-19:00 Peckham Common. Music stages, dancing & family entertainment. Free entrance. 07958 903410 bernardcahill2004@yahoo.co.uk

29 Jun - 01 Jul 2012 [TBC] Hobby Horse Festival, Banbury Fri-Sun. Entertainment on Saturday from 10:30 - morris dancing, mumming, general horsing about and mayhem around town. 15:00 procession down High Street. 13:30 Town Mayor's Sunday - parade of beasts, morris dancing, beer tent, comic cockhorse races for adults and children (feel free to enter a team), sideshows, fairground rides, teas, children's fancy dress on cockhorses.

29 Jun - 01 Jul 2012 Godiva Festival & Carnival, Coventry UK's Biggest and Best Free Family Festival. War Memorial Park. Attendance 85,000. Friday night retro stars, Saturday a rockier edge, Sunday more relaxed. Top class live music, family entertainment, carnival procession, demonstrations, community groups and Funfair. The festival is free - no ticket required. www.godivafestival.com

29 Jun - 01 Jul 2012 Dundee Blues Bonanza Dundee's free blues music festival held in multiple city centre venues, all within easy walking distance of each other. Run by a voluntary committee, from modest beginnings its present level includes a massive UK complement, plus many International acts. Attracts over 12,000 fans to more than 120 live performances in 30 city centre venues.

29 Jun - 08 Jul 2012 [TBC] Birmingham International Jazz Festival More jazz per square metre than New Orleans - multiple venues citywide. Programme

29 Jun - 09 Sep 2012 [TBC] Watch This Space Festival, London The National Theatre’s annual FREE outdoor festival with an enthralling range of theatre, circus, dance and music performances for all ages.

30 Jun 2012 Silo-D, London

Sat 22:00-22:45 London Pleasure Gardens, North Woolwich Road, E16 2BS.

"The World Famous" have been commissioned by Paradise Gardens Festival & London Pleasure Gardens to create Silo D, as part of The London 2012 Festival

Silo D is a spectacular pyrotechnic display and theatrical performance that will animate and celebrate the architecture of a unique piece of London’s industrial heritage and explore the history of the Silvertown site.
The show is inspired by a traumatic event that happened on the site in 1917 when a TNT factory exploded, tragically killing 73 people and filling the sky with burning grain, at once both beautiful and terrifying.

This FREE show will fuse music, pyrotechnics, projection and theatre in a large, open air performance.

Sited on a 20-acre riverside arts and entertainment destination which celebrates the very best of London’s world famous alternative culture.

30 Jun 2012 Round The Island Race, Cowes Saturday, Cowes. Round the Island Race is the largest annual yacht race of its kind in the world. 1830 boats 16,000 keen sailors. Olympic medallists and round-the-world skippers mix with first timers and family cruisers to complete the 50 nautical mile course round the Isle of Wight. Fri-Sat Regatta Village in Cowes Yacht Haven off High Street - free entry. Plenty of activities and evening live entertainment. Map & times. Round the Island Race

30 Jun 2012 Glow Dance Festival Spectacular Torch-lit Performance Event Saturday, Castle Green, Hereford.

30 Jun 2012 [TBC] Fiesta in the Park, Oxford Sat 16:30-23:00 in Oxford’s picturesque South Park. Music festival fundraiser supporting the Cowley Road Carnival – a huge colourful procession which attracts around 30,000 people a year but exists entirely on donations. Tickets: £10 from www.gigantic.com

30 Jun 2012 [TBC] Aldershot Garrison Show Sat 10:00-18:00 Queens Parade, Queens Avenue, Aldershot.  Big military event, replaces the Army show.
Expected attendance 20,000.
The largest show of Army assets in the Country. Arena displays, traders & exhibitors, children’s rides and much more.
Displays include: The Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment’s Freefall Parachute Display Team. The Flying Gunners motorcycle display team. The Band of the Army Air Corps.
Free entrance.

30 Jun 2012 [TBC] Bermondsey Beat Sat 12:00-18:00 The Bandstand, Jamaica Road, London SE16. Live bands, food, fun fair and fireworks. Attendance 30,000. Free entrance. Recent acts include Alexander O'Neal, The Blockheads, The Bachelors. Bermondsey Beat

30 Jun 2012 [TBC] Guildford Lions Raft Race Saturday. Guildford Millmead  to Stoughton Waterside Centre. Rafters raise funds for charities. Preparation begins at 13:00 and the race starts at 15:00. Spectators attend for free. Call Guildford Lions on 01483 546046 for more details. Video

30 Jun 2012 [TBC] Sharrow Festival Sat 12:00-20:00 Mount Pleasant Park, Sheffield. Two music stages, global food, crafts, circus skills & street dance. Free.

30 Jun 2012 [TBC] Great London Swim 1 mile swim. Victoria Docks.

30 Jun 2012 [TBC] Greenford Carnival, London 12:00-19:00 Ravenor Park. Music, dance, sports, arts, crafts and funfair, food, drink and community stalls. This a great day out for the whole family. About £2.

30 Jun 2012 [TBC] Maindee Festival, Nr Newport Sat 12:00-18:00. Free community arts event and vibrant parade. Live music, traders, stalls and international food and drink.

30 Jun - 01 Jul 2012 Stratford River Festival Sat-Sun. Live music, stalls, market traders, food & drink,  plus street entertainment around Stratford Upon Avon. Attendance 20,000. Free.

30 Jun - 01 Jul 2012 Chesterfield Canal Festival

Sat-Sun 10:00-17:00 Staveley Town Basin S43 3XZ. 

Canal boats, vintage bus & steam train tours, entertainment marquee, children’s rides, canoeing, the Urban Gypsies, miniature railway rides, Woodhouse Prize Band, ropemaker, Segway rides, clown, birds of prey, the New Orleans Strollers, dozens of stalls and food & drink including a real ale bar. Barrow Hill Roundhouse will be having Family Days with steam train rides.

Saturday night major concert featuring The Swing Commanders.

Free parking nearby. Entrance £3, under 12s free.

For further information, or to book a stall or boat, email festival@chesterfield-canal-trust.org.uk 01246 477569.

 

Ealing Summer Festivals Walpole Park, Mattock Lane, Ealing W5.
Ealing Summer Festivals Map

30 Jun 2012 Greenford Carnival. Sat
07 Jul 2012 Acton Carnival. Sat
13-14 & 18-20 Jul 2012 Ealing Comedy Festival
15 Jul 2012 Ealing Opera in the Park. Sun
21 Jul 2012 Ealing Blues Festival. Sat
22 Jul 2012 Ealing Global Festival. Sun
24 Jul 2012 Olympic themed event. Tue
25-29 Jul 2012 Ealing Jazz Festival
19 Aug 2012 The London Mela. Sun

30 Jun - 01 Jul 2012 [TBC] MarineEx Weymouth & Portland Marine Show Sat-Sun Custom House Quay, Weymouth. Trade stands, RNLI, new and used boats, fire & safety at sea and lifeboat training. Free entrance.

30 Jun - 01 Jul 2012 [TBC] Wellingborough Carnival and Party in the Park. Sat 13:00 Parade, Broad Green to Croyland Park. Sun 12:00 live music by local bands in Croyland Park. Free. 07979 506120.

30 Jun - 08 Jul 2012 Peterborough Arts Festival Embankment and riverside Town and Country Fair, Boat Festival, Market stalls selling traditional goods and local produce, animal displays including birds of prey and shire horses and a range of traditional vehicles.

30 Jun - 08 Jul 2012 [TBC] Beach Live, Weymouth Free festival of live music and performance, including Rock, Pop, Folk, Jazz, and Blues. Roadshow stage located at the Pavilion End of Weymouth Beach. Weekdays 18:30-22:00. Weekends 15:30-22:00.

30 Jun - 08 Jul 2012 [TBC] Stafford Festival Street theatre, live music, festival parade and children's entertainment.

30 Jun - 08 Jul 2012 [TBC] Spirit Of The Sea, Weymouth Major new Maritime Festival in preparation for the 2012 Olympics. High profile events including Marine Ex Trade Show, Henri-Lloyd Weymouth Regatta, World Moth Sailing Championships, Dorset Seafood Festival, Maritime Modelling Festival, J24 National Sailing Championships, western Counties Long Distance Swimming Championships and Gig Regatta. There are also plans for the festival to include a `Three Sheets to the Wind' Party at the Nothe, Live Music on Beach Stage, Harbour side entertainment and a sea themed Procession "moving tide".

Jul-Aug 2012 [TBC] Locate Festival, Richmond Festival of dance featuring productions from award winning choreographers and digital media artists. Locate visits heritage sites, stately homes and street corners to bring you vibrant new dance.

Jul-Dec 2012 Play Poland Film Festival The largest and longest festival organised by Polish Art Europe, featuring screenings of the best recent Polish short films.

01 Jul 2012 Portsmouth Festivities Finale Themed Carnival Procession. Spectacular Twilight Fire Show by 'Walk the Plank' on Castle Field. All Free. Directions. 11:00 Entertainment starts at Gunwharf Quays, 13:00-21:00 Live music, dance, food & drink at the bandstand, 17:00-18:30 Procession, Gunwharf Quays to Southsea Bandstand. School groups, circus artists, street dancers and costumed performers, 22:00 Twilight Fire Spectacular by Walk the Plank at Castle Field, Southsea. Portsmouth Festivities - Fiery Finale 2011 Video: Carnival Bandstand Fireworks

01 Jul 2012 Capital Age Festival, London Sunday 14:00-18:00  Bernie Spain Gardens, South Bank. London’s largest, liveliest and most vibrant cultural festival programmed by and for older people and their families. The festival welcomes Londoners of all ages. Live music, street theatre, workshops and tea tent. This free annual event, takes place as part of Coin Street Festival, a series of summer festivals. Coin Street Festival, London

01 Jul 2012 Capital to Coast, London to Hove Charity Bike Ride. Sunday. 2000 riders expected. Start 07:15 and 10:00 London Eye. Choose from 3 starting points 75, 60 or 30 miles.

01 Jul 2012 [TBC] Crowthorne Carnival Sat 12:00 Parade, led by Reading Scottish Pipe Band - Wellington Business Park, Dukes Ride and High Street to the Morgan Recreation Ground behind the fire station. PG Stompers Jazz Band in front of Crowthorne Library. Floats from local schools and organizations as well as the Carnival Princess and her attendants, with additional entertainment being provided by Circus Scene roving performers. Main Stage - 13:30 Fete opening & presentations, 13:40 Edgbarrow Swing Band, 14:00 Lafour Dance & Drama School, 14:20 Reading Scottish Pipe Band, 14:30 South East Berks Gang Show, 14:50 Jayne A Coleman Academy of Dance, 15:10 Crowthorne Musical Players, 15:30 Samba Circus grand finale. Held every two years. Carnival. Route

01 Jul 2012 [TBC] Bognor Regis Carnival Saturday 14:30 Parade Regis Centre Car Park - into Clarence Road, Esplanade, West Street, Aldwick Road, Park Road and then right onto Marine Drive West. It will finish at West Park, where the presentation of the Awards will take place. This will be followed by entertainment with Benson's Fun-Fair and fireworks. Bognor Regis Lions Club - 01243 864001. rturner@staffurth.co.uk

01 Jul 2012 Keynsham Music Festival, Bristol Sun 12:00-22:00 Memorial Park, Keynsham. Some of the best unsigned bands in the region as well as lots to do for the family, delicious food, real ales, stalls, creative workshops. Attendance 10,000. Free entrance. Top Stage Fairtrade River Stage Time Out Stage Performance Stage

01-09 Jul 2012 [TBC] Big Dance, London. Dozens of fun and unusual dance events across the capital and the UK. Likely climax of eye-catching events in Trafalgar Square. Held every two years.

04 Jun - 16 Jul 2012 [TBC] Redbridge Dance Festival From ballet to traditional folk dances from around the world. Info 020 8708 2858. Dance Festival 2011 brochure

05-08 Jul 2012 [TBC] Mouth Of The Tyne Festival Sat-Sun. Live music, art and pyrotechnics, with a maritime flavour - north and south of the river, all weekend. Spectacular parade & fireworks 21:30-23:00 on Saturday. Map1 - Tyneside Map2 - South Shields

05-08 Jul 2012 [TBC] Norwich Mayors Celebration Thu-Sun. Includes a carnival, fireworks, two-day music festival, funfair, street entertainers, dancers, samba, parade, outdoor comedy and cinema. Fri night carnival. Sat 11:00-22:00 Chapelfield Gardens Music Festival, Street Entertainers, Open Air Party, 5km Road Race, Procession, 22:30 Fireworks Norwich Castle. 01603 212136.

Chapelfield Gardens Music Video Fireworks Video Norwich Mayors Celebration

06 Jul 2012 [TBC] Oxted Pram Race 19:15

06-07 Jul 2012 [TBC] Huddersfield Carnival Fri 21:00 Warm up at Huddersfield Carnival Arts Centre. Midnight until 03:00 D'Jouvert procession in the town centre. Revelers hit the streets, jumping, dancing and singing fueled by the occasion. Ritual involving paint, mud, oil, pitchforks and pointed tails! A masquerade of the darker side of life. Pure Lime with North Stars Steel Orchestra and DJ Sensation on the road. Sat 13:00 Carnival parade, Hudawi Cultural Centre, to town centre. 13:00-21:00 St George’s Square - local artists and Caribbean food stalls. 12:00-20:00 St Peter’s Gardens - local artists Caribbean food and information stalls. Market Place features Caribbean food and charity information stalls. The Official Carnival After Party - The Lime, Huddersfield Carnival Centre, Westgate.

06-07 Jul 2012 [TBC] Romsey Beggars Fair Fri-Sat. Music, dance and street entertainment, Romsey, Hampshire. Folk, jazz, blues and world music, colourful dance displays and children’s entertainment. From big bands on the Cornmarket stage to acoustic music in gardens and pub sessions - the day has a great atmosphere. Free event. Venues Programme

06-07 Jul 2012 British Beach Polo Championships Fri-Sat Sandbanks, Dorset. £25 general admission, £50 including evening beach party.

06-08 Jul 2012 Winchester Hat Fair Fri-Sun. A weekend of absurd and enchanting street theatre. Saturday evening procession. Sunday 12:00-18:00 Picnic in the Park at Oram's Arbour, with performances, food market, crafts and children's workshops. Video Winchester Hat Fair

06-08 Jul 2012 East of England Show Fri-Sun Peterborough Showground. Livestock, show jumping, motor show, working steam, flower & garden pavilion, horses, farmers market and hundreds of retail stands. About £15.

06-08 Jul 2012 Big Weekend, Cambridge Fri-Sun Parker's Piece. Free event. Fri 18:00-22:00 Live music. 22:00 Fireworks. Sat 12:00-22:00 Fun day, market, sports, funfair and bar. Live music. Sun 12:00-20:00 Asian Mela and world music.

06-08 Jul 2012 [TBC] ClogFest Sat-Sun Skipton, North Yorks. Held on the second weekend in July to celebrate English Step Dance.

06-22 Jul 2012 Brass: Durham International Festival Combining brass, folk, opera, dance and spectacular outdoor theatre in stunning venues and city streets.

07 Jul 2012 Pride London

Sat 13:00 Parade, Regent Street, Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square. 14:00 Main stage entertainment, Trafalgar Square. Giant street party, Soho. All free - attendance up to 1 million.

WorldPride2012 will be the Biggest Pride Event Ever, and is being organised and hosting by Pride London on behalf of the global LGBT community.

After the Parade, the huge events space will extend from Oxford Street in the north to Shaftsbury Avenue in the south.

This will be a MAJOR FREE EVENT for London.

Keep Pride Free - donate now

2010 Video Trafalgar Square  2010 Video Parade 1 2010 Video Parade 2 Pride London

 

LUTON

CARIBBEAN

CARNIVAL

07 Jul 2012 Luton Caribbean Carnival Sat 12:00-19:00 Wardown Park and Town Centre. Britain’s biggest one day carnival - attendance 100,000. Parade 13:30 from Wardown Park. Static sound systems, food & entertainers. Luton Carnival

Luton is planning a Cultural Festival to welcome the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay Route. The London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay will visit Luton as part of its journey around the UK, and to celebrate Luton is planning a special weekend-long Cultural Festival. The Olympic Flame will visit Luton for an evening celebration event which showcases our town’s heritage and culture on Sunday 8 July 2012. Luton’s unique cultural weekend will get underway with fringe events on Friday 6 July before the Luton International Carnival, which moves from its traditional date on the Spring Bank Holiday Monday, takes place on Saturday 7 July. Further entertainment is also being planned for the Saturday night, while the Luton Mela will also switch from its usual late-summer date to take place on Sunday 8 July.

 

07-08 Jul 2012 Paddle Round The Pier, Brighton

Sat-Sun. Mad cap charity water event attracts 30,000 people. Races throughout the weekend. Typical line-up: Saturday 09:00 Sea Swim Competition, 10:00 Kayak Demo, 11:15 Bike Show, 12:00 Urban Athletics Parkour, 12:30 White Crane Martial Arts, 13:00 British Surf Ski Race, 14:00 Coastguard Helicopter & Lifeboat Demo, 18:00 Wakeboard Demo. Sunday 10:00 Inshore Rescue Boats, 11:00 Surf Life Saving, 11:15 Bike Show, 12:00 Urban Athletics Parkour, 12:30 White Crane Martial Arts, 13:00 Paddle Something Unusual, 14:00 Paddle Round The Pier.

Paddle Round The Pier Full Timetable 2010 Video

 

 

ST PAULS

CARIBBEAN CARNIVAL

BRISTOL

07 Jul 2012 St Paul's Caribbean Carnival, Bristol

Saturday. A mini Notting Hill with 60,000 revelers. 13:00 Procession from Portland Square. Mas bands, Static Sound Systems, carnival food and drink. If you like carnivals, you will love St Pauls. 0117 944 4176.

 

Route Static Sound Systems St Pauls Caribbean Carnival

 

Halo British Downhill Series

A series of extreme downhill cycling events in which the UK's top riders compete. Entries are typically sold out within a matter of days and entrants per event typically number 350. Public spectator viewing is free.

07-08 Jul 2012 Glencoe, Scottish Highlands.
21-22 Jul 2012 National Championships, Moelfre, Anglesey, N Wales.
04-05 Aug 2012 Caersws, Powys, Mid Wales.
25-26 Aug 2012 Bringewood, W Midlands.
22-23 Sep 2012 Llangollen, Denbighshire, N E Wales


07 Jul 2012 Stobart Summer Festival

Sat - Carlisle Racecourse. Headliners - Madness. Attendance about 9,000.

07 Jul 2012 Stamford Riverside Festival Sat 13:00-23:00 Stamford meadows, Stamford, Lincs. Biggest music and arts event in the area. Hosting 30 musical acts on three stages - acoustic, rock and dance. Real ale beer festival, arts tent, kids activities, stalls and firework finale. Attendance 10,000. About £7.

07 Jul 2012 [TBC] Uckfield Festival Big Day Out Sat 10:00-17:00 Big Day, French Market, street performers, arena events, dance, music, dog agility, Bring a picnic. Free admission. 13:30 Amazing Procession - High Street to Luxfield Field. 19:30 Jazz Concert, Luxfield Field organised by the Kings Church with The Dave Fellingham Big Band. 21:30 Spectacular Illumination and Animation Ceremony, Luxford Field. Giant carnival figures and hand puppets. Not to be missed. Uckfield Festival Video

07 Jul 2012 Southampton Mela Sat 12:00-21:00 Hoglands Park, City Centre. Leading Indian Classical, Folk, World Music, Qawwali and Asian fusion. Live music and dance on the main stage, workshops and demonstrations in Music & Dance and Arts & Crafts. Family fun with a range of Arts & Crafts activities, a designated play area and a funfair. Stalls - varying from ethnic clothes and accessories, beauty and henna hand tattooing, arts & crafts. Attendance 20,000. Free entrance. 023 8022 6212 or email admin@artasia.org.uk Facebook

07 Jul 2012 Leicester Cosmopolitan Carnival. Sat 14:00-22:00 Manor House Community Centre. Live bands, dance, arts activities and workshops, fire and light projections and carnival procession.

07 Jul 2012 [TBC] St Ives Carnival, Cambridgeshire Saturday 12:00 Parade of Floats through the town centre into Warner's Park. Stalls, side shows, fair, refreshments, licenced bar and entertainment on and off the stage. Sunday 12:00-21:00 about 12 local bands and barbeque.

07 Jul 2012 [TBC] Park Life, Bracknell 12:00-18:00 South Hill Park, Bracknell. Free celebration focusing in on new and exciting companies in performing arts.

07 Jul 2012 [TBC] Littlehampton Carnival Saturday From 10:00 Town Centre. 18:00 Procession. 

07 Jul 2012 [TBC] Kelvedon Music Festival, Essex. Saturday 12:00-19:30. Two live music stages. Free entrance. Map

07-08 Jul 2012 Emergency Services Display, Eastbourne Sat-Sun Western Lawns. The largest public display of the emergency services in the UK. Promotes the 999 services to the community. Arena events, including Police Dog demonstration, extinguishing kitchen fires and mock road crash scenes demonstrating the emergency response. There are sea-borne displays from the RNLI and Coastguard and it is anticipated helicopters from the Police, Coastguard search & rescue, and a fixed wing Coast Guard search plane will fly by. Attendance 30,000. More

07-08 Jul 2012 [TBC] Tewkesbury Medieval Festival Europes biggest free medieval event. Saturday 11:00 Festival opens, 12:00 Archery on Windmill Hill, 15:00 Falconry display, 16:00 Battle re-enactment, 18:00 Events move into town. 19:00 Storming the Abbey, 19:30 Trial and be-heading of captured Lancastrians. Sunday 11:00 Site opens, 11:30 Guided walk, 12:00 Archery competition, 13:30 Guided walk, 14:00 Falconry display, 15:00 Battle re-enactment, 17:00 Festival ends.

07-08 Jul 2012 [TBC] Maritime Modelling Festival, Weymouth Sat-Sun.10:00. 1000 static models on display in the Pavilion Ocean Room, trade stands, marine craft exhibition, live warship battles. Radipole Lake - display of model boats and action on the water. Pier - National Grand Prix Power Boat Racing. Free beach and  esplanade events. 01305 785754

07-08 Jul 2012 [TBC] Music on the Moor festival, Hemel Hempstead. Rock and pop on Saturday and jazz, blues and classical music on Sunday. Other attractions will include the Ecology & Community Village, children’s activities, percussion workshops and poetry reading. Free biennial event from the Box Moor Trust, in partnership with Hemel Hempstead School. 01442 253300. Map

07-08 Jul 2012 [TBC] Rythms Of The World Festival Sat-Sun Hitchin Priory. Seven stages, around 140 acts, Family Area, Community Art  in 20 acres of parkland. Attendance 23,000. The Main Stage - world music. The Nettlebed Stage - softer Afro beat, blues, Americana. BBC Stage - indie, funk, hip hop and rock to metal, punk and country. St Mary’s Stage - folk, bluegrass, jazz, gospel. Arcadeclectic Stage - poets, musicians. Priory Park Stage - chilled out tunes & grassy picnic space. The Arena - village fete, dance and sports. About £10. Video

07-08 Jul 2012 Brighton Kite Festival Sat-Sun 11:00-17:00 Stanmer Park. One of the longest running kite festivals in the UK, and still free. Spectacular kite flying and displays from leading kite flyers from around the UK. More Kite Events

07-25 Jul 2012 [TBC] Thurrock International Celebration of Culture Showcasing the best Media, Creative and Cultural talent, from film production, singing, art displays and drama. Multiple events in local schools and Colleges, many free.

08 Jul 2012 Portishead Raft Race Sunday. 30 Rafts. 12:00 Music Starts, 12:30 Edible Boat Regatta, 13:00 First Raft Race, 15:30 Raft Race Final, 16:00 Music headline act.

08 Jul 2012 Hinckley BID Soap Box Derby

Sun 11:00-15:00 Castle Street, Hinckley.

Annual fun day for teams, supporters and spectators, open to ages 12-70.
Prizes will be awarded to competitors in recognition of their dedication to the day.

Themed soap boxes encouraged, and viewing is free for spectators.

Prospective teams contact: steve@hinckleybid.co.uk 01455 698494

08 Jul 2012 [TBC] British Pedal Car Grand Prix Sunday 14:00 New Milton. About 40 "formula one" pedal cars race for 2 hours around a 1 kilometer course. 10,000 spectators.

08 Jul 2012 [TBC] T4 On The Beach. Sunday. Weston Super Mare. Impressive music festival with an attendance of 30,000. About £35

08-21 Jul 2012 Wenlock Olympian Games A multitude of sporting events over 5 days.

09-15 Jul 2012 Farnborough International Airshow Mon-Sun. 1,500 exhibitors & 270,000 visitors. Flying 12:30-17:00 daily. Gate ticket about £30. Every two years.

10-12 Jul 2012 [TBC] Great Yorkshire Show Great Yorkshire Showground. Attendance 125,000. At the Show

10, 11,12 Jul 2012 Fire Garden at Stonehenge for the London 2012 Festival

As the sun goes down over Stonehenge, French outdoor alchemists Compagnie Carabosse present an elemental Fire Garden.

Stonehenge will be transformed into a glowing fairytale environment where fire sculptures dance in the landscape, mysterious fiery engines illuminate the stones and flaming fire pots and cascades of candles line the pathways.

12 Jul 2012 Standard Chartered Great City Race, London Thu19:15 Start & finish at the Honourable Artillary Company Ground in The City (near Finsbury Square). 5km route with public catering, full road closures, takes in St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower 42 and the Bank of England. About 6,500 runners. Managed by the London Marathon team. Map

12-15 Jul 2012 Edinburgh to Dublin Cycle Challenge

See the Scottish and Irish capitals by bike as you cycle 220 miles from Edinburgh to Dublin.

The money you can raise by taking part in this unique experience will help Marie Curie Nurses provide more free care to people with serious illnesses.

Register online now or contact the events team on 08700 340 040.

12-20 Jul 2012 [TBC] Wrexham Science Festival A diverse range of talks, demonstrations and exhibitions. A key feature will be a one day family event called Scientriffic, packed with interactive exhibitions and fun shows.

13 Jul 2012 [TBC] Waterloo Carnival, London Friday 12:00-21:00. Procession of 300 people at 13:30. Live music stage, outside Cubana, Lower Marsh. Carnival de Cuba @ Waterloo carnival - www.carnival-de-cuba.com

13 Jul 2012 Garry Chappelow Memorial Fund Gentleman only Sportsman’s Dinner.

Fri 19:00 The Long Room, Headingley Carnegie Stadium, St Michael’s Lane, Leeds LS6 3 BR.

Two top class comedians, plus the very funny MC is Mr Malcolm Lord. Three course meal followed by coffee & mints. Raffle, auction, bingo and bar. Individuals or tables for 10 or more available. £30 for a guaranteed ‘laugh a minute’ evening. 

To book - 0780 1063 797 or 0792 2581 211. Les Marshall garrychappelow@gmail.com

The Garry Chappelow Memorial Fund has so far donated in the region of £80,000 to amateur junior sports teams and individuals.

13-15 Jul 2012 Brazilica, Liverpool The UK's biggest Samba Carnival, with Saturday night-time parade. Parade attendance 40,000. The festival weekend will feature vibrant art exhibitions, interactive family activities, drumming workshops, capoeira demonstrations and a samba parade. Live music, dance and South American cuisine.

13-15 Jul 2012 British Rowing Championships 800 entrants. National Water Sports centre, Nottingham.

13-15 Jul 2012 [TBC] Bus Stop Sat-Sun A26 Crowborough. Bus Stop is a fantastic two day not for profit VW Event welcoming all owners of Beetles, Golfs, Splits, Bays, T25's, Variants, Polo's, Lupo's, T4's, T5's and any other Classic or Custom VW out there, raising funds for Folly Wildlife Rescue. Live Music Bands, Fair Priced Hot & Cold Food & Drinks, Auction & Raffle, Trade Stands & Stalls, Vehicles & Parts For Sale, On Site Camping, Cruise to Eastbourne Extreme, Beach Show & Shine.

13-21 Jul 2012 Manchester Jazz festival 60 gigs, 300 hundred musicians and hours of live music, plus a full array of special events and activities, indoors and out, on stage and on screen.

