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.
Saturday 27th July – TrackPlay
A fun and entertaining time for kids who love trains. With over 500 feet of Track and over 100 Thomas and his friends trains to choose from. Kids will be raving about the experience for a long time . Book a time slot to suit and then on the day sit back and enjoy a hot drink whilst the kids all have fun with trains. At Woodside Leisure Centre, Horseshoe Lane, Watford, WD25 7HH. To book click here
Saturday 27th July – Classical and Light Music Performance Club
The Classical and Light Music Performance Club next meets on Saturday 27th July from 2pm – 5pm. At Friends Meeting House, 150 Church Road, Watford, WD17 4QB. An opportunity for musicians and singers of any age and standard to perform short pieces in a friendly and informal setting.
Sunday 28th July – Cassiobury Farm Open Day and Lemur Awareness Day
Come and visit our rare breeds farm, enjoy our private collection of exotics, visit their Farm Shop full of produce from local artisan providers. Lots of fun for the kids, bouncy castle, face painting, fishing, crazy golf, mini-tractor rides and pedalos. Come and enjoy lunch on the meadow or from one of their various food stations around the site.
Access by foot only, apart from blue-badge disabled drivers. Details on our website click here including a downloadable map showing entrances through Cassiobury Park. Please note that Open Days take place regardless of the weather, and that tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable unless by prior agreement. Dogs are not allowed, apart from guide dogs. To book click here
Sunday 28th July – JiveSwing Festival
JiveSwing.com, sponsored by Watford Borough Council presents, one of the biggest free one day JiveSwing Jazz Festivals ever, to be held in the UK for both dancers, musicians and fans to jam together. This year they have also included a dedicated children’s area, with rides, making it a bigger family event. Sunday 28th July from 12 noon – 6pm. At The Band Stand Area, Cassiobury Park, Watford, WD18 7HY (Enter via Shepherds Road entrance, near the Cha Cha Cafe).
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. For further information click here
Monday 29th July – Smile Singers Choir
Led by Singing Coach and Music Teacher Joan Stubbs from Merchant Taylors’ School, Say it with a smile are grateful to Mayfield Villages for creating this fabulous opportunity and partnership with our Charity. Mayfield Village Hall, Heron Place, Colnebank Drive, Watford, WD18 0LQ. Monday 29th July from 2pm – 3pm. Next 5th, 12th and 19th August.
Tuesday 30th July – Digital Inclusion
Do you have a family member or friend that struggles with their phone/ tablet or computer. West Watford Community Association, 15 Harwoods Road, Watford, WD18 7RB, have digital inclusion every Tuesday morning 11am – 12 noon.
Wednesday 31st July – Minibeasts Hunt
Outdoor wildlife walk aimed at families to find minibeasts and other wildlife at Cassiobury Park. All equipment is provided. Please note, no refunds for this event. Children must be accompanied by a adult. Booking is required click here Wednesday 31st July from 11am – 12.30pm. Meet at the Cassiobury Park Hub.
Thursday 1st August – Crafternoon Tea
Weekly social where you can connect with fellow craft enthusiasts. Feel free to bring any projects you are currently working on and join in the conversation. Thursdays from 12 noon, at Random Café, 24a Garsmouth Way, Watford, WD25 9DR.
Thursday 1st August – Ladies Night
For all Ladies in and around Watford, this is suppose to be a fun evening where ladies meet up and have a chat and support each other. At West Watford Community Centre, 15 Harwoods Road, WD18 7RB. Thursday 1st August from 7.30pm – 9pm. Please pre-book as spaces are limited [email protected] 01923 235 488.
Friday 2nd August – Breastfeeding Event
To celebrate National Breastfeeding Week, Watford and Three Rivers Family Centre Service are holding a celebration event in partnership with their health colleagues. All are welcome to attend. Their trained staff, as well as Public Health Nursing, will be attending the event. Friday 2nd August from 1.30pm. At Beechfield Family Centre, Gammons Lane, Watford, WD24 5TY.
Friday 2nd August – Watford Market Lates
There will be craft beer, a pop-up bar and delicious street food from around the globe, including Caribbean, Asian and Korean street food. Visitors will also be able to enjoy the ambience of market dining and be treated to a menu of fresh dishes plus drinks in the covered casual dining space. At Watford Market, Watford House Lane, Watford, WD17 1BJ. Friday 2nd August from 6pm – 10pm.
