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.

Sunday 20th July – Jumble Trail

Residents in Watford Fields, Watford, WD18 0AZ, will set up stalls in their gardens with bric-a-brac, for you to buy and have a natter. Sunday 20th July from 10am – 2pm.

Sunday 20th July – Sunday 21st September – Big Bandstand

Every weekend from June – September from 3pm – 5pm, Cassiobury Park plays host to a jam-packed programme of free live shows.

Wednesday 23rd July – Photographic Walk in Cassiobury Park Nature Reserve

Take a guided walk through Cassiobury Park Nature Reserve led by Andrew Lalchan (local photographer), you will be exploring
summer in the park with the butterflies, dragonflies and damselflies. This walk offers opportunities to take nature photos, and Andrew will be on hand to provide any photography tips. Meet at the Cassiobury Park Hub. Wednesday 23rd July from 11am – 1pm. For further information and to book click here

Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th July – British Firefighter Challenge

The British Firefighter Challenge is a competition organised by Firefighters, for Firefighters. This annual sporting event which pushes firefighters to their limits, provides a day of entertainment for spectators, and raises important funds for charities that support emergency services. Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th July in Watford High Street.

As well as the firefighter challenges there is lots for spectators to do on the weekend of the event too. From the live music keeping competitors and crowd alike uplifted, to the fire engines on display. They also have community safety activities and even a Junior Firefighter Challenge for the kids to try.

Saturday 26th July – Classical and Light Music Performance Club

The Classical and Light Music Performance Club next meets on Saturday 26th July from 2pm – 5pm. At Friends Meeting House, Church Road, Watford, WD17 4QB.

Saturday 26th July – Summer Market Lates

The event will coincide with the British Firefighter Challenge taking place on 26th – 27th July in the town centre. This year marks an exciting milestone as the first-ever Saturday Market Lates takes centre stage. It will feature the ‘Acoustic Hour’, followed by live performances. It will also include food and drink vendors, themed décor, and activities for all ages, ensuring a memorable experience for both locals and visitors. Saturday 26th July from 6pm – 10pm. At Watford Market, Watford House Lane, Watford, WD17 1BJ. Next 31st October and 15th November.

Sunday 27th July – Cassiobury Farm and Fishery: Open Day

Cassiobury Farm and Fishery open day will take place on Sunday 27th July. At Rousebarn Lane, Croxley Green, Rickmansworth, WD3 3GG. Visit our 70-species rare breed farm and exotic animal collection on site. Visit their Farm Shop full of produce from local artisan providers. Fresh watercress bread, local honey, homemade cookies and preserves, olives, pate’s, cakes and drinks. Lots of fun for the kids, with triassic dinosaur trail, bouncy castle, face painting, fishing, crazy golf, mini-tractor rides and pedalos. Come and enjoy lunch on the meadow or from one of our various food stations around the site. To book click here

Sunday 27th July – JiveSwing Festival

JiveSwing.com and Watford Borough Council presents the 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 Cassiobury Park. The 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. North of the The Band Stand Area, Cassiobury Park, Watford, WD18 7HY (Enter via Shepherds Road entrance, near the Cha Cha Cafe). Sunday 27th July from 12 noon – 6pm.

Sunday 27th July – Love in Slough

Love in Slough, a brand new one-man musical comedy written by Alexander Williams and based on the songs of Phil Craddock, is the story of Jack, a middle-aged man tied to an unfulfilling marriage, whose drab, directionless life is given an injection of vigour when he embarks on an unexpected affair. This funny, fast-paced show is bursting with wonderful jazz tunes, which propel you through Jack’s journey of self-discovery and redefined relationships with sparkling wit and brutal honesty. Join an entertaining hour packed with toe-tapping, finger-clicking music and a story brimming with humour, heart and hope. At The Pumphouse Theatre and Arts Centre, Local Board Road, Lower Watford High Street, WD17 2JP. Sunday 27th July from 8pm – 9pm. To book click here

Wednesday 30th July – Sunday 3rd August – Inflatable Family Fun

Huge inflatables, slides and obstacle courses, perfect for kids of all ages. Affordable day out for the whole family. Bring your mates, your camera, and your best bouncing energy. Five whole days of inflatable madness at Fullerians Rugby Football Club, New Field, Coningesby Drive, Watford, WD17 3BD. £10 on the gate, no booking required.

