Black Women Swimming
Making Waves! Summer monthly open water swim meet up encouraging women of African-descent along with mixed heritage or bi-racial women who identify with their African roots to come together and celebrate sisterhood, joy and freedom in the water. Book your slot via the Better App or website at the West Reservoir Centre Location. Visit the website for more information about the West Reservoir Centre.
September 4th 10am. West Reservoir Centre Green Lanes, N4 C2H.
The Drifters
The Drifters are back on tour in the UK performing all their classic hits including Saturday Night At The Movies, You’re More Than A Number, Come On Over To My Place, Under the Boardwalk, Kissin’ In The Back Row and many more!
The legendary group have been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, performed for the President of the United States and listed among the Greatest Artists of All Time by Rolling Stone magazine.
Under the guidance of Tina Treadwell (daughter of the group’s original founders, George & Faye Treadwell) The Drifters have enjoyed a remarkable resurgence in recent years with multiple successful UK tours including headline shows in major arenas and, most notably, the world famous Royal Albert Hall in London for the first ever time in the group’s glittering career.
“I am thrilled with the success of our recent UK tours and we invite you all to join us in continuing to celebrate this incredible and everlasting story of The Drifters,” said Tina, speaking about the tour.
Presented by Elite Concerts International.
For booking information, go to Hackney Empire.
Hackney (Dalston) Black History Walk
This walk recognises the journey of the SS Windrush arriving from the Caribbean. It starts with the 1950's and goes right up to the 21st century. We will cover:
Black music history soul, reggae, rave and acid: the legendary 4 Aces
Blue plaques to Black people and how they get ripped off
Hackney’s Black activism and its pioneering role in housing equality
And more! Join us for a journey of history, enjoyment and learning.
Book Tickets: - Price - £15
Radical Writers Festival: Richard Yeboah - From Hackney, With Love: An Intimate History of Gentrification
Richard Yeboah is a writer, public servant and historian from Hackney, East London with a strong interest in local history, public policy and urbanism, and has written on a variety of political and social issues over the last ten years. Richard's long-anticipated book "From Hackney, With Love: An Intimate History of Gentrification" was published in May 2025 and is a part-history, part-memoir reflecting on the dramatic physical, socioeconomic and cultural transformation of Hackney over the last few decades.
As part of the Radical Writers Festival. Book via the Abney Park website.
The Quiet Ear: Raymond Antrobus in conversation with Joe Dunthorne
Raymond Antrobus was diagnosed as deaf aged six. He discovered he had missing sounds – bird calls, whistles, kettles, alarms. Teachers thought he was slow and disruptive, some didn’t believe he was deaf at all.
THE QUIET EAR tells the story of Raymond’s upbringing at the intersection of race and disability. Growing up in Hackney to an English mother and Jamaican father, educated in both mainstream and deaf schooling systems, Raymond explores the shame of miscommunication and the joy of finding community, and shines a light on the decline of deaf education in Britain.
Throughout, Raymond sets his story alongside those of other D/deaf cultural figures, from painters to silent film stars, poets to performers – the inspiring models of D/deaf creativity he did not have growing up.
THE QUIET EAR is a groundbreaking and much-needed examination of deafness. A memoir, a cultural history, a call to action.
Di Prodigal Pickney
The king of Caribbean comedy Oliver Samuels is back with what might just be his best play yet the new Blockbuster special for Black History Month Di Prodigal Pickney; a heartfelt tale inspired by the biblical story of the Prodigal Son, exploring themes of forgiveness, acceptance, and the enduring bonds of family.
Written by Oliver himself, this hilarious new comedy promises non-stop laughter from start to finish. With a formidable supporting cast featuring Tesfa Edwards, and Karen Harriot. This is one you don't want to miss.
Booking Tickets: - Price - from £42.00
Faggamuffin presents... A Special Edition 7th Birthday Party
Faggamuffin has always been more than a party; it's thee home for QTBIPOC joy during Carnival season. We’re coming strong to close off the summer. Expect legendary DJ lineups, dancers, masqueraders, and MCs taking you from Dancehall to Soca, from Bashment to Reggae, all though the night. This is a celebration of our legacy - 7 years of creating space for the culture, the connection, and the community that makes us who we are. Come for the vibes. Stay for the rhythm. Bring your full self. \+ Special Guests Tickets are £10, £15 & £20 (£1.50 venue ticket levy added to every ticket price) 54 Holywell Lane, London, EC2A 3PQ 23:00:00 GMT+0100 (British Summer Time) If you have any queries or would like more information about access at Village Underground, please see or contact access@villageunderground.co.uk. Presented by Faggamuffin. This is an 18+ event.
