If you’ve ever wandered The National Gallery wishing you could swap the hush of the Sainsbury Wing for a bassline, this February’s your chance. On Thursday February 5, drag superstar, musician, and activist Bimini is taking over the iconic gallery for a one-night-only after-hours party that promises to blend art, music, and pure queer joy under the same roof as Van Gogh and da Vinci.
Part of Art of London’s week-long Art After Dark festival (February 3-10), the event aptly titled PARTY After Dark sees Bimini headline The National Gallery’s first-ever DJ night, joined by rising artist Mia Lily, who’ll be spinning a genre-bending, bass-heavy opener before Bimini takes crowds deep into electronic and pop-fused club sounds.
Dancing among the masterpieces with Bimini at The National Gallery
Following the Sainsbury Wing’s major revamp for the Gallery’s 200th anniversary, PARTY After Dark invites Londoners to see it in a new light – quite literally. From 8pm till midnight, the Neo-Classical halls will pulse with colour, sound, and movement as The National Gallery fuses the city’s creative past and present.
Bimini said: “The idea of performing in The National Gallery feels a bit surreal in the best way. I grew up thinking galleries were these quiet, untouchable spaces, so to walk in as a queer artist and get to make noise, take up space, and be fully myself feels really special. Art isn’t meant to sit still, it’s meant to start conversations, and if that conversation involves dancing in the same building as a Van Gogh, I’m fully here for it! Grab your tickets and I’ll see you there!”
Art After Dark: lighting up London’s West End
The National Gallery party is one highlight of the Art After Dark programme, returning this February with a bold celebration of London’s nightlife and creative energy. Curated by Art of London, the free public festival brings together world-class artists and institutions across the West End for a week of colour, rhythm, and light.
At the centre of the event is Rise & Shine, a monumental new installation by acclaimed artist Lakwena Maciver, whose kaleidoscopic tower of illuminated lightboxes in Piccadilly Circus pays homage to the city’s vibrant 1980s and 1990s club culture. Accompanied by a soundtrack of hip-hop, soul, and funk, the work invites Londoners to gather, dance, and celebrate community through art.
“Art After Dark 2026 is where music and art collide,” said Kirsty Tullett-Jones, Director of Marketing and Communications at Art of London. “From late-night gallery hops to a DJ-led after-party at The National Gallery, we want Londoners and visitors alike to feel the buzz, share the joy, and be part of something unforgettable.”
Tickets are just £5, with all proceeds supporting the Gallery’s work. But be quick – spots are limited and expected to sell out fast. Book now via The National Gallery website.