Thames Festival 2011

The Mayor's Thames Festival is London's biggest annual family-friendly festival featuring arts events, theater, circus and firework displays along the Bankside. Launched in 1997 the festival has grown to become the capital's largest free, open-air arts festival - becoming even bigger than Notting Hill Carnival. Tens of thousands dance in the streets at the festival's climactic event, a spectacular Night Carnival which is a vivid mixture of masquerade, dance, music and fantastic costumes.

When does it take place:

annually - 10 & 11 September 2011.

Where does it take place:

On the Southbank between Westminster Bridge and Tower Bridge, on the river banks, and on the adjacent riverside walkways and public open spaces.