Looking for things to get up to in the borough of Wandsworth? Read our freshly-penned guide.
A 'Strictly Wandsworth' dance festival, a 125th birthday celebration of the Clapham Grand, and a stunning silk banner show are among the events happening as part of Wandsworth's year as London Borough of Culture.
From April 2025-March 2026 Wandsworth is London Borough of Culture, meaning a spotlight will be shone on its history, culture and creativity — with a series of events and initiatives. The programme of events, announced on 25 February at Battersea Arts Centre, includes:
💃 Strictly Wandsworth (26 April): 200 dancers from 22 local organisations converge to create a huge dance spectacle, culminating in a high-energy mass dance finale led by choreographer Patience J.
🎭 Wandsworth Arts Fringe (6-22 June): An increased budget for this year's fringe promises more in the way of cutting-edge arts performances, as well as lots of free tickets and greater accessibility — with a remit to reach those who might usually not attend such events.
🏰 Wandsworth Heritage Festival (13 June-13 July): Another event that takes place every year, but in 2025 promises to crank up the walks, talks, exhibitions and performances. There's an arts-related theme this year.
🎹 Battersea Park In Concert (23-25 August): Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra headline this three-day al fresco weekender, which covers a number of music genres, and will showcase local artists.
🚩 Urban Flow (13 September): India's Attakkalari Centre for Movement Arts and Wandsworth’s Tavaziva Dance team up to create what's promised to be a stunning silk banner procession animated by 100 performers and digital art.
👨🦽Liberty (26-28 September): A celebration of D/deaf, disabled, and neurodivergent artists, Liberty will showcase the output of disabled creatives, and underscore the borough's commitment to inclusivity.
🎤 Palace of Varieties (26 November): A one-off extravaganza at Battersea's redoutable Clapham Grand — details TBA — which has hosted everything from vaudeville to drag shows to major football match screenings during its illustrious (often raucous) history.
👩🏾 Portrait of a National Treasure (early 2026): A tribute to Wandsworth's Dame Carmen Munroe, an actor who's starred in classic shows including Desmond’s and Doctor Who. A documentary film will highlight her groundbreaking work in theatre, and there'll be special initiatives aimed at young talent too.
That's just a taster of what's going on in the borough this year. To find out more, and to get first dibs on tickets, visit the Welcome to Wandsworth website.
Wandsworth Borough of Culture, April 2025-March 2026. Haringey takes up the London Borough of Culture baton in spring 2026.
