Looking for fun things to do with the kids in London for this October Half Term?
From literature festivals and musicals to science activities and outdoor adventures, there’s something to entertain every young explorer in London.
Here are our top half term family events for you to check out!
Half Term Events for the Family
Happy Birthday Elmer!
Southbank Centre, SE1
Book from FREE: Happy Birthday Elmer!
When: Sun 3 Nov, 10:30-2:00pm
Ages: All ages welcome
A very famous, very colourful, patchwork elephant is turning 35 this year, and everyone is invited to a special birthday party to celebrate.
Dress up in your most colourful outfits and come along to enjoy drop-in craft activities, party games and music with a live DJ to wish Elmer a happy birthday.
Pop by for crafts on Level 2 of the Royal Festival Hall from 10.30am – 2.30pm, and join the party in The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall from 12.30pm.
Back to Baby Family Concert
Bromley, Croydon, Putney, Greenwich and Islington
Book from £15.00: Back to Baby Family Concert
When: Various days and times over half term
Ages: 0-5 years
Bach to Baby is the critically acclaimed concert series for babies, toddlers and their carers. Tots dance, roam about and revel in the wonder of live music, while you take a moment out of your busy day to hear top notch performances by outstanding musicians, with your young babes in tow.
Outstanding Musicians, Exhilarating Performances, Inspiring Locations across the UK. As seen at Royal Albert Hall and Buckingham Palace. Featured in The Times (London) and the New York Times.
Globe Story and Guided Tours
Bankside, SE1
Book from £27.00: Globe Story and Guided Tours
When: Mon 28 Oct – Thu 31 Oct, 10:00-6:00 pm
Ages: 7 years +
If you want to know more about the history of London’s most famous theatre, GLOBE STORY AND GUIDED TOURS at the Globe Theatre is the perfect opportunity to learn about centuries of history of one of the most famous stages in the world.
In our brand-new, walk-through exhibition space, you’ll be immersed in the sights, sounds, and secrets of Shakespeare’s London, travelling through over 400 years of fascinating history.
You’ll be able to relive some of our most iconic shows with seasonally curated displays, and even have the chance to get ready for the stage yourself with interactive costumes and props.
Venture into the Globe Theatre itself where our expert Guides bring to life the thrilling story of our iconic wooden ‘O’. Hear how the original 1599 theatre survived the plague, fire and political oppression and rose again in the 1990s as part of one man’s radical vision.
Wonder at its craftsmanship and imagine how thousands of Londoners once packed in to see the greatest actors of the day.
Diwali on the Square 2024
Trafalgar Square, WC2N
Book from FREE: Diwali on the Square 2024
When: Sun 27 Oct, 1:00-7:00pm
Ages: All ages welcome
Join us for Diwali on Trafalgar Square, our festival of lights in the heart of London.
With an exciting line-up of music and dance, plus workshops, food, art and crafts for the whole family, it’s a fantastic day out for everyone to enjoy.
Family Day: Make Your Mark
National Portrait Gallery, WC2H
Book from FREE: Family Day: Make Your Mark
When: Tue 29 Oct, 11:00-4:00pm
Ages: All ages welcome
Get creative this October half term and discover stories of people who’ve shaped Britain! Explore mark-making through fun, playful activities for all the family and share the impact you’d like to make on the world.
Ghostbusters in Concert
Royal Albert Hall, SW7
Book from £30:00: Ghostbusters in Concert
When: Sat 26 Oct, 7:30-9:45pm
Ages: 8 years +
‘Who you gonna call?’
The beloved ‘80s sci-fi comedy, Ghostbusters, will join the Royal Albert Hall’s Films in Concert series to celebrate the movie’s 40th anniversary.
Watch Ivan Reitman’s original 1984 classic on the big screen at Halloween – all whilst Elmer Bernstein’s famous score is performed live by a full orchestra conducted by Peter Bernstein.
Garnering widespread acclaim, Ghostbusters, written by Dan Aykroyd and Harold Ramis, earned nearly $300 million at the global box office and became a mega-pop culture phenomenon that endures four decades later.
The film stars Aykroyd, Ramis, Bill Murray and Ernie Hudson as wisecracking parapsychologists who launch an ad-hoc ghost-catching start-up in New York City.
London Wetland Centre: Half Term Activities
London Wetland Centre, SW13
Book from £10.72: London Wetland Centre: Half Term Activities
When: Sat 26 Oct – Sun 3 Nov
Ages: All ages welcome
Discover activities that show just how super wetland nature can be. Weave a willow wand, head off on a fungi hunt, craft a clay familiar and much more in a week of wetlands magic.
