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Ronnie Scott’s is one of London’s most iconic music venues, so it deserves a proper sixtieth birthday celebration. And it’s definitely getting one on July 20, when Frith Street, the beloved jazz club’s home since 1965 (it opened in a basement on Gerrard Street in 1959), will be closed to traffic for a six-hour street party.
Beginning at noon, Ronnie Scott’s 60th Anniversary Street Party will feature performances from seven-piece Latin jazz band Eliane & La Evolución, five-piece jazz funk collective Pee Wee Ellis, and London-based saxophonist and composer Nubya Garcia. DJs will keep the party popping between performances, and kids will have the chance to try face-painting.
If you’re feeling fancy, you can grab a drink from the dedicated champagne bar. And when you’re feeling peckish, Frith Street faves including Hoppers, Little Italy and Bar Italia will be running street-food stalls and opening their doors to all-comers. Basically, it’s a big, family-friendly shindig to honour a venue that’s played host to genuine legends including Nina Simone, Ella Fitzgerald and Miles Davis. And best of all? It’s completely free of charge and there’s no need to book in advance – simply rock up and party on.
The 60th Anniversary Street Party is part of a series of events to celebrate the venue’s diamond year, which culminates in a one-off concert at the Royal Albert Hall on October 30, its actual birthday. Long live Ronnie Scott’s!
Fancy more sonic summer fun? Check out Time Out’s guide to the best music events happening in the capital