Celebrating Art, Culture, and Community Together!
Welcome to the Greenwich + Docklands International Festival (GDIF), one of the UK’s most exciting outdoor arts festivals!
In the summer, every year, this amazing event brings together communities, artists, and performers to celebrate creativity, inclusivity, and innovation.
Picture this: artists transform public spaces across Greenwich and Docklands into colourful, artistic playgrounds buzzing with life, featuring theatre, dance, music, and incredible installations. Sounds fun, doesn’t it?
How It All Began
The festival started way back in 1996 with a simple but powerful idea: to make world-class art something that everyone can enjoy, no matter who they are or where they come from. GDIF is all about breaking down walls—literally and figuratively—between performers and audiences, creating unforgettable experiences that are open to everyone.
What Makes GDIF So Special?
Each year, the festival puts together an exciting programme full of surprises. Here’s a sneak peek at what makes GDIF such a standout event:
Epic Outdoor Shows
GDIF is famous for its jaw-dropping outdoor spectacles! Think stunning visuals, cutting-edge tech, and powerful storytelling – all taking place in some of London’s most iconic locations, like the Old Royal Naval College or the Queen’s House in Greenwich.
Street Theatre and Dance That Wows
Prepare to be amazed by the lively street theatre and dance performances. Whether it’s contemporary moves or something inspired by traditional styles, the performers often bring the action right to you, making you feel like part of the story.
Art Designed for the Space
One of the coolest things about GDIF is its site-specific installations. Artists create these unique works of art to fit perfectly into the local architecture and landscapes, giving you fresh perspectives on the places you know and love.
Everyone is Welcome
The festival is all about making art accessible. Most of the events are completely free, and the festival goes the extra mile to ensure everyone feels included. From wheelchair accessibility to sign language interpretation and relaxed performances, they’ve thought of everything to make sure the arts are for everyone.
A Festival By and For the Community
What really sets GDIF apart is how much it involves the local community. Residents often get to take part in performances and share their own stories and creativity. It’s a lovely way to bring everyone together and make the festival feel truly personal.
Going Green at GDIF
GDIF not only entertains but also commits to protecting the planet. Over the years, the festival has worked hard to make its operations more eco-friendly. Including reducing waste to encouraging people to use public transport or cycle. Proving that you can have a great time while also taking care of the environment!
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
At its heart, the Greenwich + Docklands International Festival is about bringing people together to celebrate creativity, challenge perspectives, and inspire change. By turning everyday spaces into stages for extraordinary performances, GDIF makes art feel fresh, exciting, and accessible to everyone. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this festival will guarantee to leave you smiling.
Programme of events
The organizers have yet to reveal the dates and performances for 2025, although they anticipate the festival will take place over 16 days from late August to early September.
For more information Visit the GDIF2025 official website
Where to Stay in London
If you’re visiting London for the first time, or if you’re an experienced traveller looking for the best area to stay while in London, our Guide to hotel districts in central London offers helpful information on pinpointing the main hotel districts for your visit.
Visit our Guide to hotel districts in central London page for more information.