Be ready for an unforgettable fusion of energy, sport, and culture as the London Sports Festival (LSF) launches in the heart of the capital.
Designed to celebrate the power of sport to unite, inspire, and energise communities, the festival will bring together visitors, residents and workers for a summer of dynamic competition, wellness, and fun.
Held at various locations across the capital, including London’s most iconic locations such as in front of St Paul’s Cathedral and neighbouring the Tower of London, together with hidden streets, the festival will feature a thrilling line-up of activities comprising padel, pickleball, basketball, football, bucketball, table tennis, and for the first time in the UK, padel table tennis, reflecting the city’s growing passion for both traditional and emerging sporting activities.
In addition to the action-packed agenda, the festival will offer tournaments for businesses to network and compete, showcases from elite players and free family-friendly coaching sessions together with charitable fundraising initiatives, creating a vibrant and all-inclusive atmosphere.
The festival kicks off with a free two-day launch event on 22nd and 23rd May, offering a taster of what’s to come throughout the summer. Taking place at the City of London Corporation’s Guildhall Yard, the launch will feature free coaching sessions, introductory games, free fitness classes together with the chance to try out exciting sports like pickleball, basketball, football, bucketball and table tennis. It is an open invitation for the public to be involved, meet the community, and experience the vibrant energy of the festival first-hand. In addition to the action-packed showcases, visitors can enjoy family-friendly entertainment, and delicious local food and drink — all in a lively, inclusive atmosphere; the launch event promises to be a fun-filled celebration for all ages and a must-attend moment.
Zoe Barwick, BID Director for Aldgate Connect BID and Cheapside Business Alliance, presenters of Sports Fest delivered in partnership with the London Sports Festival, said:
“We’re excited to be building upon the achievements of the last two years and bringing new sporting installations into Aldgate and Cheapside. Last year, Sports Fest saw incredible participation and created a lasting legacy for sport in the City.
“The second edition of Sports Fest will provide workers, residents, and visitors with new incentives to spend time in the area. We continue to champion both Aldgate and Cheapside as key destinations for unique and exciting events across the year, and events like this are a great example of the business community coming together.”
Tony Matharu, Chairman of Central London Alliance CIC, producers of the London Sports Festival, commented:
“We are proud to bring the London Sports Festival to life as a platform celebrating the positive impact of sporting activities, engaging the local community and highlighting central London’s innovative and creative skills.
“London Sports Festival isn’t just about competition — it’s about collaboration, health, and creating lasting memories across all ages and backgrounds. It is a place where workers, residents and visitors can enjoy the capital and build lasting relationships through sport throughout the summer and beyond, providing an inspirational destination for all.”
LSF also highlights London’s role as a global city for sport, culture, and innovation, supporting grassroots initiatives and promoting healthy, active lifestyles. The event series is set to become a major annual highlight on the city’s cultural and sporting calendar.
Chris Hayward, City of London Corporation Policy Chairman, said:
“We want to make sure that the City is a destination that workers want to commute to, and that people want to visit.
“Part of that drive is ensuring that there are unique experiences at lunchtimes, before and after work, and at the weekends.
“Together we are delivering inclusive, high-quality sport that inspires people to get active and discover the City in new and exciting ways.
“By animating iconic locations such as St Paul’s Cathedral and the Mansion House, we are connecting residents, workers, and visitors through the power of sport.”
Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just looking to try something new, there’ll be something for everyone to enjoy this summer.
Participation registrations are now open at www.londonsportsfestival.com.