14 Jul 2012 Dorset Charity Horse and Dog Show Saturday. Homelands Farm, Three Legged Cross, Nr. Wimborne, Dorset BH21 6QZ. Run on behalf of the Wimborne & Ferndown Lions Club. All profits will go to Dorset Charities and other worthwhile causes. 350 Horses and 200 dogs,  numerous trade stands, ferret racing, children's rides, show jumping and other entertainment activities in the main ring for the Public to enjoy.

14 Jul 2012 Derby Caribbean Carnival Sat 13:00 Parade Pear Street to city centre.

14 Jul 2012 Fun Dog Day, Torbay

Sat 09:30 Field, Brixham Road, Churston TQ5 0LD.

Guest opening by Marc Allum from the BBC Antiques Roadshow.
A full day of family entertainment, plus companion dog show.
In aid of CSD Boxer Rescue & Fisherman’s mission.

 

14-15 Jul 2012 Eastbourne Extreme Sat-Sun 11:00-17:00 Eastern seafront. One of the biggest FREE extreme sports festivals in the UK! Kick off the summer holidays with an adventure filled weekend on Eastbourne seafront at the south coast's coolest, fastest and most intense FREE sports festival. Featuring a huge line up of air, land and water based outdoor pursuits. Get involved and get your adrenaline pumping! Eastbourne Extreme
Zero Gravity Biking Street Surfing Surfkraft
Formula Future Races Spray Watersports VW Bus Stop
Ride 'n' Joy Urban Shadows Sk8 School
Beach Jam South East Kiting Natural Fitness Centre
Battle of The Bands Disco Pete Can Control
Kamikaze Boarding    

 

14-15 Jul 2012 Taste Of the World, Sussex

Sat-Sun 10:00-16:00 Fontwell Park Racecourse, Arundel BN18 0SX.

A celebration of food and culture from around the world; with cuisines from the Far East to North Africa, the Caribbean to Central Asia, the Mediterranean to Africa, Europe to the Americas and the British isles.

Includes live celebrity cooking demonstrations, creative cooking activites for the whole family, cake decorating competition, plus stands from top food specialists from all over the UK

Entrance £2, under 16's free.

14-15 Jul 2012 Bourne Free, Bournemouth Sat-Sun. Pride weekend. Parade on Friday at 19:00 from The Triangle, through town.

14-15 Jul 2012 Manchester Mela. Sat-Sun. Platt Fields Park. Walk the Plank will perform 'In the Dhol drum', a spectacular of Bhangra, theatre and pyrotechnics more

14-15 Jul 2012 Brighton Carnival Event Sunday - Seafront. Carnival Showcase on Madeira Drive. Lots of performances - a Carnival themed street party. We hope to have a really fun day and that you all come down to support us and watch the amazing show.

Brighton Carnival Showcase 2009 Gallery 1 2009 Gallery 2 2009 Video 2010 Showcase Video

14-15 Jul 2012 [TBC] Bognor Birdman Sat-Sun 10:00-17:00. Competitors launch themselves from the pier and compete for the furthest flight in home made flying contraptions and winged fancy dress costumes, raising thousands of pounds for charity. Music, market stalls, local radio etc. Bognor Birdman

14-15 Jul 2012 [TBC] Royal International Air Tattoo Sat-Sun RAF Fairford. The biggest UK air show - attendance 167,000. See site for tickets.

14-21 Jul 2012 [TBC] Brouhaha Carnival & Arts Events, Merseyside

19 Jul 2011 Brouhaha International Street Festival
21 Jul 2011 Liverpool International Carnival
21 Jul 2011 The World in Princes Park
21 Jul 2011 Liverpool International Mela

14-22 Jul 2012 Shoreditch Festival, London Regent's Canal and beyond. Shoreditch Park.Free entrance. Friday 19:30-21:30 Philharmonic Orchestra & Fireworks. Programme of Music Sat,, Sun

15 Jul 2012 [TBC] Cats Protection Summer Fete Sunday10:00-16:00 National Cat Centre , Chelwood Gate RH17 7TT. Tel 01825 741330. A fun day out for all the family with free entry, including: adoption centre tours , bouncy castle , crafts , food & drink , dance display , face painting , tractors , birds of prey , Sussex horse rescue , Claire's friendly farm , tombola , raffle.  

15 Jul 2012 [TBC] McMichael Radio Rally & Car Boot Sale Sunday 09:30 Reading Rugby Football Club, Sonning Lane RG4 6ST. Annual Sale of amateur radio equipment, test equipment, computers etc. Large Car Boot area, licensed bar, barbecue, demonstrations and displays by special interest groups. Indoor area for Traders. McMichael Radio Rally

15 Jul 2012 British 10K London Run Sunday 09:35 Hyde Park Corner on Piccadilly. Olympic athletes and celebrities from stage and screen, as well as tens of thousands of fun runners who raise over a million pounds for charity Map

15 Jul 2012 [TBC] Tour Britania UK's premier Race Tour. Primarily designed for historic cars.

15-21 Jul 2012 [TBC] Big 7 Festival, Kent Gravesend Town Centre  and Riverside. Parade, big gig, big day out, live music, regatta, carnival, street entertainment, funfair, main stage and fireworks. Free.

18 Jul 2012 Olympic Torch Relay & Fireworks, Dover Song for Dover combines the music of 5 local choirs with fireworks on a massive scale. The World Famous will using using Dover harbour as a canvas, to create a unique live pyro-musical event.

18-22 Jul 2012 War and Peace Show Wed-Sun 09:00-18:00 The Hop Farm, Beltring, Kent. The World's largest military vehicles and collectors fair. 3500+ military vehicles, arena events, 1940s fashion, 1000+ stalls. About £18. War and Peace Show

20-22 Jul 2012 Upton Blues Festival Fri-Sun. Three main stages and nine pub venues. Free.

20-22 Jul 2012 [TBC] Tramlines Festival, Sheffield Free. Expected attendance 175,000. 4 main stages and over 70 venues in the city to explore, including The Leadmill, O2 Academy Sheffield, Barkers Pool, The University of Sheffield, The Harley, The Bowery, the Peace Gardens, Endcliffe Park and the main stage at Devonshire Green - capacity 8,000. 600 national and local artists - Rock, Indie, Pop, Electronic, Dance and Hip Hop. Youtube Channel

20-22 Jul 2012 [TBC] On The Waterfront, Liverpool Fri-Sun. Mind-blowing 3D Projections and sound from The Macula. Evening Live Music at 20:30: Fri Blues, Sat The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, Sun Pop. Giant illuminated lanterns at the Pier Head, and illuminated fish swimming in the canal. All free.

20-22 Jul 2012 [TBC] Skegness SO Festival Huge range of street theatle and acts along the seafront. What's On

20-22 Jul 2012 Reedham Beer Festival & Fete, Norfolk Village Hall & Field. Food fair, crafts, boot sale, live music, Morris dancing, barbeque and family activities. Sat 12:00-22:00, Sun 12:00-17:00. 01493 701818.

20-22 Jul 2012 Bristol Harbour Festival Fri-Sun 12:00-17:00. Attendance 200,000 - this is one of the most popular free festivals in the West Country. As well as seven performance stages and three fringe stages, the festival features historic ships, children’s entertainment, continental market, a fantastic array of food and drink. Free entrance. Map NB There are no fireworks this year.

20-22 Jul 2012 Sunderland International Airshow Sat-Sun 10:00-18:00 Seafront, Seaburn. The largest free air show in Europe attracts hundreds of thousands of spectators. Likely B-52, RAF premier aerobatic team, Red Arrows, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight,  Typhoon, Harrier, Royal Netherlands Air Force F16s, Royal Navy Black Cats Helicopter Display Team and RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team.

20-22 Jul 2012 [TBC] London 2012 Open Weekend The 2012 Open Weekend returns to celebrate art, culture, sport, and everything that makes up the London 2012 Games. Last year around 700,000 people enjoyed 655 events. This year promises to be bigger and better – a three-day celebration for the whole of the UK. Find an Event

20-29 Jul 2012 Milton Keynes International Festival Large-scale family events, promenade concerts, theatre, dance, music and visual arts installations in unusual locations such as parks, public squares, disused shops or warehouses. Attendance estimated at 80,000. Festival Programme

21 Jul 2012 [TBC] Pier to Pier Race, Brighton Sat 14:00. About 60 take part in the swim, run under ASA laws by the Brighton Swimming Club, which is the oldest swimming club in the country.

Isle of Wight Carnivals

21 Jul 2012 [TBC] Newport Main Carnival 19:30
28 Jul 2012 [TBC] Sandown Main Carnival 19:00
01 Aug 2012 [TBC] Shanklin Main Carnival 19:00
04 Aug 2012 [TBC] Shanklin Illuminated Carnival 21:15
15 Aug 2012 [TBC] Ventnor Main Carnival 19:00
16 Aug 2012 [TBC] Cowes Main Carnival 19:00
18 Aug 2012 [TBC] Ventnor Illuminated Carnival 21:00
18 Aug 2012 [TBC] Ryde Main Carnival 18:15
24 Aug 2012 [TBC] Pan Carnival 19:00
25 Aug 2012 [TBC] Cowes Illuminated Carnival 20:45
27 Aug 2012 [TBC] St Helens Carnival 18:30
29 Aug 2012 [TBC] Sandown Illuminated Carnival 21:00
01 Sep 2012 [TBC] Ryde Illuminated Carnival 20:30

 

21 Jul 2012 St Giles Dragon Boat Challenge

Sat, The Washlands (off Watson Street), Burton upon Trent DE15 9HF.

Teams of ten plus a drummer take part in this series of charity races along the 200-metre course on the River Trent.

 

To sign up or find out more, please contact Jenni Dawson on 01543 434 542 or email jenni.dawson@st-giles-hospice.org.uk.

21 Jul 2012 [TBC] The Ripley Event Free family fun day by the Rotary Club of Ripley & Send, from 13:30, Ripley village green, Surrey. Vintage & classic cars, pony rides, dog show, Elmbridge model club, children's races, children's dancing, live music, stalls and refreshments. Free parking. More info from Malcolm Pritchett 01932 343929.

21 Jul 2012 [TBC] Newport Main Carnival IOW Annual event held in July. Start 19:30 from Matalan Car Park. One of a series of daytime and evening illuminated carnivals held across the Island, including Sandown, Shanklin, Ventnor, Cowes, Yarmouth, Ryde and St Helens. Isle of Wight Carnivals Video

21 Jul 2012 [TBC] Goring & Streatley Regatta

21 Jul 2012 Broadwater Summer Carnival, Worthing Saturday - Procession 13:00 from Worthing High School, St Lawrence Avenue. Events, sideshows, rides, big top, circus performers, arena events and charity stalls.on Broadwater Green 10:00-16:00. Daytime contact 01903 237719. Email

21 Jul 2012 [TBC] Thanet Pride Saturday 11:30-19:00. Parade and Seafront Stage entertainment. Thanet Pride Video

21-22 Jul 2012 Bedford River Festival Sat-Sun 12:00-23:00. Historical Re-Enactments,  Live Music, Funfair, Continental Market. Attendance 350,000. Held every two years. Free. Saturday Events: Carnival 12:00 noon from De Parys Avenue to Riverside Square. On The River: 14:00 Parade of Cruisers, 16:00 Parade of Boats. 19:00 Dragon Boat final, 21:30 Illuminated Boat Parade. Heritage Village 15:00 Main Battle, Marine Landing & Ground Attack. Main Stage , Acoustic Stage, Community Stage, Sports Village. Amazing fireworks at 22:30 Saturday evening. Bedford River Festival
2010 - Carnival Video 2010 - Boat Parade Video 2010 - Vikings Video Full Programme Festival Map

 

21-22 Jul 2012 Aylesbury Festival Weekender

Sat-Sun 11:00-16:00 Kingsbury, Aylesbury Town Centre.

Family friendly and laid-back free music festival featuring some of the best local bands.  Saturday offers a variety of ‘Music through the Ages’ including: 50’s & 60’s Rock n’ Roll, 70’s Punk & New Wave, 80’s Ska, 90’s Pop & Rock, plus a bit of Acoustic Blues, and Funk thrown into the mix. Sunday will focus more on original up-and-coming local bands and singer songwriters, from Heavy Rock to Acoustic Pop.

Sat - Ska Souls UK, also featuring Katie Buckhaven, The Stylettes, Clare Free, The Synthetix, Pubcrawl, and Almost Midnight.
Sun - !nDefinately, with Sian Cross, Rosie Vanier, Tinlin, Palahniuk, Abbie Broom, Dead Cells, Max Unplugged, and Dumb Angel.

Free entrance.

Facebook

21-22 Jul 2012 [TBC] Rox Festival, Bognor Sat 13:00-23:00, Sun 13:00-22:30. Bognor Seafront. live music, food and drink. Free entrance. Rox Festival Video

21-22 Jul 2012 [TBC] TurkishFest, London Potters Fields, South Bank - Sat 11:00-21:00, Sun 11:00-18:00. Exciting programme of entertainment, creative artists and rich river side bazaar. Art Fair - fine collection of painting, photographs and handcrafts etc. Turkish food, drink, spices and art from painting to calligraphy and photographs to handcrafts.

21-22 Jul 2012 [TBC] Hastings Town and Country Show Sat-Sun 10:30-17:30 Alexandra Park. Suffolk Punch horses, birds of prey and falconry displays, medieval re-enactment village including fighting knights, sheep sheering, working and Newfoundland dogs as well as rural demonstrations. Arts, craft and gift marquees as well as lifestyle and food hall stands will give you the chance to sample and buy unique products. Children's entertainer, bouncy castles and fairground. Entrance about £5. Dog Show Full Schedule

22 Jul 2012 Hastings Pirate Day

Sunday - beach and Old Town.
T
he biggest pirate day in the world.
Pirate music, stunt action, sword fighting and a  pirate market.
Guinness World Record attempt for largest gathering of pirates at 13:00.

Finale fly-past with the Red Arrows.

22 Jul 2012 Albury Free Festival 13:00-20:00 Picnics and live music at Albury Cricket Ground. Community event run by the Albury Produce Association & Albury Churches with support from the cricket & football club and parish council.

22 Jul 2012 [TBC] Port Sunlight Summer Festival Sunday 11:00-17:00 Port Sunlight, King George's Drive, Wirral, CH62 5DX. Major free festival in Wirral with family friendly activities, fairground, fun dog show with 250 dogs, 100 stalls, food and drink, live music stage, plus the Wirral Historic Car Rally, arriving in the afternoon.

22 Jul 2012 [TBC] Luton Mela Sunday 12:00-19:00 Wardown Park, Luton. Free entrance.

23-28 Jul 2012 [TBC] Ramsgate Week Hosted by the Royal Temple Yacht Club. A must for all sailing enthusiasts, with plenty of evening entertainment in the town.

Roaming Robots - 07711 686222

24 Jul 2012 Robots Extreme Wars, Guildford Spectrum

24-26 Jul 2012 Concrete Inferno - The National Theatre, London The World Famous will be animating the square and terraces of this iconic London building with fire and flame.

24-26 Jul 2012 [TBC] New Forest Show New Park, Brockenhurst. Motorcycle stunt display, show jumping, livestock, vintage farm machinery, steam, land girls, food fare, crafts, antiques, art, flower show, WI, forestry commission, honey & bees, blacksmiths, vegetables & flowers, climbing wall & ropes, ferret racing, fishing, falconry & gundogs.

26-29 Jul 2012 [TBC] Hastings Annual Model Air Show Sat-Sun 10:00-17:00 Bulverhythe Recreation Ground, off Bexhill Road, St. Leonards. Some of the greatest pilots of remote controlled aircraft in Europe put on a truly amazing air show. You will see show display teams flying planes with wingspans of up to 20ft, and aircraft ranging from First World War Fighters, to today's modern day Euro Fighter typhoon jets, flying at speeds of over 200mph. Trade stands and attractions for everyone, including a "Toffee Bomber" that will be bombing the airfield with sweets for children. Adult £6, Children/OAPs £4, families £15. Tel.: 01424 446524

26-29 Jul 2012 [TBC] Hatherleigh Festival, Devon Four days of amazing street theatre and performance, with many free events.

Sheepdog Championships

26-28 Jul 2012 [TBC] National Sheepdog Trials, Wales
02-04 Aug 2012 [TBC] National Sheepdog Trials, Scotland
09-11 Aug 2012 [TBC] National Sheepdog Trials, England
16-18 Aug 2012 [TBC] National Sheepdog Trials, Ireland
06-08 Sep 2012 [TBC] International Sheepdog Trials
13-16 Sep 2012 [TBC] World Sheepdog Trials

27 Jul - 12 Aug 2012 Summer Olympics, London

27-29 Jul 2012 The Big Cheese, Caerphilly Fri-Sun. In the shadow of Caerphilly Castle. Street entertainers, living history re-enactments, comedy, music, dance, a traditional funfair, folk dancing, falconry, fire eating, minstrels, troubadours, craft and market stalls with produce from near and far, and much much more.

27-29 Jul 2012 [TBC] Worstead Festival, Norfolk 10:00-18:00. The largest village festival in Norfolk. Display ring, exhibitions, heavy horses, classic cars, weavers, road race, auction. About £3.

27-29 Jul 2012 [TBC] Weymouth Beach Volleyball Classic Fri-Sun. 09:00 daily. Weymouth Beach. About 72 teams compete in the UK Championships. Festival site includes a magnificent show court surrounded by a specially constructed beach grandstand (free to the public), nine tournament courts, over 100 top class 2 a-side men and women's volleyball teams, live commentary, music intervals and a volleyball trade village.

27-29 Jul 2012 [TBC] Spraoi Festival, Waterford, Ireland. Fri-Sun. Free street party, street theatre and world music. Attendance 100,000 over the Irish Bank Holiday weekend. Parade usually 21:30 Sunday at The Quays - 400 brilliantly costumed performers, floats, lights and special effects, followed fireworks over the River Suir.

27 Jul - 03 Aug 2012 [TBC] Sidmouth Folk Week. Fri for 7 days. Multiple events around town, on outdoor spaces, and in pubs and clubs.

Great Yarmouth Norfolk Summer Firework Displays

25 Jul 2012 Wed
01 Aug 2012 Wed
08 Aug 2012 Wed
15 Aug 2012 Wed
22 Aug 2012 Wed
29 Aug 2012 Wed

20:00 Central Beach - music and entertainment. 22:00 fabulous firework display. Free event. Visit Britannia or Wellington Pier for a good spot. Tourist Information 01493 846346.

 

28 Jul - 12 Aug 2012 London Live, Hyde Park

London Live, a huge celebration of sport, music and other entertainment in Hyde Park, Victoria Park and Trafalgar Square this summer as part of the city’s London 2012 celebrations. BT London Live will be free apart from the Opening and Closing Celebration Concerts at Hyde Park.

Keep up to date with free & ticketed London Live Events:

Royal Parks London Live

28 Jul 2012 [TBC] Nottingham Pride. Saturday 12:00-18:00 Forest Fields Recreation Ground (Goose Fair site). Attendance about 7000. Live bands, stalls, food and beer tent. 07875 377145.

28 Jul 2012 [TBC] New Romney Country Fayre Saturday 10:00-17:00 St Martin's Field and the Fairfield Road Recreation Ground, just off the High Street,  New Romney, Kent. Procession through the town to the event field. Displays, crafts, stalls, entertainment all day, refreshments. Free entrance.

28 Jul 2012 [TBC] Oxford & Thame Show Saturday, Thame Showground. One of the greatest one day agricultural shows in the country, with 20,000 visitors. Sheep, cattle, show jumping, a dog show which attracts an entry of 1000 dogs, local produce, crafts, an indoor shopping mall and many trade stands.

28 Jul 2012 [TBC] Linslade Canal Festival Saturday 11:00-17:00 Tiddenfoot Waterside Park. Community event with a conservation and heritage theme. Rural crafts, canal art, working narrow boats, folk music, stalls, childrens activities, bids of prey, mobile farm and canal boat trips. Ninety exhibits in three different areas of the park. Free entrance, small charge for car parking. Attendance 6000. No mooring fees for narrow boats, but owners are advised to book. 01525 631915.

28 Jul 2012 [TBC] Swindon Mela. Saturday. 12:00-19:00 Town Gardens. Three stages with top names from Asian entertainment,  featuring Bollywood and Bangra. Attendance 17,000.

28 Jul 2012 [TBC] Maidstone River Festival Saturday. 11:00 Opening, 12:00 First Raft Race Heats, 13:00 Second Raft Race Heats, 14:00 Fun Raft Race, 16:00 Raft Race Final, 16:30 Dingy Pagent, 17:00 Best Dressed Boat Competition, 18:30 Prize Presentation, 21:30 Illuminated Boat Parade, 21:45 Light Elements - Maidstone Bridge & St. Peter's Bridge, 22:30 Firework Finale, What's On,Maidstone River Festival

28-29 Jul 2012 [TBC] Thai Festival, London 11:00-18:00 Ealing Common. Opening parade, Buddhist ceremony, food and drink, music, dance, martial arts and massage. About £4.

28-29 Jul 2012 [TBC] Crawley Mela Sat-Sun. The Hawth, Crawley. African rhythms, Jazz Fusion and international music, free workshops, community stage, stalls, bazaar and funfair. Traditional Indian and international cultures, dancing, music, food, art, fashion, and crafts, together with a wide range of family-oriented amusements and activities. Attendance 10,000. Relaxed friendly family atmosphere. Free entrance. www.crawleymela.org

28-29 Jul 2012 [TBC] Lammas Festival, Eastbourne Sat-Sun Live Music from 11:00. Carnival Parade The Giants Drummers

28-29 Jul 2012 [TBC] Wheels Littlehampton Sat-Sun. Free family event on Littlehampton Seafront. Motoring thrills, BMX stunt teams, classic 7 vintage cars, skates, skate boarding, new cars, classic car clubs,  motorcyclists, slot car racing, simulators, remote control cars - anything with a wheel from a unicycle upwards. Attendance 20,000.

28-29 July 2012 Godiva Carnival, Coventry

Sat 21:15-22:30 The Awakening, University Square, City Centre, CV1 5AB.
Sun 12:30-14:30 Godiva Carnival, Broadgate, City Centre, CV1 1NF.

Spectacular performance involving the Godiva Choir, dancers, actors, aerialists, musicians, pyro-technicians, carnivalists in a big procession.

Mon. Godiva begins her epic journey to London on her her cyclopedia, passing through seven towns inspiring a series of extraordinary outdoor celebrations. Powered by 100 cyclists, Godiva will arrive in London to celebrate the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

28-29 Jul 2012 [TBC] Clarence Park Free Music Festival 12:00-20:00 Clarence Park, Denby Dale Road, Wakefield. marci@themusiccollective.co.uk  07779 911914

28-29 Jul 2012 Hastings Free Beach Concert Free live music to raise money for the RNLI. Showcase for local bands popular with locals and visitors. Sat 13:00-21:00. Sun 13:00-19:00. Toilets are nearby in the Stade car park, on-site licensed bar, plus food outlets and ice-cream van, free sun cream and a free supervised children's play area. No beach camping. Map

28-29 Jul 2012 [TBC] Chilli Farm Steam & Country Fair Sat-Sun 10:00 till late Chilli Farm, Coldred, A2 Dover, Kent ,CT15 5AH. Traditional Country Fair with something for everyone.  Horses and Cart rides, Steam Engines and Railway rides, Family Dog Show both days, Fun Fair and Games, Craft and Trade Stalls, Birds of Prey, Custom and Classic Cards, Commercials, Tractors, Motor Cycles, Stationary Engines and Farm Implements, Arena Displays, Beer Tent with live entertainment afternoons and Saturday evening. Red Arrows Fly Past, subject to conditions. Enquiries Luke or Sylvia Tel 01227 700894.

28 Jul - 04 Aug 2012 [TBC] Swanage Regatta & Carnival A week of amazing events. Saturday - possible fly-past by the Red Arrows. 15:00 Sunday big seafront parade, with floats, Caribbean bands, clowns and costumed walkers. 2.5 miles a long sea front and back to Sandpit Field. Every Saturday in August, there are fireworks and music on Swanage beach. Swanage Carnival

29 Jul 2012 [TBC] Carnaval del Pueblo, London Sunday 12:00 Parade from Elephant & Castle. 10:00-22:00 Burgess Park. 4 stages. 200 stalls. Brazilian Samba, Salsa, Tango. Latin American & Caribbean food. Attendance 130,000. Free entrance. Carnaval del Pueblo Video

29 Jul 2012 [TBC] Rod & Custom Show Sunday, Worthing Seafront. American vehicles, hot rods, muscle cars, Harleys and Goldwings. Live music, trade stands, fun fair and French market. Run in conjunction with the Worthing Festival. Free entrance. Worthing American Rod & Custom Show

29 Jul 2012 [TBC] Party In The Park, Leeds. Sunday 13:30 for 15:00 Temple Newsam Park. UK's original and biggest free annual outdoor music concert, with some of the hottest names and chart topping acts brought to the stage by Leeds City Council and 96.3 Radio Aire. Attendance 70,000. Free, but ticketed.

29 Jul 2012 [TBC] Tough Guy Contest - Nettle Warrior Sunday. Perton Farm WV6 7HB. Extreme endurance event - physically challenging, mentally demanding, fear inducing & visually spectacular. Video Map

29 Jul 2012 [TBC] Mini's on the Wreck, Shoreham 10:00-16:00 Adur recreation ground, Shoreham by Sea, West Sussex. Saturday - an evening cruise around the South Downs. Sunday - the main show with raffle, tombola, auto jumble, trade stands, a sound off, show and shine, and various bouncy things for the children. For the public there is free entry, while for mini cars there is a small charge. Free camping. All proceeds to charity.

29 Jul 2012 [TBC] Ilfracombe Birdman Sunday. Flying madness from the pier. Music from The Wurzels, Falling Apart, Sonic Fusion, Kama Linden, & Deluded. Fairground, strongman, stalls and refreshments.

30 Jul - 01 Aug 2012 [TBC] Yorkshire Day Annual event at towns across Yorkshire. Look out for related Yorkshire events over the weekend.

02 Aug 2012 [TBC] Sandown Park Comedy Night & Pantomime Horse Race  Annual flat racing and raucous hilarity for charity. Video

02-05 Aug 2012 [TBC] Stockton International Riverside Festival Thu-Sun. Biggest street arts festival in the UK - still fresh and edgy. Outdoor theatre, street entertainment, circus, music, dance and star-studded Fringe.

03-04 Aug 2012 [TBC] Wargrave & Shiplake Regatta

03-05 Aug 2012 [TBC] Cardiff Festival - Admiral Cardiff Big Weekend Fri-Sun  12:00-23:00 Civic Centre. UKs biggest free outdoor festival and traveling fair. Fireworks each night. Mas Carnival Saturday. Cardiff Festival

03-05 Aug 2012 [TBC] Nottingham Riverside Festival Fri-Sun Victoria Embankment. Join 100,000 others at Nottingham's biggest FREE festival weekend along the beautiful River Trent. World and roots music, arts, river activities, street theatre, street fair, steam engines and crafts. The Festival opening times are Friday 18:30-22:30, Saturday 12:00-23:30, Sunday 12:00-18:00. Fireworks 22:30 on Saturday. Dragon Boat Challenge on Sunday. Free to enter with on site car parking available.
Friday Saturday Sunday

03-05 Aug 2012 [TBC] Brightlingsea Free Music Festival Fri-Sun. Friday evening - local musicians in public houses around the town. Saturday from 12:30 - main stage on the Western Promenade. Sunday afternoon acoustic music on Hurst Green. 8,000 visitors, 25 acts and 136 musicians.

03-10 Aug 2012 [TBC] Broadstairs Folk Week 10:00-22:00 Victoria Gardens, bandstand and town centre. In the parks, pubs, gardens, beaches and promenade; musicians - from the highly professional to the inexperienced amateur - get together in impromptu sessions whilst Morris dancers, Appalachian clog dancers, rapper sword dancers and many others demonstrate their skills on the streets and along the prom. Large craft marquee. Entertainment all day. About 70 events daily, with varying admission charges.

