Exploring North London: Top Activities and Events This Weekend (July 11-12)
North London is buzzing with a diverse array of events and activities this weekend, offering something for everyone—from cultural festivals and live music to family-friendly outings and unique shopping experiences. Here’s a curated guide to make the most of your weekend from July 11th to 12th. Feel free to share any additional suggestions in the comments, and remember to stay hydrated during your adventures!
Vintage Shopping at Swipe Kilo Sale
Location: Broadwalk Shopping Centre, HA8
Date: 12 July
Cost: Free
Gear up for a treasure hunt at the Swipe Vintage Kilo Sale, where the emphasis is on sustainability and style. Visitors are provided with a clear bag to fill from the extensive rails of secondhand clothing spanning the 1960s to the early 2000s, including brands like Adidas, Levi’s, The North Face, and Reebok. Items are priced at just £20 per kilogram, with the final cost calculated in 0.05kg increments. Heavy items such as leather jackets are capped at £20. Entry is free, but advance booking is recommended to accommodate the expected crowd.
Somers Town Festival: A celebration of Community and Culture
Location: Charlton Street, NW1
Date: 11 July
Cost: Free
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at the Somers Town Festival, a lively street event culminating in an eclectic lineup of performances. Headliner P.P. Arnold, renowned for hits like “The First Cut Is the Deepest,” set the tone with soulful tunes. The festival features four stages with diverse genres, including South American dance parades, Irish and Bangladeshi dance performances, hip-hop showcases, and performances by local artists Greedy Soul and Shae O’Leary. There’s plenty of street food, a funfair for children, and a museum trail. The festivities run from noon to 6:30 pm.
Kaleidoscope Festival at Alexandra Palace Park
Location: Alexandra Palace Park, N22
Date: 11 July
Cost: Ticketed (price varies)
Set against the stunning backdrop of London skyline views, the Kaleidoscope Festival combines music and comedy in a family-friendly environment. Headlined by Rudimental, the event also features performances by Groove Armada (DJ set), MJ Cole, Black Grape, Roni Size, and The Amy Winehouse Band. Russell Kane adds to the entertainment with his comedy acts. Multiple stages and immersive experiences—some under the historic Alexandra Palace—promise a memorable day starting at 1 pm.
South Asian Heritage Month Film Showcase
Location: The Garden Cinema, WC2B
Date: 11 July
Cost: Ticketed
Celebrate South Asian cinema with a full day of screenings, exploring both classic restoration projects and contemporary films. Highlights include the Sundance-winning “Cactus Pears,” which will feature a Q&A with the director, as well as popular titles like “Bend It Like Beckham” and Bhutan’s first-ever feature film, accompanied by a live lute performance. Screenings run from 10:30 am to 10 pm, offering a rich cultural experience.
A Taste of Home with Yiayia’s Cypriot Meze
Location: UNIT3, N15
Date: 12 July
Cost: £33.33 per person (reservation required)
Experience authentic Cypriot cuisine at this special event hosted by the family behind UNIT3, paying homage to grandmother Yiayia’s recipes. Guests will enjoy a traditional meze featuring tarama, spanakopita, koupebia, keftedes, sheftalia, and galatoboureko, with vegetarian options available. Expect a warm, lively atmosphere with the family on hand to share stories and culinary secrets.
Open Day at OmVed Gardens
Location: OmVed Gardens, N6
Date: 12 July
Cost: Free
Discover the serene green oasis tucked behind Highgate village at OmVed Gardens’ open day. Wander through the beautifully cultivated gardens and rooftops, explore art installations, participate in guided tours, and view the Artist of the Month exhibition. Children can join a workshop, and the cafe will serve seasonal food and botanical drinks. The event runs from 11 am to 3 pm.
De Beauvoir Jazz Festival
Location: De Beauvoir Town, N1
Date: 10-12 July
Cost: Ticketed
Enjoy three days of top-tier jazz performances across iconic venues in De Beauvoir. The lineup includes Ego Ella May, Theon Cross, and Mercury Prize nominee Joe Webb. Highlights include a New Orleans-inspired block party on Saturday and a special performance by Tuba Skinny on Sunday, bringing the sounds of New Orleans to North London.
Idler Festival at Fenton House
Location: Fenton House, NW3
Date: 10-12 July
Cost: Ticketed
Relax and engage at the Idler Festival, a unique gathering of talks, comedy, and leisurely activities set in the historic gardens of a Hampstead mansion. Distinguished speakers such as Prue Leith, Irvine Welsh, Rowan Williams, and others will share insights. The festival also features storytelling from Chris Difford, family-friendly mezze from Moro chefs, dancing lessons, and plenty of time to unwind amidst the greenery.
