Where the Season Starts to Sing

Quote of the Week - “Be willing to be a beginner every morning.” - M. Eckhart 

Good Afternoon, London. The city’s hitting a new pitch this week. From Hammersmith’s early festive sparkle and Shoreditch’s walkable treasure hunt to symphonies served with wine in St John’s Square, every borough seems to be finding its rhythm. On Sunday, Trafalgar Square glows under Diwali lights. While ExCeL hums with ambition as Europe’s biggest Black Business Show returns. If you want to raise a glass, join a dance, or chase your ambition, this edition of The Londoon Palette is your cue to step into the season’s first full note.

Snatched highlights from this edition:

1. Visual Storytelling Gets a Makeover

2. Join Shoreditch's Festival Treasure Hunt

3. Hammersmith's Free Winter Market Sparks Early

4. Live Music - Level 42, tribute to Fela Kuti, & lots more!

Let’s dive in.

—Bybreen Samuels

COUNCIL CANVAS

Hammersmith's Free Winter Market Sparks Early

Hammersmith is turning the dial towards the festive season on Saturday, November 15, as the Winter Festival returns with a free, family-friendly street market. Take in the live entertainment, and seasonal food across King Street and Lyric Square. This one day takeover sparks an early season footfall that showcases local traders, and sets the stage for Christmas lights and late November programming. Take your time and browse the offerings, stay for performances, and start shopping local before national chains dominate how to spend your money in December.

This really matters because the health of the town centre depends on converting casual passersby into repeat visitors, and Hammersmith ties experience, small business revenue, and civic pride together on a single Saturday. Hammersmith’s Business Improvement District Plan is up for renewal, so with this in mind, collaborations that contain a high footfall will prove to be a tangible return on investment. The festival kicks off a wider sequence in November. First, there’s the market, then Lyric Square's tree lights which will keep the momentum across multiple weekends. It's a low-cost, yet highly valued intervention that supports the identity of the area while nudging you to spend in independents ahead of the peak season.

Across King Street and Lyric Square you can enjoy stage sets, roving acts, and traders offering gifts, crafts, and food across six hours. This is a very inclusive and cost effective day as it embraces choirs, community bands, walkabout performers without having to pay night time enforcement costs.The festival slots into London's staggered festive lights’ calendar, giving Hammersmith an early headline before West End illuminations dominate the season. If the council and the B.I.D Plan sustain the cadence of festival, lights, selfies with the #Hammersmith sign, late-night shopping, there's a chance to keep local residents coming back through December. Mark your diary and expect the town centre to feel like a neighbourhood again.

CITY PALETTE

Symphonies Meet Wine at St John's Square

The London Mozart Players are uncorking a new way to experience classical music. They’re swapping the usual concert hall reverence for a wine cellar vibe at St John’s Smith Square on Wednesday October 16. Their Tasting Notes: Wine with Music evening promises to answer the question you never knew you had: namely, what does a symphony taste like? The venue will be transformed with cabaret style seating, nibbles, and table service, creating an informal and joyful atmosphere where the music is served with a perfectly paired glass.

Directed by London Mozart Players Leader Simon Blendis, the evening is designed as a sensory journey. Each piece of music comes with its own specially curated wine and a tasting note to connect the dots between the score and the sip. It's a playful tribute to the great composers, many of whom enjoyed a drink themselves. And it’s about sharing the stories behind the notes in a relaxed setting. Think of it less as a formal concert and more as a guided tour for your ears and your palate, so the music feels immediate, personal, and delicious.

The experience doesn’t stop when the strings fall silent. After the musical tasting, you can continue the evening downstairs in the Crypt, to enjoy the after party complete with live jazz, a full bar, and a buzzing atmosphere. This is the kind of thoughtful programming that turns a concert into a full night out, blending cultural sophistication with a warm, social energy that feels very welcoming. This is classical music with its tie loosened, ready to mingle.

If you're a wine lover, a classical music aficionado, or someone looking for a mid-week plan that hits a different note, this event is a perfect fit. It’s an invitation to listen with all your senses and connect with the music in a completely new way. Get ready for a dose of Wine-kleine-nacht-musik, a clever fusion of sound and flavour that promises to be a highlight on your autumn calendar.

Book tickets here - https://www.londonmozartplayers.com

Two Free Shows Redefine Visual Storytelling

This week, London’s art scene is serving a perfect pairing for the visually curious. It takes a deep dive into the elegant world of Japanese pictograms alongside a vibrant showcase of contemporary art’s rising stars. Japan House London's Pictograms: Iconic Japanese Designs offers a masterclass in how simple icons create a universal language. This runs until November 9. Meanwhile, the Visual Art Open - VAO 2025 Finalist Exhibition celebrates its 10th anniversary with a showcase of fresh talent at the Minster Building from October 9–12. Together, they offer a compelling look at how artists communicate, one with disciplined minimalism, the other with explosive creativity.