Friday 2nd – Sunday 4th August – SpongeBob Musical: Youth Edition
The Watford Palace Theatre Young Company (WPYC) and creatives from the West End present a one-hour edition of the hit musical, specially tailored for young actors. An exciting new musical featuring irresistible characters and magical music, this deep-sea pearl of a show is set to make a splash with audiences young and old. The future is bright, the future is bold, the future is The SpongeBob Musical. Run-time: 60 minutes approximately, no interval. Friday 2nd – Sunday 4th August at various times. To book click here
Sunday 4th August – The SJ Jazz 5
Tony Oliver leads a band playing exciting ,swinging ,modern jazz and Latin, with tunes by Horace Silver, Benny Golson, Duke Ellington, Lee Morgan and Antonio Carlos Jobin, etc. They will be performing at the Cassiobury Park Bandstand on Sunday 4th August from 3pm – 5pm.
Monday 5th August – Stone Painting
Stone painting session on Monday 5th August from 1.30pm – 2.30pm, Come and join in the summer fun at West Watford Community centre, 15 Harwoods Road, Watford, WD18 7RB.
Monday 5th – Sunday 11th August – Big Screen: Town Centre
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.
You are permitted to bring mini beach shelters or umbrellas to seek shade from the sun (or rain!). However these will not be permitted for use if it is very windy. You may be asked to move towards the back of the site if your shelter is obstructing the view of others. Screenings will only be cancelled if weather conditions make the event dangerous e.g extremely high winds. The Big Screen is free and no booking is required, just turn up and enjoy the outdoor cinema experience. For film listings click here
Tuesday 6th August – Rhyme Time
Rhyme Time in Cassiobury Park, Watford, WD18 7LG, Free Drop in. Tuesday 6th August from 2pm – 3pm.
Wednesday 7th August – Coffee with a Cop
Local Safer Neighbourhood Team are back to listen to your concerns about the local area on Wednesday 7th August from 10am – 12 noon. Pop in and have a coffee or tea with them. At North Watford Library, St Albans Road, WD24 7RW.
Wednesday 7th August – Family Fun
Join Vicky from the Parks team for an outdoor session in the wooded area of Cassiobury park. Meet Vicky outside the Hub and walk to their event site. Activities include nature craft and wild play. Please wear clothing suitable for the weather conditions that day and do not mind getting muddy. Children must be accompanied by an adult and no refunds for this event. Wednesday 7th August from 11am – 12.30pm. To book click here
Wednesday 7th August – Brush Party
Join Brush Party, the UK’s ‘Paint and Sip’ experts, on Wednesday 7th August from 7pm – 10pm, to paint their theme Blossom Bay. You do not need to bring anything apart from yourself, they provide everything, a quality canvas, all the paint you need, brushes and aprons. At The Tudor Arms, Bushey Mill Lane, Watford, WD24 7TQ. To book click here
Friday 9th August – Who Wants To Be an Olympian?
Qualify, win team medals and be in your very own Olympic ceremony with Pākiki Theatre’s ‘Who Wants To Be An Olympian?’, the show that celebrates Olympics and Paralympics past, present and future. Ideal for ages 6-12 and their families. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult throughout this event. Friday 9th August from 10.30am – 11.30am. At North Watford Library, St Albans Road, Watford, WD24 7RW. To book click here
Sunday 11th August – Cassiobury Farm Open Day and White Rhino Awareness Day
Come and visit our rare breeds farm, enjoy our private collection of exotics, visit their Farm Shop full of produce from local artisan providers. Lots of fun for the kids, bouncy castle, face painting, fishing, crazy golf, mini-tractor rides and pedalos. Come and enjoy lunch on the meadow or from one of their various food stations around the site.
Access by foot only, apart from blue-badge disabled drivers. Details on our website click here including a downloadable map showing entrances through Cassiobury Park. Please note that Open Days take place regardless of the weather, and that tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable unless by prior agreement. Dogs are not allowed, apart from guide dogs. To book click here
Sunday 11th August – Lou’s Sextet Band
Lou’s Sextet Band is an eight piece band, (despite the name!) playing an eclectic mix of music. Their repertoire is extensive and varied, covering mainstream jazz, many jazz standards from the 40’s and later, Latin, bossa novas, some blues, as well as more up to date tunes. They will be performing at the Cassiobury Park Bandstand on Sunday 11th August from 3pm – 5pm.
Monday 12th August – Knit and Natter
Crochet, Knit and Natter is on every 2nd and 4th Monday from 1.15pm – 2.45pm. Come and craft in the company of like minded people, other crafts welcome too. At West Watford Community Association, 15 Harwoods Road, Watford, WD18 7RB.
Monday 12th – Sunday 18th August – Big Screen: Knutsford
Grab your picnic blankets, deckchairs, pack a picnic and head to Knutsford Playing Fields, Radlett Road, Watford, WD24 4LL, where you can just sit back and relax whilst watching some old favourites alongside new blockbusters. There will be a number of traders on site as well as small fun fair rides to keep the kids entertained. You are also welcome to use Watford Rugby to purchase alcohol and use their toilets.