03-26 Aug 2012 [TBC] Free Edinburgh Festival Fringe - Laughing Horse 4,300 performances, 14 venues

04 Aug 2012 Leicester Caribbean Carnival Sat 11:00-20:00 Victoria Park. Sound systems, reggae zone, Caribbean food, fun fair and children's village. 13:00 Parade from Victoria Park through the city centre. More

04 Aug 2012 [TBC] Pride Swindon Saturday 12:00-22:00 Old Town Gardens. 11:30 Parade from the Avery in the Old Town Gardens. Swindon Pride

04 Aug 2012 [TBC] Hastings Old Town Carnival Saturday 17:00 Procession - Rock-a-Nore Road, seafront to the fountain, back along the seafront, up High Street, down All Saints Street and back to Rock-a-Nore Road. 21:00 Fireworks at dusk from the castle. Carnival Week Video

04 Aug 2012 [TBC] Gloucester Fireworks Spectacular Saturday 20:00 Gloucester Park GL1 4UF. Free entrance. 01452 396572.

04 Aug 2012 [TBC] Shanklin Illuminated Carnival, Isle of Wight. Saturday 19:00 Popham Road, Old Village, Chine Avenue. Part of Shanklin Carnival Week.

04-05 Aug 2012 [TBC] Oldham Carnival Big parade. Alexandra Park will come alive with over sixty acts, on three separate stages, on Carnival weekend. Viking show with battles, ironmongery, woodcraft, stunt comedy escapology act. Parade Programme

04-05 Aug 2012 [TBC] Newlyn East Wartime Weekend 10:00-17:00 Sat-Sun St Newlyn East recreational field Cornwall TR8 5NP. WW2 vehicles, displays, re-enactors and entertainment and vintage stalls. Sat 19:30 dance in the Village Hall with DJ and Bar. Sun 11:00 Parade led by St Newlyn East Silver Band. Proceeds to the Village and the Royal British Legion. Come dressed up in the 40’s fashion!

04-05 Aug 2012 [TBC] World Triathlon Championship, London Hyde Park. 1500m swim, 40km cycle and 10km run. Triathlon World Championship, London

04-05 Aug 2012 [TBC] Military and Flying Machines Show Sat-Sun 10:00-17:00 Damyns Hall Aerodrome, Upminster, Essex.
Essex & London's premier military vehicle show.
300+ vehicles, flying displays, heavy tanks, mock battles, living history, tank & helicopter rides, collectors stalls, arena events and all day music. Entrance about £8.

04-05 Aug 2012 [TBC] Todstock Music Festival Sat-Sun Todmorden Centre Vale Park, Lancashire. Free and friendly community event event hosting a variety of musical styles, showcasing the best in local talent. Holistic therapies, kids activity tents, good wholesome food, rides and stalls. The festival is split equally between dance and live music, with all styles catered for. This year the live stages already confirmed include Jack's House Main band stage, Herbidaceous Punk/Ska Tent, World Music Big Top and the Hole Note Acoustic Tent. In addition dance stages confirmed are the Tim Owen presents Terrazza House Tent, Anonymous Sounds Tent, Duck Pond Chill Out Tent, Axis Sound System Reggae Tent and Psybase Trance Tent. The park is a beautiful environment and there is a very relaxed atmosphere. Expected attendance: 5000+

04-10 Aug 2012 Creation Fest, Devon Fri-Sun 10:00-22:00 Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge, Cornwall, PL27 7JE. Christian music festival - simply turn up and enjoy a good line up of bands. Includes teaching seminars, workshops, a skate park, sports and family activities. Close to the surf beach. Free entrance.

04-11 Aug 2012 National Eisteddfod of Wales, Cardiff. The Eisteddfod will be located on the Rhiwlas Estate near Bala, Gwynedd. All the various facilities provided by the Eisteddfod – the caravan site, youth village, MaesB and MaesC will be situated in the surrounding fields. Pageantry, poetry, dance, theatre, choral singing and rock music attracts more than 160,000 visitors annually. Big pavilion, 320 trade stalls, science pavilion, dance stage, visual arts gallery & sport areas. Tickets about £15.

05 Aug 2012 Rye Raft Race Sun 12:00 Fete BBQ, beer tent, live music, 50+ stalls and children's rides held on Rye Salts. 14:00 Raft Race on the River Rother. Both events are free, with the Lions collecting for charity. 0845 833 2825 robert.harvey25@btopenworld.com

05 Aug 2012 Margate Carnival Sun 15:00 The Piazza The Parade, Margate. One of the biggest carnivals in the Southeast. 80 floats and live music, with the UK's biggest DJ's, Caribbean BBQ, stalls and family fun. Tel 01843 293733

05 Aug 2012 [TBC] Bournemouth Carnival Procession A week of events, culminating in the procession on Sunday. 14:30 Procession from East Overcliff Drive to Pier Approach. 19:30 till late - Carnival Gala Night, Carrington House Hotel - free entrance.

05 Aug 2012 [TBC] Birmingham Carnival Sunday 12:00-21:00 Handsworth Park. 13:00 Procession from Holyhead School to Handsworth Park. Steel bands and live soca, calypso and reggae music and Caribbean food.  Held every two years. Tel: 0121 303 3008.

05 Aug 2012 [TBC] British Crabbing Championship. Walberswick, Suffolk. Great fun for children of all ages. 1250 entrants. Over a 90 minute period, armed with line and bait, the person landing the heaviest crab wins. Refreshments available at the RNLI stalls on site.

09 Aug 2012 [TBC] Jersey Battle of Flowers Spectacular event, held on the second Thursday of August every year. See link for a fascinating insight into how the floats are conceived, designed, built and flowered.

09-10 Aug 2012 [TBC] Lowestoft Seafront Airshow Thu-Fri 12:30-17:30. Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, Red Arrows, Tucano, Hawk (subject to sevicability), King Air, The Blades, Tigers Parachute Team, Hawker Hunter, Wing Walkers, Vulcan etc. Ground displays, funfair, music. Free, but voluntary donation appreciated. Map

09-12 Aug 2012 Bristol Balloon Fiesta Europe's largest annual Hot Air Balloon event and one of the UK's top five outdoor events. Attracting 500,000 visitors during the show's four days - and its absolutely FREE to attend. 06:00 Hot Air Balloon Mass Ascent - over 100 balloons will take to the skies from Ashton Court, weather permitting. 09:00 Trade and Entertainment Village open 12:00 Arena Entertainment and Tethered Balloons 18:00 Hot Air Balloon Mass Ascent - over 100 balloons will take to the skies from Ashton Court, weather permitting Bristol Balloon Fiesta
Video 1: Bristol Balloon Fiesta 2010 Video2 Bristol Balloon Fiesta 2010

09-12 Aug 2012 Eastbourne Airbourne Thu-Sun. Daily sea front air show - classic WW2, latest military jets, helicopters, air-sea rescue, wing walkers etc - weather permitting. Ground displays, arena events and trade stands. Evening concerts and fireworks. Popular viewing areas - The Pier, The Wish Tower Slopes, Beachy Head. The biggest free seafront air show in the world. Eastbourne Airbourne

09-12 Aug 2012 [TBC] Beached Festival. Thu-Sun Scarborough. Attendance 30,000. Free entrance.

11 Aug 2012 [TBC] Arundel Bath Race Saturday 10:30-16:30 The Black Rabbit, Mill Road, Arundel BN18 9PB. 13:00 Race start. Exhibitors include The Wey and Arun Canal Trust, vintage vehicles from Amberley Working Museum, and craft stalls. Live band and DJ playing into the evening, bouncy castle, family side stalls and barbecue. Last year 36 teams comprising 132 competitors set sail including; a Viking Longbath; Spirit FM ‘Baywatch’ girls in the Hofftub; a Roman chariot towed by 7 Gladiators aboard beer barrel ‘horses’; a replica of Arundel Castle defended by paddle wielding ‘Knights’ and a floating ‘tennis court’ complete with net, line markings and an actual game of ‘Doubles’ taking place mid river! The race is free to view, and raises funds for Chestnut Tree House children's hospice. martin@arundelbathrace.co.uk 01243 826183.

11 Aug 2012 [TBC] Crystal Palace Overground Festival Saturday. Westow Park 11:00-18:00. Live music, food, crafts village, frescoball, Tug of War, decorated bike competition, face painting, drumming workshop, magic shows, Supernova drama, Diddidance, healing tent, art workshops etc. The Triangle 11:00 till late. Local bars will host gigs and DJs late into the night, Gipsy Hill Workshops open day with a ceramic workshop for children, a silent auction, painting and tailoring demonstrations, Antenna Studios theatre and poetry, Coopers Yard open air cinema and our vintage hideaway Haynes Lane will come alive with live music.

11 Aug 2012 [TBC] World Pipe Band Championships Saturday. The biggest and best event in piping. Bands from across the globe will descend onto Glasgow Green with one goal - to be World Pipe Band Champions. 8,000 pipers, 16 nations and 45,000 spectators. About £11. Highland games, children's area, highland dancing, drum major competition, craft fair and mass march past.

11-12 Aug 2012 [TBC] Worthing Birdman Sat-Sun. Competitors launch themselves from the pier and compete for the furthest flight in home made flying contraptions and winged fancy dress costumes, raising thousands of pounds for charity. Live music, market stalls, local radio etc. Saturday - Flying starts 11:30 - serious flyers. Sunday - Flying starts 12:00 - serious and fun competitors.

11-12 Aug 2012 [TBC] Manchester Caribbean Carnival & Festival Sat-Sun Alexandra Park. Parade on Saturday. Steel bands, floats, DJs, dance troupes, Caribbean food & drink, fairground, crafts and stage featuring calypso, soca and reggae.

11-13 Aug 2012 [TBC] Aldeburgh Regatta & Carnival, Suffolk Sat-Mon - 3 days of events for all ages. Carnival Monday - swimming races in the sea, children’s sports, and the life-boat launch. Afternoon carnival procession, fun fair, entertainment in the High Street by The Knots of May, samba dancers, and The Parachute Regiment Band. Chinese Lantern Procession to the beach. Beach Fireworks. Map

11-13 Aug 2012 [TBC] Whitby Regatta

11-18 Aug 2012 Skandia Cowes Week, Isle of Wight The largest sailing regatta of its kind in the world, with 40 daily races. Over 1,000 boats and 8,500 competitors from world class to weekend sailors. 100,000 spectators watch the sailing, enjoy the parties and unique atmosphere. Regatta Village in Cowes Yacht Haven off the High Street in West Cowes - an ideal place to enjoy a drink and soak up the atmosphere. Live music on the water's edge. Cowes Esplanade provides a good view of the racing. Highlight for many is the last Friday - typical line-up: 18:00 Formation fly-past by the Red Arrows Gnat and the Sea Vixen, followed by a 10 minute display by the Sea Vixen, 19:30 Red Arrows aerobatic display, 20:00 RNLI rescue demonstration. On the last Friday - huge free firework display, set to music at 21:30.

Skandia Cowes Week Video - Fireworks Red Funnel H-Speed Cat

11-18 Aug 2012 [TBC] Dawlish Carnival One of Devons largest. Includes free International Airshow, with an attendance of 100,000 on the sea front. Parade Fri

12 Aug 2012 [TBC] Rye Maritime Festival 12:00-17:00 Strand Quay. Fancy dress competition, RNLI, circus performers, rotary club, fire brigade, belly dancers, pearly king & queen, wild owl show, Hastings diving association, antique diving association, antique diving display, Cinque Port volunteers, environment agency, food, beer tent and live music.

12 Aug 2012 [TBC] Skegness Carnival Procession Sunday - Wainfleet Road to promenade. Gala events, baby show, super heroes, BBQ, beach games, tiny tots competition, Miss Seaside, pet show etc.

12-18 Aug 2012 [TBC] Fowey Royal Regatta

14-15 Aug 2012 British Fireworks Championships, Plymouth Tue-Wed 21:30 Very spectacular. 6 firework companies battle over two nights for the title of British Fireworks Champion. 3 ten minute displays per evening. Attendance 200,000. Music stage, morris dancing, fairground rides, catering outlets etc. The fireworks will be set off at Mountbatten Breakwater. Popular viewing areas are The Hoe and Queen Anne's Battery. Free. Map British Firework Championships

15 Aug 2012 Weymouth Carnival Wednesday. 10:00-22:00 Events and entertainment all day. Attendance 100,000. Sandcastle Competition, Fun Run, Red Arrow fly-past. Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, comprising Lancaster, Spitfire and Hurricane. All day fairground on the seafront. Provisional times: 10:30 Sand Sculpting, 11:00 Weymouth Carnival Sky Divers, 10:30-17:30 Beach Football, 13:30 Beach Space Hopper Race, 17:00 Waitress Trolley Race, 17:30 Coach Pull Challenge, 17:30 Childrens Fun Run, 18:00-20:30 Steel band, King's Statue, 18:30-20:30 Seafront Procession, 19:15 Live music, beach stage, 21:30 Fireworks. Facebook

15 Aug 2012 [TBC] Cromer Carnival. Wednesday. Red Arrow fly-past about 12:00.

17-19 Aug 2012 [TBC] Northampton Balloon Festival and American Car Show Fri-Sun Held at the Billing Aquadrome A Great Day Out for All The Family, with planned Balloon Flights AM & PM, evening glow, endless selection of stands, stalls and attractions. Pedestrians £5, vehicles £15 Northampton Balloon Festival

17-19 Aug 2012 [TBC] Worcester Music Festival Fri-Sun. Over 30 venues and 130 bands - mostly free. Staged in pubs, clubs, cafes, and historic buildings in and around the city. The festival supports local charities. Facebook

17-25 Aug 2012 Monmouth Festival One of Europe’s biggest and best free music festivals featuring rock, classical, pop, folk, jazz, ska, punk and world music. Attendance 50,000. Blestium Street car park. 

17-27 Aug 2012 [TBC] Arundel Festival An eclectic mix of music, arts and drama plus free street entertainment and free big weekends in Jubilee Gardens. Fri 17:00 Festival procession and opening party. Event Listings

18 Aug 2012 Nottingham Caribbean Carnival Sat 11:00 Forest Recreation Ground. Caribbean food, funfair and family area. Attendance 80,000. Free.

18 Aug 2012 [TBC] Race The Train, Wales Saturday. Annual cross-country run organised by the Rotary Club of Tywyn. 14.75 mile cross country hilly race. The train takes about 1 hour 47 minutes for the return journey. The start is adjacent to the Talyllyn Railway station. Both the runners and the train are started by the train whistle ordered by the timekeeper. The course is run alongside the railway over fields, rough pasture, and farm tracks.

18 Aug 2012 [TBC] Rodmell Summer Show, Sussex Saturday. Traditional village entertainment with a firework finale.

18 Aug 2012 [TBC] Southend Illuminated Carnival Saturday 19:45 from Chalkwell Avenue. Illuminated Parade of about 60 floats and samba bands etc. The parade usually pauses on Marine Parade at about 21:00 for a firework display, then continues on to The Castle public house. Video Southend Illuminated Carnival

18 Aug 2012 [TBC] Sturminster Newton Carnival Saturday 19:15. Carnival parade with illuminated floats, dancers, bands and drummers. The first carnival on the Wessex carnival circuit, unique in that it attracts entries from all over the south west plus local groups. A number of the larger illuminated carts from the circuit, plus locals. Lots of masqueraders, both local and from the Wessex and other circuits. Firework finale. 01747 840045. www.sturcarnival.co.uk

18 Aug 2012 [TBC] On The Edge World Music Festival Saturday 12:00-20:00 Richmond upon Thames Riverside. Live music from countries and cultures all over the world, musical styles merging from Balkan to Bangara, Caribbean to Country and many more. Admission is free and people of all ages are welcome.

On the Edge Festival, Richmond Video Map

18 Aug 2012 [TBC] Melrose Pipe Band & Highland Dance Contest Saturday 10:00-17:00 St Mary's School Grounds. Bands and Highland Dancers from Scotland and beyond. A great family day out. Ian Graham 01896 820388 Map

18 Aug 2012 [TBC] Yarmouth Carnival, Isle of Wight Saturday 17:30 Yarmouth Green through the town. Culmination of a week's festivities.

18 Aug 2012 [TBC] LA Pebbles On The Beach, Littlehampton. Saturday 15:00-22:30 Seafront. Music festival and family fun day. 10 local bands on 2 stages. Free, but ticketed

18 Aug 2012 [TBC] Ryde Carnival, Isle of Wight Saturday. 16:45 assemble esplanade & canoe lake, 17:15 judging, 18:15 procession.

18-19 Aug 2012 [TBC] Berkshire 4x4 Show In aid of  Help For Heroes. Sat-Sun 10:00-17:00 Mereoak Lane, Grazeley, Reading. Military vehicles, classic cars and bikes, arena displays, crafts and more. Admission £10 adults, children under 14yrs free, concessions £5.

18-19 Aug 2012 [TBC] Beccles Carnival Weekend Saturday Teddy Bears Parade from the Kings Head to Beccles Quayside. Entertainment from KYSLR with prize give-aways, fun and games, fancy dress for children, displays and stalls. Sunday 14:00 Carnival Parade, Rainbow car park to Beccles Quay. Fun fair, displays, competitions and family entertainment. 07527 115697. www.askanthea.com/becclescarnival

West Country Illuminated Carnivals

Somerset County GFCA circuit 2-3 hours. The South Somerset FC circuit 2 hours. Wessex GP circuit 1 hour

18 Aug 2012 [TBC] Sturminster Newton. Sat 19:15. Wessex GP
15 Sep 2012 [TBC] Mere. Sat 19:00. Wessex GP
22 Sep 2012 [TBC] Frome. Sat 19:00. Wessex GP
22 Sep 2012 [TBC] Wellington. Sat 19:30. South Somerset FC
29 Sep 2012 [TBC] Shaftesbury. Sat 19:00. Wessex GP
29 Sep 2012 [TBC] Ilminster. Sat 19:15. South Somerset FC
06 Oct 2012 [TBC] Gillingham. Sat 19:30. Wessex GP
06 Oct 2012 [TBC] Chard. Sat 19:15. South Somerset FC
13 Oct 2012 [TBC] Castle Cary. Sat 19:30. Wessex GP
13 Oct 2012 [TBC] Taunton. Sat 19:00. South Somerset FC
20 Oct 2012 [TBC] Trowbridge. Sat 19:00. Wessex GP
27 Oct 2012 [TBC] Warminster. Sat 19:00. Wessex GP
03 Nov 2012 Bridgwater. Sat 19:00. Somerset County GFCA (not Fri)
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Burnham & Highbridge. Mon 19:30. Somerset County GFCA
07 Nov 2012 [TBC] Shepton Mallet. Wed 19:30. Somerset County GFCA
08 Nov 2012 [TBC] Midsomer Norton. Thu 19:15
09 Nov 2012 [TBC] Wells. Fri 19:30. Somerset County GFCA
10 Nov 2012 North Petherton. Sat 19:00. Somerset County GFCA (a week later than usual)
10 Nov 2012 [TBC] Glastonbury. Sat 19:00. Somerset County GFCA
12 Nov 2012 [TBC] Weston-super-Mare. Mon 19:15. Somerset County GFCA

 

                                                               
BRIGHTON & HOVE 999 FUN DAY   
                                                               

www.bh999funday.co.uk

19 Aug 2012 Brighton & Hove 999 Fun Day

Sun 10:00-16:00 Hove Lawns.

Promoting the work of the emergency services. Police dogs, dog rescue, fire brigade demonstrations, Sussex Safety partnership and the coastguard etc.

21-27 Aug 2012 [TBC] Harleston & Waveney Festival Street entertainers, music weekend at the Swan Hotel. Holiday Monday family fun day 11:00-17:00 Harleston recreation ground - vintage cars, tractors and military vehicles, dancing, whacky races, kickboxing, stalls, BBQ, bar, boot sale and bouncy castles. In 2010, a flypast by The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and an RAF Sea King helicopter. Free entrance.

23-24 Aug 2012 [TBC] Clacton Airshow Thurs-Fri. Free air display with vintage and jet fly-pasts and ground displays. Attendance 90,000

23-25 Aug 2012 [TBC] Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta

24-26 Aug 2012 [TBC] Streets of Summer Festival, Durham Market Place Stage - street performers, clowns, acrobats and  jugglers, Millenium Place Music Stage - eclectic mix of contemporary and breakthrough acts, Crook Hall & Gardens - Folk Music.

24-26 Aug 2012 [TBC] Bruce Festival 12:00 Pittencrieff Park, Dunfermline KY12 8QH. A celebration of King Robert the Bruce in the shadow of his final resting place. Knights and Foot Soldiers will hold continuous demonstrations using various styles of combat with the weaponry of the period. Jousting with full armour, a team of six horses will be accompanied by full commentary on the skills-at-arms display. Medieval encampment and re-enactment groups, and piping and drumming music during the afternoon in the main arena. Free entrance. 01383 732226 dunfermlinedelivers@btconnect.com

24-26 Aug 2012 [TBC] Upton Festival Fri-Sun Fish Meadow, Upton upon Severn, Worcestershire. Live music till midnight. Camping available. See link for details and tickets.

24-27 Aug 2012 [TBC] NASC Street Rod Nationals Trinity Park, Ipswich. Cruise Sunday, show & shine, live bands. Public day is Sunday.

24-27 Aug 2012 [TBC] Norfolk Balloon Meet Old Buckenham Airfield Norfolk. Food, drinks and camping on site. Organised by Anglia Balloon Flights.

24-27 Aug 2012 [TBC] Bands at The Boot, Cheshire Saturday The Boot & Shoe, Nantwich. Mini free music festival held in a marquee in the beer garden. Rock, pop, jazz and blues.

24 Aug - 02 Sep 2012 Bridgnorth Music and Arts Festival Live music, fine art, photography and gaming events. 10 days, 20 venues and 100’s of artists. Free entrance.

NOTTING

HILL

CARNIVAL

25 Aug 2012 Panorama Steel Band Championships Saturday 13:00-18:00 Horniman's Pleasance Park, Kensal Road. 2011 participating bands were: Ebony, Mangrove, Croydon Steel Orchestra, London All Stars, Caribbean Steel International (CSI) and Reading All Steel Percussion Orchestra (RASPO). Attendance 5,000. Free event. More Panonthenet
Video - Real Steel 2010 Video - Metronomes 2010 Video - Ebony 2009 Video - Real Steel 2009 Video - Mangrove 2009

26 Aug 2012 Notting Hill Carnival - J’Ouvert (Jouvay) Sunday 06:00-09:00 from junction Kensal Road & Ladbroke Grove. Traditional day break start to carnival, steeped in tradition. Participants cover themselves and others in paint, chocolate, mud, oil and white powder. Be aware that you may be hugged by muddy revelers. Video

26 Aug 2012
Notting Hill Carnival - Sunday 09:00-19:00 Parade, bands, floats, steel bands, dancers, sound systems, food & drink. Best day for children as the carnival is still gathering momentum. 12:00-19:00 Static sound systems. Video 2010 Sunday Video 2009 Sunday

27 Aug 2012 Notting Hill Carnival - Monday 09:00-19:00 Parade Ladbroke Grove. One million revelers, 7500 participants, Mas bands, Steel bands and dozens of static sound systems. Kensal Town to the north is very vibrant, with thousands dancing to big sound systems including Sancho Panza. 300 food stalls, 1 ton of chicken curry, 1 ton of Jamaican patties, 15000, deep-fried plantains, 30000 corn on the cob, 1 ton of rice and peas, 12000 mangoes, 16000 coconuts, 5 million hot and cold drinks & 25,000 bottles of rum. If you like carnivals, you will love Notting Hill. Video - Monday Kensal Road

Notting Hill Carnival 2011 Map - General 2011 Map - Sound Systems 2011 Map - Parking

25 Aug 2012 [TBC] Manchester Pride Parade Saturday 13:00 City centre to the gay village. 100+ floats.

25-26 Aug 2012 [TBC] Talgarth Festival of the Black Mountains Sat-Sun. Popular family festival. Various venues throughout this beautiful market town. If past years are anything to go by, expect to see a colourful parade, bagpipes, morris men, stilt walkers, a duck race on the river Ennig and craft fair. Live bands and a DJ on George's Green all afternoon. Evening candlelit concert in the mediaeval church of St Ellwye, high up in the Black Mountains on Saturday, and Talgarth's own Male Voice Choir on Sunday. Local pubs have live music 'til late. Grand firework display near the Rugby Club at 21:15 on Sunday. What's On

25-27 Aug 2012 [TBC] Summer Squall, Ramsgate Sat-Mon. Ramsgate Arts presents a festival of arts, music, theatre, architecture and film.

26 Aug 2012 Swaffham Free Festival. Sunday,  Market Place & Butter Cross Rotunda. Info 01760 722800. Line-up includes The Blarney Rovers, Killamonjambo, and The Demodes.

26 Aug 2012 [TBC] Aylesbury Showcase - Hobble on the Cobbles Sunday 12:00-19:00 Market Square, Aylesbury. Free live music festival, attracting over 4000 people. The 2011 event was cancelled.

26 Aug 2012 [TBC] Bog Snorkelling Chamionships Sunday 10:00 Waen Rhydd peat bog, Llanwrtyd Wells, Wales. Two lengths of a 60 yard trench cut through the peat bog in the quickest time, wearing snorkels and flippers. If you enjoy wallowing in mud, then this one is for you. Video

26 Aug 2012 [TBC] Grasmere Sports & Show Sunday - Stock Lane, Grasmere, Cumberland. Cumberland Wrestling, Guides Races, Hound Trails, Mountain Biking, Dog Shows. Entrance about £8.

26 Aug 2012 [TBC] Beer Festival & Fun Day, Wiltshire Sunday 12:30 White Horse Country Park, Westbury BA13 4LU. Live music, BBQ & family fun.

26 Aug 2012 [TBC] Great North Bike Ride Charity cycle ride. 09:00 Seahouse Tourist Information Car Park to Tynemouth Priory. Over 1700 cyclists take part in the ride in aid of the Chris Lucas Cancer Trust. 54 miles through the beautiful Northumberland coastline. www.chrislucastrust.com

26 Aug 2012 [TBC] Illuminations Gala 20:30 West Park, Sea Front. Night procession featuring floats, groups, bands and illuminated characters. 22:00 Fireworks from the pier.

26 Aug 2012 [TBC] Thong Rangers Family Fun Day Extravaganza Sunday 12:00 till late, Didcot Town Football Club, Loop Meadow Stadium. Arena events, games, stalls, penalty shootout, ball in bucket game, balloon race, skill games, train rides, inflatables, auction, dog agility, owl display, dog grooming, children's fancy dress competition, fire and police displays, stalls. BBQ, refreshments and live music. Free entrance. Raising money for Fan

26-27 Aug 2012 [TBC] Mathew Street Festival, Liverpool 11:00-18:00 Sun-Mon. UK's largest free annual outdoor music festival. 150 bands on six outdoor stages and 40 indoor venues. Crowds of 370,000 on the Monday. Queensway Tunnel Main Stage - Byron Street. Williamson Square - New Bands & Streetwaves. Derby Square - Beatles. Water Street - Guitar Hero Sunday, Diva Monday. Exchange Street East - Merseybeat. Tithebarn Street - Rock Sunday, Blues Monday. Stage Map Visit Liverpool

26-27 Aug 2012 [TBC] Eye Show & Country Fair 10:00-19:00 Goodrich Park, Palgrave, Suffolk. Top class entertainment for the whole family. Main arena performers, countryside demonstrations, children's entertainers, market, music, trade stands and funfair.

27 Aug 2012 [TBC] Portsmouth Multicultural Festival Sunday 10:00-18:00 Castle Field Southsea. Two live performance stages playing Afro Urban, Salsa, Reggae and Indie Rock, plus Street, Irish and Flamenco dancing. Workshops featuring Drumming, Salsa and Latin rhythm. Music, dance, face painting t-shirt making, ethnic crafts, stalls, food & drink. An important free event in the city’s cultural calendar, attended by thousands. The Portsmouth Multicultural Group is a charitable organisation, run by volunteers, who promote awareness and celebrate diverse cultures. 02392 862224.