London Literature Festival: Rug Rhymes
Southbank, SE1
Book from FREE: London Literature Festival: Rug Rhymes
When: Fri 25 Oct, 11:00 – 11:45 am
Ages: 0-5 years
Come along to a special, free London Literature Festival edition of Rug Rhymes, the National Poetry Library’s song and rhyme session for under-5s.
Join us for a welcoming, playful session led by a special guest performer, perfect for introducing under-5s to a love of stories and poems.
This event is a Relaxed Performance (RP).
Relaxed Performances have a relaxed approach to noise and movement in the space, and you are free to enter and exit during the performances.
A chill-out space and noise-cancelling headphones are available for children and adults.
There are no adjustments to sound and lighting for these events and this event will feature amplified sound and minimal lighting effects.
Family Studio: Cut Out Worlds
Mayfair, W1S
Book from FREE: Family Studio: Cut Out Worlds
When: Sun 27 Oct, 11:00 – 1:00pm
Ages: 2 years +
Family studios are supported by Jeanne and William Callanan
Construct a familiar scene at this workshop for families.
At this Family Studio, artist Eva Jonas will draw inspiration from our Architecture Window exhibition.
She’ll invite you to experiment with various construction techniques using cardboard, wooden dowels, and blocks to create models that hold a scene you see regularly — from your bedroom, school, or bus window.
Our family studio programme is a series of monthly art-making workshops that are drop-in and open to families with children of all ages.
Paradox Museum
Paradox Museum, SW3
Book from £17.50: Paradox Museum
When: Various Dates and Times
Ages: All ages welcome
Exit reality. Enter fun! Step into a mesmerising world at Paradox Museum, London’s most fun and educational experience for all ages, with ultra-instagrammable photo ops and surprising paradoxes that will defy your perception of reality. Dare to take the ride!
🎃 Spooky Season at Paradox Museum: Trick Your Brain, Treat Your Senses! 🎃 Until Nov 3rd, the museum will transform its iconic exhibits into a thrilling Halloween experience! A terrific adventure awaits!
Mrs Doubtfire Musical
Camden, WC2H
Book from £28.80: Mrs Doubtfire Musical
When: Daily performances (not Sundays)
Ages: 6 years +
Nominated for the WhatsOnStage Awards 2024 for Best New Musical
After playing to sold-out crowds and standing ovations in Manchester — the new comedy musical MRS. DOUBTFIRE – THE MUSICAL is showing with dazzle and delight at the Shaftesbury Theatre!
Based on the 1993 film Mrs. Doubtfire, starring Robin Williams in the title role, MRS DOUBTFIRE – THE MUSICAL brings the beloved film to a whole new audience.
MRS. DOUBTFIRE showcases the talents of a transatlantic creative team of award-winning artists. 4-time Tony winner Jerry Zaks (Hello, Dolly!) directs, with a book created by Karey Kirkpatrick and John O’Farrell.
Original music and lyrics by Wayne and Karey Kirkpatrick (the Tony Award-nominated team behind Something Rotten!) perfectly complement choreography by Lorin Latarro (Waitress). Scenic design is by David Korins (Hamilton), with music supervision by Ethan Popp (Tina: The Tina Turner Musical).
A hilarious and heartfelt story about holding onto your loved ones against all odds, MRS. DOUBTFIRE is the musical comedy we need right now — one that proves we’re better together.
Children’s Garden Quiet Sessions
Kew Gardens, TW9
Book from FREE: Children’s Garden Quiet Sessions
When: Wed 30 Oct, 8:30-10:00am
Ages: 2-12 years
Explore all the things plants need to grow; earth, air, sun and water, and enjoy the sensory elements of our Children’s Garden during one of our quiet sessions.
We are closing the Children’s Garden to the public to allow children with special educational needs and disabilities, like Autism Spectrum Disorder and/or sensory processing needs, and their parents or carers to have a more comfortable visit.
During the quiet sessions, we will be permitting fewer people than our usual time slots and ensuring easy access to avoid potentially stressful queues.
You will also be able to share your visit with others who better understand your child’s needs.
Toto Kerblammo!
Unicorn Theatre, SE1
Book from £12.50: Toto Kerblammo!
When: Sun 6 Oct – Sun 3 Nov
Ages: 9 years +
Poor Effy. Sent to live with her aunt and uncle in a block that won’t allow dogs. What’s a girl to do? She smuggles her furry friend in, of course. Keeps him under a blanket. Feeds him biscuits. Ssh Toto, quiet.