At Japan House, you can trace the journey of pictograms from ancient symbols to the emojis in your pocket, with a special focus on Japan's pioneering role since the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. This isn’t a dry, academic display, the exhibition is interactive and playful. You can stand beneath a 2.5 metre torii gate, size yourself up against a sumo wrestler, and even design your own pictogram. The exhibition also features works by UK schoolchildren who were invited to create a pictogram for their take on London. This feature makes it a delightful and engaging experience for all ages that shows how the beauty of Japanese design has shaped visual communication across the world.

Just a short tube ride away, the VAO Finalist Exhibition offers a completely different, yet equally stimulating, experience. Celebrating a decade of championing emerging and established artists, the show features 40 finalists across six categories, including painting, sculpture, digital art, and illustration. This is your chance to get a snapshot of the contemporary art scene and discover your next favourite artist. The works on display are known for pushing boundaries, both in material and concept. This is a must see event for anyone interested in the future of visual arts.

What makes this pairing so compelling is the shared focus on visual storytelling. Japan House demonstrates the power of clarity and precision, while the VAO finalists explore the rich, layered, and often complex narratives of contemporary life. Both exhibitions are free, and offer you an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the evolving language of art. It doesn’t matter if you are drawn to the clean lines of design or the bold strokes of new artistic voices, this is a perfectly enriching cultural double bill.

Find out more here - https://www.japanhouselondon.uk

UNDISCOVERED GEMS

Sofar Fringe - Shoreditch's £30 Festival Treasure Hunt

Shoreditch gets its own treasure hunt this Saturday, when Sofar Fringe turns the neighbourhood into a walkable festival. All of it is stitched together by one wristband, over ten venues, and more than 50 grassroots artists spanning music, comedy, dance, spoken word and more. You’re invited to wander from intimate rooms, short queues, clean loos, secret sets, and surprise moments that feel like they’re all made for you. Tickets are priced fairly from around £30, so discovery stays accessible without the usual main stage tax. The approach is simple and refreshing, meaning there’s no hierarchy, just talent that’s all within strolling distance across Shoreditch from early afternoon into late night.

This is definitely one for your calendar because you get close proximity to rising UK talent curated across spaces that each bring a distinct community feel. From Shoreditch Town Hall’s council chamber, to the deconsecrated grandeur of Sacred, the queer‑inclusive Common Press, the indie bustle of BOXPARK and BOXHALL, and the Shoreditch Treehouse with its Steinway in the corner. The mix of venues is the central focus, as it turns movement between sets into part of the experience rather than dead time. Sofar’s global track record with emerging artists keeps the focus on depth and diversity, instead of headliners. This allows you to bring your curiosity and leave with new favourites and a notes app full of names to follow their progress.

Dive into rotations across more than ten partner spaces, with comedy that actually lands in small rooms, beatbox champions trading jaw dropping moments for laughs, spoken word that hushes the chatter, and late set surprises flagged only by the ripple of a queue forming down the block. The programme has been designed to reduce as much friction as possible. There are short walks, staggered timings, and plenty of food options at BOXHALL and BOXPARK to refuel between sets. The Sofar crew has been teasing the scale of this and the social clips suggest Bristol curators are importing some of their best discoveries for the day.

To maximise on the joy, spend the afternoon at 83 Rivington Street. Then, hop to Sacred for an atmospheric set before drifting to The Common Press for a rich reset and BOXHALL for a fast bite to eat. Finish upstairs at Shoreditch Treehouse as the lights dim and the acoustics do their thing. Don’t fret about the lack of headliners, that’s the design. Fringe is built for discovery, so trust the curation, follow the queues, and just say yes to rooms that feel a bit off the usual path. By the time midnight strikes, you’ll have stitched your own micro festival from a dozen moments. And that’s the Sofar way, writ large across Shoreditch for one very London day.

Book tickets here - https://www.sofarfringe.uk

LONDON BUZZ

Diwali Dazzles Trafalgar Square This Sunday

Diwali on the Square is set to dazzle Trafalgar Square on Sunday, October 12. This free, open air celebration hosted by the Mayor of London invites the city to revel in the Festival of Lights. You’ll be wowed by the euphoric opening when 200 dancers burst onto the stage. Then pick and mix your way through music, dance, storytelling, and hands on workshops that transform the Square into a joyful, multi-faith carnival. Over the years, tens of thousands of visitors flow through the day for performances from Hindu, Sikh, and Jain communities, alongside vegetarian and vegan street food. You don’t need to book a ticket, just arrive ready to soak in the colour as the Square glows beneath Nelson's Column.