27 Aug 2012 [TBC] World Gravy Wrestling Championships Monday 12:00-17:00 Rose n Bowl, Newchurch Road, Stacksteads OL13 0UG. Inflatables, water bombs, fancy dress, semi pro wrestling and big screen action. BBC Radio Lancashire will judge the event. More Video

27 Aug 2012 [TBC] Bourton On The Water Football In The River Monday. Red and White teams from Bourton Rovers FC play a half hour six-a-side football match in the River Windrush. The goals are between two bridges, and thousands of spectators line the river bank. www.soglos.com Gallery Video.

27 Aug 2012 [TBC] Newlyn Fish Festival Monday. Seafood, Cooking Demonstrations, Children’s Workshops, Fish Auctions, Open Vessels, Craft, Art and Trade stalls together with a full programme of Music and Harbour Entertainments including Gig Racing, Naval War Ships, Helicopters, The Penlee Lifeboat, and the Camborne Youth Band.

27 Aug 2012 [TBC] Leeds West Indian Carnival Monday. Early parade 06:00 Leeds West Indian Centre. Maim parade 14:15 Potternewton Park. Main stage with Soca, Calypso & Caribbean music. Lots of stalls, crafts and carnival food. Attendance 120,000. Route

27 Aug 2012 [TBC] Bexhill 100 Classic & Custom Car Show Monday 10:00-17:00 Polegrove Recreation Ground, West Parade, Bexhill on Sea. Classic and custom cars,  trade stalls and crafts.

27 Aug 2012 [TBC] Bodiam Fun Day and Dog Show. Holiday Monday 12:00-16:00 Recreation Field, Bodiam, Nr. Robertsbridge, East Sussex (behind the Castle Inn). East Sussex TN32 5UB. Attractions include bouncy castles, coconut shy, traditional ’gallopers’, side shows, craft stalls, rides, refreshments, teas, ices, beer tent and BBQ, go carts, brass band, model aircraft flying display, tombola and raffle. Dog show is a ’fun’ event with 21 classes contested. The village is also home to Bodiam Castle (NT) and the Kent & East Sussex Railway. Free Fun Day and Dog Show parking. Charity event for village primary school. Dog Show entries taken from 10:00, Dog Show starts at 12:15.

27 Aug 2012 [TBC] Colchester Free Festival Monday 11:00-19:00 Castle Park. Music and arts festival organised by the community for the community. Attendance 15,000.

27 Aug 2012 Public Holiday - Summer Bank Holiday

27 Jul - 28 Aug 2012 [TBC] Luton Summer festival St Georges Square. DJs, music, street theatre and carnival.

29 Aug 2012 [TBC] Sandown Illuminated Carnival. Wednesday. Line up 19:00. Judging 20:00. Procession 21:00 Culver Parade through town. Route takes 1 hour. 01983 402334.

29 Aug - 02 Sep 2012 The Great Dorset Steam Fair Wed-Sun 08:00-24:00 (17:00 Sun) South Down, Tarrant Hinton, Blandford DT11 8HX. 60 showman's engines, 30 steam tractors, 20 steam road locomotives, 20 steam lorries, 25 steam road rollers, 100 vintage & classic vehicles, 100 military vehicles, 140 Vintage motorcycles, 120 vintage tractors, 150 static vintage tractors, 100 horticultural tractors, 120 stationary engines plus rural displays, crafts, food hall & live music. About £16. 600 acre site!

30 Aug - 02 Sep 2012 Bournmouth Air Festival Thu-Sun. Seafront. Free entrance. Air & Ground displays. Royal Marine Beach Assaults, Princess of Wales Parachute Display Team, Typhoon, Matadors, Tutor, Tucano, Hawk, SallyB, Vulcan, The Red Arrows, Breitling Wingwalkers, F-16, Typhoon, RAF Tutor, RAF Tucano, The Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment’s Parachute Display Team – The Tigers, The Matadors, King Air, RAF Hawk, SallyB, Vulcan and Black Cats Helicopter Team. Night Air - Thu, Fri and Sat - Lower Gardens and seafront: hot air balloons, film screenings, street entertainers, stilt walkers, flame throwers, dusk air display, live music, military bands, forces displays. Saturday attendance 340,000. Vulcan Video. Bournemouth Air Festival

30 Aug - 02 Sep 2012 Burnham-On-Sea FolkFest, Somerset. Fri-Sun. Over 70 live acts, markets, workshops, arts and crafts, exhibitions, kids' entertainment, dancing and much more. 2009 bands booked include: Dambuskers, Bag Of Rats, Kent DuChaine, Polly & The Billets, Doux, Steve Turner, Three Sheets T'Wind, The FOS Brothers, Phil King, The Cherry Pickers, Stompin' Dave Allen, Inu. Live music in local pubs on Saturday 12:00-23:00, Clog and Morris Dancing, a Craft Fair in the middle of the Town. Likely to include Sunday Open Air Concert in Manor Gardens 12.00-18:00. Friday opening concert ticketed, everything else free.

31 Aug - 02 Sep 2012 BunkFest, Wallingford. Sat-Mon. Attendance 20,000. Possibly free again.

31 Aug - 02 Sep 2012 [TBC] Chatsworth Country Fair Fri-Sun. Massed pipe and military bands, demonstrations and parades, hot air balloons, parachuting, over 300 trade stands, rural crafts, vintage car parade, terrier racing, clay pigeon shooting, bouncy castle, old time fairground, horse shoeing, ferret racing, archery, sheep dog trials etc etc. About £17.

31 Aug - 02 Sep 2012 [TBC] Shrewsbury International Street Festival Fri-Sun 11:00-18:00 Town Centre. The Acts Video 2009 Map

31 Aug - 02 Sep 2012 [TBC] End Of The Road Festival  Fri-Sun Larmer Tree Gardens, Dorset. Art, atmosphere, workshops, comedy, cinema, woodland library, games area, enchanted forest, healing field, quality food & drinks and good music.

31 Aug - 02 Sep 2012 Stroud Fringe Festival Fri-Sun.150 acts on outdoor stages and local pubs. Facebook Get involved

31 Aug - 02 Sep 2012 [TBC] National Amateur Gardening Show. Bath & West Showground. Spectacular garden displays, fruit and vegetables, the biggest dahlia show in the world, TV celebrities, top gardening experts, celebrity workshops, entertainments arena, monster veg & UK national championships, giant floral marquee, ask the experts, quality food area, children's area, dahlias and best bougainvillea display anywhere in Europe help to make this a must. About £12 on the gate.

01 Sep 2012 Brighton Pride Sat 11:00 Parade, Madeira Drive to Preston Park - vibrant, brash and cheeky. 13:00-20:00  Party in Preston Park. New sponsors for 2012 - see website for tickets, earlybird £8.50, adult £12.50. Brighton Pride Video: 2010 Parade 2010 Preston Park 2009 Mud Slide

01 Sep 2012 Uckfield Bonfire & Carnival Sat 13:30 Children's Procession from Victoria Pleasure Ground, followed by children's fancy dress competition in Holy Cross school playing field. 18:30 Adults Fancy Dress Competition, Elizabeth Gardens. 19:30 Torchlight Procession. 21:00 Bonfire Prayers. 21:10 Grand Torchlight Procession with big Tableaux. Free bonfire & fireworks the day before the parade 20:30 at Holy Cross School Field. 01825 762763. Uckfield Bonfire Video

01 Sep 2012 Ryde Illuminated Carnival Saturday 20:30 The Esplanade. Biggest Isle of the Wight Illuminated Carnivals. Ryde Illuminated Carnival

01 Sep 2012 [TBC] Nigerian Carnival, London Saturday, Leyton Cricket Ground. Tel: 075306 572656 info@nigeriancarnival.com

01 Sep 2012 [TBC] Wem Carnival, Shropshire Saturday. Two parades, each a mile long, from Bowensfield to Lowe Hill Rd at 13:30 and 19:45. Fancy dress and floats, marching bands, military and classic vehicles. 01939 232547.

01 Sep 2012 Cardiff Mardi Gras Sat 13:00-21:00 Coopers Field, behind Cardiff Castle CF10 3RB. Gay & lesbian festival. Attendance 40,000. Free entrance.

01 Sep 2012 [TBC] Devizes Carnival  & International Street Festival Vibrant carnival mix, and one of the biggest outdoor celebrations in Wiltshire with the famous international Street Festival Sat - Carnival Parade 18:00

01-02 Sep 2012 [TBC] Bristol International Kite Festival Sat-Sun 11:00-17:00 Ashton Court. International kite guests from as far as New Zealand, Kuwait and Thailand will join flyers and enthusiasts from Europe. The arena will feature spectacular flying displays, kite fighting battles, breathtaking synchronised team routines flown to music and awesome power kites as well as colourful ground-based inflatables, banners and air sculptures of all shapes and sizes. Festival highlights will include: Festival of the Sea, including giant swirling octopi, manta rays and squids, flying fish, a larger than life scuba diver, giant mermaids and Roly the mega killer whale, flying dragons, bears, tigers, dogs and cats. Free entrance, but on-site parking charge. The latest contender for the World’s Largest Kite – a colossal  flying  Manta Ray - larger than a full-size football pitch. Bristol International Kite Festival

01-02 Sep 2012 Faversham Hop Festival, Kent. Fun weekend in the medieval town square and surrounding streets, celebrating hop picking in Kent. Music to suit eclectic tastes, children's entertainers, professional street theatre, stilt walkers, Morris dancing, craft fare, and ceilidh. Stages in Market Place and Preston Street and craft stalls in the surrounding streets.

Sussex Bonfire Season 2012 Events

The Bonfire Societies

01 Sep 2012 Uckfield Uckfield [Fireworks 31 Aug] 
08 Sep 2012 [TBC] Crowborough
15 Sep 2012 [TBC] Mayfield Mayfield
29 Sep
2012 [TBC] Burgess Hill Burgess Hill
06 Oct
2012 Rotherfield Rotherfield
06 Oct
2012 Eastbourne Eastbourne
13 Oct
2012 Hastings Hastings
20 Oct
2012 [TBC] Hailsham
20 Oct
2012 [TBC] Fletching Fletching
20 Oct
2012 [TBC] Nevill Nevill
20 Oct 2012 [TBC] Seaford
21 Oct 2012 [TBC] Titchfield
27 Oct 2012 [TBC] Firle Firle
27 Oct
2012 Staplecross
27 Oct 2012 Littlehampton
03 Nov
2012 Newick Newick
03 Nov 2012 Battle
05 Nov 2012 Lewes
05 Nov 2012 Lindfield
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Winchelsea
10 Nov 2012 [TBC] Chailey
10 Nov 2012 [TBC] South Heighton
10 Nov 2012 [TBC] East Hoathly
10 Nov 2012 [TBC] Shoreham
10 Nov
2012 Rye
17 Nov 2012 [TBC] Robertsbridge Robertsbridge
17 Nov 2012 [TBC] Barcombe Barcombe

02 Sep 2012 World Bellyboard Championship Sunday, Chapel Porth Beach, Cornwall. Held on the first Sunday in September. Organised and hosted by the National Trust. It is a celebration of all things connected with the art of riding traditional wooden boards. With contributions from the evolving wooden surfboard community it is a handcrafted bonanza and the most fun you've had since last year!

02 Sep 2012 [TBC] Kingston Carnival Sunday 12:00 Clarence Street to the Guildhall. Two music stages until 17:00. Caribbean Soca, Steel Band, Afro-Cuban salsa and African jazz. Attendance 20,000. Free. 020 8547 2332 Kingston Carnival

02 Sep 2012 [TBC] London Mela Sunday 13:00-20:30 Gunnersbury Park. The UK's largest Asian Mela. Seven zones with urban, classical and experimental music, DJs, circus, dance, visual arts, comedy, children’s area & food from around the world. Pop and classical music, cabaret, cultural stalls, martial arts, street theatre. Free entrance, but parking charge. London Mela Map

02 Sep 2012 [TBC] Swan Lifeline Open Day Sunday 11:00-16:00 Cuckoo Weir Island, South Meadow Lane, Eton SL4 6SS. Visit the swans and treatment centre. Fun and games, refreshments, fair stalls, raffle, dance performances, delightful river cruise from Windsor Promenade (suggested donation £1). Free entrance and parking.

02 Sep 2012 [TBC] Brentford Festival, London Sunday 12:00-17:30 Boston Manor Park, Hounslow. Community fun day with two music stages, dog show, arts, crafts and charity stalls. Childrens activities include family fair, pony rides, inflatables, climbing wall, bungee and land train. Sports samplers in kayaking, football, basketball, rugby and a club tennis club tournament. Two bars, a cafe and food stalls. Attendance 10,000. Free entrance. More

02 Sep 2012 [TBC] Angel Canal Festival, London Sunday 11:00-17:00 City Road Lock and Basin to Packington Park. Stalls, fair, music, food, regatta, boat race &  boat trips. 70 stalls selling canal ware, crafts, books. These give many local and national charities the chance to raise funds. There will be walks and talks, hawks, owls, bee keepers, food stalls, music, funfair and a wide range of boats with bell-boat racing. Admission free.

02 Sep 2012 [TBC] Tour de Furness, Cumbria Sunday. Charity cycle event, organised by The Rotary Club of Furness. Family fun ride of 5 miles, Tour de Furness route of 13 miles, which passes by Furness Abbey, and Furness 50 mile to Coniston and back.

02 Sep 2012 [TBC] Monmouth Charity Raft Race Sunday 12:00 Monmouth Rowing Club. 6.5 mile course down the River Wye to Tump Farm, Whitebrook, where there is entertainment and refreshments. Organised by the Rotary Club of Monmouth.

02 Sep 2012 [TBC] Brentford Festival, London Held on the first Sunday in September. 12:00-17:30 Boston Manor Park, Hounslow. Community fun day with two music stages, dog show, arts, crafts and charity stalls. Childrens activities include family fair, pony rides, inflatables, climbing wall, bungee and land train. Sports samplers in kayaking, football, basketball, rugby and a club tennis club tournament. Two bars, a cafe and food stalls. Attendance 10,000. Free entrance. More

02 Sep 2012 [TBC] Portsmouth Multicultural Festival Sunday 10:00-18:00 Castle Field Southsea. Two live performance stages playing Afro Urban, Salsa, Reggae and Indie Rock, plus Street, Irish and Flamenco dancing. Workshops featuring Drumming, Salsa and Latin rhythm. Music, dance, face painting t-shirt making, ethnic crafts, stalls, food & drink. An important free event in the city’s cultural calendar, attended by thousands. The Portsmouth Multicultural Group is a charitable organisation, run by volunteers, who promote awareness and celebrate diverse cultures. 02392 862224.

02 Sep 2012 [TBC] The Great British Duck Race Sunday. Charity event. World Record 175,000 rubber ducks launched into the River Thames  on a dedicated course at Molesey Lock near Hampton Court. £2 to adopt a duck (plus £3 recommended donation to the charity of your choice) and you could win the first prize of £10,000 or one of 30 other prizes. At 12:00 the ducks will be loaded into Molesey Lock and at 13.30 will be released into the River Thames. The natural current will take them down the 1 Km course (Guinness World Record requirement) and should take several hours to complete. The Great British Duck Race. Video 1 Video 2

03-04 Sep 2012 [TBC] St Giles Fair, Oxford Video More

06 Sep 2012 [TBC] Vogue Fashion Night Out, Regent Street, London Designers, department stores, high-street chains and boutiques bring an extravaganza of an evening in the run up to London Fashion Week.

06-13 Sep 2012 [TBC] Liverpool River Festival The Waterfront will come alive with aerobatic displays, stunning street theatre, a bistro village and rustic farmers market, live music, RAF Flypast, P1 Powerboats and Tall Ships. Brochure 2011 (pdf)

07 Sep 2012 [TBC] Kendal Torchlight Procession Friday 19:00. Street Art Performers, 19:45 Torchlight Carnival - folk dancers, heavy  horses, Steam Engines, Spectacular Floats, Marching, Pipe and Display bands and nationally acclaimed carnival groups.

07-08 Sep 2012 [TBC] Findon Sheep Fayre Nepcote Green, Findon Village. Fairground, sheep shearing, falconry display, morris dancing, craft stalls, Punch & Judy. Dances Friday 12th & Saturday 13th in the evening in marquee. 01903 264161.

07-09 Sep 2012 [TBC] Newquay Fish Festival Fri-Sun. Live bands, Cooking demonstrations, Sand castle competition, Local fish and produce stalls, Live marine and rock pool demonstrations, shark throwing competition, dolphin spotting trips, art exibition and competition, fresh caught fish barbeque and Newquay male voice choir.

07-09 Sep 2012 [TBC] Arts Fresco, Market Harborough Welland Park, Streets and Square. Children’s Village with face painting, story-telling, craft workshop and clown performances. Free entrance. Tel 01858 410563.

08 Sep 2012 Crowborough Bonfire Held on the second Saturday in September, Crowborough Bonfire Society has been running for over 100 years. Parade, with about 4,500 torches, attended by other societies, including Uckfield, Mayfield, Burgess Hill, Littlehampton and East Hoathly. 13:30 Childrens Procession. 19:30 Torchlight Procession - Chapel Green, Queens Rd, Blackness Rd, Herne Rd, Whitehill Rd, Croft Rd, Broadway, Crowborough Hill, Millbrook Rd, Eridge Gardens. 21:30 Possible fireworks at Goldsmiths Recreation Ground, Eridge Road.

08 Sep 2012 Pride Reading Sat 12:00 till late. Kings Meadow, by the Thames. 2 music stages, dance, cabaret. beer tent, stalls, fun fair and picnic area.11:30 Parade from Broad Street Mall - arrives Kings Meadow 12:00. Free entrance. Traders - call 0844 3570124 www.readingpride.co.uk

08 Sep 2012 National Speed Trials, Brighton Sat 10:00-18:00 Madeira Drive. Annual speed trials for cars and motorcycles, veteran to current. Quarter mile course, run under RAC Motor Sport Association regulations. Timed Runs 11:30-13:00  & 14:00-18:00. Viewing is free from the upper level, but for entry to the paddock, there is a charge. Brighton and Hove Motor Club Video

08 Sep 2012 [TBC] Last Night Of The Proms, Hyde Park, London Saturday 17:30-22:45. The BBC Proms in the Park experience offers a live open-air concert with high-profile artists and presenters, culminating in a BBC Big Screen link-up to the Royal Albert Hall and a firework finale in the park. Bring a picnic and get ready for a fabulous night out. BBC Concert Orchestra with all the last night favourites. Sir Terry Wogan introduces a top line-up of performers. Large stage, quality sound system and giant screens. Plenty of food & drink outlets. Great atmosphere with 40,000 revelers. About £32. More

08 Sep 2012 [TBC] Festival In The Park, Burgess Hill. Saturday. Annual family fun day run by the Mid Sussex Christian Centre in St John's Park. Activities include, inflatables, crafts, games, face painting, 5 a side football, football in a cage, fairground attractions and an outdoor stage with live entertainment. SkateFest the only Skateboard and BMX competition being run in Burgess Hill this year runs along side the Festival at the Skate park. Free entrance. Info 01444 232596.

08 Sep 2012 Romsey Show, Broadlands Park. Saturday. Excellent country show for families. About £11.

08-09 Sep 2012 The Mayor’s Thames Festival

Sat-Sun 12:00-22:00 Between Westminster Bridge and Tower Bridge. Mixture of street arts, carnival, pyrotechnics, illuminations, art installations, river events, massed choirs, circus and music. Attendance up to 500,000 over the weekend. Information line 020 7021 1686.

Sun 19:15-21:30 Spectacular Illuminated Night Carnival 2,000 dancers, musicians and masqueraders take to the streets in an unrivalled display of street arts and creativity. Upper Ground, Blackfriars Bridge and Victoria Embankment will be filled with torch-lit prehistoric creatures, huge illuminated floats, lanterns and samba bands.

Sun 21:45 Fireworks - Free world class display.

Free event.

Thames Festival   Festival Map Video 2010 Fireworks Video: 1 2 3 4 5

08-09 Sep 2012 Southport Air Show Sat-Sun 09:00-17:00. The North West's largest Airshow, this fantastic family event attracts up to 150,000 spectators over two days. Red Arrows, Vulcan Bomber (Sat only), Tornado GR4, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, and many more military, heritage and civilian air craft plus a village packed full of entertainment, including bmx stunts, flight simulators and much more. About £9.

08-09 Sep 2012 [TBC] Birmingham Artsfest. Fri-Sun. 25 hours of live performance including world renowned acts, plus 400 performers, stunning street theatre and exhibitions in 32 venues. Ballet, Bhangra, Indie bands, Samba music & comedy. Possible fireworks finale.

08-09 Sep 2012 [TBC] Great Yarmouth Maritime Festival. Sat-Sun 10:00-18:00 (16:30 Sunday) South Quay. Tall ships, replica 18th Century frigate, lifeboat demonstrations, Royal Naval Simulators and guided heritage walks. Music from shanty groups, craft marquees,  street entertainment, Punch & Judy, seafood and a beer tent. Many events free.

08-15 Sep 2012 [TBC] Haringey Children’s Literature Festival Marcus Garvey Library, Tottenham Green Centre, 1 Phillip Lane N15 4JA. Launch day, Saturday 10:00-16:00. Word play area, signings tent, story telling tent, workshop space, competitions, and stage, featuring back-to-back talks, presentations and readings from a wide variety of authors and illustrators. Whether you’re 5 or 95, into ghost stories, thrillers, fantasy, comedy, or history, you’ll find something you like at the Reading Garden. Food available, or bring a picnic. This is a free event, achieved with zero budget. Events throughout the rest of the week will be for class bookings – please call 020 8489 1428. What's on Facebook

09 Sep 2012 World Black Pudding Throwing Championships Sun 11:00-22:00 Royal Oak, Bridge Street, Ramsbottom BL0 9AD. Hurling Black Puddings at a pile of Yorkshire Puddings on a 30ft plinth. Held on the second Sunday in September.

09 Sep 2012 [TBC] Nun’s Run, London Sunday. Start and Finish from Dunster Court, nr Tower Hill. Start Time: in waves 10:00-10:30. A non-competitve Charity run on footpaths past the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, South Bank, London Bridge, Southwark Bridge, Globe Theatre, Tate Modern, Blackfriers Bridge, Thames Path, Tower of London and finish back in the city.  In conjunction with the West End musical Sister Act.

09 Sep 2012 Ace Cafe London Brighton Motorcycle Ride Sun 10:30 From the Ace Cafe, Ace Corner, North Circular Road. Up to 40,000 participate in this annual bike ride. At Madeira Drive Brighton, there will be displays from bike manufacturers, special invited guests plus live bands. The event comes to a close at 18:00. Video

09 Sep 2012 [TBC] Acoustic Gathering 12:00-22:30 Peasholm Park, North Bay, Scarborough. Free one-day music festival, with non-stop music from 32 acts, community group stalls and family entertainment. The Parks Cafe will be open with an added bar facility.

09 Sep 2012 Klezmer in the Park Sunday 13:00-17:00 Regents Park Bandstand, London. A celebration of traditional Jewish music with the chance for the audience to participate in traditional song and dance. Klezmer In The Park Jewish Music Institute Video

09 Sep 2012 [TBC] Farleigh Hospice Cycle for Life, Essex Sunday 50 or 20km scenic rides through Essex, raising vital funds in support of your local hospice, funding free care and support to people affected by life limiting illness. Register online or contact the events team on 01245 457408.

09 Sep 2012 [TBC] The London Duathlon Richmond Park. The worlds biggest run, bike, run event. 20k run, 80k bike, 10k run which offers athletes moving up to longer distance racing the chance to test themselves in the safety of a closed-road environment. Provisional times: 08:45 Elite Race, 08:55 Ultra Distance, 09:10-11:45 Challenge Distance, 12:00 10k Run, 14:00 Fun Distance. Spectators

09-16 Sep 2012 [TBC] Tour of Britain Cycle Race 11 Sep 2011 The 2011 route was: Sun. Peebles to Dumfries, Mon. Kendal to Blackpool, Tue. Stoke On Trent, Wed. Welshpool to Caerphilly, Thu. Exeter to Exmouth, Fri. Taunton to Wells, Sat. Bury St Edmunds to Sandringham, 18 Sep 2011 Sun. London. Tour of Britain

11 Sep 2012 Widecombe Fair Tue 09:00 till late. Devon country fare immortalized by the song Uncle Tom Cobley. Held on the 2nd Tuesday in September. Livestock, sheep, dog show, gymkhana, maypole dancing, crafts, vintage vehicles and funfair on the village green.

13 &15 Sep 2012 [TBC] Imperial Wharf Jazz Festival Thu 18:00-22:00, Sat 13:00-22:00 The Boulevard, Imperial Wharf, London SW6 2QD. Annual free event featuring highly creative jazz musicians. 2011 line-up included: Bombay Baja Brass Band, providing a carnival atmosphere, saxophonist Soweto Kinch Quartet with the Brit Award nominated Carleen Anderson, vocalist Nina Ferro, Sonny Black & Friends Blues based band, Indo-Jazz sound from Arun Ghosh Quintet, Robin Jones & King Salsa, a 13 piece Latin band driven by a rhythm and brass section, promising to provide a lively atmosphere to end the festival.

14-16 Sep 2012 Goodwood Revival The world’s most popular historic motor race meeting and the only event of its kind to be staged entirely in the nostalgic time capsule of the 1940s, 50s and 60s. A celebration of flat-out wheel-to-wheel racing around the classic racetrack. Advance tickets only.

14-23 Sep 2012 [TBC] Southampton Boat Show 10:00-19:00 Mayflower Park. Show marina with over 2km of pontoons. 1000 boats and 500 exhibitors. 122,000 visitors. Entrance about £23.

15 Sep 2012 [TBC]  Mayfield Bonfire Saturday 12.30-15:30 High Street Market, 15:15 Childrens Fancy Dress Procession, Royal Oak to Memorial Hall, 19:00. Wreath Laying, 19:30 Procession, West Street to Rose and Crown, 20:20 Procession, Rose & Crown to Stone Cross, 21:15 Procession, Stone Cross to, Natwest Bank, 21:30 Grand Procession, Natwest to Memorial Hall, 22:15 Fireworks, 22:30 Prizes & Trophies, Memorial Hall, Video 2010 Mayfield Bonfire Society

2011 -Video: Procession Fireworks

 

15 Sep 2012 The Great River Race, London Saturday. Start 10:30 Millwall Riverside, London Docklands, End 16:40 Riverside, Ham House, Richmond. 22 mile course, 300 boats, 2000 competitors, 35 trophies. The biggest race of its type in Europe. Handicapped start, spread over 75 minutes. Join thousands of spectators at the riverside near Ham House. Popular also is Chiswick Pier with BBQ, drinks and refreshments

The Great River Race, London Timings Video

15 Sep 2012 [TBC] Stockwell Festival Saturday 13:00-18:00 Larkhall Park, Courland Grove, SW8 2PX. Main Stage, Children's Village, Nature Garden, Sustainability Zone, Adventure Playground, Marketplace, Go Kart Track. Music, dance, magic and storytelling, circus, drumming, face painting, Dr Bike, Giant Peace Wall and Larkhall Urban Gym + an array of stalls including world food. www.stockwell.org.uk 07973 711173 stockwellfesty@live.co.uk

15 Sep 2012 [TBC] Ringwood Carnival Saturday 14:00 Children's Afternoon Procession. 19:15 Torchlight Evening Procession. 21:45 Fireworks.

15 Sep 2012 [TBC] Mouth Cancer 10k Awareness Walk, London Saturday 13:00 Hyde Park, London. The start and finish area is at the Bandstand, Serpentine Road. The FREE Mouth Cancer Walk is designed to increase awareness of mouth cancer, celebrate survivorship, create an opportunity to meet friends, remember lost dear ones, and also have a fun day! There will be FREE mouth cancer screening on the day, plus prizes available for top individual and team fundraisers. Fancy dress and fun runners are encouraged.

15 Sep 2012 [TBC] Egremont Crab Fair & Sports Gurning Championships, Cycling Races, Fancy Dress Pony, Terrier Racing, Stunt Show, Cumberland Wrestling, Wheelbarrow Races, Pet Competition, Egg Throwing Competition, Parade, Morris Dancing etc etc. Entrance to field about £4.

