Now that summer is in full swing, it’s time to take full advantage of the weather and get out this July. With so much going on throughout the month, there’s no reason to stay in and you can easily set about creating amazing memories. Whether it’s music festivals, street food or sporting events, we’ve got it covered, so check out our vibrant list of the best things to do this July.
Street Feast
Running throughout the summer for 20 weekends until September, Street Feast is a unique dining and drinking experience set in the heart of Dalston. From 5pm to midnight, there’s an incredible variety of cuisine on offer from the likes of Honest Burger, Bob’s Lobster, Cheeky Italian, Yum Bun, which changes on a weekly basis. There are also four bars on site, such as the Rotary Bar, the Gin Store, Chillback and Street Vin, each specialising in beer, gin, tequila and wine. Set in Dalston Yard, it is a fresh approach to eating out in a vibrant and festive atmosphere. With covered seating, table service, group bookings and walks-in’s possible as well, it truly is a mecca for food and drink lovers.
Find more information here!
Digital Revolution
Beginning on the 3rd of July, this interactive exhibition set in the Barbican Centre is an exploration of various art forms through digital technology and how it’s affected the likes of musicians, artists, filmmakers and game developers. Digital Revolution equally looks at how digital media has led to the rise of such possibilities as 3-D printing, artificial intelligence and augmented reality. With contributions from the likes of will.i.am and Björk, experience the visual effects behind such stunning films as Inception and Gravity or try out a few retro videogames such as Pacman and Space Invaders. A must-visit exhibition focusing on some of the most exciting possibilities brought out thanks to the digital arts, it’s a great insight into a shifting artistic world and what lies ahead.
Find more information here!
Independence Day
The USA’s biggest holiday, 4th of July is a momentous occasion each year, whose celebrations always find their way across to this side of the pond. With various parties throughout the capital dedicated to the day, there’s plenty to choose from to get into the spirit. Events include the Democrats Abroad UK American Independence Day Picnic, a fun day out for the whole family that includes live music, tug-of war and face painting. Or, for a more unique experience, check out the Independence Day Party at the former home of Benjamin Franklin with a glass of champagne and cake. If you’re looking for a more casual affair, check out one of the many American themed bars and/or restaurants in London for an authentic experience.
Tour de France
One of the most iconic and recognised sporting events in the world, the Tour de France now holds a special place in English sporting culture. With three stages through the country, the race starts off in Leeds to Harrogate, then York to Sheffield with its final stage from Cambridge ending in London. Wherever you are in the country, you’re sure to be able to catch a glimpse of the action, and have your own personal experience of the event. Running in the country from the 5th to the 7th of July, you won’t want to miss out on what is usually a dramatic and exciting race.
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Lovebox
Without a doubt one of the best festivals in London, Lovebox returns for another year and looks set to be even better than before. Slimmed down this year to two days instead of three, it’s regularly ranked as one of the best summer experiences from critics and fans alike. Occurring on the 18th and 19th of July and set in East London’s Victoria Park, they boast a truly impressive line up of genre bending acts. With the likes of MIA, Nas, Bondax, Mount Kimbie, Katy B and Chase & Status all set to make appearances, it’s a definite must for music aficionados. You’ll also get to experience the Distrikt arts and music collective, who got their fame from the infamous Burning Man festival, and enjoy plenty other theatrical and artistic performances in one of the most entertaining and fun festivals around.
Find more information here!
BBC Proms
The BBC Proms are definitely a British institution. Having been held since 1941, every summer the public gets to see some of the greatest composers and orchestras perform in one of London’s finest buildings, the Royal Albert Hall. Starting on the 18th of July, fans come from all over the world to catch these phenomenal performances that soundtrack the British summer. With each night based on a certain theme or focused on the works of a composer such as Bach or Beethoven, it’s a prestigious event without the pretension (some concerts are ideal for kids). There’s even a night with Pet Shop Boys headlining the proceedings. While advanced booking is highly recommended for the more popular concerts, around 1,400 tickets are still available for each performance.
Find more information here!
RHS Flower Show
Back again for what’s sure to be another successful year, the RHS Flower Show in Tatton Park is surely one of Cheshire’s finest events. First held in 1999, it has grown to become one of the most recognised gardening events. Running from the 23rd of July, it’s split into four themed zones, Escape, Feast, Grow and Inspire. With a range of shows on to enjoy, expect the Winsford Education Partnership School Gardens with a theme of children’s stories, and the Great British Allotments feature, which will have exciting ideas for those who enjoy growing their own fruit and veg. The Feast Theatre will be back for family-oriented cooking demonstrations whilst there’ll also be a number of RHS led workshops based around growing your own produce and floristry.
Find more information here!