International Women's Day
International Women’s Day (8 March) celebrates women’s achievements and reminds us that gender equality still needs collective effort. It has been marked for more than a century, starting with a gathering of over a million people in 1911.
The 2026 theme, Give To Gain, focuses on generosity and working together. When people and communities share their time, skills and support, women gain more opportunities. Giving doesn’t take away from us, it strengthens us. When women thrive, whole communities thrive.
Here in Lewisham, we have a long history of women giving to gain from social activist Reverend Sybil Phoenix OBE and suffragette Rosa May Billinghurst show how local women have long driven change and supported others.
We’re marking International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month this year with events across the borough:
International Women's Day Market - Beckenham Place Mansion
Beckenham Place Mansion, Beckenham Place Park, Saturday 7 March 2026
In celebration of International Women’s Day, Beckenham Place Mansion will again collaborate with @lewishamlocal to host a market spotlighting the creativity, talent and entrepreneurship of women in the local community. Local women-led businesses are invited to apply to showcase their work, connect with customers and celebrate their contribution to the local economy.
Women of Lewisham – Local History Talk
Downham Library, Tuesday 10 March 2026, 6.30pm-7.30pm
Historian and founder of Women of London walking tours, Becky Laxton-Bass, explores the lives and contributions of women who lived in the borough during the 19th and 20th centuries. From pioneering reformers and politicians to world-famous authors and actors, this talk celebrates the powerful legacy of Lewisham's women. Refreshments provided. Free, booking required.
Celebrating Women’s History Month – On the Decks with Cleo
Deptford Lounge, Saturday 7 March, 12pm–1.30pm
Join Cleo (SOUND LiKE CHAOS) for an introduction to the world of DJing. She’ll demonstrate her skills, teach the craft, and bring non-stop tunes from female artists. Aimed at girls aged 10–16, but open to all.
Make heart bunting
Granville Park Adult Education Centre, Tuesday 3 March, 1-3pm
Age guidance: 19+
A fun workshop that explores texture and colour through playful illustration techniques. You’ll experiment with mark‑making using found objects and by the end of the session, you’ll create a set of six illustrated hearts and assemble them into a decorative bunting strand. Free to attend.