Summer in the Courtyard
At the heart of Somerset House is the Edmond J. Safra Fountain Court, an unparalleled location for soaking up the sunshine in the capital. This summer, we’re serving up a series of free and affordable events with community and family at its core.
Think magnificent water fountains, family workshops and weekend takeovers from grassroots collectives.
01 – 31 AUG
BLACK UNITY BIKE RIDE WITH LIONBEAT
Celebrate this annual 17-mile ride across London at Somerset House, with entertainment courtesy of Lionbeat, who provides an energising line-up of DJs and soundsystem.
SAT 03 AUG | 11.00 – 20.00
FREE
QUEER FAMILY PICNIC WITH PXSSY PALACE
The intergenerational gathering for queer families of all ages will offer workshops including friendship bracelet making, painting and crafting with clay, perfect for little ones, plus DJs and performances.
SAT 10 AUG | 12.00 – 18.00
FREE
WORKSHOPS WITH BLACK GIRL FEST
A rejuvenating afternoon of dance with renowned choreographer Natalie Lawrensky, and breathwork and movement activations with the founder of Babes on Waves Club, Jasmine Douglas.
SUN 11 AUG | 13.00 – 17.00
FREE
DANCE UMBRELLA PRESENTS LONDON BATTLE
A day of dance and breaking showcases, workshops, live DJs and party atmosphere curated by choreographer Jade Hackett, all culminating in a head-to-head dance battle between the four corners of London.
SAT 17 AUG | 14.00 – 20.30
FREE
DAYTIMERS X REPRESENTASIAN
Joining forces for the day, this Sunday is dedicated to South Asian creativity, with music, live performance, yoga sessions and DJ sets.
SUN 18 AUG | 13.00 – 19.00
FREE
VOGUE RITES PRESENTS THE MIGHTY CROWN BALL POWERED BY ADIDAS LONDON
Marking Vogue Rites’ triumphant return to Somerset House, this unmissable Vogue Ball shines a light on the community and its remarkable talent as performers and house members compete for prizes.
SAT 24 AUG | 15.00 – 22.30
£20
FAGGAMUFFIN BLOC PARTY
You're invited to a vibrant celebration of Black Pride and LGBTQIA+ individuals of African and Caribbean heritage within the joyous context of Carnival. Expect music, dance and community spirit.
SUN 25 AUG | 18.00 – 22.30
FREE
SOMERSET HOUSE TERRACE BAR WITH SAN MIGUEL
Enjoy a taste of Spain at the perfect al-fresco riverside spot, boasting a selection of small plates by Jimmy Garcia plus a new range of diverse cocktails and San Miguel drinks.