£12.88. Book now!
Hidden Jazz Club
Experience electrifying live jazz in an atmospheric 1800s Grade II Listed Music Hall. Hoxton Hidden Jazz Club offers an intimate, fun, underground performance—a secret spot where Londoners discover top jazz artists in a relaxed, spontaneous, artist-run setting unlike traditional jazz clubs.
Includes MOBO award-winning Denys Baptiste, Jazz FM winner Georgia Cecile and the ‘young don’ of jazz and afro-beat trumpeter, Ife Ogunjobi and plenty more.
Book Tickets - Price - from £22.00
The Sir Collins Legacy Honours
Celebrating the contributions of pioneering entrepreneurs and entertainers through clubs like Cubies and the legendary Four Aces, a free event launching the new heritage elements installed in Dalston Square in collaboration with the Older Generation, Younger Generation (OGYG) organisation. Join us and enjoy an unveiling ceremony, live acoustic music from Reggae band Black Slate, a museum display and delicious Caribbean food.
The event will be hosted by actress and presenter Judith Jacob. Food will be available for purchase provided by Cummin' Up Caribbean Restaurant.
Shaded Writers x Hackney Libraries in Person Writing Group for QTIBiPoC
Shaded Writers welcome Queer, Trans, Intersex, Black, Indigenous, People of Colour (QTIBiPOC) to a writing group for and facilitated by QTIBiPOC supported by Hackney Libraries. It is hybrid; the virtual component delivered via zoom.
Book virtual event: Shaded Writers x Hackney Libraries Online Writing Group for QTIBiPoC Tickets
A mix of creative prompts and mindfulness will be offered. A moment to pause, reflect and create. Bring your favourite beverage/snacks and your coloured pens or your picture making equipment. Bring your pen and paper, lappy, phone - however you create. Come ready to write/draw/doodle/journal (as you choose), free and to prompts, to and for yourself. Come to enjoy the ambience of being in community. There is no expectation you should share, though you are welcome to.
It is suitable for writers at any level and non-writers wishing to engage creatively.
It will be held as gentle space of invitation and relaxation and finding your own level of participation, no judgement, no pressure. There is no obligation to put your camera or audio on if joining via zoom. It is held as safe(r) space and will not be recorded. Hackney Libraries may request pictures taken only with your expressed consent. The pictures may appear on social media and in promotional material for the writing group (flyer/ website/newsletter). We try to never out anyone.
For more information and how to reserve a spot, visit Eventbrite.
Kojo Anim: Married to the Game
Kojo Anim celebrates 25 years in comedy with a special performance at his local theatre.
Kojo has appeared as a cast member on Nick Cannon’s Wild N Out, Capital Xtra’s breakfast show as the host for 5 years, his own show on MTV Base, Britain's Got Talent Golden Buzzer Winner and international tours with Kevin Hart, Chris Rock & Dave Chappelle.
The Fresh Prince of Hackney is finally coming home.
Presented by Kojo Anim.
For more information, go to Hackney Empire.
FLAVOUR IBIS: Trinidad & Tobago Independence Legacy
Celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Trinidad & Tobago at FLAVOUR IBIS: Trinidad & Tobago Independence Legacy! Join us for a day filled with music, dance, food, and more. Immerse yourself in the legacy of Trinidadian independence and enjoy the flavors of the Caribbean.
Free. Book via Eventbrite.
Windrush Art and Music Performances
An evening of creativity, rhythm, and reflection awaits at the Windrush Art and Music Performances, taking place at Riverwalk Apartments. This special event brings together local artists and musicians in a vibrant celebration of the Windrush generation’s enduring cultural legacy.
Get ready to be immersed in a fusion of art and music that will uplift your spirits. Don't miss out on this unique experience that pays homage to the rich heritage of the Windrush community. See you there!
Book Tickets: - Price - free!
UK Black Pride 20th anniversary
Come and enjoy a safe space to celebrate diverse sexualities, gender identities, gender expressions and queer cultures. We’re bringing the community together again this summer for both celebration and protest. From a bus-load of attendees travelling to Southend-on-Sea to 10,000 people in Haggerston Park, UK Black Pride is proud to return to Newham the largest space the organisation has occupied since its inception.
Black Women Swimming
Making Waves! Summer monthly open water swim meet up encouraging women of African-descent along with mixed heritage or bi-racial women who identify with their African roots to come together and celebrate sisterhood, joy and freedom in the water. Book your slot via the Better App or website at the West Reservoir Centre Location. Visit the website for more information about the West Reservoir Centre.
August 10th and September 4th 10am. West Reservoir Centre Green Lanes, N4 C2H.