Unfortunately we can’t control the weather! You are permitted to bring mini beach shelters or umbrellas to seek shade from the sun (or rain!) However these will not be permitted for use if it is very windy.Y ou may be asked to move towards the back of the site if your shelter is obstructing the view of others. Screenings will only be cancelled if weather conditions make the event dangerous e.g extremely high winds. The Big Screen is free and no booking is required, just turn up and enjoy the outdoor cinema experience. For film listings click here
Monday 12th August – Perseid meteor shower
Bring a flask and a deck chair and watch the celestial light show. Or if you have a camera with a tripod take some photographs of the night sky. The Perseid meteor shower happens every year and can be quite spectacular. The peak display is between the 12th and 13th August. Hopefully, the weather will do its part and give us clear skies, if it is cloudy then the event will be cancelled and refunds will be given. Monday 12th August from 10pm – 1pm. At Cassiobury Park, for further information and to book click here
Wednesday 14th August – Bumps and Babies: Summer Picnic
Meet by the bandstand near Cha cafe with your baby, blanket and picnic or pop to the cafe if you prefer. There are trees you can sit under if its a hot day. At 1.30pm NCT Watford will be joined by Emily and Rosie, who will give a taster of Sing and Sign Baby Signing. Cassiobury Park, Cassiobury Park Avenue, Watford, WD18 7HY. To register click here
Thursday 15th August – Compassionate Cafe
This warm and welcoming space is open to anyone who has experienced the pain of bereavement or any other type of loss. It provides a safe environment for individuals to come together, have a friendly chat, and connect with others who may share similar experiences. They invite you to join them on the third Thursday of every month from 10am to 11.30am. At Random Café, 24a Garsmouth Way, Watford, WD25 9DR.
Thursday 15th August – Summer Family Fun
Fun sessions with a wide range of activities for you and your children to play together, meet other local families and the Family Centre team. Lots for Under 5’s to enjoy, there will be activities for siblings up to the age of 8. Drop-in. Thursday 15th August from 2pm. At Meriden Community Centre, Garsmouth Way, Watford, WD25 9ET.
Friday 16th – Friday 23rd August – Big Beach
With Watford Borough Council’s Big Beach, you do not need to travel to the coast to feel the sand between your toes, just head to The Parade in the Town Centre. 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 which you will be able to get from the beach hut, as well as any information you might need. The hut is open 10am to 4pm each day. Feel free to bring your own food and drink, or if you prefer, the Big Beach is surrounded by many fabulous restaurants from which you could order. They ask that children are supervised by an adult while at the beach, and that you dispose of any rubbish in one of the bins provided.
Saturday 17th – Monday 26th August – Watford Colourscape
Enjoy the immersive Watford Colourscape, a labyrinth of light and sound from Saturday 17th – Monday 26th August in Cassiobury Park. Make a day of it and enjoy all the park has to offer, including the cafes, paddling pools, miniature railway and nature.
Saturday 17th – August – Watford Community Family Funday
Watford Community Family Funday promises to be an exciting special action, fun packed day on Saturday 17th August from 12 noon – 5.30pm, at the George V Playing Fields, Tolpits Lane, Watford, WD18 6PZ. Inflatables, musical entertainment, games, face painting, photo booth, races, multiple ranged stalls, food and drink on sale, and much more. Free Entry. Free Car Park. All are welcome to attend.
Monday 26th August – Cassiobury Farm Open Day and Sloth Awareness Day
Come and visit our rare breeds farm, enjoy our private collection of exotics, visit their Farm Shop full of produce from local artisan providers. Lots of fun for the kids, bouncy castle, face painting, fishing, crazy golf, mini-tractor rides and pedalos. Come and enjoy lunch on the meadow or from one of their various food stations around the site.
Access by foot only, apart from blue-badge disabled drivers. Details on our website click here including a downloadable map showing entrances through Cassiobury Park. Please note that Open Days take place regardless of the weather, and that tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable unless by prior agreement. Dogs are not allowed, apart from guide dogs. To book click here
Saturday 31st August – Herts Pride
Herts Pride gives everyone a chance to come together and make a positive impact in their local area. Herts Pride invites people of all races, faiths, genders, sexualities, and abilities, to join in and show their support for our wonderful local LGBTQ+ community. Saturday 31st August from 12 noon – 10pm. At Cassiobury Park, Watford. To book click here
Saturday 31st August – Greenbanks Garden Party
Join Greenbanks for their Garden Party, enjoy a day filled with entertainment, raffle, a BBQ and so much more. Fun for the whole family, friends and staff awaits. Saturday 31st August from 2pm – 4pm. At Greenbank Care Home, Greenbank Road, Watford, WD17 4JR.
