Don't Miss These Top Festivals in London This Weekend!
- comedyinyoureye
- Feb 20
- 10 min read
Right then, looking for some fun things to do? London's got a bunch of cool events happening this weekend. Whether you fancy diving into some culture, enjoying some great food, or just getting out and about, there's something for everyone. I've had a look and pulled together a few highlights that caught my eye, so hopefully, this helps you plan your weekend.
Key Takeaways
Get ready for Lunar New Year celebrations with parades, lion dances, and craft workshops, especially in Chinatown and Trafalgar Square.
Experience the vibrant Sushisamba Carnaval Weekender with Brazilian music, dancers, and a special feast.
See Central London light up with Ramadan Lights and explore an interfaith art exhibition.
Don't forget Pancake Day! London restaurants are serving up stacks of delicious pancakes all week.
Start your weekend with a calming sunrise yoga session overlooking the city.
1. Lunar New Year
The Lunar New Year celebrations are still in full swing this weekend, even though the main day was on Tuesday the 17th. It's the Year of the Horse, which apparently means good fortune and success are on the way – who couldn't do with a bit of that? London's Chinatown is the place to be for the biggest party outside of Asia.
There's a whole load going on:
Chinatown Parade: Kicking off between 10 am and 2 pm on Sunday, this is the main event. Expect lots of colour and noise.
Trafalgar Square Celebrations: Running from 10:30 am to 6 pm on Sunday, there will be loads of activities and performances.
Old Spitalfields Market: Over in East London, you can catch a Lion Dance on Saturday morning (11 am-11:30 am), plus there are craft workshops like lantern making and calligraphy.
Lots of restaurants are also getting involved with special menus. It's a great chance to try some authentic food and soak up the festive atmosphere. Keep an eye out for deals on dim sum – some places are even offering discounts on bottomless brunch.
If you're looking for something a bit different, check out the Asian Makers Market at Old Spitalfields too. It's a good opportunity to pick up some unique gifts or just browse the stalls.
2. Sushisamba Carnaval Weekender
Even if you missed the big Carnaval party in Rio, you can still get a taste of the excitement right here in London this weekend. Sushisamba is hosting its annual Carnaval Weekender, bringing all the vibrant energy of Brazil's famous festival to the city.
Expect a lively atmosphere with:
Live music from batucada drummers
DJ sets spinning Latin-American tunes
Energetic samba dancers to get you moving
And it's not just about the music and dancing. Sushisamba is also serving up a special five-course Brazilian feast. You can look forward to starters like acarajé with rock shrimp tempura, mains such as a Brazilian beef kebab with feijoada, and a sweet coconut chocolate mousse to finish.
It's the perfect chance to enjoy some fantastic food and soak up a truly festive vibe.
Location | Address |
|---|---|
Sushisamba Covent Garden | 35 The Market Building, London, WC2E 8RF |
Sushisamba/Sambaroom Heron Tower | 110 Bishopsgate, London, EC2N 4AY |
This event promises a lively weekend filled with rhythm, flavour, and dancing. Make sure to book your spot in advance as it's bound to be popular.
3. Ramadan Lights
This weekend, you can catch the Ramadan Lights that have been switched on in Central London. They stretch across Coventry Street, linking Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus. It's quite a sight, especially as they're lit up every evening throughout Ramadan, from 5pm until 5am. The timings are meant to line up with when people break their fast (iftar) and start their fast (suhoor) here in the UK.
It's the fourth year these lights have been displayed, and they really do brighten up the area.
These lights are a lovely way to acknowledge and celebrate Ramadan in the heart of the city. They create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for everyone.
While you're in the area, there's also an interfaith art exhibition happening downstairs at Zedwell Piccadilly Circus, which is worth a look if you have time. Plus, if you're planning on having iftar, there are loads of places nearby offering meals.
4. Chinatown Parade
Get ready for a vibrant spectacle as the heart of London's Chinatown comes alive this weekend. The annual parade is a highlight of the Lunar New Year celebrations, marking the start of the Year of the Horse with a burst of colour and energy. Expect traditional lion dancers, elaborate floats, and a fantastic atmosphere as the procession makes its way through the streets.
It's a fantastic opportunity to soak up the festive spirit and witness a rich cultural display. The parade typically kicks off around 10 am and winds its way through the city, often connecting key celebration points like Trafalgar Square.
Here's what you might see:
Intricate dragon costumes dancing to the beat of drums.
