As the summer sun makes way for the chilly autumnal air and crisp orange leaves, London also springs to life with various autumnal events taking place across the city. From highly anticipated movies at the London Film Festival to Bavarian bands and giant steins of beer at Oktoberfest, here’s our guide to the best events in the city this October.
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Image Courtesy of London Cocktail Week
Drink, drink and drink some more at London Cocktail Week
The biggest cocktail festival is back with a bang this year, taking place from the 3rd to the 13th October in venues all across London and is, without a doubt, one of the top things to do in London in October. Get to know London’s drinking scene up close at the hundreds of events and experiences across the week, from immersive pop-ups to specially curated menus. Nab yourself a wristband for the special occasion and start planning your cocktail-fuelled route.
London Cocktail Week | 3rd – 13th October 2024
Image Courtesy of Black Culture Market
Celebrate black-owned businesses at Black Culture Market for Black History Month
Celebrate African Caribbean culture and Black History at the Black Culture Market in iconic venues across the city and beyond. Specially selected black businesses come together to showcase exclusive events and champion producers of the African and Caribbean communities. Pick up original items, accessories, gifts, unique prints and much more whilst supporting black-owned businesses.
Black Culture Market | Brixton | 5th – 6th October 2024
Raise your steins at Oktoberfest
Every year, Oktoberfest remains one of the things to do in London in October and is the biggest celebration of its kind in the UK, seeing more than 50,000 guests come together annually. You can expect a live Baravian band, authentic German food and beer and Oktoberfest decorations; you’ll feel like you’re in a traditional Oktoberfest tent in the middle of Germany. Don your best lederhosen and strap in for the best beer-fuelled German celebrations in the city.
Oktoberfest | 17th – 19th and 25th – 26th October 2024
Stroll through London parks to see new Autumn leaves
As we say goodbye to the long nights and summer sun, a new space arises for new orange leaves and a fresh, crisp autumnal air. There are many places you can embrace the transition of summer into Autumn. Still, a few of our favourites are Richmond Park, particularly in the morning, Hyde Park, Greenwich Park, Victoria Park and Kyoto Garden in Holland Park.
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Image Courtesy of BFI London Film Festival via Facebook
Watch highly anticipated films at BFI London Film Festival
Finally, on our list of the top things to do in London in October is The BFI London Film Festival, one of the world’s leading film festivals featuring a programme of films by established and emerging filmmakers worldwide. Sink your teeth into the best new movies and series worldwide at London’s South Bank and West End venues and cinemas all around the UK between 9-20th October.
London Film Festival | 9th – 20th October 2024
Image Courtesy of The Other Art Fair via Facebook
Get arty at The Other Art Fair
The Other Art Fair is an annual event that showcases emerging and independent artists in the heart of vibrant Brick Lane. The fair highlights a diverse range of artistic expressions, from paintings and sculptures to installations and photography, whilst encouraging meaningful connections between artists and art enthusiasts. With its commitment to supporting emerging talent, interactive workshops, and engaging discussions, The Other Art Fair provides a dynamic platform for creativity and exploration, making it a must-visit destination for both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the art world.
The Other Art Fair | Brick Lane | WA | 10th – 13th October 2024
Image Courtesy of Black British Book Festival
Shine a spotlight on Black British authors
The Black British Book Festival celebrates Black British authors of all genres whilst also providing a national platform for emerging writers. This festival spotlights the UK’s top Black authors, partnering with major publishers like Penguin and SAGE. 20 Black British authors will embark on a book tour across the UK, hosting pop-up events in unassuming places, like hair salons and shopping centres. The festival ultimately aims to emphasise emerging talent and inclusivity in the UK’s literary scene.
Image of the Vintage Bus Ghost Tour via Viator
Get spooky in the city for Halloween
Whilst Halloween isn’t as big of a celebration in London as it is in the US, there are still many events taking place across the city. Plus, many Londoners love an excuse to get dressed up. You can watch cult classics Halloween-style at Rivoli Ballroom or head on a haunted pub tour of London. There’s also a vintage bus ghost tour of the city and the opportunity to pick your own pumpkin at places in and around the city.
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