When
Saturday 23rd May - Monday 25th May 2009
Where
Venues across London
The second 2009 May bank holiday is an ideal time to make the most of events in London. Summer is almost here and there are plenty of things to do across the capital whether you fancy music, culture or simply eating out at a top restaurant.
Bank holiday shoppingThe spring bank holiday brings you some retail therapy with loads of shopping promotions on offer on Oxford Street. The traffic free day on Saturday 23rd May also features plenty of free, child friendly street entertainment and live music.
Bank holiday at the Tate ModernMore fun for the bank holiday weekend comes courtesy of the Tate Modern, where the Long Weekend free events include sculptures you can climb on, live music and performances, film screenings, and workshops and arts sessions for children and families. Plus, with kids eat free offers at the gallery, there should be something for everyone.
More events for kids and familiesThe spring bank holiday events mark the start of half term for many in London, and there will be plenty of interactive entertainment to help kids and families spend time together over the long weekend.
Theatre at the GlobeShakespeare's Globe theatre will have plenty of plays and activities on offer over the bank holiday.
MBS FestivalIf you fancy trying out some new yoga positions, than you can do little better than head to the Royal Horticultural Halls for the Mind Body and Spirit Festival. Yoga teachers from around the world will be demonstrating their best moves on the stage, and there will be plenty of other live events and MBS themed workshops to keep you entertained too.
Foodie FestivalOne of the biggest spring bank holiday events taking place for foodies in London is the food festival at Hampton Court Palace. There'll be plenty of cooking demonstrations from Michelin star chefs, as well as gourmet tasting sessions and workshops.
Picasso exhibitionThe Picasso exhibition at the National Gallery continues over the spring bank holiday. The much reviewed show has been popular with visitors ever since it open in February 2009, and now you can take advantage of the long weekend to see what all the fuss is about yourself.
Sports for allThe spring bank holiday weekend gives you the chance to see some great live sports, including the sevens rugby tournament at Twickenham.
Restaurant offersIndulge in a meal out over the long weekend with our selection of dining offers, special menus and more.
Spring shopping at Covent GardenOver the spring bank holiday weekend, many of the shops and restaurants in the Market Buiding and Piazza at Covent Garden are offering a range of special offers and discounts. From Candy Cakes and Lush to Creme de la Crepe and boutique jewellery shop Kabiri, there should be plenty to catch your eye.
Free eventsIf you want to have a good time over the bank holiday by don't want to spend wads of cash, you can always go to one of these free weekend events. From a snail hunt to an arty funhouse and the best picnic sports in London, there's plenty to keep you from being bored and poor.
Bank Holiday clubbingThere is plenty of clubbing fun to be had over the long weekend, and this is certainly the time to take advantage of a Monday morning lie in. Check out our comprehensive list of Bank Holiday club tickets below to ensure that you don't just spend your time sat at home on the sofa.
Carters Steam FairLovingly restored fairground rides will be in action at Victoria Park over the bank holiday, with favourites such as the Dodgems and Gallopers available to ride on.
The ShimmyTaking place as part of the closing celebrations of the 2009 Wandsworth Arts Festival, the Shimmy is a free open air event where you can see aerial tango performances, as well as live music and much more.
Catch a showAnd if all that culture just isn't enough for your long weekend plans, there's always a stunning selection of theatre shows to see.
Other London events