Halloween Happenings
October in Kensington and Notting Hill is a magical time when the streets are bathed in golden autumn light and the neighbourhoods gear up for the spooky season. With Halloween just around the corner, there are a wide range of festive activities to enjoy. From immersive treasure hunts and captivating exhibitions, here’s your guide to some exciting upcoming events.
Halloween Family Fun:
High Street Kensington – More information here
Haunted Halloween Hunt
When: 25th – 31st October
High Street Kensington have a packed line-up of spooky family activities and events over October half-term and much of it is free. There will be a giant inflatable looming over the tube station, spooky street theatre and a ‘win-a-treat’ Halloween hunt through the streets.
Halloween at the Farmers Market, Jubilee Square
When: 27th October, 11am -2pm
Explore the family-inspired Autumnal farmers’ in Phillimore Walk. On this date the usual Sunday farmers market offers autumnal food, craft activities, pumpkin decorating and face painting.
Kensington’s Hallows’ Eve, Church Walk
When: 31st October, 5 – 7pm
Hallow’s Eve itself, drop by for a free extravaganza of spooky street theatre with entertainers galore and trick-or-treating.
Library spooktacular
North Kensington Library – Ladbroke Grove
How to book: There’s no need to book a place, just turn up.
Price: Free
Make some spooky Halloween crafts at the Library. There will be ghosts and skeletons and maybe even some slime! This event is suitable for children of all ages.
Electric Cinema
Portobello and White City – More information here
The Electric Cinema is located in Portobello Rd and is described as one of London’s oldest purpose-built cinemas. It is a beautiful and unique venue to enjoy spooky films during the Halloween period.
Move and Sketch in Kensington Gardens
Date: Sunday, 20 October 2024
Time: 10:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Join Trapped in Zone One for a creative walk in Kensington Gardens. Sketch the towering 6-metre-tall Yayoi Kusama ‘Pumpkin’ sculpture near the Round Pond, on display until 3 November. Afterward, explore the historic Kensington Palace, including the magnificent King’s and Queen’s State Apartments.
The World of Tim Burton at The Design Museum
Date: 25 October 2024 – 21 April 2025
Delve into the dark and whimsical world of visionary filmmaker Tim Burton at The Design Museum. Running until March 2025, this must-see exhibition is a journey through Burton’s unique career, showcasing iconic artwork, character designs, and concept sketches from his most beloved films like Edward Scissorhands, The Nightmare Before Christmas, and Beetlejuice. Visitors can explore the surreal and gothic imagination that has inspired Burton’s distinctive storytelling.
For a special Halloween twist, pair your visit with the Strange Designs workshop for children (ages 8-11) on 31 October, where they can create their own eerie designs inspired by Burton’s world. Whether you’re a fan of his films or an art lover, this exhibition is a perfect way to immerse yourself in Tim Burton’s magical, yet eerie, universe.