Events & Activities in Watford
This page gives information on events and activities in Watford. It is updated daily. If you would like to advertise on this website and the Facebook page, please do get in touch by using the email address opposite.
Saturday 11th July – Cassiobury Parkrun
A free, fun, and friendly weekly 5k community event. Walk, jog or run. The event takes place at Cassiobury Park, Watford, WD18 7LB. Every week they grab a post parkrun coffee at The Tea Pavilion by Cafe in the Park, within sight of the finish line. Saturdays from 9am, for further information click here
Saturday 11th July – Taste of the Caribbean
This outdoor food festival is set to whisk you away to the sun-drenched islands of the Caribbean. This international food fest is a cultural immersion that promises to delight all your senses. Bring your blankets and chairs for a family-friendly day filled with laughter and good vibes. Let the rhythmic beats of reggae, R&B, and Motown classics from the live music stage get your feet tapping. Sip on refreshing rum punch and other tropical libations that will transport you to island bliss. Saturday 11th July from 10am – 8pm, at Cassiobury Park, Watford. For further information click here
Saturday 11th July – Repair Cafe
Watford Repair Cafe repairs broken items, provides advice and inspiration. All for a voluntary donation. Come along on Saturday from 10am – 1pm at St. Mary’s Church, Church Street, Watford, WD18 0EG. Every 2nd Saturday of the month.
Sunday 12th July – Cassiobury Junior Parkrun
A free, fun, and friendly weekly 2k event for juniors 4-14 year olds. The event takes place at Cassiobury Park, Watford, WD18 7HY. Every week they grab a post parkrun coffee at The Cafe in the Park, Cassiobury Park Avenue, Shepherds Road, Watford, WD18 7HY. Sundays from 9am, for further information click here
Sunday 12th July – Sunday 20th September – Big Bandstand
The Cassiobury Park Bandstand plays host to a jam-packed programme of free live shows. This includes everything from jazz to ukulele, and of course, lots of traditional brass bands for you to enjoy. Situated near the Tea Pavilion. Sundays from 3pm – 5pm.
Sunday 12th July – Trinity Swing Band
Trinity Swing Band, whose members come from Chorleywood, Croxley, Rickmansworth and Northwood, are a big band who play hits from the 1930s, 40s and 50s as well as modern swing classics. Free event and recommended you bringing a chair or blanket. Sunday 12th July from 3pm – 5pm. At Cassiobury Park Bandstand.
Tuesday 14th July – Guided Walk: Introduction to Cassiobury Park
Discover the natural beauty of Cassiobury Park on a relaxing evening guided walk with their Reserves Officer, Sam. Explore the park’s rich variety of habitats and uncover the fascinating wildlife that thrives within this urban oasis. Along the way, you will gain an insight into how we care for and manage this special Local Nature Reserve to help nature flourish. Whether you are a keen wildlife enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful evening outdoors, this guided walk is a wonderful opportunity to slow down, reconnect with nature, and experience one of Watford’s important green spaces in the company of their knowledgeable team. Tuesday 14th July from 6pm – 7pm. To book click here
Tuesday 14th July – LGBTQ+ Group
Monthly get together for LGBTQ+ people of all ages, genders and sexualities. Looking for a social circle of like-minded people? Fed up with being stereotyped? They provide a fun and friendly environment for all LGBTQ+ members to come and hang out, chat and chill together with other like-minded people in the community. Second Tuesday of the month from 7pm – 9pm, at Tesco Extra – Community Space, High Street, Watford, WD17 2BD.
Sunday 19th July – Watford Brick Festival
The Brick Festival celebrates all things LEGO. With lots to see and do including speed building competitions, large scale displays, activities, traders selling loose bricks, new LEGO sets, retired LEGO sets, minifigures and accessories plus a dedicated building area. Sunday 19th July from 10am – 4pm. At Watford Woodside Leisure Centre, Horseshoe Lane, Watford, WD25 7HH. To book click here
Monday 20th July – Paint and Pints
Come along to Load Of Hay, 207 Pinner Road, Watford, WD19 4ET, for paint and pints, Monday 20th July from 7.30pm. To book call Lin on 07845 608 545.
