[title]
At a loose end on a Thursday between now and the end of September? We’ve got just the thing. Stratford’s V&A East Museum has revealed a Thursday night programme which offers must-see events including late-night exhibitions, DJ sets, Q&As and pop-up bars.
Each night will run until 10pm. And better yet, as part of the events series, you can check out amazing views from V&A East’s terrace.
First up is Thursday August 27, when artist, photographer and filmmaker Gabriel Moses will make a special appearance for the latest instalment in V&A East’s A Life in the Work of Others series. In conversation with V&A East curator Josephine Small, he’ll talk about his collaborations with the likes of Dave, Skepta and Little Simz, as well as his work for major brands such as Louis Vuitton, Burberry and Dior. Moses has also directed his first narrative-led film, 2025’s The Last Hour, which will be screened on the night.
Beyond that, V&A East is hosting a series of DJ residencies, which the museum has dubbed upperground. First is UK funky pioneer Karen Nyame KG, whose appearance is part of a partnership with BBC Introducing and inspired by the venue’s ongoing exhibition The Music is Black: A British Story. Visitors can experience the exhibition during Thursday night events.
Café Jikoni will also have a pop-up bar serving cocktails, beers, snacks and non-alcoholic drinks.
upperground’s DJ line-up at V&A East in summer 2026
- Karen Nyame KG (August 27)
- Lo-Low (September 3): East London-based techno DJ and cultural force known for performances at Fold, Somerset House, Kew Gardens, Pxssy Palace and Boiler Room.
- Zakia (September 10): DJ and BBC Radio 6 Music host, renowned for blending house, afrobeats and experimental sounds.
- Demae (September 17): Multi-disciplinary artist whose alternative soul and jazz-infused sound has seen her support Jorja Smith on tour.
- A.G (September 24): A BBC Introducing partner artist whose sets weave together grime, garage, drill, R&B and hip-hop.
Dr. Gus Casely-Hayford, V&A East Director, commented on the event series: ‘Museums are at their most powerful when they bring people together around ideas, stories and shared experiences. Our Thursday late nights at V&A East Museum create a space where music, art, food and conversation meet. Inspired by The Music is Black: A British Story, they offer new ways to engage with the artists and cultural movements shaping our world today.
‘We look forward to welcoming visitors to experience the museum after dark, and to make it their own.’
You can find out more about the upperground series and other late-night Thursday events at the V&A website.
Did you see that Freddie Mercury’s most dazzling outfits are going on display at the V&A South Kensington?
Plus: Tower Bridge is getting a cool new upgrade for hotter summers.
Get the latest and greatest from the Big Smoke – from news and reviews to events and trends. Just follow our Time Out London WhatsApp channel.
Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out London newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox.