Experience London’s Best Free Events This Weekend (Dec 12-14)

As the festive season approaches, many people find their budgets strained by holiday expenses. For those in London looking to enjoy the weekend without overspending, a range of free activities awaits from December 12 to 14, 2023. This guide outlines six exciting events across the city, offering festive cheer and community engagement at no cost.

Exciting Free Events Across London

The first highlight is the London Pantomime Horse Race, taking place on Sunday, December 14, at 13:00 in Greenwich. Over 40 whimsical pantomime horses will race through the streets, navigating quirky obstacles and stopping at local pubs for refueling breaks. This year’s theme, “Rockstars,” encourages participants to don creative costumes inspired by famous musicians, with performances from acts like The Fab Foals and Liam & Noel Gallopher. The event aims to raise funds for the Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital, ensuring a day filled with laughter and entertainment.

Another festive attraction is the variety of independent Christmas markets throughout the city. From December 12 to 14, visitors can explore the Monocle Christmas Market in central London, known for its charming atmosphere and real-life reindeer. Other notable markets include the Hawk’s Nest Christmas Market in the west and the Turning Earth Winter Ceramics Market in the north. The east side features the Urban Makers Market, which will host DJs and vinyls alongside the Oslo Xmas Market, and many others, each offering a unique shopping experience with free entry.

On Saturday, December 13, the 40ft Brewery will hold an Irish oyster fest from 12:00 to 20:00. While entry is free, patrons can indulge in premium oysters and enjoy freshly brewed pints. The brewery promises happy hour deals, making it a worthwhile stop for seafood lovers and those seeking a festive atmosphere enhanced by live Irish music starting at 18:00.

For those looking for a more active experience, the Tour de Sarnie pub crawl on Saturday, December 13, kicks off at 13:00. Led by a popular food blogger, this event takes participants through some of London’s beloved pubs, featuring stops for festive sandwiches and food giveaways. The crawl encourages participants to wear Christmas jumpers and enjoy a variety of culinary delights along the way, culminating in a Beigel Bake for the determined.

Another unique opportunity is presented by the Italian lager brand Peroni Nastro Azzurro, which has created a pop-up fountain on the South Bank that dispenses free lager. This grand Italian Renaissance-style fountain will operate until December 14, from 12:00 to 20:00, but visitors are encouraged to arrive early to secure their free half pint.

Lastly, community members can give back by volunteering with the Tree Musketeers on Saturday, December 13, at Millfields Park, starting at 10:00. Participants will engage in tree planting and soil enrichment efforts to enhance local green spaces. All necessary equipment will be provided, and volunteers are encouraged to bring their own gardening gloves and a warm beverage.

These events offer delightful ways to celebrate the season while keeping expenses in check. Whether racing pantomime horses, exploring festive markets, or enjoying a pint of free lager, London has something for everyone this weekend.