As spring reaches its peak, London in May 2025 becomes a vibrant tapestry of events, offering a plethora of experiences for locals and visitors alike. From tantalizing food festivals and captivating art exhibitions to dynamic theatre performances and lively music festivals, the city buzzes with energy and creativity. Here's your ultimate guide to the must-attend events this May.
Food Festivals & Culinary Delights
SicilyFEST London
📅 Dates: May 1–4
📍 Location: Business Design Centre, Islington
Immerse yourself in Sicilian culture with authentic street food, regional wines, and artisanal products. Enjoy live music, cooking demonstrations, and a vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere.
Free From Festival
📅 Dates: May 24–25
📍 Location: Woolwich Works, The Fireworks Factory
The UK's only gluten- and dairy-free food festival returns, featuring allergen-friendly treats, cooking demos, and wellness talks. Ideal for those with dietary restrictions or seeking healthier options.
Foodies Festival – Syon Park
📅 Dates: May 24–26
📍 Location: Syon Park, London
Known as the UK's biggest food festival, it features top chefs, live music, workshops, and a vast array of food stalls. A perfect day out for food enthusiasts.
Natural Food Expo 2025
📅 Dates: May 12–13
📍 Location: ExCeL London
Explore the forefront of natural and organic products at this community-centric expo, featuring plant-based, free-from, and ethical food innovations.
Art Exhibitions & Cultural Highlights
Ed Atkins at Tate Britain
📅 Until: August 25
Experience a comprehensive survey of Ed Atkins' career, showcasing 15 years of work spanning computer-generated videos, animations, sculpture, installation, sound, painting, and drawing.
Do Ho Suh at Tate Modern
Explore Do Ho Suh's architectural installations that delve into the concept of home and identity, offering a deeply personal reflection on contemporary life.
London Craft Week 2025
📅 Dates: May 12–18
Celebrate craftsmanship with over 400 events across the city, including exhibitions, workshops, and demonstrations in various disciplines such as ceramics, textiles, and furniture design.
Theatre & Performance Arts
Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre
📅 Season Begins: May
Enjoy the launch of the 2025 season with the Tony award-winning musical "Shucked," set in the enchanting outdoor setting of Regent’s Park.
Sasha Waltz's "In C" at Southbank Centre
📅 Until: May 3
Experience a dynamic dance interpretation of Terry Riley's minimalist masterpiece "In C," blending orchestral music with innovative choreography.
Music Festivals & Live Performances
Field Day Festival
📅 Date: May 24
📍 Location: Brockwell Park, South London
One of the UK’s most influential music festivals returns with a bold lineup of electronic, indie, and experimental music acts, alongside craft food and immersive art installations.
La Linea – The London Latin Music Festival
📅 Until: May 3
Celebrate the rich diversity of Latin music with live performances, dance nights, and cultural collaborations across various London venues.
Seasonal Attractions & Outdoor Events
Chelsea Flower Show
📅 Dates: May 20–24
📍 Location: Royal Hospital Chelsea
The RHS Chelsea Flower Show is the crown jewel of the UK gardening calendar, featuring breathtaking garden designs, floral art, and sustainable planting ideas.
Canalway Cavalcade
📅 Dates: May 3–5
📍 Location: Little Venice
This colourful boating festival brings narrowboats, market stalls, live music, and family entertainment to West London’s charming canals.
Special Markets & Pop-Up Events
Alex Eagle’s Designer Car Boot Sale
📅 Date: May 19
Fashion meets philanthropy at this ultra-chic event supporting Women for Women International, offering designer pieces at bargain prices.
🌟 Conclusion
London in May is bursting with life—whether you're soaking up the sounds of live music at historic venues, wandering through fragrant blooms at the Chelsea Flower Show, sampling local flavours at vibrant street food markets, or catching world-class performances in the open air. With something happening around every corner, it’s the perfect time to explore the capital. For a truly comfortable and convenient stay, book your accommodation with Pass the Keys—we offer handpicked homes across London that give you the ideal base for your spring adventures.