Thursday 23rd July – Jobs Fair
Looking for a new role or career change? Come along to the Watford Jobs Fair and meet local employers with live vacancies across a range of sectors. Free entry, simply register for your free ticket in advance. Speak directly with recruiters and discover current opportunities. click here Thursday 23rd July from 10am – 12 noon, at Vicarage Road Stadium, Vicarage Road, Watford, WD18 0ER.
Sunday 26th July – JiveSwing Festival
JiveSwing.com and Watford Borough Council presents the 13th JiveSwing Festival, one of the biggest free ‘JiveSwing, Jazz music and dance Festivals’ ever, to be held in the UK for both dancers and musicians to jam together in a huge Park, Cassiobury. Normally attracting over 3000 people from around the UK dressed vintage or casual, The BIG JiveSwing Festival will have a much bigger stage and larger area to allow picnics and dancing this year, featuring a major line up, with some of the latest and biggest international names for Swing Dance and Jazz bands, DJ’s etc from around the UK, plus swing dance classes and dance shows for all the family. This year they have also included a dedicated children’s area, with rides, making it a bigger family event. Near The Band Stand Area, Cassiobury Park, Watford, WD18 7HY. Sunday 26th July from 12 noon – 6pm. For further information click here
On now until – Friday 31st July – Watford Fringe
An extraordinary live line-up of great theatre, music, comedy, dance, family fun-filled shows and more is planned across the whole of the month of July, right on your doorstep. They are predicting well over 70 performances across the festival – everything from pre-Edinburgh shows to renowned stand-up comics, music from international recording artists, award-winning acts, premieres of new material, returning favourites, and local talent. On now until – Friday 31st July. For further information click here
Sunday 2nd August – Birds of Prey Experience
Watford Town Centre free Birds of Prey Experience. You and the family can get involved in this captivating experience, witnessing elegant creatures up close as well as getting the unique opportunity to hold, stroke and connect with the birds. Visit The Parade event space (by the pond) on Sunday 2nd August from 10.30am – 3.30pm for this incredible experience with Berkshire Birds of Prey. This event availability on the day is subject to weather conditions, our feathered friends care about the weather just as much as we do. They are hopeful to welcome the following birds of prey: barn owl, tawny owl, little owl, long eared owl, kestrel, eagle owl, harris hawk, lanner falcon, Asian brown wood owl, Indian scops owl, white face scops owl, screech owl.
Sunday 2nd August – The Dial Up Summer Picnic
This August instead of their usual open mic The Dial Up will meet on Sunday 2nd August from 12 noon – 2pm in the Cassiobury Park Peace Garden for a relaxed informal social. Feel free to bring and share your usual music, poetry and creativity, and if you like a blanket, a drink and some nibbles.
Monday 3rd – Sunday 9th August – Big Screen
Deckchairs will be available, but you are also welcome to bring your own chairs, pack a picnic and head to Watford town centre. Then just sit back and relax whilst watching some old favourites alongside new blockbusters. Due to limited space in the event area there will be no on-site traders but there are plenty of shops along the High Street to grab something to eat and drink. Screenings will only be cancelled if weather conditions make the event dangerous, like, extremely high winds. The Big Screen is free and no booking is required, just turn up and enjoy the outdoor cinema experience. For the film guide click here
Wednesday 5th August – Lunch Hub
Come and share a two course lunch on the first Wednesday of every month from 12 noon – 2pm. Drop in at St James Road Baptist Church, Church hall, 23-27 St James Road, Watford, WD18 0DZ.
