Autumn Festivals

The Olympics may be coming to a close, but not to worry there’s still plenty to see and do in the coming months. 

T&L has rounded up a list of local autumn festivals. Whether a bookworm, foodie or simply looking for a good time have a look through the list to find the right festival for you.

Mayor’s Thames Festival
Head over to the river for the annual Thames Festival for an extensive programme of entertainment. Events include barge-driving races, street theatre, Korean exhibition, an al fresco circus and much more. Victoria Embankment and Blackfriars Bridge will be closed to traffic for Sunday evening’s night carnival and spectacular firework finale.  One of London’s largest outdoor festivals, it is free and open to all. Events take place on the river itself, the riverside walkways, roads, bridges and open spaces from the London Eye to St Katharine Docks.
8-9 September
Between Westminster Bridge and Tower Bridge, along the Thames
http://thamesfestival.org/

Wimbledon music festival
For over two weeks Wimbledon will be alive with the sounds of classical music. The festival, in its fourth year, emphasizes a global perspective with many international performers. This year’s theme, A Music World Fair, is befitting indeed. Guests can look forward to hearing classics by English Composers and symphony orchestras. There are a variety of musical mediums such as guitar recitals, quartets and world-renowned soprano Christie Brewer. Don’t miss an original production of ‘Petrushka’ with puppets and complete ballet music performed by Mikhail Rudy.
10 -25 November
Various venues around Wimbledon
www.wimbledonmusicfestival.co.uk/  

Kingston Carnival
Kingston Race & Equalities council has organized this free and fun carnival which kicks off at noon. There will be two main stages featuring local up-and-coming musicians. Highlights include a large parade and surprise headlining act. A range of international food will be available from Korean dishes to Jerk Chicken to Indian Curries. Face painting, salsa dancing, martial arts, circus skills and more means a full day of fun for the whole family.
2 September
Market Place and High Street
www.kingstonfirst.co.uk   

Surbiton festival
Opening ceremonies start at 10am at the junction of St. Andrews Road and Victoria Road. At noon a wide range of individuals and organisations will be marching in the grand parade. Acts like the Morris Dancers, Swing Band, and Southern Serenade will all be performing.  A bouncy castle and slide is sure to delight the youngsters. Browse through over 100 stalls of arts & crafts, speciality foods, gift ideas and more.
29 September
Street Market, Victoria Road
www.surbitonfestival.co.uk/

The Festival of Vintage
Do you consider the 30ss through 60s some of the best decades? Then this is the festival for you! Dress up in your most stylish throwback for a chance to win £100 in the best dressed competition. There will be musical performances by Lady Ella, The Swinging Sweethearts, The Bevin Boys and others.  Over 100 vintage dealers of fashion, ceramics, textiles, music, toys, books, and furniture will be present. Learn the jitterbug, Charleston, and shim sham at dance classes, or observe various vintage exhibitions.
Epsom Racecourse
23 September
www.festivalofvintage.co.uk/Epsom.html

Wimbledon BookFest
Currently in its 5th year, founders Tony Kane and Fiona Razvi want to get all members of the community excited about reading. This festival features events for adults and children alike. Prominent speakers are author Cressida Cowell  (How to Train Your Dragon) and  Ahdaf Soueif , an established political and social  commentator who works for the Guardian. Arts and crafts will be available for kids, readings and author discussions for adults.
All across Wimbledon
6-14 October
www.wimbledonbookfest.org/index.html

Barnes Food Festival
Over 3,000 people attended last year’s inaugural and smashingly successful Barnes Food Festival. Some 80 speciality food and drink suppliers will be serving up delectable samples. Expect something unique, like watercress muffins, smoked duck and English wines. Be sure to bring your appetite! In addition to the food, there will be a Cookery Theatre showcasing the talent of chefs like Phil Howard and Rowley Leigh; tickets are £7 and should be booked in advance. Funds will benefit the charities Barnes Green Centre and Barnes Community Association.
22 September
exhibitors' stalls in a marquee on the south side of the pond
Church Road, SW13 9HE - on the East side of Barnes Pond – Cookery Theatre
http://www.barnesfoodfair.com/

Autumn Art Fair
Over 90 artists will be displaying a vibrant variety of contemporary visual art including painting, print making photography, jewellery, glass, collage and sculpture.
13- 14 October
Landmark Arts Centre, Ferry Road, Teddington, TW11 9NN
www.landmarkartscentre.org/whats-on/visual-arts.html#f121013

Richmond Literature Festival
For over 20 years Richmond has been hosting journalists, authors, celebrities, political figures and celebrities for their month-long literature festival. There is youth and fringe programme, in addition to the main. Workshops led by established authors, poetry masterclasses, food, guest speakers and more are just a few of the things to look forward to. Check their website for newly added events as the festival approaches.
November
All across Richmond Upon Thames
www.richmondliterature.com/