London has lots of places that you would want to see and activities you would want to be a part of. So plan your visit together with the City’s Top 10 annual events and take your vacation to whole new level! Brace yourself for what London has to offer and bear witness to the world famous London experience.

New Year’s Day Parade

There are over 10,000 performers parading across the streets up and about west of London. This parade of London’s New Year celebration is the biggest of its kind in the world. The parade begins all the way from Parliament Square and ends on Green Park. It will be passing by London’s greatest locations - places like Trafalgar, Piccadilly and White Hall.

Then there is the Borough Entry competition where over 32 boroughs proudly exhibit the best from their area - acknowledging the heroes of each borough. The contest adds even more excitement to the festivities. This tradition had begun in 1987 and ever since became part of London’s cultural scene.

Below: The New Year’s Day Parade is probably the best of all London festivals

Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race

Once spring hits, the Thames bears witness to one of the most popular sports events in the city. The Cambridge University Boat Club and The Oxford University Boat Club speed up their boats against each other. The competition tests the endurance and resolve of each team as they paddle their way in the might of Thames. This is an event that had been traditionally watched by over 120 million people in the world. It is a constant reminder of human spirit and unity - making it one of London’s more celebrated events.

Below: Boat race in London

London Marathon

The London Marathon is held during April. It is one of the biggest in the world and is London’s biggest annual socio-sporting event. There is an average of around 30,000 participants each year. And it had been officially recognized as the world’s largest fund raiser. Just last year, a record 315 million pounds were raised.

The course begins in Blackheath and ends at The Mall. There are many historic monuments that the runners pass by in their 42.195 kilometer course. This includes the House of Parliament and Buckingham Palace. Though it may seem like a serious athletic event, every year there are runners that make it interesting by wearing costumes. If you are an athletic buff who wants to test his or her limit then this is the event to go to.

Below: London Marathon in progress

Chelsea Flower Show

In May, people from around the globe come far and wide to participate in this global event which appreciates the simple elegance and beauty of flowers. This event had its humble beginnings in 1911 but has now emerged into one of the most extensively covered London events. Many say that it is like the Paris Fashion Week - the only difference being that it is focused on plants. So if you want to taste nature at its splendor then this is the event where you should be.

Below: Flower shows

Wimbledon Tennis

Being the Mecca of Tennis, there is no doubt to the publicity that had been brought in by this event. Held in June and July, Wimbledon is covered play by play by international media. A real crowd puller; make sure you visit during the tournament to witness the best in the sport.

Below: Tennis activity

Great British Beer Festival

Dubbed as the largest pub in the world, the Great British Beer Festival (GBBF) is THE event of beer drinkers. The Earls Court in London had been the home for the event since 2006. It is a five day festival wherein 450 British and 200 international breweries flood the bellies of a beer guzzling crowd thirsty for the world’s best selection of ales. They also give out the Champion Beer of Britain award during the festivities.

Below: Beer Festival

Notting Hill Carnival

Originally, the carnival was a gesture of bringing together the various races living in London. It started 1959 and has since grown into a full blown cultural event. The two-day carnival is led by the Caribbean community. The Sunday event is a miniature version wherein children play the most part in the festivities. There are over 300,000 people dressed in costumes that go to the streets of Notting Hill, turning the place to a cultural paradise. The Carnival is best appreciated in person so when you visit London, make sure that you catch this event.

Below: Nothing Hill Carnival

Opening of Parliament

The regal affair of the traditional Opening of Parliament is an event that is held in either October or November. To stand out from all of the ceremonies, this event involves impressive theatrical plays which present the importance of democracy over autocracy.

Below: Opening of Parliament

London Film Festival

This is the largest film event in all of London. There are over 300 movies coming from 60 countries that are being screened here every year. The movies are specifically handpicked to correspond to annual themes. Unlike other film events, the diversity of public involvement is of primary importance in the LFF. Actors, directors and stuntmen in the films actually encourage the public to raise questions regarding the film making process.

Below: London Film Festival Pamphlet

Christmas Lighting Ceremonies

It is believed that Christmas does come early in London. As early as November, Christmas lights shine bright to sparkle up the city - setting the crowd amazed with its range of light ornamentations. Places like Covent Garden and Bond Street are just some of the best areas to visit during this season.

Below: Lighting Ceremony in Christmas