Half term, Halloween and the first Christmas openings: what’s on in London from 26 October to 1 November 2026.
Things to do in London this week: 26 October to 1 November
It’s half term for most London schools from Monday 26 to Friday 30 October, Halloween is on Saturday 31 October, and the first Christmas openings arrive the same day. Here’s what’s worth your time this week.
Sunday 25 October: Diwali and the extra hour
The clocks went back overnight, so you get an extra hour. Use it at Diwali on the Square in Trafalgar Square, 1pm to 7pm. It’s free, and there’s dance, music, food stalls and family workshops.
Half term with kids, mostly free
London Museum Docklands
Free family activities every day from 10am to 5pm until 31 October, at West India Quay. There’s clay charm making (26 to 30 October), storytelling about superstitious Victorian sailors (26 to 29 October), a make-your-own mythical creature table (27 to 30 October) and a spooky silent disco on Thursday 29 October. Some sessions need booking, so check before you go.
Halloween trails
The free Halloween trail on High Street Kensington runs until 31 October. On Halloween evening, around 20 shops in Penge hand out sweets to trick-or-treaters. More free and paid ideas are in our Halloween in London for families guide.
Halloween at Kew
Kew’s after-dark Halloween trail runs until Sunday 1 November. From 25 October it opens earlier, at 4pm, which works better for younger children. Book a timed ticket.
Saturday 31 October: Halloween
Halloween is on a Saturday this year, so the big parties run Thursday to Saturday. Our Halloween parties in London list covers the main nights out, from large warehouse events to cheap ones.
Christmas starts early
Leicester Square’s Christmas market and ice rink both open on 31 October, the first of the season. The rest follow in November. See Christmas markets in London 2026 and ice skating in London for dates.
The first fireworks
A few displays start before Bonfire Night itself. Herne Hill Velodrome has a bonfire and fireworks on Saturday 31 October, and Richmond Family Fireworks is on Sunday 1 November. The big ones are on 7 and 8 November, all listed in our London fireworks guide.
Frequently asked questions
When is October half term 2026 in London?
Most London schools are off from Monday 26 to Friday 30 October 2026. Check your school or borough for exact dates in our London school holidays guide.
What free things can kids do in London this half term?
London Museum Docklands has free activities all week, the High Street Kensington Halloween trail is free, and so is Diwali on the Square on 25 October.
Sources
- London Museum: October half term
- Time Out: free things to do October half term 2026
- Globetotting: October half term in London 2026
- Mayor of London: Diwali on the Square
- IanVisits: London fireworks 2026
Last checked: 24 October 2026. Times and availability can change, so check each venue before you go.