Thursday 31st July – CompassionART Café

CompassionART Cafés are drop-in sessions that provide a safe space for people to come together and express themselves through art. They are aimed at anyone who has experienced bereavement and those who might be lonely due to illness. Enjoy relaxing and fun arts and crafts activities amongst like-minded people. No need to book, please just come along and feel free to bring a family member or friend. Thursday 31st July from 1pm – 2.30pm. At Registered Office, Peace Hospice, Peace Drive, Watford, WD17 3PH.

On now until – Thursday 31st July – Watford Fringe

An extraordinary month long festival of great theatre, music, comedy, dance, magic and family fun filled shows. At various locations across Watford. Tuesday 1st – Thursday 31st July. For further information click here

Sunday 3rd August – Birds of Prey Experience

Watford Town Centre are welcoming back their feathered friends, with the return of this free Birds of Prey Experience. At The Parade Event Space (by the pond). Sunday 3rd August from 10.30am – 3.30pm. You and the family can get involved in this captivating experience, witnessing elegant creatures soaring the skies of Watford as well as getting the unique opportunity to hold, stroke and connect with the birds. Be educated by trained experts and capture special imagery and videos. 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, with Berkshire Birds of Prey. Birds of Prey availability on the day are subject to weather conditions.

Monday 4th August – Storytime: Incy Wincy Spider

Outdoor storytelling of Incy Wincy Spider by K Chapman and J Tickle. Story plus other fun activities, for 2-5 yrs (older sibling welcome). An adult must accompany their children. Monday 4th August from 11am – 12 noon, at Cassiobury Park, Watford. To book click here

Monday 4th – Sunday 17th August – Big Screen

Join Watford Council at the Town Centre from Monday 4th – Sunday 11th August and at Knutsford Playing Fields from Monday 11th – 17th August for a fantastic outdoor cinema experience. Feel free to bring your own chairs and a picnic. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a mix of classic favourites and the latest blockbusters. The Big Screen is free and no booking is required, just turn up and enjoy the outdoor cinema experience. For further information and film listings click here

Wednesday 6th August – Brush Party

Join Brush Party, the UK’s ‘Paint and Sip’ experts at Cassio Lounge, High Street, Watford, WD17 2DJ, on Wednesday 6th August from 7pm – 10pm, to create their fabulous theme Sunset Heights. For further information and to book click here

Friday 15th – Monday 25th August – Colourscape

Enter a new world of colour and light. Explore a unique labyrinth of 70 interlinked chambers of intense colours. Explore for a while and discover long views of intense colour and light. Move forwards and another view opens up, and another, and another. Musicians and dancers are found anywhere in this extraordinary space leading you on 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. Monday – Friday 11am – 4pm. Weekends and Bank Holiday Monday 11am – 5pm. In Cassiobury Park, Watford.

Friday 15th – Sunday 31st August – Big Beach

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. The hut is open 10am to 4pm each day. At Watford Town Centre. Friday 15th – Sunday 31st August.

Saturday 16th August – Community Family Funday

Bringing the Family, businesses and community together for an exciting special action, fun packed day. With entertainers, stallholders, organisations and charities. Free entry and car park. Saturday 16th August from 11am, at King George V Playing Fields Playground, Watford, WD18 9QD.

Sunday 17th August – Canal Boat Trip

Join Random cafe for a relaxing trip down the Grand Union Canal on Sunday 17th August from 10am – 2pm. To book email randomcafeuk@gmail.com

Tuesday 19th August – Memory Cafe and Carers Retreat

Join Home Instead Watford for a warm, welcoming space designed for people living with memory challenges and their carers. Enjoy meaningful connections, relaxing activities, and supportive conversations in a calm, friendly environment. Take time to rest, share stories, and recharge together. This event will be held ongoing on the 3rd Tuesday of the month from 2pm – 4pm until at least June 2026. At Asda Community Room, Asda Watford Superstore, Odhams Industrial Estate, St Albans Road, WD24 7RT.

