London events in February 2026

What’s On + The Best Things To Do

Planning a trip and looking for London events February 2026? This guide helps you plan your dates easily without the stress of missing out. Start by choosing when you’re visiting, then select your top three must-see events.

Next, match your plans to the best area to stay so you spend more time exploring and less time commuting. We highlight the top events and include easy booking options for major sporting fixtures, headline concerts, and popular shows. You’ll find the biggest highlights at the top, followed by quick categories you can scan.

For a broader February trip plan beyond the event calendar, see our London in February guide for weather, attractions, and more ideas for the month.

Last updated: 27th January 2026

London February events 2026 banner with Chinatown lanterns and West End theatre lights.China Town + London Theatre | Top London Events February 2026

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London Events In February Index

Disclaimer: Event details can change, so it’s worth double-checking the official venue or organiser page before you head out. We update this page as regularly as possible.


February 2026 Events at-a-glance

London Muslim Shopping Festival

  • Saturday 7th–Sunday 8th February 2026 • ExCeL London • Pre-Ramadan shopping event with modest fashion, halal food, and family-friendly stalls

Kew Orchids (Orchid Festival)

  • Saturday 7th February to Sunday 8th March 2026 • Kew Gardens (Princess of Wales Conservatory) • Kew’s famous Orchid Festival, a bright indoor winter highlight

Six Nations Rugby (England Home Games)

  • Saturday 7th February and Saturday 21st February 2026 • Allianz Stadium, Twickenham • England’s Six Nations home matches, big-match atmosphere

February Half-Term Week

  • Monday 16th–Friday 20th February 2026 • London (many boroughs) • Half-term week, family-focused activities and busier attractions

London Fashion Week

  • Thursday 19th to Monday 23rd February 2026 • London (multiple venues) • London Fashion Week, city-wide fashion buzz and pop-ups

Chinese New Year in London (Festival Weekend)

  • Saturday 21st to Sunday 22nd February 2026 (Official Lunar New Year falls on Tuesday 17th February) • Trafalgar Square + Chinatown (Central London) • London’s main Lunar New Year celebrations and festival weekend

Pancake Day: Inter-Livery Pancake Races

  • Tuesday 17th February 2026 • Guildhall Yard (City of London) • Inter-Livery Pancake Races, a classic quirky Shrove Tuesday tradition

BAFTA Film Awards (Ceremony Day)

  • Sunday 22nd February 2026 • Royal Festival Hall (Southbank Centre) • BAFTA Film Awards ceremony day, awards-season buzz in London

Explore further events in February in London 2026

Pick your week in 60 seconds

Pick one vibe, then build the rest of your days below for your London trip in 2026.

Step 1: Pick your “trip vibe” (choose one)

  • Festival vibes: Saturday 21st to Sunday 22nd February (big weekend energy + events)
  • Family/half-term: Monday 16th to Friday 20th February (busy attractions + kid-friendly plans)
  • Sports atmosphere: Saturday 7th or Saturday 21st February (best chances for matchday buzz)
  • Winter colour + photos: Kew Orchids: Saturday 7th February to Sunday 8th March (bright, indoor, weather-proof)

Step 2: Choose where to stay (based on priorities)

Step 3: Book the “sell-out” stuff first

  • Six Nations tickets, prime theatre seats, and timed-entry attractions (especially during half-term)
Chinatown London lanterns at dusk in February – Soho street scene for London events guide.London Chinatown Lanterns in February, Soho


Current Events in London February 2026

February offers a diverse range of events and activities for those looking to make the most of the month. Below is a list of various options to explore.

Chinese New Year

London’s biggest Lunar New Year weekend, with performances, parade energy, and a buzzing food scene around Chinatown and the West End.

Dates: Saturday 21st - Sunday 22nd February 2026

Where: Trafalgar Square, Westminster

Why go: Perfect if you want a lively day in Central London with performances, a buzzing crowd, and loads of nearby places to grab a bite.

Cost range: Free (food and markets paid)

Quick Tips Before You Go:

  • Tube: Charing Cross / Embankment / Piccadilly Circus
  • Best time: Late morning to early afternoon for the main buzz.
  • Crowd tip: Arrive early to avoid peak tube times right after major performances.