15-16 Sep 2012 Lambeth Country Show Sat-Sun 11:00-19:00 Brockwell Park, London. Largest event of its type in South East England Attendance 120,000. Traction engines and steam parade, medieval re-enactment, falconry; horticultural competitions; fairground rides; crafts; community stalls; live performance stage and arenas. Free entrance. Lambeth Country Show Video

15-16 Sep 2012 [TBC] The Berkshire Show Sat-Sun Newbury Showground, M4, J13. Great British Food and Craft; top-flight equestrian showing classes, the pony scurry driving; International Show jumping; the amazing 36 foot tall Wicker Man; The Countryside and Vintage Areas, Military and Sports Zones; amazing floral displays in the Horticulture Tent; The Young Farmer’s Tug of War Championships and to end both days the traditional spectacle of the mass balloon ascent will ensure that the Show ends on a high note. About £17.

15-16 Sep 2012 [TBC] Hastings Seafood & Wine Festival Sat-Sun, Stalls with a huge variety of dishes including ostrich burgers, oysters, cuttlefish in a tomato sauce, barbecued wild local game and locally smoked fish. Local musicians and bands. Organised by Hastings Borough Council. Attendance 50,000 - possibly the biggest event of its kind in Europe. Festival Market - Sat-Sun 11:00-17:00 Winding Street, Hastings Old Town TN34 3AT.

15-16 Sep 2012 [TBC] Out There Festival, Great Yarmouth Fri-Sun  Town Centre and St. Georges Park. The region's largest free street arts festival. Musical Masquerade featuring amazing carnival creations, international street arts and circus entertainment, and a range of wild, wacky events including amazing high wire shows, a life-size inflatable whale, and even a half-naked chef. Over 30 professional acts, 90 performances and 600 performers. 

15-16 Sep 2012 [TBC] Twickenham Riverside Regatta Saturday - stalls, bar & food on the embankment, free live music stage on Champions Wharf, Shetland pony rides, children’s fairground. Sunday - Stand Up Paddleboarding races from 12:30

15-16 Sep 2012 [TBC] Rhythm Force, Twickenham Saturday. Orleans Gardens, Twickenham Riverside. Open air concert and recruiting event featuring rock, jazz, blues etc. from Army bands. About £13. Now held in conjunction with Twickenham Riverside Regatta.

16 Sep 2012 Lewes to Newhaven Raft Race

Sun 13:00 Riverbabank, Old Railway Land. Annual fun race, with fantastic rafts. Spectators who throw eggs and flour bombs, risk a soaking by water canon. After an hour and a half, the first raft crosses the finish line at Newhaven Bridge. Please call Stuart Walker or Libby Richardson on 01825 722225 elizabeth-richardson@stuart-walker.co.uk Organised by Lewes & District & Round Table.

Video Map

16 Sep 2012 [TBC] Great North Run Sun 11:00 Newcastle to South Shields. 54,000 runners, 80,000 spectators and an electric atmosphere. 13.1 miles. The biggest and most iconic half marathon in the world. See The Red Arrows at the start and finish. Main start about 10:40. Evening party on the quayside. The junior run is usually the day before, on Saturday.

16 Sep 2012 [TBC] Yellow Umbrella Day, London Sunday. Free community festival - Chiswick’s largest annual charity event, raising money for children’s charities. Live music, BBQ, cartoonist, bouncy castle, crazy golf, street entertainers, face painters and more. The Yellow Umbrella Day 10K run and 5K walk has become famous in West London for being a fantastically organised event along the river. Both events kick off at 11:00 and start and finish at Chiswick Park. All participants will receive a warm-up leg massage and a free Yellow Umbrella Day medal and t-shirt. Food, drinks, live music and entertainment will be available after the run and walk at Chiswick Park Yellow Umbrella Day

19-22 Sep 2012 [TBC] The Little Big Peace Event, Streatham Mini-festival to mark the International Day of Peace, with free activities for all the family including music and performance arts by local and international artists. Wed 18:00 Celebration - live music, performance art and poetry at The White Lion, 232 Streatham High Road Thu 20:00 Vibration - candle-lit gathering with surprises at Streatham Green. Drumming with Ancestral Hands. Sat 12:00-18:00 Contemplation - talks, displays and workshops at Gracefield Gardens SW16 2ST. littlebigpeace@gmail.com twitter: @littlebigpeace

20-22 Sep 2012 [TBC] Swanage Comedy Festival Comedy events at various venues around Swanage.

22-23 Sep 2012 The Bristol Festival Ashton Court. Weekend ticket about £30.

21-23 Sep 2012 Alchemy Festival, Lincolnshire Scholey Park, Conningsby, Lincolnshire LN44PD. Family friendly music festival with over 100 bands and DJs over 6 areas. Wide range of music, a large kids area, bubble tent, walkabout entertainers, fire shows, sculptures, site art, communal fire pits and much more for you to discover as you walk around! All kids activities will be free. All days are dress fancy days. Kaplick solar stage will be bringing their unique festival atmosphere. Local cider and mead will likely be flowing. Adult tickets about £60.

22 Sep 2012 Mouth Cancer Foundation 10K Awareness Walk

Sat 13:00 for 14:00 Hyde Park, London.

Join 1000 walkers on a 10K course, raising funds and awareness to help combat head and neck cancers. Take home a medal, T shirt and goodie bag. There will be free mouth cancer screening, plus prizes for top fundraisers. Free entrance.

22-23 Sep 2012 The London Triathlon Sat-Sun ExCeL Centre, London. Super Sprint: 400m swim, 10k bike, 2.5k run. Sprint: 750m swim, 20k bike, 5k run. Olympic: 1500m swim, 40k bike, 10k run. Spectator Viewing

22 Sep 2012 [TBC] Bermondsey Street Festival Saturday. Annual traditional village fete with an attendance of 7000. Live music, fashion, competitions, tennis, food, art and crafts. More

22 Sep 2012 Great Gorilla Run, London

Saturday 10:30-12:30. 1000 runners in gorilla suits race 7km around the city for charity. Mincing lane, Lower Thames St, south over Tower Bridge, west past HMS Belfast, north over London Bridge, south over Southwark Bridge, north over Blackfriars Bridge, Queen Victoria St, Cornhill, Mincing Lane.

Great Gorilla Run Video Map

22 Sep 2012 [TBC] Burnham Illuminated Carnival, Essex Saturday. Radio Essex stage in the High Street and a funfair. Best carnival in Essex with bands, floats, floodlit  tableux, visiting carnival queens and walkers in fancy dress. Illuminalted procession 19:30-21:15 takes about an hour to pass a given point. Clockwise route around the old town - HighStreet -Station Road - Devonshire Road - Arcadia Road - Dunkirk Road - Orchard Road - Silver Road. Burnham on Crouch Carnival

22 Sep 2012 [TBC] Eid in the Square, London 14:30-18:30 Trafalgar Square. Muslim festival marking the end of the month-long fast of Ramadan. The main stage will feature live folk music, rock bands, a children's choir and theatrical performances.

22 Sep 2012 [TBC] Richmond Park Sponsored Walk Saturday, Richmond Park, London. Fight poverty step by step by taking part in a Christian Aid sponsored walk. Enjoy the beautiful autumnal surroundings of Richmond Park on this 3.5 or 6.5-mile walk. Walk starts (with coffee and croissants!) at the Cambrian Centre, Richmond Park. Registration from 10:30. Register

22 Sep 2012 [TBC] International Rally Of Yorkshire 92 miles of classic North Yorkshire stages. Spectators Saturday 08:30-18:30 action from the stages in Dalby Forrest, including the Woodyard where you can see cars 4 times (access from the Pexton toll road, north of Thornton-le-Dale, £12.50).

22-23 Sep 2012 Open House London Sat-Sun 10:00-17:00. It is a simple but powerful concept: in celebration of design excellence, 700 buildings of every conceivable type, shape and size will open their doors to Londoners completely for free. For one weekend in the year, Londoners come together exploring all corners of the Capital.

22-23 Sep 2012 [TBC] North West Vintage Fair Organ & Steam Rally Sat-Sun 10:00-17:00 Victoria Park, Widnes. The largest free admission gathering of Vintage Fair Organs and Vintage machinery in the UK. Lovingly restored to the highest standards. Something for everyone, including falconry and a sheep show.

22-23 Sep 2012 Paws in the Park Sat-Sun 10:00-18:00 The Kent Showground, Detling. UK's largest outside dog Show for working, trained and pet dogs. Have a go activities; Dogstable Course, Fun Scurries, Flyball and Frisbee. Why not try; Terrier Racing, Fun Agility or Canicross. Enter the huge Companion Dog Show with fun classes and Scruffts Heat or 'My Dogs Got Talent' competition. Watch trained and working dogs including; Search and Rescue, Police Dogs, Carriage Dogs and Gun Dogs. About £9.50.

22-29 Sep 2012 [TBC] Didsbury Arts Festival More than 170 arts events, exhibitions, performance and street theatre across 50 venues. Sat 12:00 Music and street theatre. Open-air stage lineup, Sun. Artist and Puppet Parade, plus music, dance, street theatre and art, final Sat Early evening ghostly tales by lantern light, plus Final of Didsbury’s Got Talent. Daily music performances, including classical, jazz and rock, plus comedy, drama, dance, film and street theatre. Look out for a giant yak, Punch & Judy and a pair of very cheeky, but lovable, horses. Most events free. Programme.

23 Sep 2012 Hinckley Classic Motorshow

Sun 10:00 Hinckley Town Centre.

200 beautiful and carefully restored classic vehicles - last year saw cars, lorries, bikes, scooters and even a working steam engine, double-decker bus and 1916 tractor. Bring your classic car, bike, scooter or other interesting vehicle along. Free to enter & visit. Tel 01455 698494.

Organised by the Hinckley Town Centre Partnership BID.

23 Sep 2012 [TBC] UpRise Festival, London Sunday 12:00-20:00 Across Dalston. Anti-racism festival, featuring live music, DJ's, art, comedy, inspirational speakers, walks, talks, workshops, family area, spoken word, food, storytelling, films, all free, and in the name of peace and progress. Facebook Born out of the ashes of the former anti-racism Rise Festival

23 Sep 2012 [TBC] Chiswick House Gardens Dog Show Sunday 10:30-15:30 on the cricket pitch - entrance via Staveley Road. Free dog show with 14 fun classes, new agility course and mini-course. Licensed bar, barbecue, face painting, cream teas and over 40 charity and retail stalls. A great day out for the whole family.

23 Sep 2012 [TBC] Run to the Beat Half Marathon, London Sunday 09:45 Start and finish at The O2 London Dome. London's first Half Marathon. Will pass through Greenwich town centre during the latter part of the route. Specially selected music tracks from about 20 live bands around the route to help motivate the 10,000 runners.

23 Sep 2012 [TBC] World Stone Skimming Championship Sunday 12:00 quarryside, Easdale Island, Oban, Argyll. Registration at Easdale Island Community Hall from 11:00. Pre-skim Party on the Saturday night before the event, in Easdale Island Community Hall - licensed bar, live music, children welcome.

28 Sep 2012 [TBC] Macmillan Cancer Support Coffee Morning Friday - across the country. The World's Biggest Coffee Morning is Macmillan Cancer Support's biggest fundraising event. We ask people across the UK - and sometimes further afield - to hold a coffee morning, where donations on the day are made to Macmillan. Last year 43,000 people registered to hold a coffee morning, raising over £8 million.

28-30 Sep 2012 [TBC] British Musical Fireworks Championships Fri-Sun 19:00-22:00 Kings Gardens, Southport, Merseyside PR8. Some of the UK's leading firework display companies competing for the title of British Musical Fireworks Champions. Billed as one of the most spectacular events in the country. Attendance 40,000. Tickets about £8. Tel 01704 533333.

28-30 Sep 2012 [TBC] Canterbury Anifest Annual animation festival for people of all ages. A range of workshops, young people awards and family-friendly events. Anifest also caters for specialists and those in the industry, featuring national and international awards, and guest speakers from some of the biggest names in animation. Hosted in Canterbury Christ Church University’s Augustine House.

Friday Saturday Sunday

28 Sep - 04 Oct 2012 [TBC] Free For Arts Festival, Manchester 11:00-16:00 Creative events and exhibitions from the North-West and beyond. From contemporary art exhibitions located in diverse city-centre spaces, to innovatively presented interactive events and one-off performances taking place each evening. Free entrance.

29 Sep 2012 [TBC] Rotherfield & Mark Cross Bonfire Saturday.14:00-16:00 Market stalls and live entertainment in the village. 19:30 Torch-lit procession. 22:00 Lighting the beacon, bonfire and fireworks at the fair ground. 01892 852477. 2011 Video: Procession Fireworks
 Rotherfield & Mark Cross Bonfire Society

29 Sep 2012 [TBC] Burgess Hill Bonfire Held on the last Saturday in September. Well supported by the Sussex Bonfire Societies. Thousands will line the streets. Programs on sale around the town. 01444 233017. 19:30 Procession 1 - Cyprus Rd Car Park, Crescent Rd, Mill Rd, Cyprus Rd, Church Rd, Station Rd, Silverdale Rd. 20:30 Procession 2 - Silverdale Rd, Station Rd, Civic Way, Church Rd, Royal George Rd, Fairfield Rd, Western Rd, Royal George/Fairfield Recreation Ground. 21:45 Fireworks and Bonfire at Fairfield Recreation Ground. Burgess Hill Bonfire. Video: Parade 1 Parade 2 Fireworks

29 Sep 2012 [TBC] Ilminster Illuminated Carnival Sat 19:15-21:30. About twenty highly illuminated carts, dance groups, carnival walkers and music. Up to 25,000 line the streets. www.ilminstercarnival.co.uk Somerset Illuminated Carnivals - Ilminster

Illminster Map Video mitch4629@tiscali.co.uk

30 Sep 2012 [TBC] Wimbledon 10 Road Race Sunday.09:00 start from Wimbledon RFC Barham Road, Wimbledon SW20 0ET. Refreshments and bar. Wimbledon 10K

30 Sep 2012 [TBC] Bupa Great Edinburgh Run Sunday. 10k road race is Edinburgh's fastest growing and most popular running event. 10,000 runners. Starts and ends on The Meadows, and passes many famous landmarks. Includes top athletes, thousands of club, fun and charity runners, and a junior event as well.  A great day out for all the family.

30 Sep 2012 [TBC] Pearly Harvest Festival, London Sunday. St Martin-in-the-Fields, Trafalgar Square. Annual Pearly Kings and Queens Association harvest festival. The produce collected is donated to help the homeless. Picture kindly donated by Teresa Watts, Pearly Queen of Clapton.

01-31 Oct 2012 [TBC] The Big Draw Annual month-long festival of over one thousand events across the UK. Museums, galleries, heritage sites, libraries, schools and parks join in, inviting people of all ages to discover how drawing can connect them with their surroundings and the wider community. Join an event

03-07 Oct 2012 [TBC] Nottingham Goose Fair Wed-Sun. Forest Recreation Ground just off Mansfield Road, 2 miles north of Nottingham City Centre. The Biggest traveling fair in Europe with 500 attractions including white knuckle rides, crafts marque, market stalls, and food. Attendance 500,000. Free admission.

05 Oct 2012 [TBC] Light Night Leeds Friday. 80 free, often quirky, events across 50 venues that are sure to keep you busy all night.

05-06 Oct 2012 [TBC] Weymouth Octoberfest Beer Festival, Weymouth Pavillion 11:00-15:00 £3. 18:00-23:00 £4 (Live music at the evening sessions). Good food at every session. 70+ Real ales & ciders.

05-07 Oct 2012 Swanage Blues & Roots Festival, Dorset 20 indoor venues with 50 free admission gigs. Dig deep when the collections come round - your donations keep this going. Artists Organised by Steve Darrington

05-07 Oct 2012 [TBC] Weston Beach Race. Fri-Sun. Beach Motocross. Attendance 100,000. Adult day ticket about £20. Friday 11.00-17.00 Mini Bike Racing, 14.30-21.00 Gareth's Welcome Party, 16.00-17.00 World Record Jump Set Up. Saturday 09.30-10.30 Youth Quad Race, 11.00-12.00 Youth 65cc Race, 12.30-15.30 Adult Quad/Sidecar Race, 16.00-16.30 World Record Jump Attempt, 16.30-17.00 Prize Ceremony, 17.30-21.00 Gareth's Live Band Party. Sunday 10.00-11.00 Youth 85cc Race, 11.30-12.30 Red Bull Air Display, 12.30-15.30 Adult Solo Race, 16.00-16.30 Prize Ceremony, 17.00 Event Close.

05-07 Oct 2012 Broadstairs Food Festival 10:00 Victoria Gardens and Promenade. 60 stalls plus local chefs and a team from Thanet College.

06 Oct 2012 [TBC] Chard Illuminated Carnival Saturday 19:15 Tapstone Road, Old Town, Duck Lane, Crowshute Link, High Street, Fore Street, East Street, Victoria Avenue Roundabout.

06 Oct 2012 [TBC] Somerset Illuminated Carnivals - Gillingham. Saturday. 18:00 Judging at Brickfields Business Park, 18:45 Parade of bands, 19:15 "A Cavalcade Of Steam", followed by 19:15 The Grand Illuminated Procession (1 hour to pass by). Official Web Site

06 Oct 2012 Eastbourne Bonfire Saturday 19:45 Torch lit procession from the Western Lawns along the lower promenade to the pier, then back to the Wish Tower. 20:30 Beacon and Beach Fireworks. Supporting societies likely to include Mayfield, Rotherfield, Robertsbridge, Section 5, Battle, Rye, Burgess Hill, Uckfield,  Hastings, Waterloo, Commercial Square and Pentacle Drummers. Programmes available from The Tourist Information Centre in Cornfield Road, and from society members in Terminus Road on Saturday. 07793 557194. Eastbourne Bonfire Video: Fireworks

06 Oct 2012 [TBC] Exmouth Iluminated Carnival Saturday 19:30 start from Marine Way, Exeter Road, The Parade, past the Strand Gardens, Town Hall, Manor Gardens to fountain roundabout. There will be great entries, both single entries, small team floats and the huge displays, the quality is always fantastic. Exmouth is proud to have new entries every year.

06-14 Oct 2012 [TBC] Hastings Week 9 days of events including the 1066 Battle, Hastings Bonfire, ghost walks etc.

Candid Arts Trust is a registered charity whose main objective is to promote the arts and arts education with special emphasis placed on helping newly graduated artists and designers in their first years out of college.

Candid Arts Trust 3 Torrens St, London EC1V 1NQ - 020 7837 4237 Events

06-28 Oct 2012 Islington Contemporary Art & Design Fair.
08-09 Dec 2012 Angel Christmas Fair.

Swing Patrol present a new swing dance class for all levels, 19:00 Tuesdays.
Life Drawing drop in daytime classes throughout the year, 11:00-13:00 every Tue and Wed.
Life Drawing drop in evening classes throughout the year, 19:00-21:00 every Mon, Tue, Wed and Thu.


07 Oct 2012 [TBC] Royal Parks Half Marathon, London Major half marathon. 12,000 runners & 40,000 spectators. Start and finish in Hyde Park. Taking in Kensington Gardens, Green Park, St James’s Park) and passing Buckingham Palace, Houses of Parliament, London Eye, Marble Arch and the Royal Albert Hall. 09:00 Warm up, 09:30 Start, 10:30-14:00 Finish, 16:00 Close.

Royal Parks Half Marathon. Pulse 3k Race for 11 to 16 year olds. Route Video Food & Fitness Festival 08:00-16:00 Hyde Park.

07 Oct 2012 [TBC] World Conker Championships, Northamtonshire Sunday 10:30-15:00 New Lodge Fields, between Ashton & Polebrook. Spectator entrance about £4. Plenty to see and do beforehand so arrive in good time. About 350 competitors and 5,000 spectators. Conkers provided.

07 Oct 2012 [TBC] Golden Spurtle World Porridge Making Championship Sunday. A toast to the Porridge and the procession of judges and competitors set of to the village hall led by the Badenoch and Strathspey Pipe Band. Attractions might include the Carrbridge Challenge Fun Run, an aerobic warm up, the Cairngorms Farmers Market, product tastings, Porridge Bar, belly dancing, live music and street entertainment.

13 Oct 2012 Hastings Bonfire Saturday 19:15 Spectacular Torchlit Procession from Rock a Nore Road. 21:00 Fireworks & Giant Beach Bonfire - all free. Attendance 30,000. Full facilities available - catering, toilets etc.

The backdrop of Hastings Old Town makes this one of the most atmospheric of all the Sussex bonfire celebrations.

Hastings Bonfire celebrations are just part of the amazing Hastings Week

Videos: 2011 Procession 2011 Fireworks

13 Oct 2012 [TBC] Hailsham Bonfire Saturday 19:30-24:00. Torchlit procession, bonfire and fireworks - part of the famous Sussex bonfire season. Held on the 3rd Saturday in October. Good attendance from the public. Procession route: Station Road, Bell Banks Road, Market Street, High Street (firecrackers), then Vicarage Lane, Vicarage Road, George Street and South Road. Grand firework display followed by the explosive destruction of a set piece.

13 Oct 2012 [TBC] Africa Day, London 13:30 - 19:30 Trafalgar Square. A celebration of African and African-inspired culture in the heart of London, Africa Day will celebrate and showcase the entertainment, fashion, arts, crafts and food from across the continent. Family friendly event open to all. www.africaday.co.uk

13 Oct 2012 [TBC] Somerset Illuminated Carnivals - Taunton Saturday. 19:00 (1 hour to pass by)

13-14 Oct 2012 British National Ploughing Championships & Country Festival Sat-Sun. Whittington, near Lichfield, Staffordshire. Extensive trade stands,  steam ploughing engines; vintage machinery, rural crafts, vintage tractors, agricultural engines, plus shire horses at work. Attendance 15,000. Different location every year.

14 Oct 2012 Brightona Sunday, Madeira Drive Brighton. Motorcycle, hotrod and custom show, with performance area - many bikes are works of art. Many trade stands. Three music stages - main stage, a rock 'n' roll stage, and the stage of Concorde 2. More

14 Oct 2012 [TBC] Abingdon Marathon Sunday. One thousand runners. Very popular with runners and spectators alike. 09:00 start from Tilsley Park OX14 1PU. Abingdon Marathon

14 Oct 2012 [TBC] Diwali on the Square, London Sunday 14:00-18:30 Trafalgar Square. Official Media partner Zee TV presents performances and special guest stars. The event also includes an afternoon of cultural performances, Garba dancing, stalls, displays and delicious food. Organised in association with the Diwali in London Committee. Free entrance. www.london.gov.uk/diwali

14 Oct 2012 [TBC] Cardiff Half Marathon Sunday 09:00 Civic Centre to Cardiff Castle. Well attended with many runners in fancy dress.

14 Oct 2012 [TBC] Lions Club Beach Motocross – Weymouth Beach 300 riders, six races of half an hour each with experts, seniors and juniors doing two races each. Riders line up at the Pavilion end for each start and hurtle along the course at the water's edge towards the Jubilee Clock before zig-zagging back along the esplanade side over jumps and hollows to complete a circuit of about a mile at up to 70mph. Viewing is free - attendance 15,000. A practice session starts at 12:00 and the first race commences at 13:00. If you would like to take part in the event then please contact Alf Stearn of the Purbeck Motocross Club. Video

17-18 Oct 2012 [TBC] The Showman's Show Newbury Showground. UK's original and most comprehensive exhibition of products, services and entertainments for the outdoor and special event world.

19 Oct - 10 Nov 2012 [TBC] Glasgow Pride

20 Oct 2012 [TBC] Fletching Bonfire Saturday 16:30 Fancy dress competition, village hall, 19:00 Procession 1, 20:45 Procession 2, 21:45 Bonfire, Flame Balls.& Fireworks. Typical line-up: Fletching, Newick, Firle, Littlehampton, Lindfield, Uckfield, Burgess Hill & Band, Ewhurst & Staplecross, Chailey, Newhaven Band, Commercial Square, Eastbourne, Crowborough, South Street, Expedient Jazz Band, East Hoathly, Borough, Maresfield, Five Ashes, Who the Devil are We, Hove Scout Band, Barcombe Scout Band, Rotherfield & Mark Cross, Waterloo, Neville, Hastings, Cliffe, Rye, Whatlington, Battle and Robertsbridge. 01825 760155 ~ 01273 476360. Video 2011: Procession-1 Procession-2 Fireworks

20 Oct 2012 [TBC] Nevill Bonfire Saturday 18:30 Procession 1 Highdown Road, Lewes, 20:00 Procession 2, 21:15 Fireworks - modest charge. Nevill Juvenile Bonfire Society

20 Oct 2012 [TBC] Seaford Bonfire Saturday 19:15 Procession - Claremont Road, Avondale Road, Broad Street, High Street and on to the Martello Field for bonfire and fireworks. The event is being covered by Seahaven FM. The latest bonfire society to be re-established, currently with 130 members. More

20 Oct 2012 [TBC] Welshampton Bonfire and Festival of Fire Saturday 18:00 Welshampton, North Shropshire. Spectacular 30ft themed bonfire and pyrotechnics, lantern parade, special lighting effects and music. Attendance 3,000. Free entrance, but donation expected. After-bonfire party at the village hall, with live music - about £5. More information 01948 710602 contact@welshampton.org.uk

20 Oct 2012 [TBC] UK Rock Paper Scissors Championships Sat 17:00 Knights Templar Pub, 95 Chancery Lane, London, WC2A 1DT. Rock Paper Scissors - the classic way to settle a dispute or decision. Wacky Nation bring this crazy contest to central London. Up to 256 entrants will do battle in a knockout tournament for a chance to win the title of UK Champion at the ultimate decision making game. There will also be a team contest. Spectators welcome - just turn up to witness the adrenalin pumping atmosphere.

20 Oct 2012 [TBC] Somerset Illuminated Carnivals - Trowbridge. Saturday. 19:00

20 Oct 2012 Beach of the Dead Zombie Walk, Brighton 15:00-17:00 Brighton Station to Madeira Drive. Come dressed to possess for a scarry parade.

20-21 Oct 2012 [TBC] Scottish Ploughing Championships Sat-Sun 09:30-15:00 Horse ploughing, vintage ploughing, trade area, children's rides, vintage machinery displays. About £6. Free parking.

21 Oct 2012 [TBC] Trafalgar Day Parade, London. Held on 21 Oct or nearest Sunday. 11:30-12:30 Trafalgar Square. Over 500 Sea Cadets being joined by platoons from the Royal Navy and the Royal Naval Reserve and accompanied by a Band of HM Royal Marines.

21 Oct 2012 [TBC] Titchfield Carnival & Bonfire Sunday 13:00 titchfieldcarnival@hotmail.co.uk

26 Oct 2012 [TBC] Gunwharf Quays Firework Display, Portsmouth Friday 18:00 Entertainment starts with Wave 105 FM presenters, and includes a breath-taking dance & Pixel Poi juggling laser show, a theatre show with cannon fire by Wet Picnic at 18:30, dance sets from ‘The Neptune Girls’ and ‘Streetforce DC’ & a 1940’s vocal a capella set. 19:45 Fireworks from the middle of Portsmouth Harbour with soundtrack including some of the best music to come out of our country - tune in to Wave 105 over the coming weeks to find out how you can choose a track for the display. The stores will be open until 21:00. Gunwharf Quays Fireworks, Portsmouth Video-1 Video-2

27 Oct 2012 [TBC] Firle Bonfire 19:00 West Firle Village. Torch-lit Procession from The Ram Inn. Fireworks & very impressive exploding set pieces. Free event, with modest parking charge. Usually held on the last Saturday in October. Firle Bonfire Society Video

27 Oct 2012 [TBC] Ewhurst and Staplecross Bonfire Saturday 17:15 Torchlit procession from Staplecross to Cripps Corner, then back to the bonfire field. 20:30 Bonfire. 21:00 Fireworks at Northiam Road. Hot dogs and refreshments. Entrance about £1. Free parking next to the Cross Inn. 01580 765764 Map

27 Oct 2012 [TBC] White Night Festival, Brighton Sat-Sun 18:00-07:00. Brighton and Hove annual free all night arts festival. As the clocks go back, come and do something different in the middle of the night. Combination of light, music and interactive installations at multiple venues across the city. 30,000 people expected. Schedule

27 Oct 2012 [TBC] Ottery St Mary Carnival Saturday 19:30 Carnival Parade, followed by fireworks on The Land of Canaan.

27 Oct 2012 Littlehampton Bonfire Night 17:00-22:30 Town Centre and Seafront. Torchlight parade, bonfire, seafront fireworks and funfair, held on the last Saturday in October. 01903 721866.

