People's Day is back and you’re invited! Lewisham's flagship festival returns in 2027
The festival will bring Lewisham together again for a day of live music, culture, food, creativity and family fun. First held at Hilly Fields in 1985, People's Day has been at the heart of Lewisham's cultural life for more than 40 years. Generations of residents have attended the festival, enjoying everything from live performances and community stalls to arts, crafts, food and family activities, helping make it one of the borough's best-loved traditions.
As planning gets underway, the Council is inviting residents, community leaders, creatives, businesses and local organisations to help shape the future of People’s Day 2027 by joining a new People’s Day Advisory Group. The group will work alongside the festival production team, providing ideas, insight and local knowledge to help ensure the borough’s flagship community festival continues to reflect the creativity, diversity and spirit of Lewisham.
Mayor of Lewisham, Liam Shrivastava, said:
"People's Day has a special place in Lewisham's history. For more than four decades it has brought people together to celebrate our communities, creativity and diversity. We're delighted to announce its return and look forward to welcoming residents back for a festival that reflects the energy, talent and community spirit that make Lewisham such a special place.
"We're really proud that we can offer more opportunities for local people to get involved in shaping the look of People's Day. The Advisory Group call out provides a unique opportunity for residents to contribute to the running of the event while showcasing the wealth of artistic talent that exists across the borough."
Those from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, including those with expertise in arts and culture, events, fundraising, sponsorship, youth work, community engagement, accessibility, environmental sustainability, marketing and communications are encouraged to apply. The Advisory Group will meet monthly through a mix of in-person and online sessions, with members receiving an honorarium fee and reimbursement of expenses.
Cllr Rotimi Skyers, Cabinet Member for Children, SEND, Youth Empowerment and Culture said:
“People’s Day has always been for and by the people, and its return is a real opportunity to put young people and emerging local talent at the heart of the festival. I remember one time going with my boys, and be like one day I’ll be on that stage... Well it’s not what I pictured as a teen but’s even better, because I’m now giving the stage to the people instead and that’s everything to me. This event is for Lewisham to celebrate Lewisham, and a moment that brings us together in a time of so much division.
“From performers and artists to volunteers and community groups, we want as many residents as possible to help shape what People’s Day 2027 looks like, and there’ll be plenty of ways to get involved in the months ahead.”
People's Day was last held in 2022 as part of Lewisham's year as London Borough of Culture. Its return reflects Lewisham Council's commitment to culture, community participation and creating opportunities for residents to come together and celebrate what makes the borough unique.
Further details about the festival, including opportunities to participate, programme announcements and ways to get involved, will be shared over the coming months.
Further information
- Sign up to the We Are Lewisham newsletter to stay up to date on People’s Day 2027
- Interested in joining the People's Day Advisory Group? Let us know by completing an Expression of Interest by 23 November
- Interested in trading at People's Day? Let us know by completing an Expression of Interest