Events & Activities in St. Albans
This page gives information on events and activities in St. Albans and the surrounding area, including London Colney and Harpenden. If you would like to advertise on this website and the Facebook page, please do get in touch by using the email address opposite.
Friday 20th June – Lewis Buxton
Award-winning poet and performer, Lewis Buxton, will be at St Albans Library, The Maltings, St Albans, AL1 3JQ, for his highly entertaining spoken word and poetry show, FRIEND, which is an average guy’s guide to making new friends in a story about sport, sitcoms and socialising. Friday 20th June from 7.30pm – 8.30pm. To book click here
Saturday 21st June – Charity Car Wash
Harpenden Fire Station, Leyton Road, Harpenden AL5 2JB, is hosting a charity car wash on Saturday 21st June from 10am – 2pm. Come and get your car cleaned and help raise money for the Fire Fighters Charity and Cancer Research UK. Minimum donation of £5 per vehicle.
Saturday 21st June – Record Fair
Whether you are a seasoned collector or just starting out, you have the chance to have a good look through thousands of vinyl records, CDs and cassettes from a wealth of dealers all under one roof. From reggae to heavy metal, soul to glam rock there will be something for everyone on display. Pick up that rarity that’s been eluding you for years or catch a bargain. Their sellers will buy, sell or trade. Free entry at Loreto College, Hatfield Road, St Albans, AL1 3RQ. Saturday 21st June from 10am – 3pm.
Saturday 21st June – Alban Day: Pilgrimage and Festival
A truly spectacular day celebrating the rich history of St Albans and honouring the legacy of St Alban, Britain’s first saint. Brought to you by St Albans Cathedral and St Albans City Centre BID. Alban Day begins with the Alban Pilgrimage Procession from St Peter’s Church, weaving through the city to St Albans Cathedral Orchard with 12-foot puppets. A dramatic, visual retelling of Alban’s story for all ages from 11am – 12 noon. All are invited to join the Pilgrimage Eucharist, with the Pilgrimage Preacher The Very Revd Isaac Poobalan, with stirring music and timeless tradition from 12 noon. The Alban Festival is from 12 noon – 5pm on the Cathedral Orchard and surrounding areas. Close the day with a moment of reflection at Pilgrimage Evensong, concluding with a final procession to the Shrine of St Alban from 4pm. For further information click here Main photo: Emma Collins Photography.
Sunday 22nd June – Farmers Market
Harpenden’s Farmers’ Market is a vibrant market offering a huge selection of exciting, high quality local produce. They welcome residents and visitors to the Town every month to enjoy everything the Market has to offer. The Farmers’ Market includes fresh fruit, vegetables, meats fish, artisan bakery, homemade pies, preserves, gifts, crafts, beer, wine, liquors, fine cheeses, flowers, and street food. The Market is situated in the heart of picturesque Harpenden within its bustling Town Centre. Locals and visitors alike come to enjoy delicious, seasonal produce, locally grown and reared by experts, passionate in their field. Fourth Sunday of the month from 10am – 2pm until December 21st
Sunday 22nd June – Joe Bagley Q&A Session and Book Signing
Ever wonder why your houseplants keep dying, no matter how much love (or water) you give them? Meet Joe Bagley, aka @ukhouseplants – the UK’s Houseplant Doctor. With over 1,000 plants in his home and years of hands-on experience, Joe has become one of the most trusted voices in indoor gardening. His debut book, How to Make Your Houseplants Love You, is packed with practical answers to the questions we all have (but do not always ask). Join Aylett Nurseries, North Orbital Road, St Albans, AL2 1DH, for an exclusive Q&A and book signing with Joe. Sunday 22nd June from 11am – 1pm. £20 per ticket which includes: A signed copy of Joe’s book and 20% off any one houseplant on the day. Limited spots available. To book click here
Monday 23rd June – Memory Cafe
The Harpenden Memory Lane Café is open every Monday from 2pm – 3.30pm (with the exception of Bank Holidays) at The Salvation Army on Leyton Green in Harpenden. Come along and enjoy a cup of tea and slice of cake. They have a full programme of enjoyable activities for anyone who would like to join in, or if you would rather just enjoy refreshments and a chat you are just as welcome.
Wednesday 25th June – Auction Valuation
Curious about the value of your heirlooms or antiques? This informal and fun event is your chance to get your treasures assessed by an expert. Join Hansons experts and bring your gold, jewellery, silver, medals, coins, collectibles, and antiques to this weekly valuation day, with the option to consign them for their next auction. No charge and no appointments needed, just drop by and find out how much your antiques are worth. At Burston Garden Centre, North Orbital Road, St Albans, AL2 2DS. Wednesdays from 10am – 1pm, until 10th December.