27 Oct 2012 [TBC] Celebration of Light, Norfolk. Saturday. Street procession, live music, illuminated costumes, lanterns and dancers. Starting from Brian Clarke Rooms, Chedgrave at 18:00, through Loddon onto the Jubilee Hall via Kittens Lane, finishing at 19:00. Followed by family entertainment. For more information, telephone Caroline on 01508 520204.

Download the South Norfolk Summer Arts, Events and Festival Guide here (PDF file)

 

28 Oct 2012 End of British Summer Time - clocks go back 1 Hour

 

28 Oct 2012 [TBC] Bupa Great South Run Sun 10:30 Southsea Common. Flat 10 mile & 5km, voted the second most popular road race in the UK with 16,000 runners.  Very popular with spectators - catering facilities and free parking on Southsea Common. Junior runs take place the day before. Bupa Great Runs

28 Oct 2012 [TBC] Halloween Lantern Carnival, Liverpool Sunday 17:30 Sefton Park. Lantern procession, street performers, music and fireworks.

28 Oct 2012 [TBC] Sheffield Fright Night Sunday 15:30-20:30 Sheffield City Centre - Fargate, Tudor Square, Barkers Pool, Peace Gardens, Surrey Street, Leopold Street, Orchard Square, Millennium Square & Winter Gardens. Britain’s biggest Halloween party, attracting up to 40,000 people. Street theatre, ghost tours, fire spinners, food stalls etc. Free entrance. Info 0114-221 1900

28 Oct 2012 [TBC] Liverpool Halloween Lantern Carnival Sunday 17:30 Sefton Park. Procession of 800 community-made lanterns from Aigburth Vale by the boating lake. Over 150 weird and wonderful performers and ghosts of all shapes and sizes.Live music and fireworks. Attendance 15,000. Major Free Event.

31 Oct 2012 Halloween Events from The National Trust  For kids and big kids.

31 Oct 2012 Halloween In London

31 Oct 2012 [TBC] Halloween Events in Salford

Newick Bonfire

03 Nov 2012 Newick Bonfire

Saturday 19:30 Torch-Lit parades.

20:30 Giant bonfire & Superb Fireworks.

Good pubs include The Bull and The Royal Oak.
Free, but  please consider donating or helping - 01825 723233.

Newick Bonfire is so addictive - go once and you're hooked.

Newick Bonfire Society Video: Procession Fireworks Map

03 Nov 2012 Battle Bonfire Torch-lit procession, bonfire and fireworks from the famous Sussex bonfire season.

03 Nov 2012 Bridgwater Illuminated Carnival Sat 19:00-22:00 Illuminated Parade of 140 massive floats, up to 100 ft long, each with up to 30,000 light bulbs. Stand with 150,000 people, feel the heat of a million light bulbs passing by in the night chill and feel the throb of the huge generators. If you are new to Bridgwater Carnival, prepare to be shocked by it's sheer scale !!!
22:45 Squibbing In The High Street Map Bridgwater Carnival

03 Nov 2012 [TBC] Barham Park Fireworks Display and Diwali. Saturday - Harrow Road, Sudbury, HA0 2HB. 13:00 Funfair starts, 20:30 Fireworks Display followed by a Laser show, 22:00 Close. Free entrance.

04 Nov 2012 London to Brighton Veteran Car Run Annual event held on the first Sunday in November. 531 pre 1905 cars leave Hyde Park in groups of 2, between sunrise, 07:01 and 08:30. The older cars leave first. At the official coffee stop at Crawley, the first car arrives at about 09:10. They arrive at Brighton sea front from 10:40 onwards and closing time is 16:30. See also the Preview, Regent Street, London on the day before 11:00-15:00. LBVCR International Concours - 100 of the best examples of late 19th and early 20th Century motoring history. 500,000 expected to line the route. London to Brighton Veteran Car Run Video

04 Nov 2012 [TBC] West London Radio & Electronics Show Sunday. Kempton Park racecourse, Sunbury on Thames. Amateur radio equipment, computing, test equipment, and components etc. Nominal entrance fee. West London Radio & Electronics Show

04 Nov 2012 [TBC] Lewes Badge Night. 19:00 Cliffe High Street. Video

Lewes Bonfire - by and for the people of Lewes. 

05 Nov 2012 Lewes Bonfire. Monday.

17:30 Town closes.
18:00 Blazing barrel run, Cliffe High Street. Early torch parades.
19:30 Grand Procession in the High Street - noise & crowd warning. Food & toilets at Friars walk - Map.
21:00 Bonfires by the
Lewes Societies - Map

Waterloo Bonfire Site. Free, donations at the gate.
Southover Bonfire Site. £5 in advance from The King’s Head.
Cliffe Bonfire Site. £5 in advance.
Cliffe Bonfire Society
South Street Bonfire Site. £3 at the gate.
Commercial Square Bonfire Site. Free, donations at the gate.
Borough Bonfire Site. £5 at gate, £3 in advance
Borough Bonfire Society
Map & Safety Lewes Bonfire Council Rocket FM Video: Procession 1 Procession 2 Waterloo Fireworks Road Closure Map

05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Ottery St Mary Tar Barrel Rolling 16:00 till Midnight.  Thousands gather to watch flaming tar barrels carried through the streets. An enormous barrel is carried at Midnight, and there is a 10mtr bonfire, a funfair and other attractions.

05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Brockham Bonfire Twenty-five foot high sculptured bonfire, plus the biggest bonfire night firework display in the UK - 4 tons of fireworks, costing £50,000 pounds. 14:00 Children’s fancy dress, village hall, 16:30 Car parks open, 17:30-22:30 Brockham Lane Closed, 18:15 Procession leaves green - North then South, 19:45 Bonfire on the green, 20:15 Fireworks. 20:45 Pig Auction, 21:15 Raffle. Attendance 20,000. Event is free, largely financed by parking charges. Brockham Bonfire Video, Fireworks 2010

05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Fireworks Spectacular, Birmingham 19:30 Pype Hayes Park, Erdington, North Birmingham. Free admission. Funfair and hot food stalls. Gates open 16:00. Tel 0121 303 3008.

05 Nov 2012 [TBC] RAC Future Car Challenge A motoring challenge for Electric, Hybrid and Low-Emission ICE vehicles to use the lowest energy on a 60 mile route from Brighton to London. 60+ entries. Free to view at the start, along the route and finish. 07:30-08:15 Start, Madeira Drive, Brighton. 08:00-10:30 Break, Central Sussex College, Crawley. 10:15-12:00 Finish, Pall Mall, London. 10:30-16:00 The Regent Street Motor Show. The route follows the course of the following days London to Brighton Veteran Car Run but in reverse. A23 Brighton, A273 Burgess Hill; B2036 Cuckfield; A23 Crawley, Gatwick and Redhill, A235 Croydon, A23 to Westminster Bridge, Parliament Square, Trafalgar Square and Pall Mall where the vehicles will be checked and then pre-assembled in St James's Square prior to their parade to Regent Street at approximately 12:15hrs.

05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Lindfield Bonfire 18:30 Fancy Dress Competition, 19:30 Torchlight Procession Form up – Pondcroft Road, Black Hill, The Witch, Hickmans Lane, High Street & onto the Common, 20:00 Lighting of the Bonfire & Bonfire Prayer, 20:15 Grand Firework Display.

05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Winchelsea Bonfire

05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Bexleyheath Fireworks 18:00-21:30 Danson Park. Funfair, refreshments, live band and beer tent. About £5.

05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Broadstairs 5th Nov Family Event 17:30-21:00. Live music, funfair and food, Victoria Garden. 20:00 Fireworks, Viking Bay.

05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Guildford Firework Fiesta.19:45 procession from High Street, led by The Mayor and TS Implacable Nautical Training Corps Band. 20:30 Fireworks, Stoke Park. Free entrance. Charity collection.

05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Sticklepath Fireshow, Devon Themed fire show, with puppets, costumes, music and fireworks. 19:30 Finch Foundry Field. About £7.

05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Oxford Round Table Fireworks & Bonfire South Park, Morrell Avenue. Gates open 17:00. Fireworks 18:45. Bonfire, 38ft wicker man, funfair, catering village, Jack FM music stage.  Advanced tickets about £5, more on the gate.

05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Norwich Fireworks 17:00-22:00 Earlham Park. Funfair and Heart Soundstage, 18:30 Children's fireworks, 18:45-19:30 Lighting of the bonfires, lantern procession and Guy Fawkes sculpture, 20:30 Fireworks. Entrance about £7.50. Photos

05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Edenbridge Bonfire Torchlit procession, giant bonfire and fireworks. Celebrity Guy. Attendance 20,000. £7.

05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Carlisle Fireshow 19:00 Bitts Park. Annual firework spectacle created and choreographed by the Black Powder Monkeys. Attendance 35000. 40-foot-high bonfire made from hundreds of wooden pallets. Fire drawings and pyrotechnic effects. 20-minute firework finale set piece dramatically choreographed to music in which 10,000 shells are fired into the sky. Free entrance.

05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Blackheath Fireworks, London 20:00. Attendance 100,000. Free, but please consider donating.

05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Epsom Fireworks Display & Funfair 17:30 for 19:30 at Hook Road Arena.

05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Sparks In The Park, Cardiff Coopers Field. The largest regular annual fireworks event in Wales and one of the largest in the UK. Amazing display of pyrotechnics, a beast of a bonfire as well as funfair rides, live entertainment from Capital FM, food stalls and many other family attractions. Gates open 16:30, Childrens Fireworks Display 17:45, Bonfire 18:15, Fireworks 19:00 (display lasts approx 30 minutes). About £6.

London Firework Displays More

05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Norman Park 20:00
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Barkingside 19:00 and 20:00
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Totteridge 19:15
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Westway 18:00
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Wimbledon 18:45 and 20:30

05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Barham Park 20:30 Free
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Barking Park 20:00
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Bartlett Park 19:30
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Battersea Park 20:00
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Beckenham 20:00
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Bishops Park 19:30
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Blackheath 20:00 Free
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Brockwell Park 20:00 Free
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Carshalton Park 19:00
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Chislehurst 19:30
05 Nov 2012 [TBC]
Clapham Common 19:30 Free
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Crystal Palace 19:00 and 20:30
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Danson Park 20:00
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Ealing 19:30
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Enfield 19:30
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Epsom 19:30
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Kempton Park 19:45
05 Nov 2011 [TBC] Kingston 20:00
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Legoland 17:30
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Millwall Park 19:30
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Morden Park 18:45 and 20:30
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Ravenscourt Park 20:00
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Roundwood Park 20:00 Free
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Royal Gunpowder Mills 18:00
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Southgate 20:00
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Southwark 19:00 Free
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Thorpe Park 19:00
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Totteridge 19:15
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Walthamstow 17:00.
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Wimbledon 18:45

05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Ravenscourt Park 19:15 and 20:00
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Richmond 19:00
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Royal Gunpowder Mills 18:00
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Victoria Park 19:30 Free
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Weavers Fields 19:30

10 Nov 2012 [TBC] Lord Mayors Show Fireworks 17:00

 

Merseyside Firework Displays  More

05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Sefton Park Liverpool 19:30
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Newsham Park Liverpool 19:30
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Central Park, Wallasey 18:30
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Halton, Widnes 19:30
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Victoria Park Southport 18:30 
05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Meols Park, Wirral www.friendsofmeolspark.co.uk

05 Nov 2012 [TBC] Burnham on Sea Illuminated Carnival Monday. Parade starts at 19:30. Part of the Somerset Carnival Ring. Many floats are 100 ft long, each illuminated by up to 30,000 light bulbs. This is a Major event - takes 3 hours to pass by. Somerset Carnivals

07 Nov 2012 [TBC] Shepton Mallet Illuminated Carnival Wed 19:30. Part of the Somerset Carnival Ring. Many floats are 100 ft long, each illuminated by up to 30,000 light bulbs. Route: Compton Corner, Townsend, Old Market Road, Commercial Road, Paul Street, Charlton Road. Major event - takes 3 hours to pass by. Somerset Carnivals Video

08 Nov 2012 [TBC] Midsomer Norton Illuminated Carnival Thu 19:15. Many floats are 100 ft long and illuminated by up to 30,000 light bulbs. Route, Wells Road, Fosseway South. Major event - takes 3 hours to pass by. Somerset Carnivals

08 Nov - 09 Dec 2012 [TBC] Middlesbrough Winter Festival Multiple events - street theatre, lantern parade etc.

09 Nov 2012 [TBC] Wells  Illuminated Carnival Friday 19:30. Part of the Somerset Carnival Ring. Many floats are 100 ft long, each illuminated by up to 30,000 light bulbs. Route - Strawberry Way, Tucker Street, Princess Road, Chamberlain Street, Sadler Street, High Street, Broad Street, Priory Road. Major event - takes 3 hours to pass by. Somerset Carnivals

09 Nov 2012 [TBC] Manchester Christmas Lights Switch-On 18:45 Albert Square. Free celebrations for the festive season. Hosted by Key103’s Mike and Chelsea. Live music, entertainment, family fun and spectacular fireworks. Highlights include TV. www.unmissablemanchester.com

10 Nov 2012 North-Petherton Illuminated Carnival The Somerset Illuminated Carnivals are probably the largest in the world - Bridgwater, Burnham, Chard, Ilminster, Glastonbury, North Petherton, Shepton Mallet, Taunton, Wellington, Wells, Weston-Super-Mare, and Yeovil. Somerset & Wessex Illuminated Carnivals

10 Nov 2012 [TBC] East Hoathly Bonfire Saturday 19:00-21:30 Giant Torch-lit Processions, 21:40 Stunning fireworks & huge themed bonfire. Please park with care. A small torch is useful here. Pubs: The Foresters Arms in South St & The Kings Head in High St. Video: Procession Fireworks Map This event is a must.

10 Nov 2012 [TBC] South Heighton Bonfire Saturday. A recently formed Bonfire Society, which has quickly grown to over a hundred members. Give them your support. 18:30 Procession from Flying Fish in Denton. 19:30 Bonfire & fireworks on South Heighton playing fields. Family friendly event. Chaiman: Roger Clayton 01273 515045. Secretary: Clare Dickins 01273 516422 bonfire@southheighton.com

10 Nov 2012 [TBC] Rye Bonfire Saturday. 19:50 Procession from Mason Road. 20:45 Bonfire on Rye Salts. 21:00 Fireworks. Route

10 Nov 2012 [TBC] Chailey Bonfire Saturday. 17:30 Judging of floats, 17:00 Gathering at Chailey comprehensive school, South Chailey, 18:00 Procession starts to village hall, 19:15 Fireworks, 20:00 Bonfire, music and refreshments.

10 Nov 2012 [TBC] Shoreham Bonfire Sussex.

10 Nov 2012 [TBC] Lord Mayor's Parade, London Saturday 11:00-18:00. 6100 participants, 2000 military personnel, 250 horses, 235 motor vehicles, 65 floats, 20 marching bands, 22 carriages and the glorious State Coach, the procession is three and a quarter miles long but travels a route of only 1.7 miles. Largest parade of its kind in the world. We suspect that many people will gather on Victoria Embankment by 13:00 for the start of the return parade, and stay for the fireworks. 17:00 Londons biggest firework display - 3 tons of fireworks - Victoria Embankment ~ South Bank. Lord Mayors Parade Map

10 Nov 2012 [TBC] Glastonbury Illuminated Carnival Saturday 19:00. Part of the Somerset Carnival Ring. Many floats are 100 ft long, each illuminated by up to 30,000 light bulbs. One of the three biggest illuminated Guy Fawkes carnivals in the world. Described as the "Mardi Gras" of the Mendips. Route - Street Road, Magdalene Street, High Street, Wells Road. Major event - 3 hours to pass a given point. Somerset Carnivals

10-11 Nov 2012 [TBC] Skegness Beach Race Sat-Sun. Motorcycle & Quad racing. Earth moving equipment will be brought onto the beach during the week leading up to the event and a lengthy circuit built to include some impressive mounds, jumps, waves, hoops, chicanes and fast natural sandy straights. Sat - Kids, quads and sidecars. Sun - Adult solo class. Free to watch - 14,000 spectators.

10-11 Nov 2012 [TBC] Collage-Arts Open Studios 12:00-18:00 The Chocolate Factory, Clarendon Rd, Wood Green N22 6XJ. 020 8365 7500. Eclectic event with over 100 artists offering an amazing array of contemporary art and design from painters, sculptors, photographers, musicians, film-makers and designer-makers. Discover and purchase affordable art and contemporary design, commission a piece or get your portrait painted. Free entrance.

12 Nov 2012 [TBC] Weston Super Mare Illuminated Carnival Monday 19:15. Part of the Somerset Carnival Ring. Many floats are 100 ft long, each illuminated by up to 30,000 light bulbs. 115 illuminated floats, walkers in fancy dress and marching bands. Starts from Locking Road car park and returns 3 hours later. Last in the Somerset County circuit, and it's huge. Route - Locking Rd car park (near station), Regent St, Beach Rd, Clarence Rd N, Walliscote Rd, Station Rd & back to start. www.somersetcarnivals.co.uk

15 Nov 2012 [TBC] Slough Christmas Lights Thursday, Town Square. Entertainment from 15:00, switch on and fireworks 18:00. A chance to win prizes.

17 Nov 2012 [TBC] Robertsbridge Bonfire Saturday. High quality and atmospheric finale to the Sussex Bonfire season. Typical impressive line-up: Robertsbridge Rabble, Robin Hood, Section 5, Burgess Hill, Vines Cross, Battel Boyes, Lewes Borough, Ewhurst & Staplecross, Fletching, Hastings, Five Ashes, Newick, East Hoathly, Mayfield, Firle, Commercial Square, South Street, Nevill Juvenile, and Waterloo. Excellent bonfire and fireworks. Village closed to traffic 18:00-22:00. Parades in Station Road and High Street at 19:00. Bonfire & fireworks 20:00. All done just after 21:00. Parking available in the A21 lay-by - a small torch is useful.
Video: 2011 Procession Video: 2011 Fireworks
Map Robertsbridge Bonfire Society

16 Mar 2013 [TBC] Red Nose Day. Red Nose Day is a UK-wide fundraising event organised by Comic Relief every two years. On Red Nose Day everyone is encouraged to cast inhibitions aside, put on a Red Nose and do something a little bit silly to raise money - celebrities included! It culminates in a night of extraordinary comedy and moving documentary films on BBC One. It’s an event that unites the entire nation in trying to make a difference to the lives of thousands of people, both across Africa and in the UK, facing terrible injustice or living in abject poverty.

16-18 Nov 2012 [TBC] Crunch Art & Philosophy Festival Globe theatre, Newport Street, Hay on Wye HR3 5BG. Wide range of talks and debates on diverse subjects, exhibitions from local and national art galleries, as well as live music, comedians, cabaret acts and parties. The festival site is free to enter and while most of the talks and evening music acts are ticketed, the art fair is free to browse and there will be free acoustic music acts throughout the weekend. Over 40 talks from key cultural figures and a programme of live music, banquets and all-night parties. 

16-18 Nov 2012 [TBC] Front Room - Totterdown Art Trail, Bristol Fri-Sun. Bristol’s original arts trail.  The trail attracts nearly 200 artists, 60 venues and over 4,000 visitors. Front Rooms, basements and gardens are transformed into mini galleries where artists and visitors can enjoy, discuss and purchase arts in the most comfortable surroundings. Totterdown is close to Temple Meads station and offers a good variety of pubs and restaurants who will all be participating.

16 Nov - 22 Dec 2012 [TBC] Traditional Christmas Market, London German style Christmas Market with 70 wooden chalets situated between Southbank Centre and London Eye.

17 Nov 2012 [TBC] Saturday. Barcombe is joined and materially supported by all the Lewes Societies and many others. Events run all evening and into the night, and include a children's procession, main procession from the Royal Oak, street fireworks, procession to bonfire site and big firework display. The Processions, bonfire and fireworks are amazing, and all free. Full details available in the programme - see web site.
2010 Fireworks Video Map Barcombe Bonfire Society

17 Nov 2012 [TBC] Bangor Christmas Fireworks Sat 17:30 Town Hall. Annual free festive musical fireworks and Christmas Tree lights.

17 Nov 2012 [TBC] World Toilet Day 2.5 billion people worldwide are without access to proper sanitation. Water Aid

16 Nov 2011 - 01 Jan 2013 [TBC] Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park, London 10:00-22:00 daily.

Samsung Galaxy Ice Rink
Zippos Christmas Circus
Zippos Cirque Extreme
Giant Wheel
Rides
Santa Land & Visit Santa
Food & Drink
Angels Christmas Market

Winter Wonderland

18 Nov 2012 [TBC] Carlisle Christmas Lights Switch On Sunday 14:00 Stage will come alive with non-stop entertainment, 17:30 Christmas lights. Stage and street entertainment with celebrity guests. Admission free.

23 Nov 2012 [TBC] Devizes Christmas Festival Friday 12:00-20:30 Market Place & Corn Exchange. Craft and Gift Fair in the Corn Exchange, and an open air market in the Market Place. Food and Drink. 17:00 School choirs singing carols in The Brittox. 17:00-20:00 Street performers & fire jugglers. Giant Lantern Procession & Fireworks 2000 participants and 700 lanterns, sets off from High Street at 18:00 and stops off at The Wharf, where Santas’s Grotto is located, and brings him back to the Market Place to switch on the lights at 18:45 from the balcony of The Bear Hotel. Lantern Line: 01380 723099. Tourist Information Centre: 01380 734669. Devizes Christmas Festival Lantern Video

24 Nov 2012 [TBC] Calne Winter Festival & Lantern Parade Sat 14:00 Events in the town centre, 16:30 Lantern Parade from Bremhill View social club to town centre. Christmas lights switch on, fun fair, food and drink, street stalls, live music and entertainment on the main stage, children's fun and games, interactive theatrical experience in the grounds of Marden House. 18:00 Fireworks. The Calne Community go Lantern Crazy, with crowds of 10,000 lining the streets and walking in the parade. Calne Winter Festival Info line: 01249 814000. Map

24 Nov 2012 [TBC] South Brent Illuminated Carnival, Devon Sat 18:00. The carnival hosts two processions every year, one on the last Saturday in June and the other on the last Saturday in November. Both start at 18:00. The carnival also hosts many fund raising events throughout the year. Tel 01364 73292.

25 Nov 2012 [TBC] Wokingham Winter Carnival Sun 11:00-17:30. 90 food, craft and charity stalls, children's rides, free entertainment including a magic show, comedy jugglers, clowns, Punch & Judy, Santa's Grotto and live music on the Market Place stage. 16:00 Carnival Procession from Shute End car park - decorated floats, bands, costumed walkers and lanterns. Video. Wokingham Winter Carnival

25 Nov 2012 [TBC] Christmas Lights, Bracknell Sun 12:00-18:00 Charles Square. 17:00 Guest celebrity on the main stage. 17:20 Christmas Lights switch-on and roof-top fireworks. All free. More Fireworks Video

28 Nov 2012 [TBC] Great Yarmouth Christmas 18:30 Live music on the Heart Stage, 19:00 Christmas lights switch-on and rooftop fireworks, 19:00-20:00 live music, most shops open until 20:30 and free parking in Borough Council run car parks from 16:00.

29 Nov - 06 Dec 2012 [TBC] Christmas Tree Festival, Norfolk Fakenham Parish Church NR21 9DY. 85 decorated trees in a Grade 1 listed Church. Refreshments, Christmas market, lunches and teas. 01328 862268. Free Entrance. Attendance 18,000 over the week, raising money for charity.

30 Nov 2012 [TBC] Oxford Christmas Lights Fri 17:00-22:00 Oxford City Centre. Procession, lights, dance, art, live music, Christmas market, festive food and children’s rides. Museums, Castle, Town Hall, theatres and galleries open late.

30 Nov 2012 [TBC] Wootton Basset Christmas Lights Fri 18:00-21:00 Town Centre. 18:00 Santa and reindeer arrive in the High Street. 18:15 Christmas lights switched on. Wooton Bassett Brass Band, Santa, Elves and Real Reindeer, Mystic Ruth, Gift & Food Stalls, Fairground, Lights switch on with special guest, Carols by the tree. Supported by Wootton Bassett Chamber of Commerce. Organised by Wootton Bassett Town Council Poster

30 Nov 2012 [TBC] Henley Christmas Festival Fri 17:30-21:00 Town Centre. Childrens procession, rides, stalls, food, carol singing and Santa's grotto. Christmas tree lights switched on at 19:00 www.henleytowncouncil.gov.uk

30 Nov 2012 [TBC] Wem Christmas Festival, Shropshire Fri 17:45-21:00. Christmas lights switch-on, choirs, Father Christmas, stalls and more. 01939 232963.

30 Nov - 02 Dec 2012 [TBC] Festival of Light, Huddersfield Fri-Sun. Fantastic street theatre, entertainment, funfair. Firework finale, Sun 17:00 St George's Square. events@kirklees.gov.uk

30 Nov - 02 Dec 2012 [TBC] Victorian Weekend Robin Hoods Bay, North Yorkshire. Victorian fair, town criers, art exhibition, treasure hunt, open cottages, tombola & auction, magic lantern show, costume competition, Christmas stalls, father Christmas, street entertainment, Christmas lights, museum, guided walks, Victorian food & drink, Dr Busker. Grand finale on Sunday evening with singing in the dock and possible fireworks.

01 Dec 2012 [TBC] Rottingdean Smugglers Night A night of fire, noise, drumming, costume, fireworks and Christmas fayre, a hybrid night of noise and mayhem. Torch lit procession and fireworks, supported by South Heighton Bonfire Society, plus the usual yuletide celebrations. Local pubs compete for the honour of best dressed smugglers. Local residents can join Rottingdean Smugglers in any Rottingdean pub, or direct through the website, to march in the procession. Membership is £2, to help cover the cost of smugglers night, and allows you to carry a torch in the procession. Effectively extends the Sussex Bonfire season into December.
Sussex Bonfire   Rottingdean Smugglers Night Video: Procession  Fireworks The Smugglers Song

01 Dec 2012 [TBC] Bolsover Lantern Parade Sat 16:00-18:00 Bolsover Castle. Specially created puppetry and video artwork to lead the lantern parade, accompanied by live music and samba drumming. Using video projection and puppetry, Jack Frost will lead the parade while the creature wriggles its icy route around the imposing architecture of the castle, before being seen to crystallise, transform and emerge as a flying beast of snow and frost. This unique sculpture and projection event is a first for the lantern parade, and makes use of new mobile video projection technology, so is not to be missed! The event finale will include the lighting of a spectacular fire sculpture. The event is free and the cafe will be serving refreshments until 18:00. Junction Arts is a charity and funded by Arts Council England, Derbyshire County Council and Bolsover District Council info@junctionarts.org

01 Dec 2012 [TBC] Primrose Hill Christmas Bazaar 10:00-13:00 Primrose Hill Community Association, 29 Hopkinsons Place, Fitzroy Road, London NW1 8TN

01 Dec 2012 [TBC] Rainham Village Victorian Xmas Fayre Sat 10:00-16:00 Rainham Village, Essex. Father Christmas, art exhibition, mulled drinks & mince pies, carol singers, Victorian characters and Morris dancing. Free entry.

01-02 Dec 2012 [TBC] Dickensian Christmas, Rochester Street entertainment, readings, song and dance, shopping stalls, lamp-lit parades, Christmas carols, and familiar characters from Dickens’ stories. Sat-Sun 11:00 The Seven Poor Travellers Procession - High Street - singing chimney sweeps. Sat-Sun 12:00 Grand Parade - High Street to Boley Hill Stage. Sat-Sun 16:45 Candlelit Procession, High Street to Boley Hill Stage for Christmas Carols. Programme

02 Dec 2012 [TBC] Traditional Family Christmas Fayre, Broadstairs Sun 10:00-17:00 Pierremont Park. Christmas stalls,  food and drink, crafts, Father Christmas in his grotto, Christmas parade, carousel, entertainment, music and switching on of the new Xmas Tree Lights. Tel 07925 185052

02 Dec 2012 [TBC] Christmas on Poole Quay From 17:00:  Flotilla of Lights parade of illuminated boats with prizes for the best dressed vessel. A visit from Santa to meet the children, carols under the Christmas tree, live music with seasonal songs, warm up with mince pies, mulled wine and roasted chestnuts, family fun activity area with colouring-in and have-a-go activity, Poole Museum help decorate the Christmas tree.

