Wandsworth’s year as London Borough of Culture starts today  

Wandsworth’s year in the spotlight was celebrated last night at the Royal Albert Hall during the Brighter Sounds schools’ concert, where the 1,000-strong Wandsworth Primary Choir, accompanied by the Wandsworth Philharmonic Orchestra, gave a choral rendition of 'Welcome to Wandsworth'.

The year will feature an exciting programme of major events, plus community-led art, culture and wellbeing events all over the borough.

The first major event will be on 26 April with the borough’s biggest ever dance event, Strictly Wandsworth. Hosted by Oli Mabuse and featuring a DJ set from Gok Wan, Strictly Wandsworth will bring Bollywood, Lindy-hop, line dancing and breakdancing to Battersea Park.

The day will feature hundreds of performers and a chance to take part in a mass dance finale for all.

Free tickets are available tomorrow (Wednesday) morning at 9am. Sign up to the mailing list to get exclusive early access to tickets.

Other major events throughout the year include:

• Battersea Park in Concert, including performances by Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
• The biggest ever Wandsworth Arts Fringe featuring theatre, dance, music, cabaret, community events, comedy and more in venues across the borough
• The Wandsworth Heritage Festival celebrating the borough’s rich history
• Happy Streets, a free family arts festival in Battersea
• Urban Flow, turning Roehampton into a living stage with dance, martial arts and live soundscapes
• The Liberty Festival, spotlighting and celebrating D/deaf, disabled and neurodivergent artists
• Wandsworth Artists' Open House, a chance to visit artists in their own homes and studios
• The Palace of Varieties, celebrating the Clapham Grand’s 125th birthday

Led by Wandsworth Council in partnership with local people and organisations, Welcome to Wandsworth features hundreds of cultural events and creative initiatives in every corner of the borough, celebrating our heritage and our diverse communities with a pioneering focus on the power of culture to improve health and wellbeing.

Other highlights include a brand-new radio drama series, The Wandsworth Way, giving local people a chance to get involved in storytelling, performance and production. A bit like the Archers, it will tell the story of everyday Wandsworth folk.

Meanwhile community events have already started, including art exhibitions at Bloom Gallery and WIP Space, and a production at Battersea Arts Centre. Search London Borough of Culture 2025 events.

Deputy Council Leader Kemi Akinola said: "It’s here! We are beyond excited to London Borough of Culture 2025 and we can’t wait to see everyone getting involved. Check out the website to see what’s on near you, or find out how you can be one of our volunteer Culture Heroes.”

Deputy Mayor for Culture and the Creative Industries, Justine Simons OBE, said: “A year of great culture is kicking off in Wandsworth as they take on the crown as the Mayor of London’s Borough of Culture.

“Culture can unleash the potential of the next generation and as part of the year, young Londoners will even get to perform at iconic venues like the Royal Albert Hall.

"Everyone is welcome and creativity will spring from every corner of the borough, as we build a better London for all."

Visit the Welcome to Wandsworth website