London’s summer events calendar is getting a major new addition as Summer Daze Festival makes its debut at Canary Wharf this July.
Taking place across Wood Wharf from 23–26 July 2026, the new festival promises four days of live entertainment, comedy, theatre, music, dance and family-friendly experiences. Designed to appeal to visitors of all ages, the programme combines free events with a selection of ticketed performances from some of the UK’s best-known comedians and performers.
The launch further strengthens Canary Wharf’s growing reputation as one of London’s leading cultural destinations, following the arrival of the Troubadour Canary Wharf Theatre and a packed programme of outdoor arts events throughout the year.
Comedy Stars Bring Edinburgh Fringe Energy to East London
One of the biggest draws of Summer Daze Festival is its dedicated comedy programme inside the Hazy Daze Tent at Harbour Quay Gardens.
Festival-goers can enjoy performances from some of Britain’s most celebrated stand-up comedians, including Milton Jones, Lou Sanders, Sarah Keyworth, Tatty Macleod and Eshaan Akbar.
The comedy series aims to recreate the atmosphere of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival without requiring Londoners to leave the capital.
Highlights include:
- Milton Jones headlining on Thursday 23 July
- Lou Sanders leading Friday’s line-up
- Sarah Keyworth closing Saturday’s comedy programme
- Appearances from Michael Odewale, Esther Manito, Ian Smith, Michael Akadiri and more
Visitors can find ticket information via the official Canary Wharf Summer Daze Festival page: https://canarywharf.com
Outdoor Theatre and Bollywood Dance Take Over Union Square
Theatre lovers can enjoy a range of alfresco productions staged in Union Square throughout the festival.
Among the headline performances is A Midsummer Night’s Dream by 440 Theatre, offering a fresh take on William Shakespeare’s classic comedy in an open-air setting.
Also featured is Pews at Ten, presented by The Space Theatre and Novem Ensemble, alongside a variety of family-focused productions and interactive performances.
Adding a vibrant international flavour to the programme, Sapnay Entertainment will host beginner-friendly Bollywood dance workshops on Sunday, welcoming participants of all ages and abilities.
Family-Friendly Entertainment Throughout the Weekend
Summer Daze Festival has placed a strong emphasis on creating experiences for families and younger visitors.
One of the standout attractions is Baby Broadway, where professional West End performers bring famous songs from musicals and films to life through interactive sing-alongs.
Other family highlights include:
- Big Fish Little Fish Family Rave
- Comedy Club 4 Kids
- Alice in Wonderland performances and dance workshops
- The Lost Property Library by Wrongsemble
- Arts and crafts activities throughout the festival
The popular Big Fish Little Fish Family Rave returns with dance music, balloons, bubbles and confetti in a child-friendly environment designed for both kids and parents.
Live Music, Poetry and Musical Bingo
Music and entertainment will be woven throughout Wood Wharf during the four-day event.
The acclaimed Docklands Sinfonia will provide live jazz, brass and street performances, while emerging artists from Busk in London will perform across the estate.
Friday evening brings one of the festival’s most unique events: Musical Bingo, which combines chart hits, audience participation, prizes and live entertainment into one interactive experience.
Visitors can also encounter the Poetry Takeaway, where roaming “poet chefs” will create personalised poems on the spot inspired by conversations with festival attendees.
Food, Drink and Summer Vibes Across Wood Wharf
Summer Daze Festival isn’t just about entertainment.
A number of Wood Wharf’s hospitality venues will be joining the celebrations with exclusive food, drink and family-friendly experiences.
Highlights include:
- Terrace DJ sessions at CRATE Brewery
- Face painting and kids-eat-free offers at TRIBE Hotel
- Seasonal spritz menus at Lockdown Bar & Restaurant
The collaboration between local businesses and festival organisers aims to transform Wood Wharf into a vibrant summer destination throughout the weekend.
Ticketed Events at Summer Daze Festival
While many activities are completely free, several headline events require advance booking.
Thursday 23 July
Comedy Club
Featuring Milton Jones, Ian Smith, Esther Manito and Blank Peng.
Friday 24 July
Comedy Club
Featuring Lou Sanders, Eshaan Akbar, Michael Odewale and Kate Barron.
Musical Bingo
An interactive outdoor entertainment experience featuring music, games and prizes.
Saturday 25 July
Big Fish Little Fish Family Rave
Family rave experience for children and adults.
Comedy Club
Featuring Sarah Keyworth, Tatty Macleod, Michael Akadiri and Eli Hart.
Sunday 26 July
Baby Broadway
Interactive musical theatre experience for children aged 0–7.
Comedy Club 4 Kids
A family-friendly comedy showcase featuring some of the UK’s leading comedians.
How to Attend Summer Daze Festival
Summer Daze Festival takes place from Thursday 23 July to Sunday 26 July 2026 across Wood Wharf at Canary Wharf, London.
Most events are free, although selected performances require tickets.
For the full programme, event schedules and booking information, visit the official Canary Wharf website: https://canarywharf.com
With comedy stars, open-air theatre, live music, family activities and food experiences all packed into one weekend, Summer Daze Festival looks set to become one of London’s most exciting new summer festivals.