06 Dec 2012 [TBC] Poole Children's Lantern Procession Thu 18:15 Falkland Square, High Street BH15 1AR. Starting at the Dorset Youth Marching Band will lead the procession of lanterns made by children from Kings High and Manorside down the High Street to the Guildhall. There they will join the Old Town Conservation Group for carols and mince pies. 01202 649433.

06 & 13 Dec 2012 [TBC] Winter Watch Parades, Chester Usually performed on the first two Thursdays in December. 19:00 Eastgate Clock, St Werburgh Street, Northgate Street, Bridge Street & Eastgate Street. Samba bands, dragons and a spectacular fire breathing finale, with the Chester Re-enactment group joining the Chester Watch and a group of giant skeletons.

07 Dec 2012 [TBC] Pembroke Winter Festival & Lantern Parade Fri 18:00 Bush Street, Pembroke Dock. Lantern Parade, fireworks, Cleddau FM road show, refreshments.

08 Dec 2012 [TBC] Carol Concert, Bognor Regis 18:00 Hotham Park. Bognor Regis Concert Band provides the music and the Glenwood Choir leads the public in the singing. Song sheets and refreshments available to purchase. Lantern making workshop at 10:00 and those wishing to participate should book a place with Community Arts Bognor Regis on 01243 268582.

08-09 Dec 2012 [TBC] Charity Santa Dash Brighton and Southampton. Hundreds of Santas expected.

09 Dec 2012 [TBC] Spectacular Christmas Parade, Jersey Sun 17:20-18:45 The Esplanade, St. Helier. Floodlit floats, music and dance. Jersey Tourism 01534 448877.

13 Dec 2012 [TBC] Salisbury Lantern Parade Thu 18:30-20:00 Salisbury Arts Centre to the Cathedral. 1000 beautiful lanterns in the biggest Christmas lantern parade in the South of England. Circular Arts 01722 332 241 info@salisburyfestival.co.uk

21 Dec 2012 Winter Solstice. Possible small gatherings at Stonehenge, Avebury, Glastonbury Tor etc. Sunrise just after 08:00.

21 Dec 2012 [TBC] Burning The Clocks, Brighton 18:30-20:30 Church Street to Madeira Drive. Giant Illuminated Lantern Parade organized by Same Sky. Beach bonfire and pyrotechnic display. Arrive early because it will be very crowded. "People gather together to make paper and willow lanterns to carry through their city and burn on the beach as a token for the end of the year. No money changes hands, no lantern is better for its purpose than any other, all are unique to the maker and precious, but all are given up to be burnt to greet the lengthening days. 20,000 watch this free event.
www.samesky.co.uk www.burningtheclocks.co.uk
Video: Parade Fireworks Map

20 Dec 2012 [TBC] River of Light, Caerphilly 18:30 Town Centre. One of the longest festive lantern parades in Wales. Samba drummers, street bands and dancers flow down to the castle for a spectacular firework finale. Free entrance. Tel 029 2088 0011 tourism@caerphilly.gov.uk Caerphilly Area Lantern Parades

SEASONAL SWIMS - 25 Dec 2012 (all TBC)

Hunstanton 11:00 Promenade. Hundreds of madcap swimmers in fancy dress, watched by crowds of thousands on the beach. 01485 532610

Lowestoft 10:00 Hatfield Hotel.,200 swimmers, watched by crowds of thousands on the beach.

Porthcawl 11:45 Hi-Tide Inn. 700 swimmers, watched by crowds on the beach. Porthcawl Coastguards fire a maroon to signal the start.

Hyde Park London 09:00 Near the Lido. The Serpentine Swimming Club, one of the oldest in the country, have met in London’s Hyde Park, winter and summer since 1864. Some will be decked out in Santa hats, to swim their traditional 100 yards annual Christmas day swim. The race is only open to members, but spectators welcome.

Brighton 11:00. About 30 intrepid swimmers, and 3,000 spectators.

Weymouth 11:00 Brewers Quay. 200 swimmers. Popular Lions Club fundraising event.

 

26 Dec 2012 [TBC] Windlesham Pram Race

Start time 11:00. Organised by the Parish of Windlesham - raising money for local charities and community groups. Since 1967 the streets of Windlesham have hosted the annual Boxing Day Pram Race. Starting at the old British Oxygen HQ; now the Linde Group. The traditional 3.3 mile course is a carnival type parade visiting all the village watering holes: The Brickmakers Arms, The Surrey Cricketers, The Sun, The Half Moon, The Bee and the Windlesham Club. With two competition categories; Fastest and Best Dressed, the later being the most popular, recent years have seen 100+ teams racing Prams ranging from the sublime to the ridiculous. Whether you are racing or watching, the Pram Race is great family entertainment and a good excuse to get out of the house on Boxing Day.

www.pramrace.com Video 2011 Video 2010 Map

26 Dec 2012 [TBC] Battle of the Pubs, Rottingdean Village. Pub teams from The Black Horse & The Plough Inn compete on Boxing Day for the perpetual trophy. High Street closed 14:00-15:30 for the annual events to take place outside The Black Horse. 12:00 Relay Race - around the village pond. 14:00 Tug-of-War in the High Street, outside The Black Horse - men & women. 15:00 Boat Race in the High Street - 2 teams sit in a line of 8 and drink a pint of beer in a relay passed from the back, until the last man has downed his pint in full. Free to watch, with proceeds going to local charities.

26 Dec 2012 [TBC] Pagham Pram Race 11:00 Mill Farm / Downlands Close, Pagham Road, Nyetimber. Oldest continuing pram race in the world, stopping at local pubs and raising money for charity. 80 competitors expected. 3 mile course via The Bear Inn, The Lamb Inn, Pagham Road, Sea Lane, Kings Beach Hotel, Pagham Parade, Harbour View Road, Church Way, Pagham Road and finish at The Lamb Inn. info@paghampramrace.com

30 Dec 2012 to 01 Jan 2013 Edinburgh Hogmanay

30 Dec 2012 Torchlight Procession 18:30 Parliament Square to Calton Hill for firework finale. Free.

31 Dec 2012 Street Party

31 Dec 2012 Concert in the Gardens & Fireworks

31 Dec 2012 The Keilidh

31 Dec 2012 [TBC] New Year's Eve, London Midnight fireworks at the London Eye. Up to 350,000 revelers watch the intense 10 minute display. The music of BBC Radio One will be relayed along Victoria Embankment, and there will be giant screens in Trafalgar Square. Extra facilities and first aid on Victoria Embankment and South Bank. Plan to arrive several hours early, due to the popularity of this free event. Alcohol, food and drink will not be on sale at the event. If bringing alcohol, please drink responsibly and take plastic bottles or cans (no glass). New Year's Eve, London Road Closure Map (pdf file)

31 Dec 2012 [TBC] New Year's Eve, Birmingham Sat 22:00-00:30 Victoria Square. A pyrotechnic display by Dragonfire Fireworks will bring in 2012 with a bang. The display at midnight will feature low level pyrotechnics in the Square, fired from the Big Screen. The Big Screen will show the BBC One New Year Celebrations. Tel 0121 303 3008.

31 Dec 2012 [TBC] New Year's Eve, Newcastle 14:30 Music and carnival dancers in the streets around Greys Monument. 17:15 Parade of brilliant characters, Monument to Civic Centre. Carnival parade with intricate costumes, choreographed routines, folk music and dance. 18:00 Fireworks at the Civic Centre. Times approximate.

31 Dec 2012 [TBC] New Year's Eve Fireworks, Bath Midnight, view from Abbey Churchyard and Kingston Parade.

31 Dec 2012 [TBC] New Year's Eve Fireworks. Ives, Cornwall Harbour area - revelers in fancy dress. At midnight everyone overspills onto the beach for the fireworks. The streets of St. Ives are closed for traffic at the bottom of Tregenna Hill.

31 Dec 2012 [TBC] Nos Galan Races 16:30-20:30 Mountain Ash, Cynon Valley, South Wales. 5km route around the town. More than 1,000 runners take part, with competitions for boys and girls, a fun run for adults and an elite race. Each year a famous mystery sports personality takes part. 18:45 Fireworks. 19:00 Elite Race, 19:30 Fun Race.

Edinburgh Festivals

30 Dec 2012 - 02 Jan 2013 [TBC] Edinburgh Hogmanay


31 Dec 2012 [TBC] Fireball Procession, Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire At midnight, 60 fireball swingers come down the High Street in a spectacular and unique display to celebrate Hogmanay. Each fireball is a round cage of wire netting about two feet in circumference packed with paraffin soaked rags and coal and swung around on a wire rope. Video

31 Dec 2012 [TBC] New Years Eve Fancy Dress Revelry, Weymouth. Town Centre and harbour. 20,000 revelers in Britain’s biggest new years eve fancy dress party. Anything goes - especially fancy dress and water. Be prepared to show up in fancy dress, drink copious amounts of alcohol and sing traditional songs around the Jubilee Clock. Tourist Information Centre 01305 785747 Map of beach area & facilities

01 Jan 2013 Public Holiday - New Year's Day Holiday

01 Jan 2013 [TBC] New Years Day Parade, London 11:45 Parade from the Ritz on Piccadilly, past Trafalgar Square, to finish at 15:00 on Parliament Street. Up to 1 million people are expected to line the route. 10,000 performers - London’s Mayors, military and youth marching bands, classic cars, motorcycles, steam vehicles and cycles, balloons & inflatables, cheerleaders, clowns, carnival associations, and steel bands. New Years Day Parade, London. Video

01 Jan 2013 [TBC] Serpentine 10km & 3km Runs, Hyde Park, London 10k race starts at 11:00,  3k fun run starts at 12:00. Course Map

01 Jan 2013 [TBC] Bath Tub Race, Poole Harbour 11:00 Dolphin Haven and along The Quays. Organized by the Blue Boar pub (01202 682247) to raise funds for the R.N.L.I. and other charities. Attracts an audience of about 1000. Map

04 Jan 2013 [TBC] 12th Night, Guildford Wassailing with The Pilgrim Morris Men. Free entrance. King George fights and forgives terrible enemies, with the aid of a Noble Doctor, Father Christmas, and a cast of ‘thousands'. 19:15 The Star, Quarry Street. King of Misrule chosen + Mummers Play, 19:45 The King’s Head, Quarry Street, 20:15 The Angel Hotel, High Street. Singing and storytelling, 21:30 The Three Pigeons, High Street, 22:00 The Royal Oak, Sydenham Road. Wassailing the night away.

05 Jan 2013 [TBC] Bolney Wassail Sat 18:00 Old Mill Farm RH17 5SE. Wassailing or Apple Howling is an ancient custom in which the evil spirits are driven out and the good spirits are encouraged to produce a good apple crop for the following year's cider. Torchlight procession and noisy ceremony, the General Hullabaloo. A shotgun is fired into the air, and everyone makes as much noise as possible.  Bring your own noisy instruments - rattles etc. Free event with lots of character, held in the apple orchard. Bottled apple juice will be on sale in the barn.

Chanctonbury Ring Morris Men Video1 Video2 Map Wassailing Song

05-06 Jan 2013 [TBC] Icicle Balloon Meet Sat-Sun. Warren Farm, Savernake Forrest, Marlborough, Wilts. Informal gathering of up to 100 balloons, with morning flights, subject to weather conditions. Free viewing for the public at the launch site. On-site caterers. Nominal car park charge. 01189 730454 Launch times will be decided at the pilot's briefing at 08:00. Map

06 Jan 2013 [TBC] Twelfth Night, London Sun 12:45 South Bank. Twelfth Night is an annual seasonal celebration held on London's South Bank. A mix of ancient customs with contemporary festivity. It is free, accessible to all and happens whatever the weather. See the Holly Man in evergreen foliage, the Mummers dressed in spectacular colours, and all manner of characters. Twelfth Night, London

11-12 Jan 2013 [TBC] London Ice Sculpting Festival Fri-Sat Montgomery Square, Canada Square Park and Jubilee Place Shopping Mall - right by Canary Wharf tube station and clearly signposted. 8 teams from around the globe captivate you with their artistic talent and competitive spirit. Vote for the public choice award on Saturday, either online or at the festival to decide which team created the best sculpture. New fun snow pit - Fri 13 10:00-18:00, Sat 10:00-18:00 in Montgomery Square. Make snowmen or snow castles in the covered area of real snow.

11-13 Jan 2013 [TBC] Whittlesea Straw Bear Festival Sat 10:30-15:30 Procession with a decorated plough pulled by a local Morris side, 250 dancers, musicians and street performers. Sunday - Bear burning. Map

12 Jan 2013 [TBC] Hunters Moon Wassail, Firle Sat 18:00-23:00 Middle Farm BN8 6LJ on the A27, 4 miles east of Lewes. The largest Wassail in East Sussex. Free entrance. Hunters Moon Wassail - Morris dancing and drummers, torch-lit procession, bonfire and traditional wassailing of the apple trees, Mummers play, barn dance with live folk band, real ale bar & hot food. For further details contact Pip on 01323 520440 Video

12-13 Jan 2013 [TBC] Saturnalia Beer Festival & Chariot Race Sat-Sun 12:00 Llanwrtyd Wells, Wales. Saturnalia was the major annual festival of the Romans, an event of unrestrained merrymaking when slaves were temporarily released and reversed roles with their masters. Enjoy Baccanalian frolics and a plethora of winter warmer ales, with a Real Ale Ramble for walkers. On the Saturday the World Mountain Bike Chariot Racing Championships take place in the grounds of the Abernant Lake Hotel. Open to teams of 3 (2 riders plus a charioteer), over the age of 18. The course comprises an obstacle course and lake, with potholes, puddles, speed bumps and mud. Prizes for the winners and best Roman costumes. Green Events

Sat 19 Jan 2013 [TBC] Chinese New Year, Leicester Sat 11:00-16:00 Leicester Market Centre LE1 5HQ. Lion dance, Chinese music, calligraphy workshops and origami. Free entrance. 01162 517583.

20 Jan 2013 [TBC] Chinese New Year, Liverpool Sun 11:00-16.00 Chinatown - Nelson Street, Berry Street, Great George Street and Great George Square. Dragon parade, firecrackers, market and funfair.

20 Jan 2013 [TBC] Royal Pavilion, Brighton. Sun 10:00-17:15. The Royal Pavilion, Brighton BN1 1EE. Tel: 03000 290900. The Royal Pavilion opens its doors for the annual People’s Palace Open Day, with free entry all day. Come along and find out how you can get involved in helping to conserve and care for the Royal Pavilion all year round. Attendance 3,000.

26 Jan 2013 Australia Day Pub events and parties around London. More

26-27 Jan 2013 [TBC] Lambing Weekend, Hampshire Sat-Sun 09:30-15:30 Sparsholt College, Winchester SO21 2NF. See 350 ewes at lambing time and witness the shepherding activities at this annual event. Also, a wide range of animals including goats, donkeys, rabbits, guinea-pigs, chickens and exotic species including red panda, wallabies, reptiles and amphibians. Please see link for more detail and entry conditions etc (NB pregnant women should not attend). About £5.

26-27 Jan 2013 [TBC] Asian Bride Show Sat-Sun Wembley Stadium.All the best from the wedding world under one roof. Hundreds of exhibitors showcasing their products and services. Entrance about £10.

29 Jan 2013 Up Helly Aa, Lerwick, Shetland Largest fire festival in Europe, celebrated on the last Tuesday of January every year. Torch-light procession of up to a thousand "guizers" through the streets of Lerwick, followed by the burning of a full-size replica Viking long-ship. A night of revelry, dancing and partying until dawn. Video

02 Feb 2013 [TBC] Marsden Imbolc Fire Festival Sat 19:00-21:30. 1,500-strong lantern & torch parade with fire-jugglers, antler-wearing drummers, Celtic characters, fire druids, a 12ft Jack Frost and spring's Green Man. Through woodland. Starts from Marsden Station HD7 6AX, then up Reddisher Road to Tunnel End, into Waters Road then down the hill to the Watersedge area. With a fire 'circus' accompanied by music. Organiser Angie Boycott  says "a great atmosphere, a little bit edgy." Fantastic firework finale. Imbolc, pronounced "Imolc", is an ancient festival where fire represents the return of the Sun in the coming months. Angie Boycott Garnett 01484 842619 ~ 07717 227985. Marsden Information point 01484 845595.

Imbolc Facebook Video Map

02 Feb 2013 [TBC] Waitangi Day Pub Crawl, London Sat 10:00 Kings Cross at O'Neils, then Circe Line anti clockwise to Westminster. Big gathering at Parliament Square. The day New Zealanders let their hair down. Waitangi Day is 06 Feb. London celebrations on the nearest Saturday. More Haka Video

03 Feb 2013 [TBC] South Essex Radio Rally Sun. The Paddocks, Long Road, Canvey. Amateur radio & electronics. 01842 861089.

07-10 Feb 2013 [TBC] SIBA Champions Beer Festival, Nottingham The Canalhouse, 48-52 Canal St, Nottingham NG1 7EH. .
Over 56 gold award winning beers. A chance to sample the best beers from around the country. Free entrance.

08-17 Feb 2013 [TBC] Showzam, Blackpool Annual festival of circus, magic and new variety.

09-17 Feb 2013 [TBC] Jorvic Viking Festival, York Viking arts, music, drama and action, with many free events. The final Saturday is Battle Day - 10:00-17:00 Activities all day - St Sampson's Square, Hungate, Museum Gardens - have-a-go archery and bird of prey displays. 13.00 Earl Ealdred leads his troops from Museum Gardens across the city to Coppergate. 17:00 Gates open for Festival Battle Finale and Boat Burning at the racecourse. Dramatic reconstruction of the Battle of Woden’s Field in 910AD. Fire jugglers, warriors, special effects and fireworks - the most ambitious re-enactment event ever attempted in York. Food and drink available. Entrance about £10, pre-booking essential: 01904 615505 www.jorvikbookings.com

10 Feb 2013 [TBC] Arun Divers Charity Leap Sun 12:30-15:00 Footbridge by Arun View Inn, Littlehampton BN17 5DD.  Sponsored leap into the River Arun, raising money for local charities which do not get a lot of publicity. The jump is open to anyone willing to brave the elements and collect some money. Fancy dress optional. Safety boats ready to collect the intrepid jumpers, so they won't get too cold. Raffle and auction in the pub after the jump - prizes gratefully accepted. Registration 11:00, Leap between 12:00 and 12:30.

10 Feb 2013 [TBC] Chinese New Year, London Sun 12:00-18:00 Trafalgar Square & Chinatown. Lion dance, martial arts, food and firecrackers. Each year in the Chinese calendar is represented by one of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac, and 2012 is the Year of the Snake.

10:15 Parade starts on Rupert Street, 11:30 Parade finishes on Rupert Street, 12:00 Opening ceremony on main stage in Trafalgar Square, where Mayor of London Boris Johnson and Stanley Tse, President of Chinatown, will perform the Dotting of the Eye ceremony, which will bring the dragons and lions to life, 12:00-17:40 Display by more than 100 performers, including the Chen Brothers, 17:40 Fireworks finale in Trafalgar Square

http://www.chinatownlondon.org/ Parade Video Firecracker-Video

 

10 Feb 2013 [TBC] Chinese New Year, Birmingham Sunday, Arcadian Centre, Hurst Street, Birmingham B5 4TD. Dragon dances, acrobatics, Kung Fu, firecrackers, market stalls, food and children’s rides. Free admission. Tel: 0121 685 8510. 12:30 Entrance of the Dragon Dance and Firecrackers (Choy Lee Fut Kung Fu Academy), 12:50 Speeches, 12:55 Welcoming the Chinese God of Wealth (Birmingham Chinese Women's Association), 13:00 Kung Fu demonstration (Choy Lee Fut Kung Fu Academy), 13:30 Children's Dances (Overseas Chinese Association School), 13:35 Acrobatics Performance (Bai-Ling Chinese Arobatics Co.), 14:35 Dragon Dancing on Poles (Choy Lee Fut Kung Fu Academy), 15:00 Acrobatics and Wushu Performance (Jin Long Chinese Martial Arts Academy), 17:00 Final Appearance of the Dragon Dance (Choy Lee Fut Kung Fu Academy), 17:25 Firework Finale.

10 Feb 2013 [TBC] Chinese New Year, Manchester Sun 11:00-19:00 Chinatown and Albert Square. 18:00 Fireworks. The high pole lion dance performance is set to be the most spectacular in the UK. Attendance 65,000.

10 Feb 2013 [TBC] Chinese New Year, Southampton Sun 11:00-19:00 Civic Centre - dragon dance, unicorn dance, lion dance and martial arts display. 12:30 Dragon Parade to the Bargate and the Grosvenor Casino. Details provisional.

12 Feb 2013 Olney Pancake Race Shrove Tuesday. The original and unique Olney Pancake Race which is now world famous. Traffic stops while the competitors make their 415 yard dash from Market Place to Church Lane. Start at 11:55 - warning bells are rung from the Church steeple and the race is started by the Churchwarden.

12 Feb 2013 The Great Spitalfields Pancake Race Shrove Tuesday 12:30. Get together a sponsored team of four people to enter in the relay race. Bring your own frying pan - pancakes provided. Race run along Dray Walk at The Old Truman Brewery on Brick Lane. Live music. Small prizes. 020 7375 0441.

12 Feb 2013 Leadenhall Market Pancake Race Shrove Tuesday 12:30 Outside The Lamb Tavern, 10-12 Leadenhall Market, London EC3V 1LR. The race sees teams from businesses in Leadenhall Market and businesses from the surrounding area battle it out to win this year’s cup. Free to enter teams & free for spectators. The first 100 spectators will receive a complimentary pancake with lemon & sugar. To enter a team, please email Rachel lambtavern@youngs.co.uk
12-13 Feb 2013 Ashbourne Royal Shrovetide Football

Tue-Wed 14:00-22:00. Everyone takes to the streets to play the largest, most insane football game in the world. Shops are boarded up, and only an unsuspecting visitor would park his or her car in the town. Start at Shawcroft car park. The goals are 3 miles apart, at Clifton & Sturston mills. The ball is kicked, carried or thrown, but generally proceeds in a series of hugs invisible to the spectator, with goals being scored by striking the mill wheel 3 times with the ball. The game can finish well after dark  If a goal is scored before 18:00, then a new game is started. If the goal is after 18:00, then the game ends for that day.

Interactive Pitch Map Location Map Video

16 Feb 2013 [TBC] Charity Pancake Olympics, Littlehampton Sat 11:00-13:00 High Street. Raise funds for a charity of your choice in this fun packed competition. Teams are invited to compete in four Olympic style disciplines but unlike the real thing it involves a lot of pancakes. There will be sprinting, relaying, flipping and even pancake curling!

16-17 Feb 2013 [TBC] Bristol Classic Bike Show  01507 529430.

17 Feb 2013 [TBC] Brighton Half Marathon Sun 09:00 Madeira Drive/ Seafront. 10,000 runners. Brighton Half Video1 Video2

22-24 Feb 2013 [TBC] Festival of Food, Drink and Rhubarb, Wakefield Fri-Sun. Amazing local produce and culinary talents. Includes a cookery demonstration from Yorkshire Chef and star of ITV’s Taste the Nation, Rosemary Shrager. Rosemary will also attend the festival’s grand finale, a ball organised by Wakefield Hospice at the Cedar Court Hotel, Wakefield. Nominated for a White Rose Award for Tourism Event of the Year. Festival Guide

23 Feb 2013 [TBC] Slaithwaite Moonraking Festival Saturday. Biennial street procession and theatre. The parade starts at at 18:30 from the round car park on the main street. It will consist of street acting, a parade of lanterns, fireworks, music and street bands, a projection show, and probably lots of street traders. The parade will last around 70 minutes over a two mile route, and will be followed by a fireworks display on the canal bank. There will be various events taking place during the week, prior to the parade, including lantern and wool workshops and various indoor stage events. 01484 843030 Program

24 Feb 2013 [TBC] Maslenitsa Russian Festival, London Sun 13:30-18:30 Trafalgar Square. Traditional and contemporary music, food, family entertainment and crafts etc. Free entrance. Maslenitsa Russian Festival, London Video

27 Feb - 12 Mar 2013 [TBC]  Fairtrade Fortnight Highlights global inequalities in trade and promotes Fairtrade products. Hundreds of Fairtrade Towns, Churches and Schools around the UK will promote Fairtrade at a regional level. Last year an estimated 12,000 separate activities and events took place during Fairtrade Fortnight - everything from parades, concerts and debates to coffee mornings, fashion shows and family days. The Fairtrade Foundation expects to scale up this activity and reach an even greater number of people. Fairtrade Fortnight Action Guide

01 Mar 2013 [TBC] St Davids Day Parade, Cardiff 11:30-14:00. Parade with floats, flags, bands, dragons and participants in national or historic dress. Parade from King Edward VII Avenue at 12:30. Route St Davids Day

02 Mar 2013 [TBC] Women’s Eights Head of the River Race Sat 11:00 Mortlake to Putney, 4 miles 374 yards. 3,000 athletes on the classic championship course.

03 Mar 2013 [TBC] Clowns Parade, Bognor Sun 14:00 Butlins Day Visitor entrance. Grand parade with up to 100 clowns, led by the Bloco Fogo Samba band, with their mix of Brazilian, Cuban and African rhythms. Route: Butlins, seafront, Lennox Street, High Street, Bedford Street, down the pedestrian precinct before returning to Butlins via Clarence Road and the Esplanade at 16:00. A few of the Clowns may also be doing a walkabout in the London Road Precinct on Saturday morning at 10:00. Further information  and an Events Leaflet available from the Town Hall and Visitor Information Centre, or by calling the Events Department on 01243 825535.
Bognor Regis sueholmes@bognorregis.gov.uk Clowns International

01-03 Mar 2013 [TBC] Swanage Blues Festival, Dorset 70 gigs of acoustic and electric blues-based music in 20 indoor venues. Open mic, jam sessions, workshops, acoustic, electric, rural and urban blues. Free admission. Organised by Steve Darrington

02-03 Mar 2013 [TBC] Barbican Weekender Sat 10:00-24:00; Sun 11:00-22:00 Barbican, Silk Street, London EC2Y 8DS. Free weekend of art, dance, music, theatre and film for all ages. Part of Music Nation. Tel 020 7638 8891 info@barbican.org.uk http://www.barbican.org.uk/weekender

02-03 Mar 2013 [TBC] The Yorkshire Brass Band Championships Sat-Sun. St George's Hall, Bradford. About £6 per day. Some of the finest Bands in Britain such as Black Dyke, Brighouse and Rastrick, Grimethorpe Colliery, YBS and many others all competing in the Championship Section. Few contests are so fiercely competitive.

09-10 & 16-17 Mar 2013 [TBC] Lambing Weekend, Wiltshire Sat-Sun 10:00-17:00 Lackham House - museum of agriculture and rural life, gardens, woodland walk and animal centre. Lackham Country Park, Wiltshire

10 Mar 2013 [TBC] St Patricks Day, Birmingham Sun 12:00-18:00. 12:00 Parade - Camp Hill, with hundreds of balloons being released for a charity balloon race. The parade will then follow Digbeth High Street past traditional Irish pubs, ending on Alcester Street. Pipe bands, floats, Irish music, county flag bearers, Irish dancing, tractors and steam engines. More: www.stpatricksbirmingham.com

10 Mar 2013 [TBC] Bath Half Marathon Sun 11:00 Great Pulteney Street. One of the longest established and most popular city road events in the UK, raising over £1.2 million for charity. The Runners Village is at the Bath Recreation Ground, open to both runners and spectators. Heart FM Roadshow, food and drink, first aid and toilets. One way pedestrian system via the Sports Centre gate North Parade Road, or the turnstile entrance via Edward Street. The Riverside gate and Grove Street will be exit only.