Ice Rink Canary Wharf

Skating under Canary Wharf’s skyline is one of London’s most iconic winter experiences. With fairy lights overhead and a covered rink, it’s a fun, weather-proof plan for a cosy evening out.

Dates: Saturday 25th October 2025 to Sunday 22nd February 2026

Where: Canada Square Park, Canary Wharf

Why go: Perfect if you want a classic London winter moment, it’s great for photos and feels special at night.

Cost: Paid tickets

Quick Tips Before You Go:

  • Tube: Canary Wharf (Jubilee line / Elizabeth line / DLR)
  • Best time: Weekday evenings for atmosphere, or earlier slots for fewer crowds.
  • Crowd tip: Book ahead for weekends and half-term as peak slots go quickly.

Six Nations Rugby (England Home Matches)

The Six Nations is one of the biggest sporting events of the year, and a Twickenham matchday feels like a full London occasion. Expect packed pubs and big crowds from the moment you arrive.

Dates: Saturday 7th February 2026 and Saturday 21st February 2026

Where: Allianz Stadium, Twickenham

Why go: If you want one unforgettable London sports experience, this is it; the atmosphere is on another level.

Cost: Paid Tickets

Quick Tips Before You Go:

  • Transport: Train to Twickenham (then walk/shuttle)
  • Best time: Arrive 60–90 minutes before kick-off for the full pre-match buzz.
  • Crowd tip: Plan your return from the stadium as it gets busy after the game.

Kew Orchid Festival

Kew’s Orchid Festival is a bright, tropical break from London’s February chill, all inside the warm conservatory. It’s one of the best winter picks if you want colour, calm, and great photos in a weather-proof setting.

Dates: Saturday 7th February to Sunday 8th March 2026

Where: Princess of Wales Conservatory, Kew Gardens

Why go: Perfect if you want a feel-good February outing, it’s warm indoors and seriously photogenic.

Cost: Entrance ticket to Kew Gardens

Quick Tips Before You Go:

  • Tube: Kew Gardens (District line / Overground)
  • Best time: Weekday mornings for a calmer visit.
  • Crowd tip: Half-term gets busy, so go early for the best experience.

Valentines Day

Valentine’s Day in London is made for a proper date-night plan, think cosy dinners, West End shows, night-time views, and after-dark experiences across the city. Even if you keep it simple, London feels more special during the weekend.

Event Date: Saturday 14th February 2026

Why go: Ideal if you want one memorable “London at night” plan, a show, a view, and a great meal all in one evening.

Cost range: Depends on what you book

Quick Tips Before You Go:

  • Tube: Depends on your plan (Central London is easiest for shows + dinner)
  • Best time: Early evening, as you can start with a show or viewpoint, then dinner.
  • Crowd tip: Book restaurants and theatre tickets well ahead.

Inter Livery Pancake Day Race

This is London at its quirkiest, fast and genuinely fun to catch. The Inter-Livery Pancake Race is a quick stop in the heart of the City, with costumes, cheering, and great photo moments.

Date: Tuesday 17th February 2026

Where: Guildhall Yard, City of London

Why go: A proper London-only tradition, it’s fun, fast, and perfect as a quick detour.

Cost range: Free to watch

Quick Tips Before You Go:

  • Nearest Tube: St Paul’s / Bank / Moorgate (depending on route)
  • Best time: Arrive a little early to get a decent viewing spot
  • Crowd tip: It’s short and popular — treat it as a quick stop, not a full afternoon

London Fashion Week

London Fashion Week is one of the city’s biggest creative moments, bringing designers, industry names, and fashion fans together for runway shows, presentations, and invite-only events.

Dates: Thursday 19th to Monday 23rd February 2026

Where: 180 Strand, British Fashion Council, London

Why go: Great if you want that extra city energy, with pop-ups, stylish crowds, and brilliant people-watching.

Cost range: Paid tickets for the event.