Wednesday 25th June – Chatty Cafe
Come and join The Queen of Herts, High Street, Redbourn, St Albans, AL3 7LW, chatty café every Wednesday from 11am – 1pm.
Wednesday 25th June – Board Games for Adults
Board Games Group every Wednesday from 1pm – 3pm. Friendly drop-in session, no experience required, come and learn a new game, at Hatfield Library, White Lion Square, 26-32 Town Centre, Hatfield, AL10 0LD.
Friday 27th June – Tots Tales
Tots Tales at Verulamium Museum, St Michael’s Street, St Albans, AL3 4SW, are fun sessions for their youngest museum visitors and their grown-ups to enjoy a story and craft activity as well as a museum treasure hunt linked to the story. Tots Tales at Verulamium Museum takes place on the fourth Friday of the month from 10am – 11am. Suitable for children aged 2-4 accompanied by an adult. To book click here Last one in November.
Friday 27th June – Yesterday Once More: The Carpenters Songbook
Showing at the Eric Morecambe Centre, Rothamsted Park Trail, Harpenden, AL5 2FR, Yesterday Once More – The Carpenters Songbook transports us to a time when legends ruled the airwaves and The Carpenters soared to stardom with well-crafted tunes and pitch-perfect soulful vocals. Toni Lee has been performing Karen Carpenter tunes with incredible accuracy for decades. Yesterday Once More presents an unforgettable night of nostalgia and heartfelt music. Friday 27th June from 7.30pm. To book click here
Friday 27th June – Strings and Pipes
It was during the Choir Academies in Cévennes that Camilla and Viviane met in 2016. Each having a rich solo career, their combined skills offer the public lively and varied programs, ranging from baroque to contemporary. The unexpected, surprising and rare dialogue of two discourses that apparently oppose each other in every way. The almost tinny, constantly renewed vibration of the mandolin, the eternal permanence of the full sound of the organ. A discovery not to be missed. Friday 27th June from 7.30pm, at St Leonards, FLamstead, St Albans, AL3 8BS. To book click here
Saturday 28th June – Summer Carnival
Harpenden Summer Carnival will be on Saturday 28th June from 12 noon – 6pm. The Summer Carnival is always a wonderful community occasion enjoyed by residents and visitors of all ages in Harpenden’s vibrant Town Centre and Common. This is a free to attend event. You can enjoy music, family entertainment, funfair rides, soft play, street performances, archery, market stalls and so much more. Food stalls and outdoor bars will also be open as planned making this a perfect opportunity to make the most of everything the Carnival offers.
Saturday 28th June – Summer Fete
This Fete is a fun-filled family experience where parents and staff join together to run the various stalls and games, help raise funds for the school and enjoy a glorious English summer’s Day. Saturday 28th June from 12 noon – 4pm. At St George’s School, Sun Lane, Harpenden, AL5 4TD.
Saturday 28th June – Food and Drink Gallery Talk
If you enjoy adding herbs and spices to your food, thank the Romans, who introduced lots of new foods and highly flavoured recipes to Roman Britain. Find out how they grew, cooked and ate their food, from the poor living without a kitchen, to the rich with their sumptuous dinner parties. Gallery tours are included with admission and led by St Albans Tour Guides. Saturday 28th June from 2.30pm – 3.30pm. To book click here At Verulamium Museum, St Michael’s Street, St Albans, AL3 4SW,
Sunday 29th June – The Harpenden Bike Festival
An annual celebration of everything motorcycle related with all proceeds going to charity. Live bands, stalls, food and drink, custom bike display and lots more. Sunday 29th June from 10.30am – 4pm, St Albans Road, Harpenden, AL5 2HU.
Sunday 29th June – St Albans City Band
Hear the brass bands play at the band stand in Clarence Park, St Albans, AL1 4NF, on Sunday 29th June from 12.30pm. Bring a picnic and enjoy.
Thursday 3rd July – CompassionART Café
CompassionART Cafés are similar to Compassionate Cafés but include an art activity at each session. They invite you to enjoy arts and crafts activities and connect with others over a cuppa. These sessions are open to anyone who is lonely due to illness or bereavement. Families and carers are welcome too. This CompassionART Café at Cafe on the Corner, Catherine Street, St Albans, AL3 5BJ, takes place on the first Thursday of every month from 2pm – 3.30pm.
