There’s a free festival going on this week and coming weekend in Brockley, South London. Whether it’s music, theatre, film, comedy or art that you’re into there’s something to tickle everyone’s fancy at this year’s Brockley Max Festival.

Run by the residents of this creative community, the festival is in its 10th year and this year is shaping up to be its best yet. The opening night last Friday was kicked off with a rambunctious street party with live performances from local dancers and singers. All of Brockley’s finest establishments got into the party swing, with many offering a delightful array of entertainment from live folk, blues and Americana to belly dancing and vintage cocktail parlours.

The celebrations continue all week, with a host of entertainment and activities for old and young alike. Keep the kids occupied with a day of Art in the Park on Saturday, on the green pastures of Hilly Fields. Activities include craft workshops, ukulele and violin taster sessions, a storytelling tent and immersive theatre performances – all for free!

For the music lovers among us this Thursday it’s worth wandering down to the quirky living-room of the Jam Circus, a Brockley institution that’s playing host to the folky bluegrass duo Mackenzie Bidgood. Prolific on the London scene they can’t help but delight the listener with their gentle British folk and sing-along-able sea shanties.

Comedy-wise, don’t miss the fantastic Pete Searles at the Misty Moon Gallery with his new stand-up show currently touring internationally. 

If film floats your boat The Misty Moon should be your destination on Friday night when it hosts Brockleywood Nights, the ever popular film night showcasing local film-making talent.

There are plenty more events going on over the week so if you are yet to visit this up and coming neighbourhood, now’s the time to make the journey south and see what Brockley has to offer.