Performers in traditional Chinese attire.
Colourful banners and decorations adding to the festive mood.
Local community groups showcasing their heritage.
This parade isn't just a procession; it's a living piece of London's multicultural fabric, bringing together communities to celebrate new beginnings and good fortune. It's a truly joyful event that captures the essence of the Lunar New Year.
5. Trafalgar Square Celebrations
Trafalgar Square is set to be buzzing this weekend with a whole host of activities as part of the Lunar New Year celebrations. It's a fantastic spot to soak up the atmosphere and see some traditional performances. You can expect a lively mix of music, dance, and cultural displays right in the heart of the city.
Here’s a rough idea of what’s happening:
Main Stage Performances: Keep an eye out for traditional music and dance acts that showcase the rich heritage of Lunar New Year.
Food Stalls: Grab a bite from a variety of Asian food vendors offering delicious treats.
Craft Activities: There are often opportunities to try your hand at traditional crafts, like calligraphy or lantern making.
It's a great place to bring the family and experience the vibrant spirit of the celebrations. The main parade also makes its way between here and Chinatown, so you might catch that too. It's a really popular spot, so expect it to be busy, but that's all part of the fun, isn't it?
The square itself is a pretty iconic London landmark, and seeing it transformed for a festival like this is always special. It really brings people together from all walks of life to share in the festivities.
If you're looking for more Lunar New Year events, check out the Lunar New Year celebration happening elsewhere in the city.
6. Lion Dance
You can't really talk about Lunar New Year celebrations in London without mentioning the lion dance. It's a proper spectacle, full of colour and energy. These vibrant performances are thought to bring good luck and fortune, which is always a bonus, right?
Usually, you'll see two performers inside a large, elaborate lion costume, moving in sync to the beat of drums and cymbals. It looks incredibly difficult, and honestly, it's mesmerising to watch. They often perform as part of larger parades or at specific event locations.
This weekend, keep an eye out for these amazing displays, especially if you're heading towards Chinatown. The Chinatown parade is a major event, and the lion dance is a highlight you won't want to miss. It's a fantastic way to soak up the festive atmosphere and witness a bit of traditional culture.
The intricate costumes and the performers' skill make it a truly captivating sight. It's more than just a dance; it's a cultural tradition passed down through generations, symbolising power and prosperity.
Here's what you might see:
Intricate, colourful lion costumes.
Synchronised movements to loud drumming and cymbal crashes.
Performances often accompanied by other traditional music and dancers.
A general feeling of excitement and good cheer.
7. Old Spitalfields Market
Fancy a browse this weekend? Old Spitalfields Market is always a good shout for finding something a bit different. It's a proper East London institution, you know? They've got everything from vintage clothes and handmade crafts to some seriously tasty street food.
It's the perfect place to pick up unique gifts or just treat yourself.
Here's a little taste of what you might find:
Handmade jewellery and accessories
Independent fashion brands
Artisan food stalls with global flavours
Vintage homeware and quirky collectibles
They often have live music too, so it's got a great buzz about it. Definitely worth a wander if you're in the area and looking for some weekend retail therapy or just a good bite to eat.
The market is a great spot to soak up some local atmosphere and discover hidden gems you won't find on the high street. It's a proper mix of old and new, with stalls that have been there for ages alongside newer, exciting traders.
8. Pancake Day
Right then, who's ready for Pancake Day? It's that glorious time of year when flipping batter is practically a national sport. Forget the washing up, because this weekend is the perfect excuse to let someone else do the hard work. London's cafes and restaurants are pulling out all the stops, serving up everything from classic lemon and sugar stacks to more adventurous creations.
You can find some truly epic pancakes across the city, whether you fancy a thin, French-style crêpe or a thick, fluffy American buttermilk stack.
Here's a little taste of what's on offer:
Sweet Treats: Think piles of fruit, lashings of syrup, chocolate sauce, or even a dollop of cream. Some places are doing dessert-style pancakes that are practically works of art.
Savory Surprises: Don't underestimate a good savoury pancake! Some spots are offering options with cheese, ham, or even a fried egg on top – a proper brunch contender.
Global Flavours: Keep an eye out for variations like the Chinese jianbing, a savoury crêpe filled with egg and spices, showing just how versatile this simple dish can be.
Honestly, the sheer variety available is quite something. It’s not just about Shrove Tuesday anymore; many places are extending the celebrations, so you've got plenty of time to get your fix. It’s a simple pleasure, but a really good one.