Shaded Writers x Hackney Libraries in Person Writing Group for QTIBiPoC
Shaded Writers welcome Queer, Trans, Intersex, Black, Indigenous, People of Colour (QTIBiPOC) to a writing group for and facilitated by QTIBiPOC supported by Hackney Libraries. It is hybrid; the virtual component delivered via zoom.
Book virtual event: Shaded Writers x Hackney Libraries Online Writing Group for QTIBiPoC Tickets
A mix of creative prompts and mindfulness will be offered. A moment to pause, reflect and create. Bring your favourite beverage/snacks and your coloured pens or your picture making equipment. Bring your pen and paper, lappy, phone - however you create. Come ready to write/draw/doodle/journal (as you choose), free and to prompts, to and for yourself. Come to enjoy the ambience of being in community. There is no expectation you should share, though you are welcome to.
It is suitable for writers at any level and non-writers wishing to engage creatively.
It will be held as gentle space of invitation and relaxation and finding your own level of participation, no judgement, no pressure. There is no obligation to put your camera or audio on if joining via zoom. It is held as safe(r) space and will not be recorded. Hackney Libraries may request pictures taken only with your expressed consent. The pictures may appear on social media and in promotional material for the writing group (flyer/ website/newsletter). We try to never out anyone.
For more information and how to reserve a spot, visit Eventbrite.
Love and Basketball + intro and Q&A
The Rio Feminist Film Programming Group x Corrina Antrobus presents a 25th anniversary screening of LOVE AND BASKETBALL with a recorded introduction from director Gina Prince Bythewood and a post-screening discussion with Corrina Antrobus.
Rightly featured within the 100 films featured in author and critic Corrina Antrobus’s book I Love Romcoms and I’m a Feminist, come celebrate Gina Prince Bythewood’s debut as an exquisite celebration of Black love.
Corrina Antrobus will be in conversation with Selina Robertson following the screening. Book now
For Those Who Need Hugs
Go to Hoxton Hall to have a soulful, introspective experience that transcends boundaries. Get ready to dive into raw emotion and powerful artistry. Join us and connect with 4 incredible artists for a night of great conversation, games, networking, an open jam, and most of all great music & energy.
Artists include: Lina Simons, Mukuza, AnderSol and NANDII.
For more information and how to book, visit their website.
Black Eats Festival at Hackney Bridge
To mark five incredible years of Black Eats, the award-winning Black Eats Fest returns to East London on 25th – 27th July, taking over Hackney Bridge’s expansive garden space with a vibrant celebration of Black culture, food, and creativity.
Guests can expect a tantalising array of street food from across Africa, the Caribbean, and beyond, alongside a Havana Club cocktail bar serving a rotating menu of guest cocktails.
The festival will also feature live DJs, a curated retail marketplace, a bookshop, and plenty more to discover throughout the day.
Book Tickets: - Price from £6.13
Uprising Summer Street Party
Join Uprising Community Club for their annual summer Windrush street party! Love music, dance performances, poetry, food and prize giveaways!
Uprising Community Club Downs Park Road E5 8NS. Free! Just turn up. Call: 07939452497 or email uprisingcommunityclub@gmail.com for info.
Shaded Writers x Hackney Libraries in Person Writing Group for QTIBiPoC
Shaded Writers welcome Queer, Trans, Intersex, Black, Indigenous, People of Colour (QTIBiPOC) to a writing group for and facilitated by QTIBiPOC supported by Hackney Libraries. It is hybrid; the virtual component delivered via zoom.
Book virtual event: Shaded Writers x Hackney Libraries Online Writing Group for QTIBiPoC Tickets
A mix of creative prompts and mindfulness will be offered. A moment to pause, reflect and create. Bring your favourite beverage/snacks and your coloured pens or your picture making equipment. Bring your pen and paper, lappy, phone - however you create. Come ready to write/draw/doodle/journal (as you choose), free and to prompts, to and for yourself. Come to enjoy the ambience of being in community. There is no expectation you should share, though you are welcome to.
It is suitable for writers at any level and non-writers wishing to engage creatively.
It will be held as gentle space of invitation and relaxation and finding your own level of participation, no judgement, no pressure. There is no obligation to put your camera or audio on if joining via zoom. It is held as safe(r) space and will not be recorded. Hackney Libraries may request pictures taken only with your expressed consent. The pictures may appear on social media and in promotional material for the writing group (flyer/ website/newsletter). We try to never out anyone.
For more information and how to reserve a spot, visit Eventbrite.
This is My Story
"When an Elder dies a Library burns down. We owe it to future generations not just to tell our stories but to write them down."
