City of London announces £2.5m cultural events programme in the Square Mile

A “spectacular” free event will transform the City of London’s streets and give local hospitality businesses a boost with a broad programme of theatre, games, and performance on October 15.

Featuring over 100 performers, the family-friendly highlights include a mass treasure hunt, 16 doors into a ‘maze’ of adventures, three carnival-inspired fairs, and creative street theatre. It is the first major event planned by the City of London Corporation under its new flagship Destination City programme.

Launched in May, the initiative will transform the Square Mile’s leisure offer, creating a “leading” destination for UK and international visitors, workers, and residents. The three fairs will open up for discovery at famous City locations including Guildhall and the Museum of London, with festival entertainment for everyone.

A line-up of landmark Square Mile public spaces and “iconic sites” will feature in the programme, alongside secret hideaways, and subterranean adventures in the historic heart of the capital.

Produced by BAFTA award-winning arts and heritage charity CONEY alongside some of the UK’s best creative companies, the event will draw on all forms of performance and theatre to bring the City to life. Furthermore, city cafes, pubs, bars, and restaurants will host ‘after parties’ so people can continue their evening after the event.

Policy chairman of the City of London Corporation, Chris Hayward, commented: “This must-see event is set to become one of the capital’s cultural highlights of the year, drawing a huge audience from across London and beyond.

“We will open the Square Mile’s doors to everyone, revealing fascinating secrets and making magical moments happen for our visitors. Join us for large-scale street performances, carnivals, games, and more.

“Together we are putting the City of London on the map as a globally-renowned destination which is exciting, diverse, creative, and inclusive.”

Backed by a £2.5m annual investment from the City Corporation, Destination City will drive the Square Mile’s recovery from the pandemic, revitalise its streets, reinvigorate its businesses, and boost its attractiveness to talent.