Saturday 5th July – The Peculiar Pop Up
An established alternative market in Hertfordshire, bringing together over 20 incredible independent and small businesses. they specialise in offering gothic, horror, and whimsical art, décor, jewellery, clothing, and more. Whether you are looking for something weird, wonderful, or just a little different, this is the place to be. Come along and support small alternative businesses. At Fleetville Community Centre, Royal Road, St Albans, AL1 4LQ. Saturday 5th July from 10.30am – 4pm. Free entry, family friendly. A selection of refreshments will be available to purchase.
Sunday 6th July – Vegan Market
The event brings together a huge variety of vegan street food vendors, artisan bakers, craft brewers, ethical jewellers, sustainable chandlers, local artists, zero-waste champions, environmental charities and loads more. Sunday 6th July from 10.30am – 4pm. At St Peter’s Street, AL1 3DH. Next 7th September and 2nd November.
Sunday 6th July – BBC Sunday Worship from St Peter’s Church
The 33rd St Albans International Organ Festival opens with a live BBC Radio 4 broadcast of Sunday Worship. At St Peter’s Church, St Peter’s St, St Albans, AL1 3HG. Led by the Reverend Mark Dearnley; guest preacher the Reverend Lucy Winkett, Rector of St James’s Church, Piccadilly; Choir of St Peter’s Church directed by Nicholas Robinson. It is probable that people have worshipped here, at the northern entrance to the medieval town, for over 1000 years. To book click here
Monday 7th July – Compassionate Cafe
Compassionate Cafe every first Monday of the month from 2pm – 3.30pm, at The Abbots Kitchen, St Albans Cathedral, Sumpter Yard, St Albans, AL1 1BY
Friday 11th July – Town Hall Tours
Follow a knowledgeable guide through the newly restored building and discover the fascinating functions and features of the different historic spaces inside St Albans Museum + Gallery, St Peter’s Street, St Albans, AL1 3DH. From the glittering galas and balls in the Assembly Room to the Cells below where prisoners were held, come and discover the hidden stories of this local landmark. This tour involves walking around the building and will finish in the Cells. It will last around an hour.
Tickets are free and can be reserved in advance, but are limited to 15 tickets due to the nature of the building. If you do not reserve your ticket in advance, places will be first come, first served on the day and you may not be able to join the group. Friday 11th July from 10.30am. Future dates: 10th September from 2.30pm and 14th November from 2.30pm. To book click here
Sunday 13th July – Harpenden Lions Highland Gathering
Harpenden Lions Highland Gathering, a Scottish themed family fun day out at Rothamsted Park, Harpenden, AL5 2LX, on Sunday 13th July from 10.30am – 5pm. With pipe bands, highland dancing, highland games, stalls, food, falconry, live music and much more.
Monday 14th July – LEGO Club
Join Harpenden Library, 27 High Street, Harpenden, AL5 2RU. On the second Monday of every month from 3.45pm – 4.45pm.
Monday 14th July – Three Choirs
The Organ Festival’s hugely popular Three Choirs concert returns with The Choirs of St Albans Cathedral, New College Oxford and Temple Church. At St Albans Cathedral, Sumpter Yard, St. Albans, AL1 1BY. Monday 14th July from 7.30pm – 9.15pm. To book click here
Friday 18th – Sunday 20th July – Dinosaur World Live
Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World Live in this roarsome interactive show for all the family. Grab your compass and join our intrepid explorer across uncharted territories to discover a pre-historic world of astonishing (and remarkably life-like) dinosaurs. Meet a host of impressive creatures. At The Alban Arena, Civic Centre St Albans, AL1 3LD. Friday 18th – Sunday 20th July at various times. For further information and to book click here
Wednesday 23rd July – Classics on the Common
Once a year, Harpenden Common comes alive mid afternoon with 1200+ classic cars and motorcycles and other motoring paraphernalia. With some 10,000 admiring spectators turning up to enjoy the event. Come along and savour the great atmosphere at this summer midweek event. Admission is free (non display cars) but a charity donation is always welcomed in the volunteer buckets as you enter. At Harpenden Common, Harpenden, AL5 2JF. Wednesday 23rd July from 11.30am – 9pm. For further information click here
Sunday 3rd August – Young Creatives Art Exhibition
This special event is all about celebrating children and young people aged 4–16 by giving them a chance to exhibit their artwork in a public space, be part of a supportive community and feel proud of their creativity. At St Albans, Burston Garden Centre, North Orbital Road, St Albans AL2 2DS. Deadline to enter is Friday 26th July. For further information click here
Saturday 9th August – Village Day
This promises to be a wonderful Summer event for families and friends, showcasing the very best of London Colney and surrounding areas in Hertfordshire, with local businesses and community groups all taking part in the fun on the day, as well as entertainment including live music on the main stage. With Dog show, Dance performances, Live Bands, stalls, Games, Fairground rides and more. Saturday 9th August from 1pm – 6.30pm, at Morris Playing Field, White Horse Lane, London Colney, St Albans, AL2 1JW. To book click here
Saturday 30th August – Redbourn Classics Motor Show
A great day for the whole family, with 300+ classic vehicles, live music by The Barn-ettes and Missing the Ferry, delicious street food, a licensed bar, village stalls, and a children’s funfair. Classic vehicle tickets go on sale in early April 2025, giving entry for the vehicle and all occupants. The Show will be open to the public, there is no need to pre-book, but they welcome donations for their local charities at the gates on the day. Saturday 30th August from 12 noon – 5pm on Redbourn Common, near St Albans, AL3 7BU.