Camden Mela: Celebrating Diversity
Location: Coram’s Fields, WC1N
Date: 12 July
Cost: Free
Since 1992, Camden Mela has been a vibrant celebration of cultural diversity, bringing together communities through music, dance, arts, and crafts. The event features live performances, food stalls, funfair rides, and activities suitable for all ages. Join from noon to 6 pm for a lively day of celebration.
Car Boot Sale at Clitterhole Farm
Location: Clitterhouse Farm, NW2
Date: 12 July
Cost: Free
Clear out your attic or find vintage treasures at this community car boot sale held on a historic farm. All proceeds go towards repairing the farm’s Hayloft roof. Bring cash and a bag to browse or sell household items, toys, clothes, and bric-a-brac. Pitches are limited for sellers, so arrive early!
Ludo’s Craft Beer Festival
Location: Ludo’s, N22
Date: 11 July
Cost: Entry fee applies (£25)
Beer enthusiasts can indulge in a curated craft beer festival featuring independent breweries from North London. For £25, enjoy seven half-pints from breweries like Jiddler’s Tipple, Muswell Hillbilly, Pressure Drop, and Pretty Decent. The package includes a reusable festival cup and a “beer journey” stamp card. Street food by Bolland & Crust complements the experience, set in the outdoor yard.
Noel Park Festival
Location: Russell Park, N22
Date: 12 July
Cost: Free
Returning for its fourth year, the Noel Park Festival offers an afternoon of music, community stalls, and family activities in Russell Park. From live performances and food vendors to eco-friendly workshops, this event is a perfect outing for residents and visitors alike. The festivities run from noon to 5 pm.
Big Beat Playground
Location: Victoria Park, N3
Date: 11 July
Cost: Ticketed (£)
A family-friendly dance music event, the Big Beat Playground combines energetic beats with activities for children. This outdoor event in Victoria Park promises a fun day of music, games, and community spirit.
Stardust Vintage & Antique Fair
Location: St Mark’s Church, NW1
Date: 11 July
Cost: £
Browse a curated selection of vintage and antique items from over sixty dealers inside the historic church near London Zoo. From jewelry and records to art deco glassware and French collectibles, the fair is a treasure trove for collectors. Enjoy homemade cakes and tea when you need a break.
JimmyC’s Blues Picnic
Location: St Mary’s Tower, N8
Date: 12 July
Cost: Free
Marking its seventh year, this blues picnic pays tribute to the late Jimmy Coletsis. Bring your picnic and settle in for nine hours of live blues, including performances by Su Black, The Steve Cook Band, The Space Chickens, The Bakelites, Joshua Blue, and The Bear Pit Band. Family-friendly activities include face painting, a pizza truck, tacos, an ice cream van, and football. The event runs from noon to 9 pm.
Shakespeare’s Love’s Labour’s Lost in the Green
Location: Fortune Green, NW6
Date: 12 July
Cost: Ticketed
Enjoy a theatrical evening with the staging of “Love’s Labour’s Lost,” part of Shakespeare in the Squares, in the charming setting of Fortune Green. Directed by Toby Gordon, with Dame Judi Dench as patron, the play begins with picnics from 3:30 pm and concludes around 7 pm. Bring your blanket and enjoy Shakespeare’s comedy of love, wit, and foolishness under the stars.
The One Kilburn Festival
Location: Kilburn Grange Park, NW6
Date: 11 July
Cost: Free
Celebrate local talent at The One Kilburn Festival, featuring live music from Kilburn-based artists from noon to 6 pm. The event offers food stalls, craft vendors, face painting, a bouncy castle, and a community spirit rooted in the local area’s creative scene. Bring a picnic, join the fun, and support local talent.
Grenadian Heritage Day
Location: Haringey Rhinos RFC, N22
Date: 11 July
Cost: Varies (£12 for adults, £6 for children)
Experience the vibrant culture of Grenada at this annual heritage celebration. Held on a rugby pitch in Wood Green, the event features Caribbean cuisine, cultural performances, children’s activities, and sports. The day culminates in a Powder Mas parade, with raffle prizes including a return flight to Grenada. The festivities run from 1 pm to 8 pm.
Plan Your Weekend
With such an eclectic lineup of events and activities, North London offers plenty to explore this weekend. Whether you’re interested in cultural festivals, outdoor concerts, vintage shopping, or family outings, there’s something for everyone. Keep an eye on local listings for updates and additional happenings.
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