Lauderdale House Jazz
The 16th century Highgate landmark Lauderdale House’s popular Jazz in the House season is currently in full swing. World-class performers play every Thursday night in the historic gallery spaces looking out over lovely, leafy Waterlow Park. Expect a cutting-edge programme of talented artists demonstrating thoroughly modern jazz every week, featuring the likes of Stan Sulzman, David Gordon, Juliet Kelly, Art Themen and Matt Ridley.
Fashion Re:Boot
This popular social event for buying and selling exciting new wardrobe items comes to north London for the very first time next Friday. Ideally suited for those who love a fashion-focused car-boot sale, but without a car or muddy field in sight. Instead the night promises to focus on beauty, bargains and bubbles. Look out for stylists, boutique owners and journalists all selling their pre-loved clothes at very affordable prices, or join them with a rail of your own. £5 entry comes with a free Adnams G&T (for the first 100) plus there’s lots more to eat and drink for sale too.
Fair in the Square
Pond Square’s annual jamboree is one of the best urban fairs around, with all manner of quality craft stalls, fairground rides and music performances taking place under the trees. Special mention for the popular sheep shearing show and the roaming stilt walkers too, and there’s masses to keep the kids occupied in their very own tent while you get stuck into the smorgasbord of international streetfood options.
Highgate Festival
A cluster of Highgate-related organisations – from the Neighbourhood Form to the School – are planning a longer celebration of all things local in early July, reviving a festival that hasn’t been taken place for a while. With performances, walks, design workshops and exhibitions, there’s plenty promised. Look out for a special installation celebrating historic females associated with the area, as the Highgate Literary and Scientific Archives will ‘wage war against forgetfulness and a history of male success’ by showcasing women from activists to architects, book sellers to novelists at locations throughout the village.
