Woolwich Works

It’s all about that brass at this festival celebrating one of the most bombastic sections of the orchestra. From marching bands and Balkan beats to jazz, funk, Afrobeat and everything in between, Brassworks is a celebration of brass music at a venue which has the instruments in it’s DNA: Woolwich was home to the legendary Arsenal artillery bands and now to the National Youth Jazz Orchestra (NYJO). Expect live performances throughout the day and workshops, all of which will change your perception of what brass music can be. This year, look out for the London-based Afro-fusion collective Kongo Dia Ntotila, Balkan brass group Balkanatics, and a performance by the National Youth Jazz Orchestra paying homage to Miles Davis, DJ BobaFatt, as well as a community kazoo parade. 

The pretty courtyard outside arts centre Woolwich Works will be filled with live music, dance and community parades for this cultural festival. This year’s theme ‘Our Voices, Our Future’ will shape the arts and crafts stations and the performances from dancers, musicians, local groups and schools. There’ll also be street food on offer to keep you satiated. 

Wet your whistle at Woolwich Works Big Beer Fest, the venue’s first-ever festival dedicated solely to suds. Siz guest breweries, including Northdown Brewery from Margate, Bianca Road Brew Co and Big Hug Brewing from London, Bexley Brewery from Bexley and Iron Pier from Northfleet, will be pouring pints. Alongside the breweries there’ll also be street food, live music and guided masterclasses covering brewing, ingredients and flavour profiles, plus a Big Beer Quiz for real aficionados. When you’re done with brews, there’ll also be a dedicated wine bar, low and no-alcohol options and soft drinks will also be available. Tickets range from £8 to £20, with a Standard Festival Pass (£14), Premium Tasting Pass (£20) including a branded festival cup and three one-third pint tasting pours. An Evening Finisher Pass (£8) offers entry from 4pm, live music, half a pint from the festival bar and entry to the Big Beer Quiz.