London Literature Festival
For the eleventh consecutive year The Southbank Centre will once again come alive with respected poets, authors, speakers and literary buffs. The London Literature Festival will include such workshops and talks from a diverse range of talent that includes acclaimed author Philip Pullman, Hollywood royalty Tom Hanks, photographer Annie Liebovitz and feminist and poet Rebecca Solnit. With the intention of reminding us of our shared humanity on this planet, this year’s festival opens fittingly on the 50th birthday of Poetry International.
Southbank Centre, October 13 – November 1
www.southbankcentre.co.uk/whats-on/festivals-series/london-literature-festival
PAD London
Set in Mayfair’s eclectic heart, PAD is the city’s leading fair for 20th Century art and design. Set in a boutique environment, the event will bring together collectors, art consultants, museum experts, interiors specialists, design practitioners, as well as members of the public. Prominent international galleries from major cities across Europe, North America and Asia come together to offer an exceptional panorama of the most coveted and iconic works available on the market today. PAD is a place to discover and acquire pieces of museum quality with a distinct history.
Berkely Square, October 2 – 8
The Chocolate Show at Olympia
The UK’s biggest celebration of chocolate will hit London on October 13th. Guests will be able to try unique specialties from across the globe. Over 100 artisan chocolatiers will descend on Olympia to showcase their sweet treats, truffles, ice creams and expertly made patisserie. An event that’s sure to delight young and old, you can marvel at towering chocolate sculptures, take part in interactive events and enjoy demonstrations from a host of celebrity authorities on the magnificent cocoa plant. There’s even a pop-up chocolate restaurant so you can start making room now.
Olympia National Hall, October 13 – 15
http://www.thechocolateshow.co.uk
Dance Umbrella
This annual festival of dance is a rare opportunity to witness innovative performances in some of London’s most unusual and iconic spaces, from shipping containers to world-renowned venues. It also features a carefully crafted programme of workshops, talks, exhibitions and screenings that are sure to please even the most uncoordinated of us.
Across London, October 11 – 28
BFI London Film Festival
A huge celebration of international cinema from the last year, BFI London Film Festival returns for its 61st year. A mixture of galas, presentations, exclusive talks, competitions, this year’s event will feature a host of influential people, from Jake Gyllenhaal to Takashi Miike. The festival will open with Andy Serkis’ directorial debut “Breathe” starring Andrew Garfield and Claire Foy.
Across London, October 4 – 15