Saturday 30th August – Herts Pride

Herts Pride is a vibrant and inclusive celebration that unites people to make a meaningful impact in their community. Everyone is welcome to attend this inclusive event supporting the local LGBTQ+ community, which includes stalls, funfair, a diverse line up of live entertainment and the Herts Pride Dog Show. For further information click here

Sunday 7th September – Wifi Wars

WiFi Wars returns with an entirely new show to celebrate their 10th Anniversary. It’s 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. Sunday 7th September from 3pm. At Watford Palace Theatre, Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. For further information and to book click here

Sunday 7th 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). The first Sunday of each month from 2pm – 4pm until at least July 2026, at Johnny’s Bar, Queen’s Road, Watford, WD17 2NX.

Saturday 20th September – Mum2mum Market

Come and shop pre loved, good condition all things baby, kids and maternity with 20 stalls to browse. Refreshments and snacks available. At Future Academies Watford, Horseshoe Lane, Watford, WD25 7HW. Saturday 20th September from 10.30am – 12.30pm.

Friday 26th October – David Essex

David Essex is one of the few artistes to have achieved success in all areas of entertainment, as an Actor, Singer, Song Writer, Producer, Director and best selling Author. With 23 top thirty record hits to his name and three best selling books. The Korgis will be joining David Essex as special guests for his show at Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. On Friday 26th October. To book click here

Saturday 4th October – Return of The Legends

Performing Latin, ballroom, tango, rumba and so much more, Brendan, James, Pasha, Vincent and Ian, are all re-uniting again in the Return of The Legends. Saturday 4th October from 7pm. At Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. To book click here

Friday 10th – Sunday 12th October – Oktoberfest

Come and join Oktoberfest from Friday 10th – Sunday 12th October as they transform Cassiobury Park, Central Avenue, Watford, WD18 7LG, into a Bavarian wonderland. Enjoy Live Oompah bands, German Bier, Oktoberfest Games, Axe throwing, fancy dress, gourmet food XL Steins and much more. Friday: 5.30pm – 10.30 Saturday Day: 11am – 4pm Saturday evening: 5pm – 10.30pm Sunday: 11am 5.30pm To book click here

Thursday 16th October – Lost In Music: One Night At The Disco

Embark on an electrifying journey through the sensational 70s. Our world class band and dazzling vocals are set to transport you straight to the heart of disco fever. Get ready to re-live timeless hits from icons like Donna Summer, Gloria Gaynor, Earth, Wind and Fire, Sister Sledge and Chic. Thursday 16th October from 7pm, at Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. To book click here

Saturday 18th October – Boardgame Café

There will be dozens of games available, ranging from traditional favourites to the latest releases. You can also bring your own favourite games, as well as any food and drink that you would like. It is a fun evening out that will help to raise funds for Community Learning Partnership. Solo players and groups are all welcome. You have the option to join one of the tables looking for players if you come alone or in a pair. Saturday 18th October from 7pm – 10pm, at St Martin’s, Muirfield Road, WD19 6JD. To book click here

Saturday 18th October – Level 42

Level 42 will bring their ‘World Machine’ 40th Anniversary Tour to Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN, on Saturday 18th October. Doors open from 7pm. To book click here

Friday 31st October – Halloween Market Lates

This year, the event will coincide with the Watford Town Centre ‘Trick or Treat Week’, a week-long family-focused celebration. Visitors can look forward to a trick-or-treat trail within the Market, where families can explore and collect treats while soaking up the spooky atmosphere. To add to the excitement, prizes will be awarded for the best Halloween costumes, encouraging both kids and adults to get creative and join in the fun. The evening will come alive with entertainment, including the Acoustic Hour, followed by performances from a live band to set the tone for the night. Guests can also enjoy a selection of street food, complemented by an array of beverages to create the perfect Halloween party atmosphere. At Watford Market, Watford House Lane, Watford, WD17 1BJ. Friday 31st October from 6pm – 10pm.

Saturday 1st November – Cassiobury Fireworks

Join Cassiobury Park on Saturday 1st November for this free fireworks display organised by Watford Borough Council. 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.