So, whether you're a purist who likes it simple or an adventurer ready to try something new, there's a pancake out there with your name on it this weekend.
9. Sunrise Yoga
Fancy starting your weekend feeling all zen and refreshed? Well, you're in luck because the art’otel Battersea is hosting a sunrise yoga session this Friday and Saturday. It’s happening on the 14th floor, so you’ll be getting some pretty amazing views over Battersea Power Station while you stretch it out.
The class is a gentle flow, perfect for shaking off the week's stress. It kicks off at 7:30 AM sharp, and they’ve even chucked in breakfast – a coffee or juice and a pastry – which is a nice touch, isn't it? All the gear you need is provided, so you don't have to worry about lugging your own mat.
Here’s the lowdown:
When: Friday 20th & Saturday 21st February, starting at 7:30 AM.
Where: Perola Bar, art’otel Battersea, 1 Electric Boulevard, London SW11 8BJ.
What's included: A one-hour yoga session, breakfast (coffee/juice and pastry), and all equipment.
Getting up early on a weekend can be a struggle, I know. But imagine greeting the day with the city waking up below you, a sense of calm washing over you, and a warm pastry waiting. It sounds like a pretty good way to kick off the day, if you ask me.
It’s a lovely way to ease into the weekend, especially if you’ve had a busy week. Plus, who doesn't love a good view with their downward dog?
10. Interfaith Art Exhibition
This weekend, there's a rather interesting art exhibition happening that brings together different faiths. It's called 'Threads of Belief' and it's being held at the City Arts Centre. The aim is to show how art can be a common ground for people of various religious backgrounds. It's not just about paintings and sculptures, though; they've got some really unique textile pieces and even some digital art installations that explore spiritual themes.
I popped in yesterday and was quite taken with a series of calligraphic works that blended Arabic script with Buddhist mandalas. It sounds a bit unusual, but it really worked. There's also a section dedicated to how different cultures depict creation stories, which is fascinating.
Here's a little of what you can expect:
Sculptures inspired by sacred geometry.
Photography capturing religious ceremonies from around the world.
Interactive displays where you can contribute your own thoughts on peace.
The exhibition is a reminder that despite our differences, there are universal human experiences and aspirations that art can help us connect with. It’s a quiet space for reflection in the middle of all the weekend's hustle.
It's on until Sunday evening, so if you're looking for something a bit different, it's definitely worth checking out. The City Arts Centre is easy to get to, just a short walk from the tube station.
So, What Are You Waiting For?
Right then, that’s a wrap on some of the top things happening in London this weekend. Whether you fancy diving into the vibrant colours of Lunar New Year, getting your groove on at a Carnaval party, or just enjoying some tasty food, there’s loads to pick from. Don't let the weekend just slip by – get out there and make the most of it. London's always got something going on, and this weekend is no exception. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
What's on for Lunar New Year this weekend?
You're in luck! Lunar New Year celebrations are happening all weekend. You can catch a Lion Dance performance and try your hand at calligraphy or lantern making at Old Spitalfields Market. Plus, there are big parades and events in Chinatown and Trafalgar Square on Sunday.
Is there anything happening for Ramadan?
Yes, the stunning Ramadan Lights in Central London are switched on every evening from 5 pm. It's a beautiful sight connecting Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus. There's also an interfaith art exhibition at Zedwell Piccadilly Circus.
What's the deal with Sushisamba's Carnaval Weekender?
Sushisamba is bringing the party vibes from Brazil to London this weekend! Expect lively music from drummers and DJs, plus amazing samba dancers. They're also serving up a special five-course Brazilian meal. It sounds like a fantastic way to have some fun.
Is Pancake Day this weekend?
Pancake Day actually falls on Tuesday, February 17th, 2026. While the main event is mid-week, many London restaurants will be celebrating with special pancake menus throughout the week, so you can definitely get your fix this weekend too!
Are there any relaxing activities planned?
Absolutely! If you fancy a calmer start to your weekend, there's sunrise yoga happening on Friday and Saturday mornings at art'otel Battersea, with lovely views and breakfast included. It's a great way to set a peaceful tone.
What kind of art exhibitions can I see?
There are a couple of interesting art options. You can visit London's first interfaith art exhibition downstairs at Zedwell Piccadilly Circus, or check out the 'New Contemporaries' exhibition showcasing emerging UK artists, which includes thought-provoking themes.