Sunday 1st September – Alex Williams and featuring The SJ Jazz 5 band
Great vocalist Alex Williams and featuring The SJ Jazz 5 band, music including Misty, The Lady Is A Tramp, The Girl From Ipanema and What A Wonderful World. They will be performing at the Cassiobury Park Bandstand on Sunday 1st September from 3pm – 5pm. Free event and recommend bringing a chair or blanket.
Sunday 8th September – Cassiobury Park: Heritage Walk
If you are interested in the history of Cassiobury Park, come on a guided walk led by Laurie Elvin, archaeologist and local historian. They will cross the canal and walk up to Jacotts Hill, the highest point in the park. You will hear about prehistory and the history from monastic times to the 20th century. Starts from outside the Hub on the upper paved patio (above the splash pools). Booking is essential click here Sunday 8th September from 11am – 12.30pm.
Sunday 8th September – That Blue Patch
That Blue Patch is an entertaining semiacoustic duo featuring Guitar, Ukulele, Irish Bouzouki, Banjo, Voice, Saxophone, Melodica, Accordion and Percussion, not all played at the same time! They play cover versions of a real variety of songs from the 1920s to the present day, and also write and perform their own songs. “Two people, a lot of instruments and a quirky take on songs old and new”.
They will be performing at the Cassiobury Park Bandstand on Sunday 8th September from 3pm – 5pm. Free event and recommend bringing a chair or blanket.
Tuesday 17th September – Compassionate Cafe
Compassionate Cafés are a place where people who have experienced a loss, such as a bereavement, can pop in for a cuppa, a cake, and a friendly person to talk to. It provides a safe environment for individuals to come together, have a friendly chat, and connect with others who may share similar experiences. Third Tuesday of each month from 9.15am – 12.15pm, at Café West, West Watford Free Church (Baptist), Tolpits Lane, WD18 6NU. (closed on 17th December).
Sunday 22nd September – Stardust Big Band
Stardust Big Band are a group of musicians from in and around the Hillingdon and Watford area. The 16 players are made up of a mixture of ages and backgrounds, but they all share a passion for jazz and swing music that ranges from early swing to easy listening and modern big band, spanning the 1920’s to the present day. They will be performing at the Cassiobury Park Bandstand on Sunday 22nd September from 3pm – 5pm. Free event and recommend bringing a chair or blanket.
Sunday 29th September – BAJE
BAJE is a local big band comprising of musicians from teens to 80’s who all share a love of performing music together from a wide variety of genres. They perform all over the local area. Free event and recommend bringing a chair or blanket. They will be performing at the Cassiobury Park Bandstand on Sunday 29th September from 3pm – 5pm.
Sunday 29th September – Wifi Wars
WiFi Wars returns with the live comedy game show where you all play along. Log in with your smartphone or tablet and compete in a range of games, puzzles and quizzes to win the show, and prizes. Hosted by comedian Steve McNeil (team captain on UK TV’s hit comedy/gaming show “Dara O’Briain’s Go 8 Bit”) and aided by Guinness World-Record-Breaking tech whizz, the award-winning Rob Sedgebeer.
Age suitability: 3pm family show 6+, run-time 60 minutes (no interval) and 7pm evening show 12+ (may contain strong language), Run-time 90 minutes including interval. Sunday 29th September at Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. To book click here
Sunday 27th October – Cassiobury Farm Open Day and Trick or Treat Sweet Hunt
Come and visit our rare breeds farm, enjoy our private collection of exotics, visit their Farm Shop full of produce from local artisan providers. Lots of fun for the kids, bouncy castle, face painting, fishing, crazy golf, mini-tractor rides and pedalos. Come and enjoy lunch on the meadow or from one of their various food stations around the site.
Access by foot only, apart from blue-badge disabled drivers. Details on our website click here including a downloadable map showing entrances through Cassiobury Park. Please note that Open Days take place regardless of the weather, and that tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable unless by prior agreement. Dogs are not allowed, apart from guide dogs. To book click here
Saturday 2nd November – Cassiobury Fireworks
Come along to Cassiobury Park on Saturday 2nd November for Hertfordshire’s largest free fireworks display organised by Watford Borough Council. There are 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, with the spectacular fireworks display starting at 7.30pm.
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 to 11pm, so you are advised to park in one of the public car parks in the town centre.
Saturday 9th November – Watford Brick Festival
This will be a great day for families, collectors, adult builders and every other kind of LEGO fan. 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. Saturday 9th November from 10am – 4pm, at Watford Leisure Centre – Woodside, Horseshoe Lane, Watford, WD25 7HH. These events regularly sell out so booking tickets in advance is strongly recommended click here
Saturday 30th November – Tuesday 31st December – Aladdin
Join Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ, for a magic carpet ride like no other, as Aladdin takes to the skies of Watford. For further information and to book click here
