What’s on in Spitalfields this September 2026

11/09/2026

From open-air dancing and community book events to student offers and new seasonal flavours, Spitalfields has plenty to enjoy this September. Whether you’re looking for free things to do in East London, planning a catch-up with friends or searching for your next great read, here’s what’s on across the month.

Dance into the afternoon with Tango-Fever
Sunday 13 September, 1pm to 5pm

Tango-Fever returns to Bishop’s Square for another free afternoon of outdoor dancing. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced dancer, the session is all about learning, moving and soaking up the atmosphere.

All ages and abilities are welcome, with no need to book or bring a partner. Simply turn up, take to the floor or sit back and watch the dancing unfold.

Get cosy with Jane Austen at Main Character Books
Tuesday 15 September, from 6:30pm

Main Character Books’ Cosy Classics Club is turning its attention to Jane Austen this autumn, beginning with Sense and Sensibility. Join fellow readers at the Spitalfields Market bookshop for an evening of discussion, games and community, with refreshments available in store.

Welcome and chat begins at 6:30pm, followed by the club activity from 7pm to 8pm and time to mingle until 8:30pm. With the new Sense and Sensibility film arriving in UK cinemas later in the month, it’s the perfect time to revisit the much-loved classic. Tickets start from £6.

Step back in time at the Tea Dance
Wednesday 16 and Wednesday 30 September, 12:30pm to 2:30pm

The Tea Dance returns to Crispin Place twice this September, with the final session of the season taking place on Wednesday 30 September. Accompanied by the New Covent Garden Orchestra, these free afternoons bring live music and classic ballroom dancing to the heart of Spitalfields.

From the foxtrot and quickstep to the cha-cha, everyone is welcome to get involved. Come along to dance, learn a few new steps or simply enjoy the music and atmosphere.

Sip, shop and style at Astrid & Miyu
Saturday 19 September

Head to Astrid & Miyu at 6 Market Street for an afternoon of complimentary drinks, jewellery styling and stacking. Visitors can enjoy 20% off plated jewellery and 10% off titanium piercing experiences, plus a small surprise from the team.

Whether you’re planning your next piercing or refreshing your ring stack, it’s a lovely excuse for a little end-of-summer retail therapy. Terms and conditions apply.

Settle in for a Bond movie night at Double O
Monday 21 September, 9pm

Double O Martini Bar is launching a new movie-night series dedicated to the iconic James Bond films, with the first screening taking place on Monday 21 September.

Settle in for an evening of classic espionage on the big screen in surroundings designed to feel timeless, elegant and theatrical. Pair the film with one of the bar’s signature martinis, shaken or stirred, naturally.

The film title and future screening dates are still to be revealed, so keep an eye on Double O’s Instagram for the latest details.

The Spitalfields Children’s Book Drive – Give pre-loved stories a new chapter
Running until Wednesday 30 September

Help more children discover the joy of reading by supporting the Spitalfields children’s book drive in aid of the Children’s Book Project. New and gently used children’s books are being collected throughout September, with Main Character Books hosting the on-site donation point.

Simply bring a book with you on your next visit and help give a pre-loved story a new chapter.

Find your next read at the Sunday Book Swap
Sunday 27 September, 11am to 12pm

Give your bookshelf a refresh at the September Sunday Book Swap at Main Character Books. Bring up to five gently used romance novels to rehome and browse a new selection of love stories shared by fellow readers.

Tickets cost £10 and include a pastry with a coffee or tea, making this a relaxed way to meet other romance fans while discovering something new to take home.

Celebrate Threshing Day with Main Character Books
Tuesday 29 September

Calling all Empyrean fans: Main Character Books is marking the release of Rebecca Yarros’ Threshing Day with a special pickup party and indie exclusives. The new companion collection features 13 stories about favourite characters and their dragons, offering readers a return trip to the world of Fourth Wing while they wait for the next main-series novel.

Find out more and reserve your copy ahead of release day.

Make the most of September offers at Spitalfields

Heading back to university in East London? Two Roosters is helping students settle into the new term with a free bowl of warming bone broth soup with any plate purchased, available during evenings and weekends.

From Monday 21 to Sunday 27 September, freshers can also enjoy 50% off matcha and hojicha at JENKI. Simply download the JENKI app and register to unlock the offer.

Kick-start the weekend at Players Social with three spritzes for £20 when you order a portion of chips, available all day every Friday. The offer continues on Saturdays and Sundays from 12-3pm, when visitors can enjoy three spritzes for £20 with any dish from the brunch menu.

For one last taste of summer, Brother Marcus has introduced a new seasonal special: a chargrilled gurnard skewer served with a rich pepper and leek sauce.

Enjoy midweek offers at ALFI

Make it a date at ALFI with offers to enjoy throughout the week. On Spritz Tuesdays, order a spritz and enjoy any pizza for £10, available all day.

Wine Wednesdays bring five glasses of wine for £20 with any main between 5pm and 9pm, while Margs Fridays serve up a Margherita pizza and margarita cocktail for £15 all day.

Make sure to keep an eye on our social channels and the Spitalfields app for the latest news, offers and event updates throughout September.