Wednesday 5th August – The Music of James Bond
This incredible Chamber Orchestra brings the legendary music of James Bond to life in a way that is bold, elegant and utterly unforgettable. This is more than a concert, it is an orchestral tribute to one of cinema’s most iconic legacies. Across six decades. Performed by world-class musicians and vocalists, every note echoes the sophistication of the James Bond universe. The sound of sweeping strings and bold brass stirs images of high-speed car chases, exotic escapes and unforgettable encounters. The sultry tones of the singers evoke Bond’s timeless glamour. The Great British Film Orchestra is dedicated to celebrating the soundtracks that have defined the golden age of cinema and beyond. Don your finest attire, raise a glass and prepare for an evening of breath-taking music and the unmistakable thrill of James Bond. Wednesday 5th August Doors 6.30pm, show 7.30pm , last entry: 7,15pm. At Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. To book click here
Monday 10th – Sunday 16th August – Big Screen: Woodside
Deckchairs will be available, but you are also welcome to bring your own chairs, pack a picnic and head to Woodside Playing Fields. Then just sit back and relax whilst watching some old favourites alongside new blockbusters. Due to limited space in the event area there will be no on-site traders but there are plenty of shops along the High Street to grab something to eat and drink. Screenings will only be cancelled if weather conditions make the event dangerous, like, extremely high winds. The Big Screen is free and no booking is required, just turn up and enjoy the outdoor cinema experience. For the film guide click here
Friday 14th – Sunday 30th August – Big Beach
With the Big Beach, you do not need to travel to the coast to feel the sand between your toes, just head into Watford town Centre, near Watford Central Library. The beach is completely free and is the perfect chance for people of all ages to lap up the summer sun, with deck chairs and tables provided to help you relax. There are a variety of beach toys and buckets and spades available from the beach hut, as well as any information you might need. The hut is open 10am to 4pm each day, from Friday 14th – Sunday 30th August.
Saturday 15th August – Community Family Funday
Annual event that brings together families, local businesses, and organisations for a vibrant day of fun, entertainment, and community spirit. The Watford Community Family Funday offers a fantastic opportunity for businesses and organisations to engage with the local community, showcase their services, and strengthen their presence within Watford. Saturday 15th August, at King George V Playing Fields, Tolpits Lane, Watford.
Saturday 22nd – Monday 31st August – Colourscape
Explore a unique labyrinth of 70 interlinked chambers of intense colours and discover musicians and dancers interacting with you. Enjoy a journey of colour, music and space. Weekends will feature ensembles; dancers; new instruments, computer music. Weekdays will feature resident musician Michael Ormiston presenting family-friendly music where you can join in. Saturday 22nd – Monday 31st August. The opening times include weekdays from 11am – 4pm, and weekends/bank holidays from 11am – 5pm. Performance times vary. At Cassiobury Park near to the Tea Pavillion and bandstand. For further information click here
Sunday 6th September – The Dial Up
Join the Dial Up for a fantastic afternoon of performance and open mic. If you are looking for a friendly and welcoming space to share your music, poetry, prose, drama, comedy, magic or dance, or just want a couple of hours of entertainment, then The Dial Up is the place for you. All Welcome. Free entry (suggested donation of £5). First Sunday of each month from 2pm – 4pm. At Tina’s Cafe, Pump House Theatre and Arts Centre, Local Board Road, Lower Watford High Street, WD17 2JP.