Bath Half Marathon Video

16 Mar 2013 [TBC] Plymouth Out Fest Saturday. Pride event.

16 Mar 2013 [TBC] Head of the River Race, London Sat 11:00 Mortlake to Putney. A processional race for eights rowed over the 4.25 mile championship course. Up to 420 crews and 3750 competitors start at 10-second intervals. Video Head of the River Race, London

16-17 Mar 2013 [TBC] Thoresby Park Craft & Country Fair Sat-Sun 10:00-18:00 Thoresby Park, Nr Ollerton, Nottinghamshire NG22 9EH. Glassblowing, woodturning, blacksmiths, artists, potters, textiles etc - hand crafted items available to purchase. Arena events - falconry, gundogs, horses etc. Food Marquee, trade stands and children's entertainment. About £7.50 adults, £6.50 oap's, £2.00 children.

17 Mar 2013 [TBC] St Patricks Day, Brent, London 16:00 Parade, Willesden Green Tube to Willesden Green Library. Stage, Irish food and market stalls.

St Patricks, Brent More 020 8937 3119 Map

17 Mar 2013 [TBC] St Patricks Day, London Sun 12:00 Parade - Green Park to Trafalgar Square. 11:30-18:00 Irish Day Party, Trafalgar Square.

St Patricks, London

Video 1 Video 2 Video 3 Video 4 Video 5

2011 Video 1 2

17 Mar 2013 [TBC] Sunbeam Motor Cycle Club London-Brighton Pioneer Run Sun 08:00-15:00 Tattenham Corner, Epsom to Madeira Drive, Brighton. Over 300 pre 1915 motorcycles. Contact: Ian McGill 01293 771446.

23 Mar 2013 Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race

Saturday - Putney to Mortlake. The 4 mile course takes about 20 minutes.
The race is televised, and up to 250,000 spectators line the riverbank. Giant viewing screens at Bishops Park in Putney near the start, and at Furnival Gardens in Hammersmith, at the 2 mile point.

The Boat Race Pubs Along The Route


23 Mar 2013 [TBC] The Fabulous Fezheads Fig & Date Fayre Saturday. New location every year. 12:00 Fayre opens, 12:30 Dance performances, 14:00 Games Commence - Eye of the Camel, Fruit Rounders, Fig and Spoon race, Fig Roulette, Belly Dance competition, 18:30 presentation of prizes. The Fayre finishes with a 'Night with the Fezheads' with the Fez Band - not for the fainthearted. Free entrance. More

24 Mar 2013 [TBC] Hastings Half Marathon Sunday 10:30 start. Probably the best half marathon in the world. 5000 runners. Organised by The Hastings Lions Club. Seafront towards Battle, around back of town and down to the Old Town and fishing Village, then along the Seafront to the start. Popular with spectators. Highlights of the race that evening on ITVLocal.com when you get home. Entertainment around the route - 3 choirs and 2 bands, live music, a fairground organ, and the 'Morgan boat'. Route Map

24 Mar 2013 [TBC] World Pooh Sticks Championships Sunday 12:00 Days lock, Oxon. Organised by The Rotary Club of Sinodun.

29 Mar 2013 Public Holiday - Good Friday.

30 Mar 2013 [TBC] Exeter Pride Sat 11:30 Parade, St Sidwells Centre. Stalls, women's space offering workshops and information, mens networking space, youth space, speed dating, chillout cafe at Exeter Phoenix cafe/bar, live music and DJs.

 

Vaisakhi - Sikh New Year

30 Mar 2013 [TBC] Woolwich - Saturday
07 Apr 2013 [TBC] Wednesfield / Willenhall - Sunday 
13 Apr 2013 [TBC] Gravesend - Saturday 11:30-15:00 Shri Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara
14 Apr 2013 [TBC]
Vaisakhi Festival, Hounslow 12:00-19:00 Lampton Park.
14 Apr 2013 [TBC] Derby - Sunday 
14 Apr 2013 [TBC] Nottingham - Sunday 
14 Apr 2013 [TBC] Wolverhampton - Sunday, Sedgley St
14 Apr 2013 [TBC] Huddersfield - Sunday 
14 Apr 2013 [TBC]
Southampton - Sunday
21 Apr 2013 [TBC] Birmingham - Sunday, Handsworth Mela,
Vaisakhi, Birmingham Handsworth Park. Two Processions
21 Apr 2013 [TBC] Leicester - Sunday
May 2013 [TBC] Vaisakhi, London Trafalgar Square. Video. http://www.london.gov.uk/vaisakhi
05 May 2013 [TBC] Reading Sikh Youth Assoc - Sunday
A Guide to Vaisakhi By John Roath

 

31 Mar 2013 Start of British Summer Time - clocks go forward 1 Hour

 

31 Mar 2013 [TBC] Reading Half Marathon

Sun 10:05 Green Park, M4-J11. Usually an early sell-out for runners. Full coverage live on Reading 107 FM. Major event with over 18,000 runners.

2012 Video 2011 Video Reading Half Marathon


31 Mar 2013 [TBC] Sharrow Lantern Carnival, Sheffield

Sun 19:00-21:30 Mount Pleasant Park, Vincent Road, Sharrow Lane, London Road, Lansdowne Estate and Cemetery Road. Hundreds of beautiful lanterns with a spectacular finale. If it rains the carnival will be postponed for a week - call Lu on 07854 983197 for info.

Sharrow Lantern Carnival Video - Parade Video - Samba Video - Choir Map


01 Apr 2013 Public Holiday - Easter Monday.

01 Apr 2013 World Coal Carrying Championship Easter Monday, Gawthorpe, Wakefield. The main event starts at The Royal Oak, Owl Lane, and the course is about 1 mile. The men carry 50kg, and the women less. No event in the Olympic Games could stimulate more enthusiasm than this annual contest of stamina and muscle.

01 Apr 2013 The London Harness Horse Parade Easter Monday, South of England Showground, Ardingly, from 09:00. Family event. Ponies, working shire horses, and everything in between. Entrance about  £6 per person, children free. The children will love this one. Jackie Shearman 01737 646132 www.lhhp.co.uk

01-13 Apr 2013 [TBC] Active Sunderland Club Month Supporting and inspiring the city's sports clubs, coaches and athletes to become better equipped to deliver sports activities to the people of Sunderland. You’re invited to sign up to a variety of courses and workshops, which are taking place throughout June and July, from First Aid training and project planning to master classes delivered by International and Olympic Coaches. Most workshops and master classes are free, unless otherwise stated.  To check remaining places or for further information on any of the workshops please see website or call  0191 561 4697.

13 Apr 2013 [TBC] The Grand National Sat 16:15 Aintree Racecourse, Liverpool. 30 fences, 4 miles and 4 furlongs. The Steeplechase Enclosure is a great place to experience the atmosphere of the Grand National - adult  tickets about £18.

14 Apr 2013 [TBC] Brighton Marathon Sun 09:00 Start at Preston Park. The route is south to the Seafront, east to Rottingdean, west to Shoreham power station then back to the Pier to finish. Several loops to make up the distance to 26 miles. Live band, DJ's etc at Preston Park, Rosehill Terrace, New Road, The Level, Old Steine, Brighton Band Stand, Hove Lawns, New Church Road and Shoreham Power Station.
The Brighton Marathon Video Course Map


14 Apr 2013 [TBC] Vaisakhi, Southampton Sun 13.00hrs the colourful Nagar Kirtan procession will start at Gurdwara Tegh Bahadur Sahib, Northbrook Road. The route takes in Southampton's four Gurdwaras - the the Sri Guru Ravidass Sabha Gurdwara, Gurdwara Tegh Bahadur Sahib, Gurdwara Nanaksar and the Singh Sabha Gurdwara. Vaisakhi, Southampton

17-21 Apr 2013 [TBC] Winter Dressage Championships, Gloucestershire Hartpury Arena GL19 3BE. Public admission is free, except for the Friday & Saturday Gala Evenings. Whether you’re a fan or know nothing about dressage, you will be amazed at the power and elegance of these horses.

19-21 Apr 2013 [TBC] Folk Weekend, Oxford Fri-Sun, based at the newly refurbished Old Fire Station, plus venues throughout the city centre. Family Ceilidh Sat lunchtime, Concert and Ceilidh Sat evening. Morris dancing and craft fair at Oxford Castle. The Ashmolean Museum are hosting free performances on Sat-Sun. See link for full details and ticket info.

St Georges Day is on Mon 23 April 2012

19-21 Apr 2013 [TBC] St George's Festival  Manchester Fri-Sun Albert Square & Piccadilly Gardens. Entertainment, food & street parade. More

19-21 Apr 2013 [TBC] St George's Festival, English Heritage Sat-Sun 10:00-18:00 Wrest Park. Biggest St. George’s Day event in the country. Displays on horseback, redcoats, traditional games, fire eating, falconry & craft market. About £14.

20 Apr 2013 [TBC] St George's Day, London Sat 12:30-18:00 Trafalgar Square. Free. Video St Geoges Day

21 Apr 2013 [TBC] St George's Day, Essex Sun 10:00-16:00 Wat Tyler Country Park, Basildon SS16 4UH. Figures from historic England, classic cars, crafts, food & drink, real ale and cider. Free entrance and parking. email


21 Apr 2013 [TBC] London to Brighton Jaguar Run Sunday. Car Rally to Madeira Drive.

21 Apr 2013 [TBC] Farm Open Day, Essex Sun 11:00-16:00 Lambourne End Outdoor Centre, Manor Road, Lambourne End, Essex, RM4 1NB. 0208 500 3047. A day for all the family to meet the baby animals, have a ride on the pony and cart and have a fun day on the farm! Suitable for all ages. Parking £3. Small charges apply for refreshments and rides.

20-21 Apr 2013 [TBC] UK Coach Rally Peterborough Arena (formerly The East of England Showground). Saturday morning competitors will complete an 80-mile road rally route, in the afternoon go through the driving tests and in the evening relax at our Gala Dinner Dance. Sunday morning bright and early a proud line up of coach entries will be judged, also the driving test will take place for the finalists followed by the presentation of awards in the afternoon. Over the weekend alongside the Rally Event is an extensive Trade Exhibition area.

21 Apr 2013 [TBC] West London Radio & Electronics Show Sun, Kempton Park racecourse, Sunbury on Thames. Amateur radio equipment, computing, test equipment, and components etc. Entrance about £4. More

21 Apr 2013 [TBC] The London Marathon

Sun 09:45 Main Start, Greenwich Park Blackheath - simply electric. Popular viewing areas include Greenwich,  Tower Bridge, Victoria Embankment and The Mall. 40,000 Runners and One Million Spectators.

Marathon Video 2012 - At 25 Miles Marathon Video 2011 - Red Start Marathon Video 2011 - At 7 Miles London Marathon


28 Apr 2013 [TBC] Maldon Mud Race, Essex Sunday - Promenade Park‚ Maldon, Essex. 2012 Times: gates open 10:30, duck race 11:30, mud race 12:30. 10‚000 spectators watch hundreds of competitors race through the mud of the River Blackwater at low tide. The return crossing can take an hour, and is very heavy going. Best times might be under four minutes. Spectator entry to the park is by personal donation. The event raises tens of thousands of pounds for charity. Maldon Mud Race. Video - the warm-up

28 Apr 2013 [TBC] Vaisakhi Festival, Wolverhampton Sun 11:00-17:00 West Park, Wolverhampton. Family entertainment, fun fair, stalls, speeches, Gatka, wrestling, and karate displays, Bhangra, Asian Musicians and Singers. Free Food, a distinctive feature of the Sikh Religion, will be served through out the day.
Everybody, irrespective of age, colour and background is invited. Organised by The Council of Sikh Gurdwaras in Wolverhampton together with the Asian community.
Admission is free.

28 Apr 2013 [TBC] Bracknell Half Marathon Sun 09:00 South Hill Park Arts Centre. More

28 Apr 2013 [TBC] Shakespeare Marathon, Stratford Upon Avon. Sun 09:30. 3,300 runners.

03-06 May 2013 [TBC] Norton Beer Festival 12:00-23:00 The Norton Public House, 54 Latchingdon Road, Cold Norton CM3 6JB. Over 30 Real Ales and Ciders from breweries nationwide, including a selection of fine real ales from independent local brewers. Open all day Fri, Sat, Sun and Mon, live music most sessions, pub food, BBQ, Morris dancers, garden and ample parking. Free entrance.

03-05 May 2013 [TBC] Lyme Regis Fossil Festival Fri-Sun Centerpiece grand marquee on the beach is free and open from 10:00-17:00. Hands-on science activities and arts for the whole family, from our partners including the Natural History Museum, Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site team, Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre, National Trust, Natural England, Dorset AONB, Dorset Wildlife Trust, RSPB, Lyme Regis Museum, National Museum of Wales, D.I.G.S., Dorset Geologist’s Association, RockWatch, Dinosaur Isle (Isle of Wight), Bristol Dinosaur Project, Purbeck Clay Festival, Plymouth University and National Oceanography Centre, as well as a big Fossil Fair.

04 May 2013 [TBC] Brighton Festival Parade Sat 10:30 Sydney Street to the sea front. Crowds of 10,000 line the streets. Samba bands, towering tableaux, and 4000 costumed participants with drums and whistles. Organised by community arts group Same-Sky. 2011 Video Brighton Festival Three weeks of arts & street theatre on a huge scale.

04 May 2013 [TBC] Spalding Flower Parade Sat 14:00-17:00 Parade of themed carnival floats, hand decorated with half a million tulip heads. The 4.5 mile route takes about 3 hours, and the roads are lined with upwards of 80,000 spectators. Plenty of activities over the weekend. Flower Parade

04 May 2013 [TBC] Downton Cuckoo Fair Sat 10:00-16:30. 20,000 visitors, over 250 stalls, produce market, children's funfair, rural crafts and demonstrations, bands, morris dancing and maypole dancing. Free entrance. Downton Cuckoo Fair

04 May 2013 [TBC] Stourbridge Party in the Park Sat 11:00-17:30 Mary Stevens Park. Fun filled family day with quality live music, funfair, stalls, food and arena events. About £3 entry.

04-05 May 2013 [TBC] Magnificent Motors, Eastbourne Sat-Sun. Annual display of vintage & classic vehicles on the seafront and the slopes near the Wish Tower. 500 vintage and classic cars, motorbikes, buses, steam traction engines, commercial and military vehicles. Seafront cavalcade at 10:00, both days. Trade stands, French Market, live music stage with local bands and small funfair. Free entrance. Attendance 25,000. Organised by Eastbourne Borough Council, in partnership with Eastbourne Historic Vehicle Club, East Sussex Omnibus Society plus a variety of other historic transport groups. Magnificent Motors

04-05 May 2013 [TBC] Swindon International Kite Festival. Sat-Sun. Brinkworth House, Chippenham, Wilts SN15 5DF. See link for this and other kite events.

04-06 May 2013 [TBC] Canalway Cavalcade, Little Venice, London Community and waterways festival in the heart of London. Over a hundred boats in the pool, working and traditional boats in procession, trade shows, bands, kids' activities, real ale bar and food. Admission free. Sat 10:00-18:00, Sun 10:00-18:00, Mon 10:00-17:00. On Sat, music at 20:30 and a procession of illuminated boats. Press/media/advertising: 07774 890750 canalwaycavalcade@gmail.com
General enquiries: 07979 676461. Trade show, c
atering, entertainers & volunteering enquiries: Jerry Sanders 07788 204442 exhibition@waterways.org.uk Boat entries: 020 8642 8104. Canalway Cavalcade Map

04-06 May 2013 [TBC] Old English MayDay Celebration, Isle of Wight Sat-Mon 10:00-18:00 Yarmouth Green, West Wight. Sun 12:00 Jouvay Procession, Fort Victoria. Free carnival skills and flagmaking workshops, real ale, cider, traditional food, live acoustic music, Morris dancing, sideshow games, Tai Chi, Capoeira, crafts etc.

04-06 May 2013 [TBC] Norbury Canal Festival Sat-Mon. Norbury Junction, Shropshire Union Canal, Staffordshire. Display of working boats, best decorated boat competition, childrens events, live music, hog roast, boat trips, open air service, craft stalls, brass bands, local charity stalls and vehicle displays. More 01952-883568.

04-06 May 2013 [TBC] Urchfont Scarecrow Festival, Wiltshire Sat-Mon Over 50 scarecrows made by families in the village. The Scarecrow Trail commences at the village pond where a programme can be purchased indicating the position of the scarecrows, with the task of identifying and matching the scarecrows to the cryptic clues in the programme is a challenging experience. Children’s competition identifying pictures of children’s characters. Plant Sale adjacent to the pond. Free car parking on the playing fields. Refreshments around the pond. Attendance 10,000. Facebook

05 May 2013 [TBC] Vaisakhi, London 12:00-18:00 Trafalgar Square. Video. More

05 May 2013 [TBC] Beltane, Thornborough Henge Sun 12:00. A celebration of seasonal change and ancient mystery at one of Britain's most important prehistoric sacred sites. Entrance, stalls & camping free. 07709 681581 info@sacredbrigantia.com

05 May 2013 [TBC] Abingdon Charity Air & Country Show Sun 10:00-17:00 Abingdon Airfield, Dalton Barracks. A volunteer run event in aid of Thames Valley & Chiltern Air Ambulance. Flying & static aircraft, trade & charity stands, farmers market, crafts, historic & classic vehicles, ground & arena displays, childrens amusements, live music, food and free parking.

05 May 2013 [TBC] Baishakhi Mela, London Sun 12:00-19:00 Allen Gardens and Brick Lane. Bengali New Year Festival with food, live music, sports activities and traditional arts and crafts workshops. 11:30 Colourful procession with entertainment from Allen Gardens,  winding through Brick Lane and finishing in Weavers Fields. Attendance 100,000. Free entrance.

05-06 May 2013 [TBC] Weymouth International Beach Kite Festival Sun-Mon. One of the biggest weekends of the year for Weymouth. As Royal Wedding fever is sweeping the Country, the borough is hosting a flamboyant programme of street parties and entertainment. Live stage with a range of top class local entertainers and live bands, and International Fireworks on Sunday at 21:30. Free.

05-06 May 2013 [TBC] East Yorkshire Kite Festival & Country Show Sun-Mon 09:00-16:00 The Showground, Driffield. Kite displays, traders, boot sale and classic cars. Main Arena events include Birds of Prey; Terrier Racing; Fire Service, Police; Air Ambulance and Road Recovery Services. Modest entrance charge.

06 May 2013 Public Holiday - Early May Bank Holiday.

06 May 2013 [TBC] Jack In The Green Procession, Hastings Mon 10:15 Giant procession from Rock-a-Nore Road. 1500 performers, 10,000 revelers. Finale in the castle where Jack is symbolically slain. Fri-Mon Live music and celebration all weekend. Jack In The Green, Hastings

06 May 2013 [TBC] Sweeps Festival Procession, Rochester Mon 14:45 Procession - Rochester Castle & High Street. Sat-Mon Holiday weekend. Biggest gathering of Morris Dancers in the country. Jack-in-the-Green, a seven  foot high character, is woken at dawn on May Day from his slumber on Bluebell Hill, then travels to Rochester to start the festivities. Thousands of revelers watch performances at various venues & pubs. It is considered lucky to be kissed by a sweep. Sweeps Festival 2011 Video

06 May 2013 [TBC] May Merrie, Kingston Upon Thames Bank holiday Monday. Family entertainment, fun, music, dance, magic and street entertainment. Attendance 10,000. Free entrance. Contact: 020 8247 9513 / 020 8547 1221. Stalls Information Contact: 020 8247 9513. May Merrie Video

06 May 2013 [TBC] Lewes Garland Day Mon from 10:00 Lewes Castle. Children's Garland Competition. 11:00 Procession High Street. Morris Dancing by the Knots of May and Chanctonbury Ring Morris Men.

06 May 2013 [TBC] Chobham Carnival 11:30 Procession, Burrow hill to the Recreation Ground. 01276 858170. Chobham Carnival Video

06 May 2013 [TBC] Woodhouse May Day Challenge Mon - Start at Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall. A 13.5 mile circular event for walkers and runners, around the glorious Charnwood countryside & The National Forest. 08:30 Start time for walkers, 9:30 Start time for runners. Monies raised goes to good causes.

07 May 2013 [TBC] Helston Flora Day. Tue 07:00 The Morning Dance, Guildhall. 08:30 The Hal-an-Tow, St John's Bridge. 09:50 The Children's Dance, Wendron Street. 12:00 The Midday Dance, Guildhall. 17:00 The Evening Dance, Guildhall. Video

10-12 May 2013 [TBC] Powerboat and Rib Show Fri-Sun, Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth. This event is now free-to-visit, and expects to attract over 80,000 people. Among the attractions will be a wide selection of RIBs, powerboats and associated products for sale, the opportunity to trial boats on the open water and Free Suzuki RIB Rides. Video

10-12 May 2013 [TBC] Holmfirth Festival of Folk Excellent community based festival which draws in a large audience. The events take place in the local pubs and on the streets. The vast majority of the events are free, although audiences are encouraged to contribute to the collection buckets. Because of the nature of the venues, don’t expect big names, but be assured that you will get quality. The concerts in the Old Bridge function room and the Ceilidh are paid events.

11 May 2013 [TBC] East Allington Whacky Races Sat 11:00 East Allington, South Devon. Annual go kart / soap box racing event with downhill races through the village. There will also be skateboard races, a tug-of-war competition and lots of other activities. The event raises funds for the village school, community groups and charities. East Allington’s Got Talent in the Village Hall from 19:00.

11 May 2013 [TBC] CARE London to Brighton Cycle Challenge Saturday. Kingston, Hampton Court, Dorking, Leonard’s Forest, Devil’s Dyke, Brighton.

11 May 2013 [TBC] Environmental Rock, Southampton Sat 12:00-18:00 The Hobbit Pub. 02380 710916. Environmental awareness event with music, information, ideas, tips and activities. Map

11-12 May 2013 [TBC] Pagan Pride Beltane Weekend, Nottingham Includes a parade, a free festival of live music at Melrose Street on Saturday, and picnic at the Arboretum on Sunday.

11-12 May 2013 [TBC] The Thundersprint Sat-Sun Northwich, Cheshire. Map Europe’s biggest and most family friendly motor bike festival & street party . Sat - Bike Show, classic and modern bikes, star riders World champions. Sun - Thundersprint town centre sprint track & cavalcade. A mile of trade stands, spectacular fun fair; bands; entertainment and food. Free admission for spectators, free parking and free grandstand seating.

11-12 May 2013 [TBC] Family Fun Day, Wild Park, Moulsecoomb Sat-Sun 09:00-17:00. Sat - carboot, funfair, samba bands, belly dancers, street music, children's Kung Fu, pompom dancers, face painting. Sun - country & western day, carboot, face painting, line dancing. Free entry, parking £1. Contact Colin Bradford on 01273 701152.

12 May 2013 [TBC] MG Regency Run, Brighton Sunday. Brooklands Motor Museum, Weybridge to Madeira Drive, Brighton. All sorts of MGs along Madeira Drive - from the 1920s to the present day, from the very classy to the nifty and sporty.

12 May 2013 [TBC] London May Fayre & Puppet Festival Sun 10:30-17:30 Covent Garden. Annual celebration of the art of puppetry with Punch and Judy Professors from all over the country commemorating the first sighting of Mr Punch in England by Samuel Pepys in 1662. St Paul's Church Gardens, Bedford Street WC2. Admission Free.

27 May 2013 [TBC] Steyning Country Fair, Sussex Mon 11:00-15:30. Fun day organised and run for the people of Steyning and surrounding areas. Traditional crafts and farmers produce, music and dancing, dog show, livestock, rural crafts, stalls, clowns, jugglers and puppets.

01-02 Jun 2013 [TBC] Barton Mills Scarecrow Festival Sat-Sun. Bi-annual event. Householders in the village make scarecrows to put on display. Event attracts thousands of visitors who also visit the Open Gardens. Live music at The Bull Inn. More info 01638 713155.

14-16 Jun 2013 [TBC] Whitehaven Maritime Festival, Cumbria Fri-Sun. Bi-annual. Biggest maritime festival in the UK. Activities on the water, in the air and on the harbour side. Tall ships, air displays, street entertainment, music, drama and re-enactments. Amazing fireworks Friday & Saturday about 22:45. Attendance 250,000 over three days. Free entrance. Contact 01946 694444. Website

26-30 Jun 2013 Glastonbury Festival

06 Jul 2013 [TBC] Lewisham Peoples Day Saturday Mountsfield Park. An eclectic mix of entertainment including music, dance and wonderful street theatre as well as children’s activities, sports, fashion shows and crafts. Attendance 30,000. Free entrance. Themed stages. Lewisham Peoples Day

06-07 Jul 2013 Heddington & Stockley Steam Rally One of the biggest steam rallies in the area, attracting exhibitors and visitors from all over the country, who enjoy our friendly and relaxed rally. Vintage traction engines in full steam, miniature steam, stationary engines, tractors, classic cars, motor cycles and bygones. Large display of military and commercial vehicles. Large trade area.

08 Sep 2013 [TBC] Women's 5K Challenge, Hyde Park, London Sun 10:10 warm-up around the stage, 11:00 start, 12:30 awards. 15,000 runners, and a great atmosphere. Adidas Women's 5K Challenge Video: Warm-up Race

21-23 Mar 2014 [TBC] Sport Relief Fri-Sun. Biennial charity event from Comic Relief. Up to 400,000 runners, raising £millions for charity. 1, 3 & 6 mile options. Sport Relief

Old links:

Coin Street Festival, London Coin Street Festival, London
Isle of Wight Carnivals
Isle of Wight Carnivals
Big Sexy Festy Party
Relay for Life
Crowpoint Festival
www.whiteair.co.uk White Air Extreme Sports Festival
Zapcat Racing Racing Calendar
10k Nike Run London
Pride Events Calendar
Coleford Festival, Gloucester
Naturist Events
Thundercat Racing
Bupa Great Runs
Nigerian Carnival Events, London Tel: 07534-325-034 info@nigeriancarnival.com
Offshore Circuit Racing
Nottingham Events
Art Car Parade
www.northsomersetcarnival.co.uk
www.somersetcarnivals.co.uk
Mayfield Blacksmiths Parade
www.london.gov.uk/get-involved/festivals
Offshore Power Boat Racing Offshore Circuit Racing Drivers Association. Spectacular power boat racing at speeds up to 80mph. Video
Poole Kite Picnics All kite fliers are welcome to join us from 10:00 at Hamworthy Park in Poole for these informal flying days.
British Army Events
Chalice Well Trust & Gardens
Thames Path Ultra
Coin Street Events, South Bank, London Mar-Sep 2011 Culturally themed free events, culminating in The Mayor's Thames Festival
Walk for Skin Guided walks.
Bracknell Big Day Out - South Hill Park
Diaspora Music Village, London. - Diaspora Music Village, London
Pakistan Festival, London
A Taste of Spain
Balloons Over Basingstoke Balloons Over Basingstoke
Croydon Summer Festival and Mela  Croydon Summer Festival Video
Brent Respect Festival, London

www.bristolfiesta.co.uk
  Bristol Balloon Fiesta Video 1: Bristol Balloon Fiesta 2010 Video 2: Bristol Balloon Fiesta 2010
The Historic Commercial Vehicle Society

HUB Summer Bike Festival, Hastings

Go Fast Speed Days, Eastbourne
Leicester Amateur Radio Show
Brent Eid festival
The Bristol Do The Bristol Do Video
Crewkern Illuminated Carnival Crewkerne Illuminated Carnival
Brent Diwali Brent Diwali Gallery 2 Video - Parade Video - Fireworks
Summer Fayre Music Festivals Set to expand to Brighton, Bristol and London in 2012.
Christmas Illuminations, Bognor Regis Free Events by Bognor Regis Town Council
Chanctonbury Ring Morris Men
British Lawn Mower Racing
www.morelondon.com/thescoop
More London at The Scoop
Frost Fair, London
British Naturism Events
Visit Plymouth
Paradise Gardens Festival  Paradise Gardens Festival, London
Love Food Festival
Brighton Live
British Waterways - Canal Open Days
www.big5km.co.uk
Giant Mechanical Spider
Sands Of Time Festival, Bognor

 

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