Quick Tips Before You Go:

  • Tube: Depends on venue (keep it general unless you list the main venue)
  • Best time: Afternoon into evening for the strongest atmosphere
  • Crowd tip: Soho and Covent Garden can feel busier, book restaurants ahead for Friday and Saturday evenings

BAFTA Film Awards

The BAFTAs bring awards-season buzz to London, and even if the ceremony is invite-only, the city still feels like it’s in “film mode”. It’s a great time to catch themed cinema screenings, nominee marathons, and special showings around the West End.

Date: Sunday 22nd February 2026

Where: Shown on BBC One & BBC iPlayer (UK) and E! (US)

Why go: Awards-season buzz — great excuse for themed cinema screenings and a “film weekend” vibe in London.

Cost range: Mostly £ (cinema) / Ceremony is typically invite-only

Quick Tips Before You Go:

  • Nearest Tube: Depends on cinema choice (Leicester Square is an easy base)
  • Best time: Evening (pair with dinner + a screening)
  • Crowd tip: Book popular cinemas/screens in advance for BAFTA weekend

LGBT+ history month

In the UK, February is celebrated as LGBT+ History Month. By taking part in this annual commemoration of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and non-binary history, we are urged to increase our understanding of issues affecting the LGBT+ community.

The history of LGBT+ rights and related civil rights campaigns are also included in this celebration. It aims to enhance the acceptance of a society that is safer and more accepting of people with a wide range of sexual orientations and gender identities.

Dates: All through February 2026

Why go: A full month of talks, exhibitions and events celebrating LGBT+ history, culture, and community in London.

Cost range: Free–££ (varies by venue/event)

Quick Tips Before You Go:

  • Tube: Depends on the venue (many events are Central and East London)
  • Best time: Evenings and weekends (best for talks + screenings)
  • Crowd tip: Some smaller venues require booking — reserve free tickets where offered

Sports During February 2026

February is a strong month for sport in London because the city is fully back in season after the festive period. You’ll usually find a good mix of football, rugby, and indoor sport, with plenty happening on weeknights—ideal if you’re planning an itinerary around a show, a museum visit, and a live match in the evening.

What you can typically expect in London in February:

  • Football (Premier League + cups): London’s biggest clubs often have fixtures throughout February, with a mix of league matches and cup ties.
  • Rugby (Six Nations atmosphere): February is a prime time for rugby fans, with busy pubs and matchday crowds adding to the atmosphere.
  • Indoor sport: When the weather is chilly, indoor venues often host basketball, darts, and other arena events, alongside one-off tournaments and exhibition games.

If your goal is to catch one standout sporting moment, February is a reliable choice—there’s usually something on most weeks. Just keep in mind that exact schedules can change due to TV selections and cup progress.

To make planning quicker, I’ve included a sports ticket widget below showing sporting events happening in February 2026. You can browse what’s on, compare dates, and click through to check availability and prices.

    Natural History Museum London Hintze Hall crowd.Inside Natural History Museum (South Kensington)

    What’s on in February by category

    Here’s what’s worth doing in London in February 2026, grouped by category so you can skim it fast and start shaping your days.

    Kick off with the free museums, then pick one bookable highlight such as an exhibition, show, concert or comedy show based on your vibe and budget. If you spot a ticket widget, use it as your shortcut to check dates, prices, and availability in seconds.

    museums (mostly free)

    Perfect for a first day in London (and ideal in cold or wet weather).

    • British Museum (free)
    • National Gallery (free)
    • Tate Modern (free)
    • V&A (free)
    • Natural History Museum (free)
    • Science Museum (free)

    Want more options? Explore my guide to London’s best museums (by area + interests).

