The Best London Family Events in October 2013

Here’s our pick of a few of the many exciting events and things we love for your October. Please leave us a comment if you have any recommendations or ideas for family events happening in Oct/Nov, and you know what Mama always says … “Sharing is caring especially where bus stops are concerned”.

* CAMPAIGN : Kickstarter Campaign : Letters Through Your Door : A Children’s Album by David Gibb

Back this project through the Kickstarter Campaign that David has launched. Pledge between £1 to £200 or more, to help him make his children’s album (with illustrations By Pippa Curnick) for kids of all ages.

* WORKSHOP : The Big Draw: ‘Draw Tomorrow’ with Levi Pinfold : Somerset House :  Sunday 13 October 12.00-15.00

Join award-winning illustrator and author Levi Pinfold to create a giant artwork of a futuristic London, inspired by his medieval themed ‘Pictura’ panorama. Suitable for all ages.

( Meet at Seamen’s Hall Info Desk )

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* PERFORMANCE : Cirque Eloize iD : Sadlers Wells Theatre

Sadler’s Wells Dance House : Peacock Theatre, 1 – 19 Oct 2013, (Kids U5 not admitted).

In his return to directing, Jeannot Painchaud presents a show crackling with daring and modernity. The brand new creation iD is a blend of circus arts and urban dance: b-boying, breakdance, hip hop and more. The scene is set in the heart of the city, in a public space where people seek refuge and a chance to shed their anonymity; a place where identity is forged and individuality is expressed to a stimulating soundtrack created by composers Jean-Phi Goncalves (Beast) and Alex McMahon.

* HALLOWEEN : The London Eye : Halloween Witch Academy : Saturday 26th October to Saturday 2nd November 2013

We’ve not tried and tested this one, but quite like the idea of real teeny witches scattering the pods of The London Eye over Halloween. The Witch Academy is in its second year and includes storytelling, dressing up, fun games and dancing, all whilst taking in the spectacular views of London. This interactive storytelling experience is ideal for children aged 4-9 years, but all the family are welcome to join. Each graduate of the Witch Academy will receive a special badge of honor to join the Witch Academy Alumni.

* HALF TERM WORKSHOP : Half Term Fun : National Gallery : October 27 – November 3rd

Its interactive program includes workshops, talks and tours. Families with under fives can enjoy stories inspired by the paintings in Magic Carpet Story Telling (November 3 at 10.30am and 12pm). Budding artists can take part in an hour long Walk and Draw (October 27, 28, 29 and November 3 at 10.30am, 1pm and 3pm, basic materials provided) or step back in time to try Silverpoint Drawing (October 27, 28, 29 and November 3 at 11am and 2pm, £7). Some events require booking in advance, check online for further information and full list of events.

*FESTIVAL : Wimbledon BookFest : 28 Sept – 13 October

Check the site for info for dates of all the events for Children and Young People at this year’s Wimbledon BookFest. There will be a big tent on the common (the Womble’s one) hosting a huge range of adult and family events. Choose from comedy, storytelling, workshops, sign-a-longs, signings, school events and lots more.

* WORKSHOPS : The Big Draw : The Campaign for Drawing & Family Arts Festival 

The 2013 Big Draw runs from 1 October to 3 November in fifteen countries, with more than 200,000 people expected to take part. Hundreds of drawing activities connect people of all ages with museums, outdoor spaces, artists – and each other. These events are for those who love to draw, and those who think they can’t.

There are 1000’s of event to choose from. Check the site for the events nearest to you here. There is also the Family Arts Festival site, which is a festival run by the Arts Council, and other partners between 18 October and 3rd November.

We have selected a couple if you dont get time to search through their website.

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Extreme Makeover: RIBA HQ : Part of The Big Draw: RIBA : Wed 30 Oct : 11-3pm

Hands-on free family drop-in workshop.Get creative with your little ones to explore and re-design RIBA’s iconic 1930’s HQ. Taking inspiration from our rich collections and plans for the new gallery that is due to open in 2014 come and draw, cut, stick and make your own 2D or 3D design, showing how you would re-imagine the building for future generations.  Free admission, drop-in.

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The Big Draw : Unicorn Theatre : Sunday 27 October : 11 am onwards

The Big Draw is back at the Unicorn Theatre! Spontaneous creation, expression, laughter and knowledge for the curious, adventurous and brave. Everyone has a story to tell – come and draw yours. Join us for the world’s biggest celebration of drawing, and get your creativity flowing. Activities all day. Come and get your hands dirty in the foyer. Performances at 11am and 2pm. Unicornershop will be open all day serving delicious home-made cakes and refreshments.

  • Visitors’ wall ‘Sign-in’ using your thumb or hand prints changing them into pictures.
  • Silhouette and shadow  Draw each others shadows through illuminated frames of paper.
  • Windows of wonder  Fill our windows with imagination and colour

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The Adventures of Pinocchio : The Estorick Collection of Modern Italian Art : Wed 30th Oct : 11-2pm

The Adventures of Pinocchio (Story time at 12.00)Discover one of Italy’s most-loved fairy tale characters through storytelling and artworks. Make your own puppet to take home. Drop-in workshop, no booking required.