From food festivals and carnivals to music, dance and fashion shows, Royal Greenwich Festivals brings free, inclusive events to all corners of the borough this summer
Residents across the Royal Borough of Greenwich are in for a treat this summer as the ever-popular Royal Greenwich Festivals return from June to September with an exciting new line-up of free events. From open-air carnivals to musical cabarets, food feasts to fashion showcases, the 2025 season promises something for everyone—and it won’t cost a penny to enjoy.
Now in its latest edition, Royal Greenwich Festivals is the borough’s flagship cultural celebration, bringing high-quality, inclusive, and accessible events to every corner of the borough. With over 25 events delivered by 10 different festival partners, this year’s programme is the most diverse yet, packed with opportunities for entertainment, learning, and community connection.
Councillor Sandra Bauer, Cabinet Member for Equality, Culture and Communities, says this year’s line-up is set to be bigger and better:
“Bring the whole family along to a Royal Greenwich Festival near you! We’re working with more organisations than ever for 2025, including some brand-new festivals. From community fairs in our award-winning parks to floating theatre on Southmere Lake, this year’s diverse range of free, accessible events will bring residents together to celebrate our borough’s unique identity.
“Art and culture help our communities to thrive, boosting mental health, social cohesion, and providing learning and employment opportunities. The Royal Greenwich Festivals programme tackles financial barriers so everyone can access creative events and supports our Culture Strategy vision to be a place where creative people, innovation and cultural connections inspire, encourage and flourish.”
Here’s a taste of what’s coming up:
Greenwich and Docklands International Festival (GDIF) – Celebrate the 30th anniversary of this globally acclaimed festival with everything from parkour and fashion shows to outdoor theatre and the much-loved Greenwich Fair.
Plumstead Make Merry – Marking its 50th year, this family favourite will bring live music, drumming, dance, and local community stalls to the heart of Plumstead.
African Masquerade by Black Female Entrepreneur Greenwich – Dive into Afrobeat, fashion, mask-making workshops and traditional cuisine at this cultural celebration in Eltham Park South and Bostall Gardens.
Queer Migrations by The Bold Melon Collective – Local LGBTQIA+ artists take centre stage in a unique blend of musical performances, storytelling and art, exploring identity and belonging.
Greenwich Food Festival by BME Volunteers – A delicious journey through culinary traditions, complete with tastings, cook-offs, health workshops, and creative arts.
TARU Arts’ Carnivals in Kidbrooke and Woolwich – Two vibrant street carnivals bringing rhythm, dance and colour to the borough.
