Jen picks her Top 10 Free Events in London October 2013

by Jen (@JenBarnes207)

Halloween may be over but the fun doesn’t stop when the ghouls go to bed. Bonfire night is just around the corner and you can expect the night sky to be full of colour throughout the first week of November. After that, London has your Holiday shopping needs covered. In between the chaos, relax and enjoy all of the events on offer.

#1 Longplayer | Every Saturday and Sunday of November

What: A piece of music designed to play continuously (without repetition) for 1,000 years. You have to see it (and hear it) to believe it. Show up at dusk for fantastic views of the Thames in London’s only lighthouse.

When: Every Saturday and Sunday

Where: Trinity Buoy Wharf

#2 Friday Lunchtime Concerts | Every Friday of November

What: Winter is coming and gone are the days of leisurely lunches in the park. Instead, take an extra long lunch at the end of the week and head to the Southbank for free concerts (and a cheeky pint or two).

When: Every Friday

Where: Central Bar at Royal Festival Hall

#3 Blackheath Bonfire Night Fireworks | 2nd of November

What: The Blackheath Fireworks have become the largest free event in London. 100,000 people can’t be wrong, right? Entrance is free, but bring some cash for some snacks and hot cocoa to keep you warm.

When: 2nd of November 2013

Where: Blackheath Common

#4 The Chocolate Museum Festival | 2nd of November

What: Chocolate demonstrations and tastings are free from 3-4:30pm. A delicious way to spend an afternoon south of the river. When you’re finished, hop over to Blackheath for the fireworks.

When: 2nd of November 2013

Where: The Chocolate Museum, Brixton

#5 The Lord Mayor’s Show Fireworks | 9th of November

What: If the festivities on Bonfire night weren’t enough for you, then look no further than the night skies on November 9th. The fireworks welcoming the new Lord Mayor of the City of London are visible for miles (but we suggest being along the river!)

When: 9th of November 2013

Where: City of London (but visible from all over!)

#6 Renegade Craft Fair | 9th & 10th of November

What: Renegade Craft Fair is a distinctly different shopping experience. This year, why not skip the High Street shops altogether and visit The 3rd Annual Renegade Craft Fair in London, where you can start your holiday shopping early and find a wide variety of handmade gifts.

When: 9th & 10th of November 2013

Where: Old Truman Brewery

#7 London Jazz Festival | 15th-24th of November

What: The London Jazz Festival draws the biggest names in Jazz to London each year. You can pay big bucks to see the big names, or you can check out up and coming talent for free. It’s up to you, but the choice seems easy.

When: 15th-24th of November

Where: Across London

#8 Spain Now! 2013 | Until 17th of November

What: A festival showcasing the best that Spain has to offer in the realm of dance, music, literature, art and food! Check out Ana Lujan’s dance interventions along the Southbank on Saturday, 16th of November.

When: Until 17th of November 2013

Where: Across London

#9 Wimbledon Art Studios Winter Open | 21st-24th of November

What: A truly unique space, the Wimbledon Art Studios open to the public only a couple of times a year. Free entry but bring along some money if you’re looking for unique holiday presents!

When: 21st-24th of November 2013

Where: Wimbledon Art Studios, Riverside Road, SW17

#10 SPIN x LCF Xmas | 29th of November – 1st of December

What: During SPIN x LCF Xmas you’ll find the international brands you know and love and small independent makers you’ve never heard of but will never forget. Handmade frames, cycle fashion brands, off-the-peg bikes, accessories and cycle-wear, single origin coffees and blends, brewers, grinders and espresso machines…they have it all.

When: 29th of November – 1st of December

Where: The Yard, Shoreditch

Find more interesting free stuff to do in London through our Free Entertainment Section as well as all the Free film screenings in town this month.

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