It’s an institution – nay phenomenon – in the postcode, and once again Alma Street Fair is back in Kentish Town this Saturday, June 21st. But did you know it’s been running since 2008 with only three gaps? That’s nearly two decades.
As usual there’ll be more than a hundred stalls offering food, art and crafts, coffee, cake, ice cream, and more, with a bar, of course, too. Hic. A grand parade of dancers, performers and live acts will fill both the Map Cafe Stage and main stage, as well as in the comedy tent and acoustic lounge. And as usual, local heroes the Dig It Sound System will be in full force on DJ duties.
And if you’ve always pondered its name, well, the street dates from 1856, its name commemorating the Battle Of The River Alma. Of course. Saturday June 21st, Alma Street 12–7pm. @almastreetgram
Donate just £2 to Kentishtowner
Even better, the next day you can recover a stone’s throw away over at Talacre Gardens, as it’s the return of the Windrush Homecoming Celebration 2025 with Caribbean rhythms, carnival costumes, arts, crafts, sports and delish food.
It’s totally free, and boasts a main stage with an impressive line-up of DJ’s, ska, reggae legends and special guests headlined by none other than Janet Kay, whose classic Silly Games is a bona fide Lover’s Rock anthem (and featured famously in Steve McQueen’s Lovers Rock movie, part of his excellent Small Axe series).
“Our borough is proud to be home to a generation of Windrush children,” say the organisers, “innovators, creatives, artists, musicians and disruptors who have influenced the face of modern and contemporary Britain.” This one-day, free event is your chance to celebrate their incredible legacy. 12-7pm, @lovecamden
Donate just £2 to Kentishtowner
Finally, taking place moments away from Talacre on Sunday is another example of the borough’s unparalleled diversity. Kentishtowner has supported the Black Cap’s tirelessly campaigning community since the announcement of the iconic LGBTQ venue’s closure a whole decade ago in 2015.
On Sunday they’re holding a big community picnic to “celebrate the start of refurbishment work on the Black Cap.” There’ll be music and a chance to discuss the campaign and ask questions about what comes next. “Bring friends, something to eat and drink, and something to sit on if you don’t like grass on your clothes.” 1-6pm, Castlehaven Community Park NW1 @wearetheblackcap
