As January draws to a close, Londoners can celebrate the arrival of February with an exciting array of free activities across the capital. This weekend, from January 30 to February 1 2026, offers numerous opportunities to enjoy spectacular light installations, cultural events, and delicious treats without spending a penny.
Winter Lights Festival at Canary Wharf
Canary Wharf transforms into a dazzling spectacle during its annual Winter Lights festival. Once dominated by financial institutions, the area now attracts crowds with its innovative light-based artworks. Key installations this year include Sol, featuring glowing planetary orbs at Crossrail Place Roofgarden, and Amplitudes, which projects vibrant colours onto water spray at Eden Dock. Visitors are advised to arrive at sunset to avoid large crowds and enjoy food stalls along the way. The festival runs until Saturday, January 31, and is completely free.
Bankside Frost Fair
Inspired by historical Thames frost fairs, Bankside hosts a winter celebration with outdoor games, performances, and family-friendly craft sessions. Located near the river, the event includes free folk music at local pubs from 7pm on Saturday, January 31. It offers a nostalgic nod to London's past while providing modern entertainment.
Julia Phillips Exhibition at Barbican Curve
American sculptor Julia Phillips presents her surreal installations at Barbican Curve, part of the venue's 20th-anniversary celebrations. Her work combines fleshy forms with metal arrangements, exploring psychological and biological themes. The exhibition opens on Friday, January 30, and continues until April 19, with free admission.
PictureEast Film Festival
This community-focused festival in Newham and Barking & Dagenham showcases underappreciated international films and local talent. Unlike mainstream cinemas, PictureEast offers free pop-up screenings in unexpected locations. The weekend concludes with a free showing of the documentary Palestine Comedy Club and live comedy performances, running until Sunday, February 1.
Friday Lates at Science Gallery and Tate Modern
On Friday, January 30, two major galleries host free late-night events. King's College London's Science Gallery features a quantum-themed evening with installations, talks, and sci-fi films. Meanwhile, Tate Modern presents a late centred on its 'Theatre Picasso' exhibition, including a premiere by musician kwes. and workshops by local creatives.
Free Hot Chocolate at Battersea Power Station
To mark National Hot Chocolate Day, Islands Chocolate gives away 1,000 free cups made from single-origin Caribbean cocoa at Battersea Power Station Underground on Saturday, January 31. Additional giveaways occur at bakeries like Crosstown Doughnuts and Caravan across London, offering a sweet end to January.
These events provide a perfect way to bid farewell to January and welcome the longer days of February, all while enjoying London's vibrant cultural scene without financial strain.
