February in London – Fun, Festivals and Cultural Highlights for Every Traveller

28 enero, 2026
londonbackpackers

London in February is vibrant and lively despite the winter chill. It’s a fantastic month to enjoy city culture, creative festivals, sports, and seasonal celebrations without the peak crowds of spring and summer. Whether you’re staying in hostel accommodation in London or exploring like one of the city’s London backpackers, February offers a wide range of activities — from art exhibitions and theatre to family events and cultural parades that make your visit memorable. In this guide, we highlight 21 events and activities happening across the capital in February 2026.

Things to Do in London in February 2026

February in London brings together winter charm, cultural celebrations, and a packed events schedule. From major festivals and exhibitions to theatre, live music, and seasonal traditions, the city offers plenty of opportunities to explore beyond the usual tourist spots. With fewer queues and a relaxed pace, it’s an ideal time to enjoy both well known attractions and local events. Below is a carefully selected list of events and activities to help you make the most of your February visit to London.

1. Clown Church Service (Grimaldi Service)

Event date: 1 February 2026
Event timings: Morning
Location: All Saints Church, Haggerston
About event: A quirky annual service where clowns gather to celebrate performance and community. The event includes colourful costumes, playful acts, and humorous rituals that entertain both participants and visitors. It’s a unique tradition in London that brings together performers of all ages for a joyful and memorable experience.
Approx cost: Free

2. Celebrate Lunar New Year London

Event date: 21–22 February 2026 (Parade on 22 Feb)
Event timings: Daytime events
Location: Chinatown & Trafalgar Square
About event: London hosts one of Europe’s biggest Lunar New Year celebrations with lion dances, floats and cultural performances.
Approx cost: Free

3. Kew Orchid Festival 2026

Event date: 7 Feb–8 March 2026
Event timings: Garden opening hours
Location: Kew Gardens
About event: The festival displays thousands of exotic orchid species in stunning floral arrangements. Visitors can also explore themed Chinese gardens and enjoy cultural performances.
Approx cost: £25-£50+ (garden entry)

4. Valentine’s Day Experiences

Event date: 14 February 2026
Event timings: Evening & special event hours
Location: Various venues across London
About event: London offers romantic concerts, themed theatre shows, and special dining experiences for Valentine’s Day. Couples can enjoy curated menus, exclusive events, and scenic spots across the city.

5. Pancake Day / Shrove Tuesday

Event date: 17 February 2026
Event timings: Around 12 PM
Location: Guildhall Yard & other spots
About event: Traditional pancake races and community festivities take place across London. Visitors can enjoy tasting pancakes from local vendors and watching playful competitions. The day is fun filled and perfect for families and travellers seeking unique cultural experiences.
Approx cost: Free / small food costs

6. Iranian Cinema Screenings (Barbican)

Event date: 4–26 February 2026
Event timings: Scheduled daily screenings
Location: Barbican Centre
About event: A curated selection of Iranian films showcases contemporary and classic cinema. Screenings include Q&A sessions and discussions with filmmakers. Film enthusiasts can gain insights into Iran’s rich cinematic culture.
Approx cost: Tickets start from £10

7. 46th London Film Critics’ Circle Awards

Event date: 1 February 2026
Event timings: Evening ceremony
Location: The May Fair Hotel, London
About event: Celebrate the best films of the year with industry awards and red carpet glamour. Enjoy exclusive screenings, filmmaker talks, and networking opportunities with critics and cinema enthusiasts.

8. Masquerade or Music Gigs

Event date: 5–27 February 2026
Event timings: Evening gigs
Location: Venues like The O2, Brixton Academy
About event: London hosts a range of live concerts across various venues featuring contemporary and classic music. Attendees can enjoy performances in intimate settings or large arenas. It’s a dynamic way to experience London’s music scene in February.

9. Big Winter Wander by WWF

Event date: 9–22 February 2026
Event timings: Flexible
Location: Various walking routes around London
About event: Charity walkers take part in 5k or 10k routes to support wildlife conservation. Participants enjoy scenic routes across London while raising funds for important causes.
Approx cost: Free / donation

10. UCL Illuminated Show

Event date: 11–13 February 2026
Event timings: Evening shows
Location: UCL Wilkins Building, Gower Street, London.
About event: The light and sound show celebrates 200 years of University College London. Spectators enjoy immersive projections and artistic displays across iconic UCL buildings. It’s a visually stunning event for families, students, and art lovers.
Approx cost: £5 per person (adults), under 16 free with an adult.

