London Celebrates International Women's Day 2026 with Diverse Events
March 2026 marks both Women's History Month and International Women's Day, which falls on March 8. This annual observance is dedicated to celebrating the remarkable achievements of women, raising critical awareness about ongoing discrimination, and actively promoting gender parity across all sectors of society. The theme for this year focuses on honoring influential female figures, both past and present, who have shaped history and culture.
London has been home to countless extraordinary women throughout the centuries. From pioneering suffragette Emmeline Pankhurst and the founder of modern nursing, Florence Nightingale, to contemporary icons like singer Raye and actress Cynthia Erivo, the city's legacy of female excellence is profound. In tribute to these and many other trailblazers, numerous events are scheduled across the capital this month. Here is a comprehensive guide to the best Women's History Month celebrations happening in London.
Women’s Spring Open Exhibition at Brady Arts Centre
The Brady Arts and Community Centre in Whitechapel is presenting the third edition of its vibrant group show. Running from March 6 to March 28, this exhibition features an extensive array of artistic mediums, ranging from traditional painting to cutting-edge digital art. All works are created by female artists from the Tower Hamlets borough, including both amateurs and professionals. A special emphasis this year is on "first-time exhibitors," providing a public platform for women who have never before displayed their artwork.
Hunterian Museum: Insight: Portraits of Women in Surgery
Located at the Royal College of Surgeons, this free exhibition, open from February 6 to April 18, offers a rare glimpse into the lives of female surgeons in the UK. Through intimate portraits captured by NHS staff, the gallery delves into the realities of a field where women still represent only 17% of consultant surgeons. Key highlights include personal reflections from consultants such as Manuela Cresswell, who shares her inspiring journey from witnessing a road accident as a teenager to becoming a leader in her surgical specialty.
Threads of Liberation at Mile End Library
On March 25, Queen Mary University and Tower Hamlets Archives are collaborating for an in-depth exploration of female activism in the East End. Attendees will have the opportunity to examine original historical documents and posters from the Fawcett Society. The evening will conclude with a hands-on Nakshi kantha workshop, led by the Oitij-jo Collective, focusing on traditional Bengali embroidery and its connection to heritage and gender justice.
International Women’s Day at the Royal Albert Hall
On March 8 at 6:00 PM, the Royal Albert Hall's official organist, Anna Lapwood MBE, will headline a powerful concert. This evening is a masterclass in female composition, featuring world premieres from composers Olivia Belli and Rachel Portman. Lapwood will be joined by the Pembroke College Girls' Choir, saxophonist Jess Gillam, and singer Katie Melua, who will perform a moving collaboration of songs from her album In Winter.
Women in Jazz at Southbank Centre
The Southbank Centre continues its "Women in Jazz" residency from March 13 to 15. On March 13, 23-year-old rising star Lucy-Anne Daniels will perform at the Purcell Room, blending jazz and gospel with live looping techniques. March 14 features a high-profile industry talk with singer-songwriter Celeste in conversation with journalist Emma Warren, discussing the "business of being a woman" in today's music industry.
Women’s History Month at Poplar Union
This community hub serves as a focal point for the month's celebrations. The EmpowerHer Market on March 15 will showcase over 30 women-led organizations and makers, offering everything from sustainable fashion to artisanal skincare. On March 21, a day-long retreat titled "Wellness & Entrepreneurship" includes "The Business of Being You"—a panel talk for female founders followed by a holistic wellness workshop designed to prevent burnout.
Iranian Women’s Voices at the British Library
On March 16, the British Library hosts a poignant evening centered on the new publication Iranian Women’s Voices. Writers such as Marjorie Lotfi and Sana Nassari will discuss the "Women, Life, Freedom" movement. The event is set against a backdrop of photography by Hengameh Golestan, who famously documented the 1979 protests in Tehran.
TfL and Santander "Hero" Cycles
Keep an eye out for the red Santander Cycles today! Ten bikes have been specially renamed to honor London's most inspirational female cyclists. Names to spot include Samra Said, chair of the Cycle Sisters, and Carol Summers, a veteran London Ambulance Service paramedic who leads their Cycle Response Unit.
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