This year's upgrade is about pure participation. Jump into live garba, try sari and turban tying, pause for yoga or meditation, and explore children's storytelling and puppet theatre before finding the Bhajan singing area for calm and a peaceful moment. The running order brings together Chinmaya Mission UK, BAPS Neasden Temple prayers, and dance academies blending classical with contemporary. The timings are staggered so you can dip in and out. That shift from watching activities to doing them, allows you to be a co-creator. This is why first timers often stay longer than planned. Arrive early to catch the opening and claim a prime spot before the main stage rotations begin.

London's public squares are quietly stitching the city together. In doing so they boost social confidence and cross-cultural connection. The free, drop-in format lowers barriers between curiosity and participation, especially for multi-generational groups juggling access, cost, and energy. With thousands of people, Diwali on the Square feels like a civic ritual. It’s part pageant, part neighbourhood gathering, anchored by light overcoming darkness.

Plan your visit by catching the 2pm opener, weave through Culture, Harmony, and Dance zones, then regroup at food stalls for chaat, dosa, or mithai as golden hour arrives. Go early, travel light, and bring layers for the evening chill as performances go onto 8pm. If you’re travelling with children, use the puppet shows to manage their attention spans, and reset with Bhajan and Yoga. Say yes to participation, garba steps are easier than they look, and shared joy is the point.

Find out more here - https://www.london.gov.uk/events

LONDON SOUNDSCAPE

Blackheath Halls - October 11

If you love a night where culture, food, and rhythm come together in full glory, this is your moment. Blackheath Halls' Great Hall transforms into a dazzling celebration of Diwali, the Festival of Lights, with live Indian music, energetic dance performances by Aparajita Burjwal Dance, and a delicious dinner provided by local favourite Everest Inn. You'll experience classical music from renowned sitarist Debipriya Sircar and tabla master Harkiret Singh Bahra before the evening builds to a joyful dance celebration that welcomes everyone onto the floor.

Book tickets here - https://www.blackheathhalls.com

Boisdale of Canary Wharf - October 11 and 16

Picture this, a Saturday afternoon where soul classics and a sumptuous three course lunch come together above Cabot Square, creating the perfect midday escape. On October 11 at 1pm, Grammy-nominated New Orleans-born singer Acantha Lang brings her Soul Selection to Boisdale to honour Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, Gladys Knight, and Al Green, backed by her stellar band. You'll savour exceptional food and world class whisky in this intimate setting with live music. Doors open at noon for lunch reservations, so you can settle in, indulge, and let the timeless grooves wash over you.

When the dancefloor anthems of the 1980s meet intimate jazz club sophistication, magic happens. On October 16, you'll experience legendary jazz funk pioneers Shakatak. Enjoy their signature blend of smooth grooves, soulful keyboards, and timeless hits like Night Birds, Down on the Street, and Easier Said than Done. With over 40 years of filling dancefloors worldwide and cult status from Soweto to Tokyo, Shakatak's live show is a masterclass in musicianship.

Book tickets here - https://www.boisdale.co.uk

Fairfield Hall - October 17

Forty years ago, one double platinum album launched Level 42 from jazz funk favourites into global superstars. Now you can relive that breakthrough moment. The iconic band brings their World Machine 40th Anniversary Tour to Croydon, performing the legendary 1985 album that gifted the world Something About You and Leaving Me Now. You'll hear the funky pop fusion refined to perfection alongside defining classics from their extensive catalogue, with special guest Roachford opening the night. This tour celebrates not just a great album but the enduring power of one of Britain's most popular bands.

Book tickets here - https://www.fairfield.co.uk

Pizza Express Live Holborn - October 15

After eleven sold out shows, the magic returns with an even deeper groove. The Independent Musicians Collective bring their Boogie Wonderland tribute to Earth, Wind & Fire back to Pizza Express. The night promises stunning soulful vocals and deep grooves. This eclectic vocal powerhouse of 8 singers with keys, guitar, bass, and drums specialises in original arrangements. They transform classic disco, funk, soul, and R&B into dazzling multiphonic experiences that will get you on your feet. You'll hear September, Let's Groove, and Fantasy reimagined with stunning harmonies and infectious energy.

Book tickets here - https://www.pizzaexpresslive.com

Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club - October 12 and 13

For 18 years running, Natalie Williams' Soul Family has been the beating heart of Ronnie Scott's. Now you can catch this legendary Sunday residency over lunch, on Sunday, October 12. Doors open at 1pm for what has become the UK's most coveted soul experience featuring Natalie’s rich, versatile voice alongside vocalists Vula Malinga, Brendan Reilly, and rotating guests like Sharlene Hector and Daniel Pearce. You'll hear original neo-soul, classic R&B, and jazz standards performed by musicians who've toured with everyone from Basement Jaxx to Incognito.