    Exhibitions (Limited-Time)

    • Samurai (British Museum, Bloomsbury) — Tuesday 3rd February to Monday 4th May 2026
    • Water Pantanal Fire (Science Museum, South Kensington) — Friday 6th February to Sunday 31st May 2026 (free)
    • Seeds of Exchange: Canton and London in the 1700s (Garden Museum, Lambeth) — Wednesday 11th February to Sunday 10th May 2026
    • Lucian Freud: Drawing into Painting (National Portrait Gallery, West End) — Thursday 12th February to Monday 4th May 2026

    Comedy (Best Nights)

    • Garry Starr: Classic Penguins (Garrick Theatre) — Sunday 1st to Sunday 22nd February 2026
    • The Lily Foundation Comedy Gala (The Comedy Store, Leicester Square) — Monday 2nd February 2026 (8:00 pm)
    • Dead Ringers: 25th Anniversary Tour (London Palladium) — Monday 2nd February 2026
    • I’m Sorry, Prime Minister (Apollo Theatre) — Friday 30th January to Saturday 9th May 2026

    Concerts & Live Music

    • BBC Symphony Orchestra: Oramo conducts Stravinsky & Lindberg (Barbican Hall) — Friday 6th February 2026 (19:30)
    • LSO: Debussy, Berg & Rachmaninoff (Barbican) — Thursday 26th February 2026 (19:00)
    • Tōru Takemitsu: Between Sound and Silence (Southbank Centre) — Saturday 28th February 2026 (19:00)
    • Morrissey (The O2 Arena) — Saturday 28th February 2026 (18:30)
      Lyceum Theatre London Lion King.The Lion King at Lyceum Theatre London West End

      Theatre, musicals & live entertainment

      Why February is great: cosy nights, strong midweek availability, and loads of first-timer classics.

      Popular long-running picks:

      • The Lion King
      • Wicked
      • The Phantom of the Opera
      • Les Misérables
      • Hamilton
      • ABBA Voyage

      Booking tip: Midweek is usually easier (and often better value) than Friday and Saturday.

      Want what’s on during your dates? Use the widget below to browse February 2026 shows and book tickets (I display a few highlights, with more available inside the widget).

      Show schedules and availability can change, so always double-check dates and times before booking.

        Practical planning so your trip runs smoothly

        Where to stay:

        • First-timers: Covent Garden, Soho, South Bank
        • Best connections: King’s Cross/St Pancras, Paddington, London Bridge
        • Better value: Canary Wharf, Greenwich, Stratford (fast links into Central)

        Contactless/Oyster is easiest: Tube for speed, buses for sightseeing.

        February weather tip: Cold + damp is common — pack layers, a warm waterproof jacket, and comfy shoes.

        Booking tips (simple + effective):

        • Theatre: Midweek = easier tickets and sometimes cheaper
        • Kew Orchids: timed entry can apply — reserve early
        • Six Nations: tickets and travel sell quickly
        • Chinese New Year weekend: plan your route + arrive early
        Paddington Station London entrance with people walking.London Paddington Station Entrance

        Choose the best time to go in February

        • Want the biggest buzz? Aim for festival weekends (Chinese/Lunar New Year + city pop-ups).
        • Want fewer crowds? Choose midweek and avoid half-term.
        • Travelling with kids? Plan around half-term week and book early.
        • Want winter colour indoors? Kew Orchids is your safest February win.
        • Sports atmosphere? If England play at home, Twickenham matchday is the big one.

        London Events In February FAQs

        What are the best free events in London in February 2026?

        In February 2026, the biggest free, event-led moment is the Chinese New Year weekend (21st to 22nd February), with central London performances and street celebrations. For free exhibitions and event-style programming, check what major museums and venues are running that month (openings, talks, late sessions) and treat these as your “free, ticketed-feel” highlights.

        Is February a good time to visit London?

        Yes! February is a strong month to visit London for what’s on. Expect Chinese New Year, a full schedule of West End shows, plus plenty of concerts, exhibitions, and sports tournaments, often with better midweek availability than peak months.

        When is February half-term in London in 2026?

        For most boroughs, half-terms fall between Monday 16th and Friday 20th February 2026.

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        Benjamin and Albert Magro, frequent London travellers from Malta

        We're Benjamin and Albert, frequent London travellers from Malta, sharing first-hand tips from 7 visits across the city. We help you use London transport, find shows, food, shopping, classic sights, and lesser-known areas through simple, practical guidance on the London Info Guide. You can also follow our wider Travel Info Guide community on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram, plus London Info Guide on Pinterest. Our goal is to make London easier to understand before you arrive.