A climbing festival, Soho Village Fete, an east London art biennale, and Nelson Mandela Day celebrations headline this weekend's free events in London. From rope-weaving to rock-climbing, here are six ways to enjoy sunny July days without spending a penny.
Watch an Epic North Face-Sponsored Climb by the Water's Edge
The North Face Climbing Festival brings top climbers to east London's Royal Docks, scaling 16-metre walls and completing deep-water solo climbs. DJ sets from Rinse FM, Femi Keleoso, and Girls Don't Sync accompany hands-on workshops. Royal Docks, E161AF. July 16-17. Free.
Head to Trafalgar Square to Mark Nelson Mandela Day
London's South African diaspora celebrates Nelson Mandela Day at Trafalgar Square with music, food, storytelling, and solidarity. Performances include veteran Zulu folk musician Sipho Mchunu, singer-songwriter Jesse Clegg, electronic producers Sun-El Musician and Thakzin, rapper Sjava, and composer Msaki. Trafalgar Square, WC2 5DN. July 17-18. Free.
Watch Waiters Race with Trays of Champers at Soho Village Fête
The Soho Village Fête features the Soho Waiters' Race, where waiters dash through streets holding trays with a bottle of champagne, a glass, and a napkin. The Soho Dog Show awards eight prizes, including 'Dog who looks most like their owner'. St Anne's Church, W1D 6AF. July 19. Free. Capacity limited to 500.
Learn a Crafty New Skill at Backyard Biennial
Whitechapel Art Gallery's Backyard Biennial offers free walking tours on Whitechapel's Jewish history and migration stories. Nicole Chui's embroidery workshop on July 18 teaches stitching personal migration stories onto football shirts. Various locations. Until September 6. Free.
See the World Through the Eyes of Young Londoners at This Youth Biennale
Hundreds of sculptures, paintings, drawings, and films by Camden pupils from Early Years to A Level fill the Lethaby Gallery at Central Saint Martins. A sculpture trail winds through King's Cross estate, with workshops and artist sessions. Lethaby Gallery, N1C 4AA. Until July 26. Free.
Browse Arty Wares at a King's Cross Market
The Illustrator's Fair on July 18 brings over 100 independent artists selling prints, zines, postcards, stickers, and t-shirts. Pair with King's Cross' Shōtengai Market (July 16-19) for pan-Asian homewares and food, or Crafty Fox Market (July 19) for handmade treasures. Various King's Cross locations. July 16-19. Free.
