Top 10 Free Events in London in April

Treat yourself to these fab free events

Monthly column by Jen (follow Jen on Twitter: @JenBarnes207)

Let there be light!!! The clocks have moved forward and now we’ve got extra daylight to fill!

 

#1 Shezad Dawood: Towards the Possible Film – 4^th April-25^th May

This highly anticipated exhibition is Shezad Dawood’s first solo show in London. You can expect light sculptures, large-scale paintings on textiles and two films (one of which is a UK premiere). Visit this exhibition on a cloudy day to journey between the real and the surreal.

When: 4^th April- 25^th May
Where: Parasol Unit

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#2 First Saturdays – 5^th April

Want to help promote cultural innovation on Vyner Street? Want free films, free music and free workshops? Of course you do. Beers and cocktails for purchase from 10am for you early starters.

When: 05^th April
Where: Vyner Street

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#3 Oxford Cambridge Boat Race – 6^th April

For those of you who appreciate a little competition, head down to the Thames on the 6^th April to watch Oxford and Cambridge battle it out. Even if you don’t care about sport, it’s a nice bit of history to watch and if it’s a sunny day it’s a great way to get some Vitamin D!

When: 6^th April
Where: Along the Thames

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#4 Echoes: Circus Fest 2014 – 3^rd April-5^th April

Echoes is the ONLY free Circus Fest event in April and it is not to be missed! Emerging choreographer Ella Robson Guiffoyle explores our daily routines and the potential for the extraordinary within them. Again, this is the only free circus fest event in April so take advantage of it!

When: 3^rd April-5^th April
Where: Maiden Lane Estate

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#5 Welcome to Iraq – 16^th April

Welcome to Iraq is a photography exhibit showing works originally showcased during the 55^th Venice Biennale in 2013. On the 16^th of April the gallery will stay open until 9pm and there will be readings, music and traditional Iraqi cuisine. Sounds like a lovely evening, doesn’t it?

When: 16^th April
Where: South London Gallery

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#6 International Pillow Fight Day – 5^th April

And of course, I couldn’t leave this one out. The title says it all. On the 5^th of April joins hundreds of strangers with pillows and have a good old-fashioned pillow fight. If you’re brave, snap some images, because nothing is as instagramable as a massive pillow fight in Trafalgar Square.

When: 5^th April
Where: Trafalgar Square

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#7 Berwick Street Record Store Day – 19^th April

A free outdoor gig where 7 artists will perform on an outdoor main stage from 12-7pm. Independent record stores in the area will be holding parties, quizzes and more. There will be the usual fruit and veg market with a selection of street food vendors as well. What’s not to like?

When: 19^th April
Where: Berwick Street

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#8 100 Craft Beer Festival – 3^rd April-6^th April

Here’s one for the beer lovers out there. This beer festival brings together 100 different brews for you to try. Entry is free but you’ll have to pay for your pints.

When: 3^rd-6^th April
Where: Craft Beer

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#9 Dale Chihuly: Beyond the Object – Until 6^th April

You’ve seen his chandelier hanging in the V&A…but are you familiar with his other work? Welcome in the month with a bit of colour and fantasy with Chihuly’s fantastical creations.

When: Until 5th^th April
Where: Halcyon Gallery

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#10 Darren Almond: To Leave a Light Impression – Until 13^th April

This exhibition has received fantastic reviews and is a real treat. The ‘Fullmoon’ images in this exhibit were taken over the past 13 years on every continent. You will also find a series of small bronze sculptures to accompany the images.

When: Until 13^th April
Where: White Cube, Bermondsey

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You may also want to check the Free Film Screenings in London in April 2014.