To the young, curious minds, a world of enchanting sound and movement awaits this summer in some of London’s most prestigious locations. This world is not of video games or pop charts, but of timeless beauty and profound emotion. Imagine having the opportunity to bring your children to experience the magic of a live orchestra, a magnificent group of musicians creating a sound so powerful it can transport you to a different time and place.
During the summer months, London’s Opera Holland Park transforms into a magical open-air venue, offering a breathtaking program of classical music and opera. This annual festival, set against the dramatic backdrop of Holland House’s ruins and surrounded by the lush park gardens, provides a unique and unforgettable experience.
Another great classical music festival is the BBC Proms and its outstanding lineup of concerts taking place at the iconic Royal Albert Hall until 13 September. From magical musical tales like the CBeebies Prom – A Magical Bedtime Story to music that inspired the soundtracks of one of the favourite movies of all time: The Planets and Star Wars on 9th August, performed by the National Youth Orchestra, this magnificent festival has something to delight audiences of all ages, regardless of their classical music knowledge.
For the smallest music enthusiasts, the Storytelling and Music Sessions for 0-4 year olds are lovely short 30 minute sessions that introduce babies and toddlers to musical instruments and all performing through the mediums of singing, movement and stories.
A great way to introduce our young ones to the wonderful world of dance is by taking them to one of family friendly performances at the Sadler’s Wells. The Lion, The Witch and the Wordrobe is a larger-than-life production for all ages that blends the artistry of puppetry, mesmerising storytelling and a talented cast of actor-musicians to celebrate the 75th anniversary of C.S. Lewis’s classic novel. The show runs at the Peacock Theatre between 20 August and 7 September. Tickets from £15.00
For a ballet experience like no other we love the sound of Sleeping Beauty Dance & Light Show a spectacular dance and light show of classical ballet and modern technology. It’s a beautiful production you won’t want to miss! Watch this talented dancers light up the stage with a visual symphony of glittering routines and glow-in-the-dark costumes. Tickets from £37.00
And to end the month of August in style, Battersea Park in Concert is back with a series of glorious open-air summer picnic concerts during the bank holiday weekend.
Audiences of all ages are invited to experience three brand new, specially curated
outdoor concerts from the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra and their Symphonic
Disco performance on Saturday 23 August and A Night at the Movies on Sunday 24 August , both conducted by Pete Harrison and Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra alongside some special guests will conclude the holiday weekend with performances from top UK jazz talent. Tickets from £18.86. Family tickets available.
Come to enjoy a fabulous weekend at the one of the nicest London locations by the river! Alongside the music, there will be plenty of fun and free activities for children each day with the return of Kids Tipiland, plenty of food options from the food pop-up stalls and a fireworks spectacular on Sunday.
Experience an enchanting evening with André Rieu’s 2025 Maastricht Concert – Waltz the Night Away! on 30 and 31 August. Live from Vrijthof Square, this new summer event transforms the historic venue into a magical open-air ballroom for audiences of all ages to enjoy waltzing under the stars.
Waltz the Night Away! is a stunning cinema event celebrating 20 years of André’s magic concerts that enchanted over 150,000 global audiences each year.
Tickets from £20
Keep up to date with more family-friendly fun by following us on Instagram. For more ideas of things to do with the kids in London, visit our events and activities area.