Chrisp Street Festival of Britain Celebrations

Celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Festival of Britain at Chrisp Street on Saturday 27 June.

Part of the London Festival of Architecture, this free community event brings together artists, cultural organisations and local creatives from across East London for a day of workshops, performances, talks and interactive activities. Inspired by Chrisp Street’s Festival-era architecture and its rich local history, the programme explores the theme of belonging—celebrating the cultures, communities and creativity that continue to shape East London today.

Please RSVP to the event to receive updates and reminders. You do not need a ticket in order to attend the event

If you have any questions then please email our Events Team - [email protected]

Please see our programme below, please note that this is subject to change. We can't wait to see you for the event!

About the Festival of Britain and Chrisp Street

The Festival of Britain took place in 1951, celebrating Britain’s recovery after the Second World War and showcasing new ideas in architecture, design, science and culture. While the main festival site was on London’s South Bank, its spirit of optimism and renewal shaped development across the capital.

Chrisp Street Market was created in this same post-war moment as part of the Lansbury Estate – a pioneering housing and town planning project built for the Festival of Britain. Designed as one of the UK’s first purpose-built pedestrian shopping streets, Chrisp Street embodied the Festival’s vision for modern, community-focused neighbourhoods. Today, its distinctive architecture and lively market continue to reflect that legacy.

About Chrisp Street events

Taking place on Saturday 27th July, and Saturday 29th August, our Summer series of events celebrate Poplar’s culture, creative heritage, amazing community and brilliant local businesses who will be serving up your favourite food, drinks and treats for you to purchase.

These free to attend events celebrate Chrisp Street and East London's culture, creative heritage, amazing community and brilliant local businesses. The events are brought to you by Telford Living, and include music, dance, entertainment, workshops and creative activities for all to enjoy.

Make sure you follow and subscribe to our Chrisp Street events page here, and receive updates on peformers and activities, and event reminders.

We are transforming some blank hoardings into a community graffit wall to celebrate Chrisp Street and the theme of 'belonging'. Drop by the workshop to learn some simple techniques and aadd to this pop peice of artwork.

East London Dance bring together two of their dance classes; Leap of Faith (Aged 50+ dancers), and the East London Youth Dance Company.

They have been especially commissioned to perform a peice that explores the theme of 'belonging' over the from the Festival of Britain celebrations in 1951 to present day.

Come down to the '1951 Zone' at East India Square, where you can meet some of London's iconic Pearly Kings & Queens.

Info: 1951 Zone Specialising in Andrews Sisters-style close harmonies, this trio will bring timeless classics to life with elegance and charm. Expect classic favourites including, The Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy and Don't Sit Under the Apple Tree.

Info: 1951 Zone

Watch the Swing Patrol dancers Lindy hop, and then join them for a boogie!

Info: Nothing brings people together like a singalong around the piano. Enter Variety Bunker Singalong!

Singalong with Mister Meredith on the piano and Miss Em leading everyone in song to some classics such as , “Consider Yourself” and “Don’t Dilly Dally”.

Info: Your last chance of the day to experience this shared sense of belonging and joy as our event comes to a close.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Chrisp Street Market, Market Square, London, United Kingdom

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

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