Festival season could be making a comeback this year
After a year of very few big events, the appetite for festivals is higher than ever, with ticket bookings surging since the government’s roadmap was announced. Wondering which one to go for? Read on for a guide to the best music festivals in London to book for 2021.
Best Music Festivals in London 2021
Kaleidoscope
Lloyd Winters
The iconic Ally Pally has confirmed its very own festival, Kaleidoscope, is returning this summer. As if the spectacular backdrop wasn’t enough, Groove Armada are headlining the music line-up. They’ll be joined by psychedelic-indie-folk-rock band The Coral, House Gospel Choir, and world-respected DJ Norman Jay MBE.
Where? Alexandra Palace
When? 24 July 2021
Yam Carnival 2021
A new music festival is launching in London’s Clapham Common this summer, designed to celebrate “Black culture from around the world”. Titled Yam Carnival, the festival will debut on the August bank holiday weekend, headlined by the likes of Kehlani, Yemi Alade, Pa Salieu, Nao, Honey Dijon, Fatoumata Diawara and Princess Nokia.
Where? Clapham Common
When? 28 August 2021
All Points East
Launched four years ago by the team behind Coachella, All Points East usually takes place in May across a 10-day period. This year, though, it’s going ahead for a shorter period over the August Bank Holiday weekend. With Jamie XX, Kano, Tom Misch, Foals, Bombay Bicycle Club and Arlo Parks already confirmed, it’s looking pretty promising.
Where? Victoria Park
When? 27 – 30 August 2021
British Summer Time
Tom Hancock
Held across two weekends, British Summer Time has been running for six years since kicking off back in 2013 with The Rolling Stones. It’s seen performances from numerous legendary names over the years, including Bon Jovi, Jennifer Lopez and Lionel Richie – who in 2019 returned for a special guest performance with none other than Stevie Wonder. So far, Duran Duran has been announced for the line-up, with many more artists due to be added.
Where? Hyde Park
When? 11 July 2021
Lovebox
Since being founded by DJ Groove Armada 16 years ago, Lovebox has established itself as the dance music event of the summer. The festival was set to return last summer to its new west London location for the third year running, with Tyler, The Creator, Disclosure, Jorja Smith and Khalid all due to feature. Fingers crossed the 2021 line-up is as strong.
Where? Gunnersbury Park
When? 11 – 13 June 2021
Wireless
One of the most well-known festivals on the London calendar, Wireless is a celebration of the newest and best in hip hop, grime and R&B, welcoming the likes of Stormzy, Travis Scott and Cardi B to the stage. This year’s line-up is yet to be announced, so watch this space.
Where? Finsbury Park
When? 2 – 4 July 2021
South West Four
What began as a dance party for Clapham locals is now a mega music festival, drawing in big names like Tinie Tempah and Craig David. Taking place over the August bank holiday weekend, the line-up features a wide range of music genres, from electronic to pop – so it’s a good compromise for groups with differing tastes.
Where? Clapham Common
When? 27 – 29 August 2021
Somerset House Summer Series
Catch acts like Gossip, Nao, Doves and Parcels amid the neoclassical courtyard of Somerset House, London’s iconic 18th century building sitting on the bank of the Thames. The annual Summer Series offers a mixed bag of acts, with a line-up straddling soul, hip-hop, and funk music. Expect cool crowds in elegant settings.
Where? Somerset House
When? Dates TBC
Hampton Court Palace Festival
Hampton Court Palace Festival
A music festival situated in the former home of Henry VIII? Sign us up. Enhance your festival experience by hiring a waterside gazebo or indulging in a picnic on the lawn pre-performance and soak up the spectacular historical setting. So far Lionel Richie, Tom Jones and Bastille ReOrchestrated have been announced.
Where? 8 – 19 June 2021
When? Hampton Court Palace
hamptoncourtpalacefestival.com
Main image: Lloyd Winters
READ MORE:
The Best Boutique Music Festivals in the UK / The Best Virtual Theatre Shows to Watch Now
You might also like...
