A collection of free festivals hosted in parks and squares across Bexley and Greenwich is set to return this summer, writes Lily Erwood…
Local families can expect live music and theatre performances, dance and craft workshops, and a wide range of street food across numerous events.
Venues hosting the Summer in the Park picnics include Danson House, Maryon Park, Gallions Park, and Greenwich Park.
Hosted by Arts Trust, who aim to provide positive, accessible activities for young people, each event is free to attend.
Summer in the Park picnics
The first of the series of picnics will take place from 11am – 4pm on the 22nd June, in Bexley’s Danson House.
Maryon Park Picnic: from 1pm – 6pm on Sunday 29th June
Gallions Park Picnic: from 1-6 on Saturday 5th July
Kids can improve their plate spinning and tight-rope skills with circus workshops held on the 22nd June, 29th June, and Saturday 5th July.
Greenwich Park Picnic: held on Saturday 12th July and Sunday 13th July from 10am – 6pm
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Attendees of the Greenwich Park picnic will receive performances from Aiden Grimshaw, Jamie Grey, She’Koyokh and the Askew Sisters.
Families are encouraged to bring their own refreshments, blankets and chairs to enjoy alongside open air theatre and music performances.
Each Summer in the Park picnic will take place outdoors and the events are not ticketed.
Free rollerskating lessons and silent disco
The flagship Silent Disco ‘SkateJam’ and Street Food festival will return at a larger scale this year, taking place over four Sundays from May to August in Cygnet Square.
Beginners of all ages and abilities are encouraged to join in. Free skates are provided and professional skaters will be overseeing the operation!
This grassroots initiative won the 2025 London Sports Community Impact Award, recognised for its work in contributing to a 25% drop in youth-related crime during programme weekends, as well as enhancing fitness and reducing social isolation.
The key dates to attend the free skating events are:
Sunday 18th May from 4pm – 8pm
Sunday 15th June from 4pm – 8pm
Sunday 27th July from 4pm – 8pm
Sunday 24th August from 4pm – 8pm
