What’s on this May in Spitalfields

30/04/2026

From art-filled Bank Holiday browsing to open-air dancing, community pop-ups and feel-good afternoons, Spitalfields has plenty to look forward to this May. Whether you’re planning a weekend visit or just looking for a reason to stop by, here’s what’s on across the month.

Discover the Spitalfields Arts Market

Friday 1 May to Monday 4 May 2026.

Looking for unique art in London this May? Head to the Spitalfields Arts Market on Market Street, where creativity will take centre stage. Bringing together both emerging and established artists, the market will showcase everything from bold oil paintings and contemporary prints to handcrafted ceramics and inspiring photography. Every piece has a story and one of the joys of visiting is being able to hear it directly from the artists themselves.

Whether you’re searching for a statement artwork, a thoughtful gift or simply a little weekend inspiration, you’ll find something to suit every taste.

Meet Spitalfields City Farm

20^th May

Spitalfields City Farm will host a special pop-up, offering visitors the chance to speak to the team and meet some of the animals, including guinea pigs and chickens. Visit them to learn more about the farm’s work and enjoy a small slice of countryside in the city. The wider farm itself is just a short distance from the market, and is open to visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, with free entry.

Dance into the afternoon with Tango Fever

24^th May 1pm to 5pm

Tango-Fever will return to Spitalfields this May with another of its much-loved free outdoor milongas in Bishops Square. Taking place from 13:00 to 17:00, the event will give Londoners the chance to enjoy tango dancing, whether you’re a seasoned dancer or complete beginner. Tango-Fever is both welcoming and social, with no booking required and no partner needed.

Step into a bygone era with the Tea Dance!

27^th May 12:30pm to 2:30pm.

For something a little more nostalgic, the Tea Dance will return to Spitalfields on 27 May. Held in Crispin Place, this free monthly gathering will transport visitors back to the elegant dance halls of decades past, with music from the acclaimed New Covent Garden Orchestra. From the foxtrot and quickstep to the cha-cha, it promises to be an afternoon full of charm, rhythm and community spirit. The Tea Dance is open to all ages and all abilities, whether you want to take to the floor or simply enjoy the music and atmosphere.

Mr Bombay hosts a special May pop-up

24^th May 11am to 3pm

Mr Bombay is teaming up with The Sipologist for a special one-day pop-up at Spitalfields Market, with visitors invited to meet Priyesh Bathia, one of the final five contestants from BBC’s The Apprentice 2026. Running from 11am to 3pm, the event will bring together Mr Bombay’s much-loved Indian street food with The Sipologist’s craft mocktails for a lively Bank Holiday weekend stop. Expect bold flavours, a fun atmosphere and even free samosas for the first 150 customers, making this a great one to add to your May plans!  Reserve a spot here.

Celebrate Africa at Spitalfields

 25^th May 10am to 5pm

Pop Up Africa at Spitalfields will return on Bank Holiday Monday, bringing a vibrant all-day takeover to Spitalfields Market. The free event will feature up to 60 stalls spanning fashion, beauty, accessories, books, art and more, all inspired by the richness and diversity of African cultures.

Alongside shopping, visitors can expect live music, short films by African filmmakers, interactive crafts workshops by Caramel Rock and plenty of delicious food, creating a lively, family-friendly atmosphere throughout the day. This year’s event will also shine a light on bridging the gap between the diaspora and the continent, with dedicated Rwanda and Lagos pavilions showcasing brands from across Africa.

Pop Up Africa has also partnered with Illume and The British Council as part of Creative DNA Rwanda, with four participating businesses set to showcase their work at the event.

Footprints: The Herd of Hope Free Walking Tour

Series starts 25th May

Looking for free things to do in Spitalfields? Join Sheldrick Wildlife Trust UK as they launch The Herd of Hope Walking Tour, a series of free guided walks through Spitalfields Market, come rain or shine. The striking public art installation features over 20 life-size bronze elephants that have been part of Spitalfields since 2020, with each sculpture representing a real orphaned elephant rescued and rehabilitated in Kenya.

Created by acclaimed artists Gillie and Marc, the sculptures bring powerful stories of wildlife conservation, community and coexistence to the heart of East London. Whether you’re planning a day out in Spitalfields, looking for unique art in London or searching for free family-friendly activities, spaces are going fast, so book your free ticket to experience one of London’s most inspiring public art installations like never before.

The first tours are on Bank Holiday Monday, 25^th May 2026 at 1pm and 3pm.

Discover the rescues, Keepers and communities at the heart of African elephant conservation by booking your space here.

Make sure to keep an eye across our socials and the Spitalfields app for more news and updates across all May events!