But it can’t last forever. Effy needs saving. And Toto is up to the task.
Tim Crouch’s immersive new play is a tender and powerful story about listening, friendship and finding hope in the darkest of places.
Wearing headphones, the audience will experience Effy’s world through 3D binaural audio technology. Immerse yourself in a compelling live mix of sound and action, and discover the sound of things you never knew had sounds…
Exploring The Science of Biomes
Kensington, W8
Book from £115.00: Exploring The Science of Biomes
When: Mon 21 Oct – Fri 25 Oct, 9:30-3:30pm
Ages: 4-12 years
Our theme for this camp is Arid Sands To Mountain Summits: Exploring The Science of Biomes
This Camp is suitable for children ages 4-12 years old. The children will be split into two groups 4-7 years old and 8-12 years old (separately taught, age-adjusted content).
Kids Cooking Camp
Belgravia, SW1W
Book from £84.00: Kids Cooking Camp
When: Mon 28 Oct – Fri 1 Nov, 10:00-1:00pm
Ages: 6-15 years
Get a full immersion in the kitchen world during our summer camp! (6-15 years old)
Taught by professional chefs, your foodies will explore different types of cuisines.
Everything is made from scratch which allows your children to learn different chef techniques and how to use plenty of cooking utensils.
Monday 21/10: American day (Homemade burger, sauces and fries)
Tuesday 22/10: Cake day (Savoury and sweet cakes)
Wednesday 23/10: Bread workshop (Focaccia and rend lentil bread)
Thursday 24/10: French food: Alsace day (Flan with caramelised apples, Flamenkuche)
Friday 25/10: Halloween baking (Chocolate mousse, Butternut and chocolate muffins)
Autumn Wardrobe Workshop
Chelsea, SW3
Book from £95:00: Autumn Wardrobe Workshop
When: Mon 21 Oct – Fri 25 Oct, 2:00-6:00pm
Ages: 6-11 years
Access our collection of patterns to start creating your very own wardrobe as we transition into Autumn!
Will it be a new top? A skirt? Or a travel bag? Our team of fashion tutors will guide you through the process, from designing to constructing and finishing your garment!
Choose from a gorgeous range of sustainably sourced and dead-stock designer fabrics.
This course is suitable for beginners and the more advanced.
Aerial and Circus Half Term Camp
Primrose Hill, NW1
Book from £37:00: Aerial and Circus Half Term Camp
When: Mon 28 Oct – Fri 1 Nov, 10:00-3:00pm
Ages: 6-12 years
Children’s workshops are designed to be fun and cover aerial (trapeze, rope, and hoop) as well as floor circus games including juggling, diablos, plate spinning, devil sticks, and hula hoop.
All levels are welcome, no experience is necessary.
Bonfire Night Events for the Family
Alexandra Palace Fireworks Festival
Alexandra Palace, N22
Book from £5.50: Alexandra Palace Fireworks Festival
When: Fri 1 Nov – Sat 2 Nov, 6:00pm
Ages: All ages welcome
Get ready for two epic nights at Ally Pally’s Fireworks Festival on Friday 1 and Saturday 2 November.
Head inside for the German Bier Festival with oompah bands, Oasis and Abba tribute acts and German biers. Outside, enjoy DJ sets from Artful Dodger and The Cuban Brothers, circus acts, a bonfire, gospel karaoke and a magical drone show.
Unmissable entertainment plus stunning panoramic views – this is more than just fireworks – it’s a full-on party!
Battersea Park Fireworks
Battersea Park, SW11
Book from £8.80: Battersea Park Fireworks
When: Sat 2 Nov – Sun 3 Nov, 6:00pm
Ages: All ages welcome
Join us on Saturday 2nd November & Sunday 3rd November for the biggest and brightest Fireworks display in South London. Our stunning display, orchestrated by the fireworks team behind the annual NYE London Fireworks, will return, and this year we have even more performances and activities to enjoy before and after the display than last year’s sold-out weekend!
Coram’s Fields Fireworks Display
Coram’s Fields, WC1N
Book from FREE: Coram’s Fields Fireworks Display
When: Tue 5 Nov, 3:30-7:00pm
Ages: All ages welcome
Coram’s Fields Fireworks display is back and this year is hosted on Fireworks Night itself, Tuesday 5th November. With performances from local children and young people, fun fair rides, delicious food options and an 18-minute fireworks extravaganza, be sure not to miss it!