11. Imagine Children Festival 2026

Event date: 11–21 February 2026
Event timings: Morning to evening
Location: Southbank Centre
About event: This festival offers theatre, literature, and interactive performances for children. Workshops and storytelling sessions encourage creativity and participation. It’s a fun and engaging experience for families visiting London in February.
Approx cost: Free entry

12. London Bookshop Crawl Weekend

Event date: 13–15 February 2026
Event timings: All day
Location: Independent bookshops across London
About event: Independent bookshops across London host readings, author meet and greets, and special events. Visitors can discover hidden gems and explore literary culture.

13. Lucie Jones Live at London Palladium

Event date: 16 February 2026
Event timings: Evening performance
Location: London Palladium, Argyll Street, London, W1F 7TF.
About event: Acclaimed vocalist Lucie Jones performs a live concert featuring hits and theatrical numbers. The performance combines powerful vocals with stunning stage production. It’s a must attend evening for music and theatre fans.
Approx cost: Around £30-£43

14. Space by Luxmuralis Light Show

Event date: 17–21 February 2026
Event timings: Evening light show
Location: St Martin in the Fields
About event: Immersive light and sound installations explore cosmic themes. Visitors can wander through visually striking displays and interactive areas. Unforgettable sensory experience for all ages.
Approx cost: starting at £8, under 16s – £5 & children under two free

15. Soho Calling Music Festival

Event date: 25 February 2026
Event timings: Evening show
Location: Various Soho venues
About event: Live music performances take over multiple Soho venues, covering a variety of genres. Visitors can explore vibrant nightlife while enjoying the festival atmosphere. Exciting way to experience London’s music culture.
Approx cost: £30

16. Collect 2026 Craft Fair (Somerset House)

Event date: 27 Feb–1 Mar 2026
Event timings: From 11:00 AM
Location: Somerset House
About event: International contemporary craft and design fair showcases artists from around the world. Visitors can purchase unique pieces and attend workshops.

17. Super Bowl London Events

Event date: 8 February 2026
Event timings: Evening / late night
Location: Pubs and screening venues
About event: Pubs and venues across London host Super Bowl viewing events. Visitors can enjoy food, drinks, and fan gatherings. It’s an exciting way to experience American sports culture in London.
Approx cost: Free entry

18. Six Nations Rugby (London Venues)

Event date: 5 Feb–14 Mar 2026
Event timings: Match times vary during festival period
Location: London pubs & rugby bars
About event: Popular rugby matches are screened in pubs and bars, creating a lively sporting atmosphere. Fans can join others for commentary, snacks, and drinks. Perfect for sports enthusiasts visiting London in February.

19. Art After Dark Week

Event date: 3–10 February 2026
Event timings: Evening gallery hours
Location: National Gallery & Royal Academy
About event: Galleries stay open late for special evening events with music, installations, and interactive experiences. Visitors can explore art in a relaxed, festive atmosphere.
Approx cost: Free entry

20. Tanztheater ‘Sweet Mambo’ Performance

Event date: 11–21 February 2026
Event timings: Evening performances
Location: Sadler’s Wells Theatre, Rosebery Avenue
About event: Contemporary dance company Tanzheater Wuppertal performs an energetic and expressive production. The performance combines storytelling, music, and dynamic choreography. Dance enthusiasts will enjoy a unique cultural experience in London.
Approx cost: Tickets start from £15.00

21. London Handel Festival

Event date: 18 February–28 Mar 2026
Event timings: Concert times vary
Location: Multiple historic venues
About event: Concerts celebrate the music and legacy of Handel at historic London venues. Visitors can enjoy orchestral performances, lectures, and recitals.
Approx cost: £15 to £75.

February in London strikes a balance between cultural richness and seasonal charm. From art exhibitions and theatre nights to family friendly festivals and free installations, there’s something for every traveller whether you’re staying in hostel or planning activities as a London backpacker exploring the city on a budget. Use our guide to plan your itinerary and make the most of your February visit.