The Thames Festival promises to be one of the most spectacular London events of the year, returning to the capital in a huge series of events, activities, festivities and entertainment. Join the party in September and celebrate the cultural diversity of London in grand style.

Back for 2008
First launched in 1997 with a high wire walk across the Thames, the Mayor’s Thames Festival has grown to become London’s biggest free, outdoor arts festival and a highlight event on the London calendar. Londoners of all ages will be out to enjoy free entertainment in a lively, festival atmosphere, with everything from street art and river events to pyrotechnics and circus performances on offer.

Join the party
Last year nearly half a million people attended the festival and this year’s event is expected to be just as big an occasion. Taking place between Westminster Bridge and Tower Bridge, the festival is at the heart of London, open to all at the end of the summer.

Family fun in London
With riverside market stalls, street performances, interactive activities and more the Thames Festival promises loads to see and do for visitors of all ages. Browse over 200 stalls for all manner of food and drink products, as well as authentic crafts to take home. Highlights for the Thames Festival 2007 included a special Rivers of the World exhibition, an environmental zone called The Blue Ribbon Village and the stunning Feast on the Bridge, where Southwark Bridge was closed for traffic and turned into a number of magical eating areas. And 2008 also promises more than enough to keep you busy.

Twilight festivities at the Night Carnival
The Night Carnival has become a key feature of the Thames Festival, inviting a colourful parade of dancers, costumed performers, musicians and revellers to take over Victoria Embankment and Blackfriars Bridge. Thousands of people join the Night Carnival in a vibrant procession of lanterns, costumes and floats, guaranteeing a memorable London occasion. The night Carnival is held on Sunday 14th September, the final day of the festival.

Firework finale
The festival literally ends with bang, with a massive fireworks display rounding off events on the final day. Tens of thousands will be out to see one of the most spectacular displays of the year, lighting up the Thames in a dazzling display of light and colour. The Thames Festival fireworks display is scheduled to take place on Sunday 16th September 2007, beginning at 9.45pm.

The Thames Festival takes place from Saturday 13th to Sunday 14th September 2008. The event is free to attend.

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