Monday 3rd November – Russell Watson: The Evolution Tour

Russell Watson brings The Evolution Tour, celebrating 25 years of his debut album ‘The Voice’ to Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17, on Monday 3rd November. To book click here

Saturday 8th November – Watford Brick Festival

The Brick Festival celebrates all things LEGO. With amazing creations to see, activities and competitions to take part in and traders selling rare, retired and new sets, loose bricks and minifigures, it is a fun day out for fans of all ages. At Woodside Leisure Centre, Horseshoe Lane, Watford, WD25 7HH. Saturday 8th November from 10am – 4pm. For further information and to book click here

Tuesday 11th November – Adam Ant

The iconic Adam Ant will grace the stage at Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17, on Tuesday 11th November from 7.30pm. Performing his classic chart-topping hits and personal favourites. To book click here

Thursday 13th 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.

You will be amazed at what you can achieve, and how empowered and inspired you will feel afterwards. By joining the Firewalk, they ask you to commit to raising £162 per person, which could pay for a healthcare assistant for a day, in their Inpatient Unit or in a patient’s home, helping them with personal care. Thursday 13th November at Peace Hospice, Peace Drive, Watford, WD17 3PH. To book click here

Saturday 15th November – Christmas Market Lates

Coinciding with WinterFest in the Town Centre, this unique collaboration enhances the festive atmosphere during one of the most magical times of the year. WinterFest, running from 2pm to 6pm, will attract families, shoppers, and visitors eager to celebrate the holiday season. Market Lates will seamlessly pick up the baton from 6pm to 10pm, extending the festivities into the evening and creating a full day of community-centred enjoyment. The Indoor Market will be decorated, while the Parade Market will feature a curated selection of festive offerings throughout the day, providing something special for everyone. From handcrafted gifts to seasonal treats, the Market will highlight the diverse talent and products of local traders, boosting their visibility and revenue during this crucial time of year. Saturday 15th November.

Tuesday 18th November – Sounds Of The 60s

An evening of 60s classics performed by the Sounds Of The 60s All Star Band and Singers, hosted by Radio 2’s legendary DJ, Tony Blackburn OBE. Tuesday 18th November from 7.30pm. At Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17. To book click here

Monday 1st – Wednesday 31st December – Jack and the Beanstalk

Full of songs you know and love, a growbag packed with plant-based humour and the best cow this side of the gap, it is panto time again at Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. Monday 1st – Wednesday 31st December at various times. To book click here

Saturday 6th December – Swing Into Christmas

Celebrate the festive season in style with the sensational Down for the Count Swing Orchestra, as they head to the Watford Colosseum with their much-loved annual show, Swing Into Christmas. Down for the Count’s 30-piece big band with strings is one of the largest swing bands currently touring the UK. Saturday 6th December from 7.30pm. To book click here

Monday 22nd December – Step Into Christmas

This Christmas feel-good show brings all the magic of the season to life, with all your favourite songs you will know and love. Step Into Christmas for the most magical show of the year. Monday 22nd December door open from 6.30pm. At Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17. To book click here

Wednesday 31st December – Subway Rockets

Join Subway Rockets for a New Year’s Rocking Eve at the sublime Tudor Arms, Bushey Mill Lane, Watford, WD24 7TQ. Wednesday 31st December from 9pm.

Tuesday 20th January – Memory Cafe and Carers Retreat

Saturday 28th February – Jason Donovan: Doin’ Fine Encore

Jason Donovan is coming to Watford Colosseum for his Doin’ Fine Encore tour on Saturday 28th February, doors open 6pm. Jason Donovan, has delighted audiences worldwide with his versatility as an actor, singer and all round entertainer. He has amassed a rich catalogue of hits, and Doin’ Fine Encore is a sensational culmination of his outstanding achievements to date. At Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17. To book click here

Sunday 15th March – Boyzlife

Boyband supergroup Boyzlife, comprising Boyzone’s Keith Duffy and Westlife’s Brian McFadden, celebrate the iconic hits from both defining 90s/00s groups. During the show the duo nostalgically revisit their boyband legacies as they perform a mixture of hits from both of their individual supergroups. Sunday 15th March doors open 6.30pm. At Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17. To book click here