London's Top Free Weekend Events: Art, Markets, and Celebrations
At this stage, it should come as no surprise that exploring London on a budget is entirely feasible. The city boasts an abundance of affordable dining options, complimentary art exhibitions that can occupy visitors for weeks, and numerous opportunities to secure discounted tickets to top-tier shows. Beyond these everyday offerings, London consistently hosts a variety of one-off free events. Most weekends feature brand pop-ups distributing free merchandise, museums and art galleries organizing expertly curated late-night gatherings, and specialized markets or cultural festivals open to the public at no cost, ensuring there is never a dull moment.
This weekend is no exception. From one of Europe's largest independent art fairs to an evening with a renowned DJ, here is a comprehensive guide to all the fantastic free activities taking place across the city from Friday, February 27, to Sunday, March 1, 2026.
1. Party at Premier Art Institutions
Club culture icon Honey Dijon is set to take over Tate Lates for a special celebration of queer culture and creativity this February. Attendees can enjoy DJ sets programmed by Dijon in Tate's South Tanks, which will be adorned with her photographs, as well as at the Terrace Bar and Corner Bar. Additional activities include LGBTQIA+ tours of Tate Modern and community zine-making sessions led by Zoë Thompson, founder of sweet-thang zine, though booking is recommended.
Meanwhile, the V&A is hosting its own late event focused on gender expression, belonging, and change within East and Southeast Asian cultures. Highlights include a DJ set from Filipino DJ Miamor, performance art by Zhuyang Liu inspired by Chinese spiritual traditions, and a zine-making workshop with artist and researcher Funa Ye that reimagines the stereotyped female figure Xiaomei. The event also features curator-led tours exploring female voices in the V&A's China gallery, continuous short film screenings, and a panel discussion.
Various locations. Friday, February 27. Free admission.
2. Spin to Win Bright Blue BuzzBallz on Southbank
Take a leisurely stroll along Southbank this Friday, and you might encounter a massive blue gacha machine filled with BuzzBallz. This ten-foot-tall machine will be stocked with the brand's new 'Berry Cherry Limeade' flavored drinks, which are expected to feature notes of berry, cherry, and lime. By giving the machine a spin, visitors can sample the new BuzzBall flavor and enter a draw to win one of 4,000 prizes. One fortunate participant will even walk away with a £5,000 cash prize, enough to purchase at least 1,000 BuzzBallz.
Observation Point, Southbank, SE1 9PP. Friday, February 27, 12pm to 7pm. Free entry.
3. Support Small Businesses at the Black Culture Market
While admission to the Black Culture Market is free, visitors should be prepared to spend money once inside, as all proceeds go toward supporting local black-owned independent businesses. The spring market at The Department Store in Brixton will showcase over 40 traders offering a diverse range of products, including Caribbean street food, books, handmade accessories, and African art. Notable vendors include Black Legacy Cards, which feature playing cards celebrating black leaders and pioneers; Aso, offering Africa-inspired jewellery, clothing, and art; and Sõlïna, an ethical plant-based skincare brand specializing in scrubs and soaps.
The Department Store, 248 Ferndale Road, SW9 8FR. Saturday, February 28, to Sunday, March 1. Free entry.
4. Explore Europe's Largest Fair for Independent Artists and Designers
More than 10,000 artworks will be on display at the Parallax Art Fair in Chelsea Town Hall over the weekend, with some pieces reportedly contributed by music and movie stars. Could these include Ed Sheeran's splattered canvases or Robbie Williams' motivational quotes reminiscent of items from the TK Maxx home section? Visitors will have to attend to find out. While purchasing is not required, those interested in buying art can acquire pieces at lower prices than elsewhere, as the fair operates without middlemen, meaning zero percent commission and no VAT on most items. The event will also feature an electronic music soundtrack to maintain energy levels and a bar at the De Ritz for refreshments.
Chelsea Town Hall, King's Road, SW3 5EE. Saturday, February 28, to Sunday, March 1. Free entry.
5. Catch the Final Days of These Art Exhibitions
Both Candice Lin: g/hosti at Whitechapel Gallery and Roger Mayne: 'Football' at OOF Gallery in Tottenham Hotspur Stadium conclude on Sunday. The former exhibition immerses visitors in a sinister fairytale-like environment, with a maze of cardboard panels depicting animals engaged in gory activities such as maiming, jumping through flames, or playing with human cadavers. This unsettling show addresses issues like the war in Gaza, California wildfires, and police brutality at US student protests, making it a must-see before it closes.
In contrast, OOF's exhibition offers a more joyful experience, being the first dedicated showcase of football portrayals in the work of acclaimed street photographer Roger Mayne. It presents football as a game rather than a sport, capturing moments like children in shorts diving to save wild shots on hard concrete or dribbling down the middle of the road.
Various locations. Until March 1. Free admission.
6. Join the Last of the Chinese Lunar New Year Celebrations
Traditionally, Lunar New Year festivities span 15 days, making this weekend the final opportunity to participate. In Shoreditch on Friday, BOXPARK has collaborated with groups such as Asian Girls Club, Eastbound Music, and Eastend Chinatown to host an evening of DJ sets. Performances will include Filipino budot by Ting Run Run, Korean trap-inspired beats from Pianwoo, and experimental electronics by Chadzing Kung, among others. On Sunday, Calthorpe Community Garden in King's Cross will host a free community BBQ accompanied by lion dances and creative workshops for children.
Various locations. Friday, February 27, to Sunday, March 1. Free admission.
For more planning, consult our guide to London's best activities in March and explore Time Out's roundup of the 26 best things to do in 2026. Stay updated with the latest news, reviews, events, and trends from the Big Smoke by following our Time Out London WhatsApp channel and signing up for our free newsletter.