Sunday 21st September – Sustainable Market
A range of eco providers and sustainable food stalls, interiors, fashion, repair and reuse and more. Come along to talk to vendors, traders and community organisations for a range of products, food and pantry staples, ideas and activities to inspire you. Markets are held on Harpenden Common on the tree lined area of Harpenden Common in front of Park Hall. Sunday from 10am – 3pm. Next 16th November.
Saturday 27th September – Space Safari
Experience Hertfordshire’s first ever drone light show. Witness the night sky filled with hundreds of synchronized drones, creating mesmerizing animations with a symphony of light and sound. With cinematic storytelling and epic-scale narration, Space Safari is a wanderlust tale which captivates audiences of all ages. At Hertfordshire Showground, Dunstable Road, St Albans, AL3 7PT. To book click here Saturday 27th September.
Saturday 4th October – Maurice Duruflé: Requiem
Maurice Duruflé’s Requiem was commissioned in 1941 but not completed and performed until 1947. Despite being composed against the backdrop of a world war, his Requiem offers both optimism and hope. Hertfordshire Chorus is a leading symphonic choir and performs 3-4 times every year in Hertfordshire. They will be at St Peter’ Church, St Albans, AL1 3HG, on Saturday 4th October from 7.30pm. Tickets will go on sale soon.
Sunday 5th October – Apple Day
Fun and traditional celebration of English Apples at Highfield Park Trust, Hill End Lane, St Albans, AL4 0RA. There really is something for everyone at this popular Sunday afternoon event. Entry is free, although donations are welcome. The centre-piece of the event is always a sensational local band and you could just come along and listen to them whilst indulging in homemade cake with a cup of tea or coffee from the Apple Cafe. Or you could purchase their own apple juice and cider, sourced from the historic orchards within the park. An informative apple juicing demonstration will show young and old alike how our apple juice is made and their apple based games will keep the children amused all afternoon. Highfield Park Trust will have a stand and you can find out more about the park and the work of the Trust. Sunday 5th October from 1.30pm – 3.30pm.
Tuesday 25th November – That’ll Be Christmas
Nothing says Christmas quite like That’ll Be Christmas! This year is extra special as the cast of That’ll Be The Day celebrates their 40-Year Anniversary. Packed with your all-time favourite Christmas classics, laugh-out-loud comedy sketches, and heart-warming festive cheer, this is the perfect family night out. Tuesday 25th November from 7pm, at The Alban Arena, Civic Centre St Albans, AL1 3LD. To book click here
Saturday 6th – Tuesday 30th December – Jack and the Beanstalk
The Eric Morecambe Centre, Rothamsted Park Trail, Harpenden, AL5 2FR, are delighted to announce the Pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk. Get ready to roar with laughter and cheer our hero Jack on his magical journey to Cloudland as he battles to save his best friend Daisy the Cow. As always there’ll be spectacular scenery, dazzling costumes, amazing special effects and lots of audience participation. Saturday 6th – Tuesday 30th December at various times. To book click here
Sunday 7th December – Rudolph Run
Join Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care for the Rudolph Run 2025 and make December a season to remember. Dust off your antlers, pull on your favourite Christmas jumper, and head to St Albans city centre for a morning full of festive fun for the whole family. Whether you choose the 1.5km or 5km route, you will enjoy a jolly journey through the city streets, starting at the Waterend Barn pub on St Peter’s Street. Perfect for runners and walkers of all ages and abilities, this joyful event is a fantastic way to spread holiday cheer while supporting Rennie Grove Peace. For further information and to book click here
