MUST DO: free May festivals

PARTY: Kentish Town Festival

This essential bash take place in Cantelowes Gardens. There’s a Brazilian carnival parade run by local artist Nina Gebauer, capoeira, dance and poetry workshops, food and craft stalls, live music and spoken word performances – including Strayhorn, BRUNK! and local rapper Dekay, plus special guests Wax Lyrical from the Roundhouse young creatives programme. KTCC will also be announcing the winners of the first ever Kentish Town Local Hero Awards (open for nominations until 16th May – email projects@ktcc.org.uk). More info on Twitter @KentishTownCC. Saturday 21st May, 1pm to 6pm, Busby Place, inside Cantelowes Gardens and Kentish Town Community Centre, NW5

FOOD: Indulge in gluten-free treats

The alarmingly healthy Gluten Free Festival returns to Camden with food producers and stalls selling all manner of delicacies. Expect cookery demonstrations, talks, book signings, and pop-up yoga classes for kids. Stalls include Louisiana Chilli Shack, Feed Me Primal and Happy Crepe, with Cupcakes and Shhht and Miss Poppy Cakes on afternoon tea duties. Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th May, 10am – 6pm, Middle Yard and Canalside Bar, Camden Market, NW1

FAMILY: Celebrate local creativity

Kentish Fleet Festival is the brainchild of four local churches who have joined together to run this annual jamboree since 2013. Expect creative activities and workshops on the Saturday and a ‘fun day’ and BBQ on the Sunday. Highlights include a River Fleet walking tour, knitting workshop, songwriting sessions at Map Café, a 1950s tea party, Japanese calligraphy and DJs on Saturday night at the Rose & Crown. Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th May. Full schedule of events here