Looking for exciting things to do in London this September? Totally Thames Festival 2024 is back, offering a month-long celebration of the River Thames with a diverse lineup of events. From live performances and river races to mudlarking adventures, this festival brings London’s historic river to life in vibrant and unexpected ways.
Key Highlights of Totally Thames Festival 2024
Here’s what you can look forward to during the Totally Thames Festival 2024:
Hulked: A River Storytelling Experience
Date: 7th September
Location: Aboard the Sailing Barge Edith May
Activity: Step aboard the Edith May for an hour of captivating storytelling and original folk music, diving deep into the history of Thames barges. A unique opportunity to explore the rich heritage of the river through the eyes of its vessels.
Find out more: Totally Thames Hulked Event
Sing for Water and Kids’ Choir
Date: 15th September
Location: The Scoop
Activity: Experience the heartwarming performance of over 400 children from London primary schools in the Kids’ Choir, followed by Sing for Water, a spectacular choral performance featuring 50 choirs from across the UK. This uplifting event raises funds for WaterAid.
Find out more: Totally Thames Sing for Water Event
The PLA’s Clean Thames Challenge
Date: Throughout September
Activity: Join the Clean Thames Challenge to help keep the Thames litter-free. Participants can sign up for a free litter-picking kit and have the chance to win a kayaking or paddleboarding trip for two.
Find out more: Clean Thames Challenge
Mudlarking Adventures
Date: Various dates in September
Locations: River Thames Foreshore, Guildhall Art Gallery, St Paul’s Cathedral, Museum of London Docklands
Activity: Discover London’s history hidden in the mud of the Thames! Join guided foreshore tours, explore exhibitions of Roman and medieval artefacts, and even participate in a Flint Knapping Masterclass.
Find out more: Totally Thames Mudlarking Events
St Katharine Docks Classic Boat Festival
Date: 7th – 8th September
Location: St Katharine Docks
Activity: Admire over 40 vintage boats, including historic tugs and Dunkirk Little Ships, at this annual celebration of classic maritime craftsmanship.
Find out more: Classic Boat Festival
The Great River Race
Date: 21st September
Location: From Millwall to Ham Lands
Activity: Cheer on 300 boats as they race along the Thames in this exciting and colorful fundraising event, viewable from various points along the river.
Find out more: Great River Race
Thames Day
Date: 22nd September
Location: City of London Riverside
Activity: Coinciding with World Rivers Day, Thames Day offers a family-friendly celebration featuring the Sailing Barge Will, Cod Choir’s sea shanties, and the chance to participate in a foreshore clean-up.
Find out more: Thames Day Events
One In One Out: A Queer Nightlife Installation
Date: 5th and 7th September
Location: Crossrail Place Roof Garden, Canary Wharf
Activity: Explore the evolving landscape of queer London through this playful installation that reimagines the queer nightlife experience in a tiny bar setting.
Find out more: One In One Out Installation
Make the Most of September with Totally Thames Festival 2024
The Totally Thames Festival is an unmissable opportunity to explore the rich cultural and historical significance of the River Thames. Whether you’re interested in art, history, music, or just a fun day out by the water, this festival offers something for everyone. Plan your visit today and immerse yourself in the life and soul of London’s iconic river.
See the full program of events and start planning your September adventure: Totally Thames Festival 2024