Hackney Council in association with Twenty9Twelve as part of the Hackney Windrush Season are funding a Legacy Writing Workshop, led by 17 year old Hackney author, Romeo Bremmer, and featuring 11 year old author Jahmari Maxwell.
We are inviting families to bring your Elders to participate in a workshop teaching you exactly how to document the Legacy of your loved ones.
The young authors will be providing templates and materials to support with the writing of your Elders stories and giving you examples of their work as outlined in their Windrush book: Hey, Black Boy! Windrush Special.
For more information and how to book your ticket, visit Eventbrite.
THIS IS MY STORY is funded by Hackney Council's Windrush Microgrant Scheme in partnership with Twenty9Twelve.
The Blessing: Power of Community
The Blessing is a spectacular celebration marking Windrush Day and Refugee Week 2025 that will bring together musicians, artists and our local community.
The event will start with a Caribbean blessing for Hackney, featuring drumming, spoken word, steel pan and singing. The show will finish with our massed choirs, taking the stage alongside an exciting line up of musical headliners to fill the theatre with rhythm and joy.
A partnership between Hackney Empire, Counterpoints Arts, and Rising Tide, The Blessing will be guided by conversations and creative collaboration between young people and their elders. We will celebrate the superpowers of Community and Welcome, pay tribute to the contributions and experiences of refugee and Windrush generations, and bring healing and solidarity to those that attend under the watchful eyes of Papa Bois, a Caribbean folklore character.
All ticket sales will go towards supporting Hackney Empire and Counterpoints' wider engagement programmes.
Funded by the Windrush Day Grant Scheme, supported by Ministry of Housing Community and Local Government administered by Near Neighbours.
This project is supported by Hackney Council.
Presented by Hackney Empire and Counterpoints Arts.
For more information and how to book, visit the website.
Shaded Writers x Hackney Libraries in Person Writing Group for QTIBiPoC
Shaded Writers welcome Queer, Trans, Intersex, Black, Indigenous, People of Colour (QTIBiPOC) to a writing group for and facilitated by QTIBiPOC supported by Hackney Libraries. It is hybrid; the virtual component delivered via zoom.
Book virtual event: Shaded Writers x Hackney Libraries Online Writing Group for QTIBiPoC Tickets
A mix of creative prompts and mindfulness will be offered. A moment to pause, reflect and create. Bring your favourite beverage/snacks and your coloured pens or your picture making equipment. Bring your pen and paper, lappy, phone - however you create. Come ready to write/draw/doodle/journal (as you choose), free and to prompts, to and for yourself. Come to enjoy the ambience of being in community. There is no expectation you should share, though you are welcome to.
It is suitable for writers at any level and non-writers wishing to engage creatively.
It will be held as gentle space of invitation and relaxation and finding your own level of participation, no judgement, no pressure. There is no obligation to put your camera or audio on if joining via zoom. It is held as safe(r) space and will not be recorded. Hackney Libraries may request pictures taken only with your expressed consent. The pictures may appear on social media and in promotional material for the writing group (flyer/ website/newsletter). We try to never out anyone.
For more information and how to reserve a spot, visit Eventbrite.
Ashley Walters: Always Winning
The Hackney Empire will be host to an inspiring evening with critically acclaimed actor and director Ashley Walters as he shares his extraordinary journey from musical stardom to triumphs in acting and directing, while overcoming personal setbacks along the way.
If art imitates life, then the critically acclaimed actor, director, producer, and recording artist Ashley Walters is living proof. In this brave and inspiring conversation, Ashley will share the story behind his unwavering determination and resilience. He will reveal the revolutionary mindset that transformed his life and fuels his optimistic outlook, offering a framework for achieving success against any odds.
For more information and how to book visit Hackney Empire.
The Cool Ruler: The Musical
Go to the Hackney Empire for a unique story depicting the life and music of Reggae icon Gregory Isaacs, celebrating his 75th anniversary.
The Cool Ruler musical curates the story of the legendary Gregory Isaacs on stage with a live five-piece band, and sensational vocals from Terence Wallen. Experience this foot-stomping reggae musical, which is guaranteed to have you rocking in your seat from start to finish.
For more information and how to book, go to Hackney Empire.
Backlash: The Murder of George Floyd + Q&A
Five years on from the murder of George Floyd – the police killing that set America on fire with rage and sparked a wave of protests around the world, director Kwabena Oppong's film explores one of the most important and defining events in modern history.
Documentary screening + Director Q&A at the Rio Cinema. Find out more and book now.
