Summer in the park returns with jam packed line-up of free events
Summer in the Park, an annual free festival, is back this year with an exciting new chapter of events popping up across South London’s green spaces.
Arts Trust, producer of King’s Cross Summer Sounds, has announced this year’s programme of outdoor dance classes, festival events and community picnics hosted in Greenwich Park, Maryon Park and Queenscroft Park in Greenwich as well as Cygnet Square in Bexley.
Summer in the Park is designed to celebrate community, arts, sport and culture, funded by The National Lottery Community Fund, National Lottery Heritage Fund, Peabody Trust and supported by Go London.
Following its 2024 debut, the Silent Disco SkateJam & Street Food Festival is back by popular demand at Cygnet Square across four Sundays on May 18, June 15, July 27, and August 24.
Sport England have jumped on board to pay for free skates for those who don’t own any, ensuring more than 2000 young people will have access to free sports engagement.
Try free skate lessons with professional instructors who cater to all skill levels, from absolute beginners eager to find their footing to seasoned skaters polishing their next big trick.
Throughout the evening, slip on a headset and immerse yourself in the music of DJ Shanice Jones, as the silent disco brings a new dimension to dancing and skating under the open sky.
When you need a break from the action, you can explore a variety of street food stalls offering savory bites and sweet treats to recharge your energy.
Another free entry festival will see Maryon Park burst into life, music, movement and creativity on June 29.
The park’s rolling lawns will become a stage for an unforgettable line-up of performances and activities designed to delight every age and interest.
Lose yourself in the rhythms of Ceilidh Tree, who’ll guide attendees through Scottish, Irish and English dances, from traditional reels to pirate shanties before jumping into the soul-stirring harmonies of the Keynotes Choir as they blend gospel, pop, R&B and folk.
Dance takes many forms at Maryon Park this year with high energy routines from Dynamix Youth Dance, precise footwork from Mulvihill Irish Dance Academy or a performative tale of Elephant and the Drummer.
Grab a ball for free football coaching with Charlton Athletic FC or test your serve in short tennis coaching from Greenwich Get Active , both sessions perfect for budding athletes.
If you’re eyeing something a little more whimsical, try AirCraft Circus Skills where you can practice hula hoops, juggling, plate spinning, aerial hoop or tight-wire, all under expert guidance.
Elsewhere, Gallions Park in Thamesmead will welcome adventurers and creatives alike on July 5.
Pack a blanket and enjoy activities, performances and a bustling Food Market showcasing the best in local artisan food and crafts.
Overhead, AirCraft Circus artists defy gravity in aerial hoop and tight-wire feats, while ground-level workshops invite you to try your hand at hula hooping, juggling, plate spinning and drawing projects under expert guidance.
Or escape to the rolling avenues of Greenwich Park for two days of free summer magic on July 12 and 13.
Nestled beneath ancient oaks and overlooking the Thames, this family-friendly festival blends live music, circus feats, theatre and creativity, perfect for all ages.
With folk, soul, gospel, Indie and middle eastern rhythms billed for the line-up, there is something for everyone.
Greenwich park will also host The Peacock and the Princess, a vibrant outdoor pageant inspired by Indian and Persian miniature paintings, complete with regal costumes, puppetry and dance.
Whether you’re dancing, drawing or simply soaking up the sun, rally your friends and family and let Summer in the Park be your summer playground.
To find out more, visit: www.artstrust.co.uk
Pictured top: Summer In the Park 2024 (Picture: Roswitha Chesher)