Sunday 4th October – The Taylor Trek
The Taylor Trek unites Watford FC fans, legends, families, and supporters to honour Graham Taylor’s legacy for the fifth year running, while raising money for two local charities. Participants will walk around Watford, explore key sites from Hornets history, and cross the finish line at Vicarage Road Stadium. Walk with friends, family, or fellow Watford fans, with a choice of routes ranging from 3.5 miles to 18 miles. Sunday 4th October. For further information click here to book click here
Thursday 15th October – Leo Sayer
After almost 60 years of life on the road, music legend Leo Sayer returns to the UK for what will be his final full UK tour. In this performance, Leo and his band bring boundless energy, exuberance and a hit packed, high energy evening not to be missed. At Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. Thursday 15th October from 7pm. To book click here
Tuesday 27th October – Dinosaur Adventure Live
Dinosaur Adventure Live brings an electrifying fusion of family-friendly storytelling, stunning puppetry, and roarsome science that brings the ancient world of dinosaurs crashing back to life. The show blends humour, thrills, and hands-on learning into an interactive stage experience that had children squealing with delight and parents beaming from ear to ear. Children are encouraged to stomp, roar, and swish their tails along with the action, and when the T-Rex finally bursts onto the stage in a heart-pounding finale, well you will have to find out. Tuesday 27th October from 2pm, at Watford Palace Theatre, Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. To book click here
Saturday 7th November – Cassiobury Fireworks
Hertfordshire’s largest free fireworks display organised by Watford Borough Council. Saturday 7th November. Vibe 107.6FM will be keeping the crowds entertained on stage from 6pm with live music. The spectacular fireworks display will start at 7.30pm. There will be a variety of food and drink outlets, kiddies funfair rides, bungee trampolines and a bouncy slide to keep everyone well fed and entertained before the main display. Watford Lions Club and other collectors will be shaking their buckets raising money for charity so do please give generously. 100% of donations go to local charities. There is no parking in the Gade Avenue car park from 3pm, apart from a limited number of blue badge spaces, which are available on a first come first served basis. There are parking restrictions on surrounding roads to the park from 7am – 11pm, so you are advised to park in one of the public car parks in the town centre.
Thursday 12th November – Fire Walk
Get ready to experience the thrill of a lifetime as you conquer a path of blazing embers, all while raising funds for Rennie Grove Peace. Firewalking is walking on hot coals. When the fire has burned to red-hot embers it is raked level and prepared for the walk. Expert trainers will guide you through every step of the process, teaching you how to focus your mind, harness your energy, and walk safely across the flames. Every step you take helps fund vital hospice care services for patients and their families in your community. At Peace Hospice, Peace Drive, Watford, WD17 3PH. Thursday 12th November. To book click here
Wednesday 18th November – Rhythm of the Dance
Rhythm of the Dance celebrates 27 years of bringing worldwide audiences to their feet and returns to the UK with a brand new Christmas production in 2026. Join them on this festive journey and let the magic of Christmas begin with all your favourite festive songs performed live by world-class musicians, star vocalists and world-champion dancers. Prepare to be taken on a special journey that is Irish in essence with that added touch of Christmas magic. Wednesday 18th November from 7.30pm – 10pm. At Watford Palace Theatre, Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. To book click here
Sunday 29th November – Sunday 3rd January – A Christmas Carol
Watford Palace Theatre proudly presents a spectacular, sparkly, laugh-out-loud panto remix of Dickens’ classic tale, with a proper Watford twist. Join Ebenezer Scrooge, the grumpiest Watfordian in town, as he learns the true meaning of the season. With his trusty (and long-suffering!) clerk Bob Scratchit. Sunday 29th November – Sunday 3rd January at various times at Watford Palace Theatre, Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. To book click here
Tuesday 22nd December – Step Into Christmas
Step Into Christmas once again for the most magical, feel-good show of the year. This spectacular Christmas concert is the ultimate way to kickstart your festive celebrations, guaranteed to fill your heart with holiday cheer and have you singing along from start to finish. Packed with all your favourite Christmas classics, the show brings the spirit of the season to life with dazzling performances, stunning festive visuals, and a sensational live band. From heart-warming ballads to upbeat festive anthems, it’s the perfect playlist for your Christmas celebrations. Whether you are starting a new festive tradition or keeping the magic alive, Step Into Christmas is the ultimate feel-good Christmas spectacular. At Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. Tuesday 22nd December from 6.30pm. To book click here
