What do Sadiq Khan, Zandra Rhodes and the presenters of Europe’s only radio show dedicated to dogs have in common? Not just the dinner party line up of your dreams: they’re all fans of the Bermondsey Street Festival, and might all be clearing their diaries for September 14th as we speak, writes Cara Cummings…
Because it’s that time of year again… Roll up, roll up for the ultimate village fete – right in the heart of London.
Bermondsey Street’s annual festival bursts into life once again on Saturday, 14th September, and looks set to be bigger than ever.
Whether live music, arts and crafts, delicious street-food or free dance classes float your boat, you’ll find the creme de la creme of South London showcasing their wares during the all-day bonanza.
And yes: the capital’s favourite dog show comes barking into the borough once again. We hear rumours of a celebrity appearance by the Dulux Dog himself… Selfie sticks at the ready!
The Chestertons Community Stage
It’s all about performing arts at the junction of Morocco Street and Bermondsey Street.
The Chestertons Community Stage will be showcasing some of the best music and dance that Bermondsey has to offer – from acapella ‘80s hits courtesy of Kitsch in Synch, London’s “most fun-loving choir”, to a sneak preview of the Quay Players 2019 Christmas show and a headline set by The Homing, who “sound like Fleetwood Mac” according to Oasis’ producer Stuart Epps. Don’t forget your shimmy shoes – Salsa Oracle and Hot Rag Jazz will be laying on free Latin dance and swing jazz classes respectively, too.
Get your shop on
From handsewn kidswear to homemade peanut butter, South London punches well above its weight when it comes to crafting.
Bermondsey Street will transform into an artisan medina during this year’s Festival, as talented local makers, designers and producers showcase their wares. Prints, homeware, jewellery, tasty treats, skincare products and even tailoring…
Better bring a few bags, as you won’t be leaving empty handed. The best part? Everything on offer is either made or potted in Bermondsey.
Everyone loves an Underdog
Bermondsey’s most eclectic arts and music gallery-bar (try saying that after a couple of their killer cocktails) are upping the Festival’s cool credentials this year, with a showcase of live music inspired by the diverse rock-funk-indie nights that have earned
The Underdog cult status within London’s music scene.
Stop by their gallery-bar next time you’re near Crucifix Lane to take in works by some of contemporary art’s most exciting up-and-coming names, and stick around for live music that’s as interesting as the exhibitions on show…
..and everyone loves The Dog Show
Stroll around Bermondsey and one thing’s for sure: we’ve got some seriously adorable pooches in residence.
The Festival’s annual Dog Show, organised with pedigree aplomb by leather collar and lathery grooming company Holly & Lil, returns to rule on the area’s best this year. Gail Porter is this year’s celebrity judge, ably assisted by the Dulux Dog himself. Be still, my beating paint samples.
Anyone can enter their prize-hopeful pooch across a series of categories, from Best Pedigree, to Best Mash Up, to the Gus & Nelly Award for “anything goes” – and they’re really not joking – all in the hope of pawing the ultimate prize: Best in Show. At stake is a grand prize of £75 towards a Holly & Lil collar of your choice, smaller prizes for all runners up and the love of an entire borough for particularly heart-stealing furry heroes.
Crufts, eat your heart out.
Pop over to the Southwark News stall at the event to get a map and guide for the day!