Performances begin at 4:15pm
Musical Fireworks Display Wimbledon and Morden Park
Morden Park, SM4 & Wimbledon Park, SW19
Book from £10.00: Musical Fireworks Display Wimbledon and Morden Park
When: Sat 2 Nov & Tue 5 Nov, 5:15-10:00pm
Ages: All ages welcome
Our ever popular shows are back for 2024. Expect two dazzling musical fireworks shows at each venue.
Plus, stop by our street food village and sample our mouth-watering selection of food and drink. Funfair also on site.
Choose from one of two shows per venue: an earlier show more suitable for younger children and families and a later show.
Fireworks Go Pop, Ealing
Ealing Cricket Club, W5
Book from £6.00: Fireworks Go Pop, Ealing
When: Sat 2 Nov, 6:00pm
Ages: All ages welcome
✨ Join us for an electrifying evening at the Ealing Cricket Club Fireworks Display, FIREWORKS GO POP! on Saturday, 2nd November 2024.
Get ready for an unforgettable night as we light up the sky to the beats of your favorite pop hits! And for the first time ever, keep the energy going with a live DJ set right after the fireworks.
Here’s everything you need to know:
Location: Ealing Cricket Club, Corfton Road, Ealing W5 2HS – just a short walk from Ealing Broadway and North Ealing underground stations. We recommend using public transport for convenience.
Gates open at 6pm – arrive early to beat the queues!
Fireworks start at 7:45pm – an explosive show paired with iconic pop tunes!
NEW: Stay for the DJ set after the display – keep the night alive with music, dancing, and fun!
Richmond Family Fireworks
Richmond Athletic Ground, TW9
Book from £7.50: Richmond Family Fireworks
When: Sun 3 Nov, 4:30-11:00pm
Ages: All ages welcome
Come to Richmond’s premier fireworks display on Sunday 3rd November 2024. Every year we stage a spectacular evening of family fun with a fully composed fireworks display to music, attracting thousands of spectators. The display is being held in association with Sneller Commercial, a proud long-term sponsor of Richmond Rugby.
Enjoy a fantastic fireworks show for all ages. Gates will open at 16:30hrs when the funfair and all the stalls will be open. There will also be a ‘Happy Hour’ in Richmond Athletic Ground’s bars from 16:30hrs to 17:30hrs.
You will find an array of food on offer from hamburgers and hot dogs through to crepes, churros and donuts; mulled wine; teas & coffees and a fully licensed bar. Basement Door, the Richmond based charity, will be entertaining the crowds on the main pitch from 18:00hrs along with Studio K and Resolution Dance – two locally based dance companies. The glittering fireworks display, choreographed to iconic tunes, begins at 19:00hrs.
St Paul’s Shadwell
St Paul’s Shadwell, E1W
Book from FREE: St Paul’s Shadwell, E1W
When: Sun 10 Nov, 4:00-6:00pm
Ages: All ages welcome
Light up your evening with our Fireworks Night at St Paul’s Shadwell! Join us for a spectacular display, great company, and cozy vibes. It’s the perfect chance to enjoy some seasonal magic and create lasting memories. Sunday at 4pm—don’t miss the sparkle! BE THERE
NOTE: Our fireworks party will run from 4-6pm!
Wild Wolf ESU Fireworks Display
Scout Park, N11
Book from £9.00: Wild Wolf ESU Fireworks Display
When: Sat 2 Nov
Ages: All ages welcome
We are really excited to announce that the Wild Wolf ESU Fireworks Display will be making a full public return in 2024. With a huge range of food stalls and activities, plus a bonfire and of course the fireworks, this event has been a longstanding highlight of the North London community calendar. Our Fireworks Display has been ranked as one of the top displays in London by TimeOut and Londonist, and is characterised by its family-friendly atmosphere and all-round appeal which draws crowds from near and far. The event is run entirely by volunteers, and raises money to support Scouts in hardship and provide amazing adventures for young people in North London.
The Walker Ground Fireworks Display
Southgate, N14
Book from £7.50: The Walker Ground Fireworks Display
When: Sat 2 Nov, 5:00pm
Ages: All ages welcome
Fireworks night is always memorable with the crowd enjoying entertainment rides and inflatables, keeping both parents and kids busy until the main event. So come along early and enjoy yourself on the merry go round, inflatables and more.
A variety of food will be available throughout the night, from burgers, hotdogs, jerk chicken and various cuisines from around the world. Lots of mouth-watering doughnuts, waffles, toffee apples and candy floss too, to satisfy those with a sweet tooth.
We hope to see you at one of these fantastic family events this weekend! And if you’re looking for even more fun, visit loopla.com.
