Bartholomew Fayre neighbourhood festival
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Zine-making, puppetry workshops, poetry performances and more.
Join us for a bold and brilliant grassroots neighbourhood festival celebrating creativity, activism and togetherness, as part of Open House Festival 2025.
Across two jam-packed days, we’ll be taking over Smithfield with an exciting mix of hands-on workshops, thought-provoking talks, walking tours and live performances inspired by the anarchic joy of Bartholomew Fair.
Get stuck into everything including zine-making, puppetry workshops, music, poetry performances, arts and crafts, graffiti art and imaginative play.
Whether you’re seven or 77, there’s something for everyone – families, friends, solo wanderers, curious minds and seasoned radicals alike. Come to create, connect, share stories, and celebrate the power of our community.
Need to know
Activities for the Fayre will take place across Smithfield Rotunda Garden, St Bartholomew the Great Church and the surrounding areas. Advance booking is recommended for some activities. Capacity is limited and you may need to wait at busy times.
If you're coming to the Fayre for a pre-booked activity, please check the exact location on your booking. If you're dropping in, head to the Smithfield Rotunda Garden for an exciting programme of drop-in activities.
Please note that this is an outdoor event so check the weather before you travel and get ready to have fun in rain or sunshine!
Bartholomew Fayre is part of Open House Festival 2025 and is a partnership event between Barts Heritage, Culture Mile Business Improvement District (BID), London Museum, Smithfield Market Tenants’ Association and St Bartholomew the Great.
The Fayre is supported with public funding by Arts Council England, and with support from the City of London Corporation’s Community Infrastructure Levy Neighbourhood Fund, Cloth Restaurant, Culture Mile Business Improvement District (BID) and Smithfield Market Tenants’ Association.
