It’s finally getting to the time where restrictions are starting to be lifted and the vaccination programme is looking like a success. We’re at the point in the government roadmap now where indoor bars are opening and socially distanced gigs can start going ahead.
It won’t be too long now until we can finally get ourselves back to a festival with this summer still looking like a possibility. London has a whole host of amazing events ready to go ahead this year from huge headliners to smaller more boutique festivals.
So, get ready to go out and enjoy yourselves! Below, we have assembled a list of the best London events that are on offer in 2021. You can check out other festivals over at Skiddle.
Metrofest
When: Sunday 8th August
Where: Trent Country Park
Lineup: Nicky Blackmarket, Eve, Bobby V, Ragga Twins, Ray Keith, Fatman Scoop
Metrofest is an exciting new festival coming to Trent Park this year and for its first-ever edition, it has managed to secure impressive names from Hip Hop, Old Skool and Jungle. Including Eve, Fatman Scoop, Nicky Blackmarket, this one looks unmissable.
The whole day is dedicated to the best in R&B for fans new and old, spread across multiple stages. DJ’s will be performing all day long to ensure that the energy never drops. With two special headliners yet to be announced, keep your eyes peeled for exciting news soon.
Maiden Voyage Festival
When: Sunday 29th August
Where: Lee Valley Showground
Lineup: Roy Ayers, Mr Scruff, Children Of Zeus, Optimo, Biig Piig, Moses Boyd
Maiden Voyage is returning on August bank holiday this year and is bringing with it a hugely impressive and diverse lineup that spans across jazz, pop and House. They’ve also moved to a new home in Lee Valley Showground, a beautiful and uncharted location.
It’s the perfect place to get into the groove of all these different sounds, with a mix of legendary musicians, hot DJ’s and Mercury prize nominees. Maiden Voyage is looking like an irresistible prospect.
Cross The Tracks
When: Sunday 5th September
Where: Brockwell Park
Lineup: Lianne La Havas, The Cinematic Orchestra, En Vogue, Jordan Rakei, Sons Of Kemet
It was a great shame that Cross The Tracks was cancelled last year but they’re ready to bring a gorgeous selection of jazz, soul and funk to your ears. Lianne La Havas will be headlining this year after releasing her phenomenal self-titled album in 2020.
There’s a lot more to Cross The Tracks than the music as wider culture is explored in the event through workshops, a record and arts fair and a selection of fine food and drink. There’s so much to see at Cross The Tracks and it’s a gem within Brixton.
All Points East
When: Friday 27th– Monday 30th August
Where: Victoria Park
Lineup: Foals, Kano, London Grammar, Bicep, Jamie XX, Jorja Smith, Bombay Bicycle Club
All Points East is back this year, pushed back to the August bank holiday weekend. As ever, there is a whole load of phenomenal acts across four days of eclectic curated lineups. Headliners include Foals, Kano, Jamie XX, Jorja Smith, Bicep and more. It’s not often that you can say with absolute confidence that there’s something for everyone.
Field Day festival has also been incorporated into All Points East this year and will take over the running of the Sunday date. It’s a wonderful opportunity to spend all day in Victoria Park listening to amazing live acts and taking in the sun.
51st State Festival
When: Saturday 7th August
Where: Trent Country Park
Lineup: Hannah Wants, The Brand New Heavies, Majestic, Roger Sanchez, Mark Knight
51st State Festival returns this year for its sixth edition and is bringing together some of the biggest names in House and Dance music. With a healthy mix of legends and the next wave of DJ’s coming through, expect to see thrilling performances from Hannah Wants, Roger Sanchez, Mark Knight and lots more.
Past iterations of 51st State have included world-renowned talent and their 2021 edition is no exception. If you love all things Dance music and you can’t wait to get back out again then this will surely be the celebration that you’re looking for.
Wireless Festival
When: Friday 10th– Sunday 12th September
Where: Crystal Palace Park
Lineup: Future, Megan Thee Stallion, Skepta, AJ Tracey, Migos, Headie One, M Huncho
Wireless Festival is one of London’s biggest hip-hop, Grime and rap festivals. Every year it picks up some of the biggest names around and 2021 is no different. You’ll find Future, Skepta and Migos headlining and a lot of local London artists too such as AJ Tracey and Headie One.
For the first time ever, the festival is going to take place in Crystal Palace Park, moving away from Finsbury Park. This is a rare chance to see so many megastars come together, Wireless has a dedicated and loyal base of fans and with lineups like this it’s no surprise.
