For those of you that’ve been feeling blue about festival season being over – we’ve got some good news. The weather Gods clearly had plans for us this autumn, because these balmy temperatures are begging for another al fresco occasion. And that’s exactly what we’re getting! Head to Stratford Cross on October 12 for Explore East, a free outdoor festival celebrating Stratford’s incredible music and dance scene.
Reserve your free space at Explore East now!
From 12pm-7.30pm, Explore East will welcome festival-goers to Endeavour Square, inviting them to experience a taste of the neighbourhood’s creative, cultural offering. Get down early and spend the day soaking up the festivities, or drop by for a post-work boogie – just make sure you don’t miss out on this day of music, dancing and delicious food and drink.
Hosted by Tiwa King, the afternoon will be jam packed with fantastic music and dance performances. The festival’s headline act, Charlie Dark of Run Dem Crew will be taking to the stage with a banging DJ set at 6.30pm. But getting you warmed up throughout the day will be The Bronte Sisters, Ruff Sqwad, Luna Marie and Stratford East Singers (to name just a few!). See the full programme of events here.
But by no means do you have to spend the day being a spectator! Dance troupe Queer Salsa will be holding interactive salsa sessions at 1pm and 2.30pm, so you can pick up some new moves. And of course, you wouldn’t be expected to dance and celebrate all day long without some of Stratford’s finest food and drink to keep you going. Explore East will be well stocked with mouth watering morsels and from an array of local traders.
Keen to stay out and about after the festival? Stratford Cross is nestled between the 80,000-capacity London Stadium, 560 acres of the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and Westfield Stratford. Here you’ll find fantastic dining, shopping and art to keep the whole family entertained.