Black On The Square returns to Trafalgar Square on 5 September 2026
Free festival celebrates Black culture with music, food, workshops and health checks in central London
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Trafalgar Square will host the fourth edition of Black On The Square on Saturday 5 September 2026. The free festival runs from midday until 6pm and does not require advance booking. Organisers expect thousands of visitors to attend the event, which showcases Black culture through music, food and community activities.
Live music and performances
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Discount applies to Silver tickets for performances between 25 August and 26 September 2026
The main stage will feature performances from Tomorrow’s Warriors, marking 35 years of jazz education and performance. MOBO Unsung, a platform for emerging R&B and hip-hop artists, will also take part, celebrating its 30th anniversary. Notting Hill Carnival artists will perform, coinciding with the carnival’s 60th year. LatinoLife will present an Afro-Latin music showcase, including reggaeton, baile funk, merengue, bachata and salsa.
Activities for families and communities
Children and young people can take part in face painting and art workshops. Black-owned food stalls will offer dishes throughout the day, alongside live cooking demonstrations. Visitors can also play traditional games such as ludi and dominoes. Wellbeing services will include free blood pressure checks, financial advice surgeries and other community health initiatives.
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I’m delighted that Black On The Square returns to once again celebrate the incredible contribution of our Black communities. This free family event has become a key part of our cultural calendar, bringing Londoners and visitors of all backgrounds together for a showcase of how London's Black communities have shaped the sound, flavour and soul of our city for generations.
Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London
Part of Trafalgar Square’s cultural programme
Black On The Square is one of several free festivals held in Trafalgar Square each year. Other events include Diwali, Eid, St Patrick’s Day, Lunar New Year, Vaisakhi and St George’s Day. The Greater London Authority organises these events to reflect the city’s diversity and provide accessible cultural experiences.
What happens next
No further action is required from residents to attend the festival. The event will proceed on 5 September 2026, weather permitting. Organisers have not announced any changes to the planned schedule or activities. Visitors are advised to check the official Greater London Authority website for updates closer to the date.
Questions this report answers
+Do I need a ticket for Black On The Square?
No ticket is required. The festival is free to attend and runs from 12pm to 6pm on 5 September 2026 in Trafalgar Square. Organisers have confirmed no advance booking is necessary, as reported by Londonist.
+What kind of music will be performed at the festival?
The main stage will feature jazz, R&B, hip-hop, Afro-Latin music and performances linked to Notting Hill Carnival. Acts include Tomorrow’s Warriors, MOBO Unsung and LatinoLife’s Viva Sound System, according to the event line-up published by Londonist.
+Are there activities for children at Black On The Square?
Yes, the festival includes face painting and art workshops for children and young people. There will also be games such as ludi and dominoes, as well as food stalls and wellbeing services, as detailed in the event programme.
+Who organises Black On The Square?
The Mayor of London’s office organises the festival, as part of its annual cultural programme in Trafalgar Square. Sadiq Khan said the event celebrates the contribution of Black communities to London, as quoted by Londonist.
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