The St George’s Day Festival is returning to Trafalgar Square on Monday as London prepares to mark England’s national day.
The festival will take place in the heart of the capital from 12-6pm and features an exciting array of traditional music, dance and workshops, with free entrance for the public.
Singer-songwriter Harleymoon Kemp, daughter of iconic musician Martin Kemp, is set to perform and host the event again after doing so in 2024.
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said “I’m delighted that our St George’s Day celebrations return to Trafalgar Square this month.
“Londoners and visitors can enjoy an afternoon of free, family friendly entertainment in the heart of our capital.
“It’s an event that brings our communities together and showcases all that’s brilliant about England, as we build a better London for everyone.”
St George’s Day commemorates England’s patron saint and is observed annually on 23 April, the anniversary of his death in 303 AD.
According to legend, St George slew a dragon which was terrorising an English village and rescued a princess from the beast’s clutches.
This festival’s main stage lineup boasts a variety of acts including The Nigel Grice Jazz Collective, the English Folk Dance and Song Society, south London-based dance company Bird and Gang, spoken word artist Palacio de Poetas, musical theatre group West End Kids, and harmony group Vocal Shack.
There will be some famous Pearly Kings and Queens in attendance, a relic of working-class culture in London, and a traditional morris dancing performance from the iconic Belles of London City group.
Morris dancing is an English folk dance, believed to have originated in the Medieval times, and is renowned for its rhythmic stepping, choreographed figures and the use of props such as sticks, bells and handkerchiefs.
The Belles of London City said: “We are delighted to be dancing at Monday’s celebration.
“London is a gloriously diverse city, and England’s cultural heritage is a great part of that.
“For hundreds of years, morris dancing has been taken up by the ordinary people of England as a community-focused celebration, even when it wasn’t welcomed by the establishment.
“Today we are lucky to be part of a thriving morris and folk scene happening around the country, so if you like what you see on Monday, come and ask us how you can get involved.”
There will also be a designated family zone at the event hosting a range of activities for younger attendees, including Easter Bonnet-making, The Silly Olympic Games, Hobby Horse Dressage and jousting.
Kemp said: “I can’t wait to be back this year, hosting and performing for London’s St George’s Day celebrations.
“I’m looking forward to a full day of entertainment, great food and fun for all.”
Feature image credit: Upslash
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