Hackney is set to host London’s first ever festival dedicated to dive bars next month. Hackney Altfest, centred on Mare Street, will feature Time Out-favourite bars such as Blondies, Helgi’s and Rasputin’s.
What is Hackney Altfest?
Hackney Altfest is a week-long celebration of alternative bars and venues across Hackney, taking place from Monday May 4 to Sunday May 10. The festival will be held across Mare Street, Morning Lane and Lower Clapton Road, showcasing a host of scuzzy, beer-splashed bars that are beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Participating Venues
The festival will feature a range of iconic dive bars, including Time Out favourites Blondies, Helgi’s, You Call The Shots and Rasputin’s. Other venues include The Absinthe Parlour at The Last Tuesday Society, Easy8, Saint Monday, and The Moon Temple. Attendees can collect stamps from each of the eight venues across the week for a chance to win prizes.
Events and Activities
Each venue will host daytime and evening events, including live bands, DJ sets, talks, tours, tastings and food offerings. The festival aims to celebrate the diversity of high streets in Hackney and is backed by Hackney Council.
Community Spirit
Allison Crawbuck, director of The Absinthe Parlour at The Last Tuesday Society, said: ‘Hackney Altfest celebrates the creativity and grit of our local independent scene. Across eight venues over one week, the festival is an invitation to explore everything from absinthe parlours and curiosity cabinets to dive bars, metal breweries, witchcraft emporiums, and packed-out gigs. By bringing this raw energy together, the festival builds on our sense of community and connects new audiences to the authentic, independent bars and alternative venues.’
For more information on the best bars in Hackney, check out Time Out’s guide. Stay updated with the latest London news, reviews and events by following Time Out London’s WhatsApp channel or signing up for the free newsletter.
