The Totally Thames Festival in London has not been short on creativity, history, and community so far. Spanning the entire month of September, it offers an eclectic mix of over 100 events that celebrate the River Thames—highlighting its past, present, and future. Since its inception in 2014, the festival has evolved from a simple weekend event into a month-long spectacle, stretching across the city from Richmond to Barking and Dagenham.
Why the Festival is so important
The Thames has always been at the heart of London’s identity, and the Totally Thames Festival plays a key role in reinvigorating the public’s connection to this vital river. Through a mix of art installations, workshops, talks, and ecological projects, the festival not only entertains but also educates Londoners about the importance of conserving the Thames for future generations.
In addition, the festival acts as a unifying force, bringing together London’s diverse communities. From local artists and musicians to international rowers and environmental advocates, it is a truly inclusive celebration of both cultural heritage and modern creativity.
Highlights so far
One of the most thrilling moments of the festival has been the Great River Race on September 21, where over 1,500 rowers from across the globe competed in a 21.6-mile “river marathon” on traditional-style boats. The atmosphere was electric, drawing spectators and participants alike to celebrate the river’s rich boating heritage.
Equally heartwarming was the Sing for Water event on September 15, where over 500 singers performed in a moving choral performance. The event not only uplifted spirits but also raised vital funds for WaterAid, calling attention to global water shortages—a cause deeply tied to the life-giving nature of the Thames itself.
For those intrigued by history, the Mudlarking Exhibition offered a fascinating glimpse into the forgotten treasures found along the Thames. Held at St Paul’s Cathedral, it showcased medieval artifacts unearthed along the riverbank, linking the past with the present.
And for art lovers, Nadī, a contemporary dance performance, wowed audiences with its blend of movement and storytelling, while Serene Sounds blended classical music with healing sound baths, transforming riverside spaces into sanctuaries of sound and stillness.
What’s still to come
There’s still time to experience some fantastic events during this last week of the festival. Here are a few of them:
- Thames Lens Photography Exhibition (until September 30): This ongoing photography contest encourages Londoners to capture the beauty of the river. The best entries will be displayed, offering a visual celebration of the Thames.
- Shama Rahman’s Truth BeTold (September 26): This unique, site-specific musical performance set aboard a floating stage on the River Thames. The show delves into the narratives of migrants, travelers, and performers, exploring their journeys and experiences through a blend of music and storytelling.
- River Clean-Ups (September 28): Join one of the community-led foreshore clean-ups at locations like Battersea and Deptford Creek, where volunteers will help remove plastic and waste from the riverbanks, contributing directly to the health of the Thames.
- Move and Sketch (September 28): This is an exciting workshop where participants will combine movement with sketching along the riverbanks, engaging with the Thames in a creative and interactive way.
Totally Thames Festival is truly a gem in London’s cultural scene, bringing together a lively mix of events with the stunning Thames River as its backdrop. Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, or someone who simply enjoys the beauty of the river, there’s still time to join the celebration before it wraps up on September 30. Don’t miss your chance to experience this one-of-a-kind festival!