Sadness and Sweetness: screening and panel discussion
Sadness and Sweetness is a documentary by Sheba Montserrat that follows four Hackney residents who spent part of their childhoods being raised by relatives in the Caribbean, before reuniting with their parents in Hackney.
The screening will be followed by a panel discussion reflecting on kinship care, the contribution that the Windrush generation made to fostering in Hackney and the landscape of care in Hackney today.
There will be delicious Caribbean food served at this event.
The fostering recruitment team will be on hand to share information and answer questions about fostering for Hackney.
Put on by the Museum of the Home, this event has been co-produced in partnership with Hackney Foster Carer’s Council and Hackney Council.
Sponsored Walk/Wheelchair
Support the Uprising Community Club and their seniors as they walk to raise funds for the community outreach. There will be refreshments and entertainment. Contact the community club to join by calling 07939452497.
World Comedy Clash 2025
12 Comedians, 11 Countries, 1 Stage. Which country will take the crown?
The original and longest running comedy clash show returns with its annual extravaganza, with an all-star line up of the biggest and best comedians you will see on one show.
Full line up:
White Yardie (Jamaica)
Kojo Anim (Ghana)
Thenjiwe (South Africa)
Quincy (Barbados)
Toju (Nigeria)
Junior Booker (Guyana)
Dana Alexander (Canada)
Jason Patterson (St Vincent)
Kazeem Jamal (Antigua)
Wilson Milton (England)
Limahl Gernmain (Dominica)
Richard Blackwood (Host)
Presented by Comedy Events UK.
For more information and book, go to Hackney Empire.
Shaded Writers x Hackney Libraries in Person Writing Group for QTIBiPoC
Shaded Writers welcome Queer, Trans, Intersex, Black, Indigenous, People of Colour (QTIBiPOC) to a writing group for and facilitated by QTIBiPOC supported by Hackney Libraries. It is hybrid; the virtual component delivered via zoom.
Book virtual event: Shaded Writers x Hackney Libraries Online Writing Group for QTIBiPoC Tickets
A mix of creative prompts and mindfulness will be offered. A moment to pause, reflect and create. Bring your favourite beverage/snacks and your coloured pens or your picture making equipment. Bring your pen and paper, lappy, phone - however you create. Come ready to write/draw/doodle/journal (as you choose), free and to prompts, to and for yourself. Come to enjoy the ambience of being in community. There is no expectation you should share, though you are welcome to.
It is suitable for writers at any level and non-writers wishing to engage creatively.
It will be held as gentle space of invitation and relaxation and finding your own level of participation, no judgement, no pressure. There is no obligation to put your camera or audio on if joining via zoom. It is held as safe(r) space and will not be recorded. Hackney Libraries may request pictures taken only with your expressed consent. The pictures may appear on social media and in promotional material for the writing group (flyer/ website/newsletter). We try to never out anyone.
For more information and how to reserve a spot, visit Eventbrite.
Young Hackney celebrates the Windrush Line
Young Hackney and Arriva Rail celebrate the renaming of the Windrush Line over the course of three workshops starting from May 9th. Young people aged 13+ will be welcome to commemorate, celebrate, and learn about the contribution of the Windrush generation and their descendants with special guests from the Windrush Foundation. Food will be served!
Free. No booking required. All sessions will be at Young Hackney, Forest Road Youth Hub, London, Hackney E8 3BY.
Arts and Wellbeing
Supporting the African Diaspora Community
Go along to the weekly arts & wellbeing sessions put on by the Claudia Jones Foundation. It’s a safe space to meet people and explore your creativity
No experience needed
Wednesday’s 11:30am – 1:30pm (term time only)
Women only
Fore more information, visit the Claudia Jones Foundation.
Dalston Black History Walk
In association with the Hackney History Festival, the Dalston Black History Walk covers almost 8 decades of history from the arrival of the SS Windrush from the Caribbean. The tour will cover music, the Black British Civil Rights movement, Gentrification, Education, Race Relations and rise of the Black Church.
Ticket price: £15.
For more information and how to book, visit Eventbrite.
Arts and Wellbeing
Supporting the African Diaspora Community
Go along to the weekly arts & wellbeing sessions put on by the Claudia Jones Foundation. It’s a safe space to meet people and explore your creativity
No experience needed
Wednesday’s 11:30am – 1:30pm (term time only)
Women only
Fore more information, visit the Claudia Jones Foundation.
Hackney Black Women Writers’ Group (Copy)
Hosted by Lisa Ogun’, these warm and supportive writing sessions are for African and African-Caribbean women looking to hone their writing skills, share their creative voice and feel inspired by listening to others. Last Tuesday of the month at Shoreditch Library from 6-7.30pm – book here for reminders, or just come along!