When a guitarist uses his entire body as a percussive tool and draws on influences from flamenco to Balkan folk, you're witnessing a signature genre. Multi-award-winning Italian virtuoso Antonio Forcione brings his quartet to Ronnie Scott's for an evening that blends jazz, Latin, African, and acoustic traditions into one breathtaking tapestry. You'll experience Antonio's passionate, inventive playing alongside Jenny Adejayan's soulful cello, Matheus Nova's fluid Brazilian bass, and Jansen Santana's Afro-Brazilian percussion. These four world class musicians always create spontaneous magic and delicate intimacy in equal measure.

Book tickets here - https://www.ronniescotts.co.uk

The Half Moon Putney - October 18

For those of you who know David Bowie wasn't just a singer but a shapeshifter, this show delivers the full spectrum. Absolute Bowie, are regarded as the Best Tribute Band and Best Bowie Act and are bringing their theatrical greatest hits show to The Half Moon. This is your night to journey through Ziggy Stardust, Aladdin Sane, and The Thin White Duke with costume changes, electrifying vocals from John O'Neill, and stunning musicianship that has been described by NME as "lovingly crafted." This five piece band delivers nostalgia and pure celebration, in equal measure.

Book tickets here - https://www.halfmoon.co.uk

The Jazz Cafe - October 15

When Fela Kuti's actual former bandmate takes the stage, you're hearing a tribute and experiencing living history. Nigerian saxophonist and vocalist Bukky Leo brings Black Egypt to Camden, for a Felabration honouring the afrobeat pioneer's birthday. Bukky played alongside Fela and was mentored by legendary drummer Tony Allen, making him one of the most important afrobeat musicians alive today. You'll hear explosive renditions of Zombie, Water No Get Enemy, and Beasts of No Nation from London's finest afrobeat ensemble, keeping Fela's revolutionary spirit and groove alive.

Book tickets here - https://thejazzcafe.com

BUSINESS SCENE

Europe's Biggest Black Business Show Returns

Since 2017, the UK Black Business Show has evolved from a modest gathering into Europe's premier platform for Black entrepreneurs and professionals, drawing over 7,500 attendees and more than 200 exhibitors to ExCeL London. This year's event is the culmination of UK Black Business Week from October 13 - 18, featuring expert speakers covering funding, marketing, scaling, and strategy. It’s all designed to connect, inspire, and provide practical tools for your business growth.

You'll encounter heavyweight voices on stage. Melissa Holdbrook-Akposoe, stylist to Stormzy, Anthony Joshua, and Maya Jama, offers insights into luxury branding and premium market influence. Vanessa Kingori OBE, British Vogue's first female business lead and now Google's Managing Director for tech, media, and telecoms, embodies leadership prioritising diversity and social responsibility. She led the #SHARETHEMICUK movement and supports women-led startups through Peanut StartHer microfund, proving impact and profit go hand in hand.

The event's comprehensive empowerment approach sets it apart. Access a Business Advice Hub for one-to-one guidance, expert clinics on funding and exporting, seminars on digital marketing and personal branding, and a networking lounge for partnerships. The shopping experience features 200 Black owned brands making this Europe's largest marketplace spanning fashion, tech, wellness, and media. This is where inspiration meets action, dismantling barriers through meaningful connection.

For London's entrepreneurial community, this is an unmissable opportunity to engage with purpose driven leaders reshaping success. If you're an established business owner, career professional, or ally committed to inclusive growth, the show reminds you that networks, knowledge, and community are the foundation of lasting change. Book today because pricing increases from October 13.

Book tickets here - https://www.ukblackbusinessshow.co.uk

LINGUISTIC TAPESTRY - WORDS OF THE WEEK 

English Word:
Obfuscate
Pronunciation: /ˈɒb.fʌ.skeɪt/
Definition:  To deliberately make something unclear or difficult to understand; to darken, obscure, or confuse meaning often used when information is muddled on purpose.
Cultural Note: To obfuscate is more than to confuse; it’s to carefully shroud meaning, whether in bureaucratic documents, dense academic prose, or cryptic software code. In modern parlance, spotting obfuscation is a prized skill for anyone determined to cut through spin and illuminate the truth.

Sanskrit Word:
Ananda (आनंद)
Pronunciation: /ah-NAHN-dah/
Definition:  Supreme bliss, pure joy, or divine happiness that transcends ordinary pleasure; an enduring state of contentment that arises from spiritual realisation rather than external circumstances.
Cultural Note: One of the most cherished concepts in Hindu philosophy, Ananda represents the highest state of spiritual fulfillment and is often used to describe the blissful nature of ultimate reality or Brahman.

Thank You!

Thanks so much for reading this edition of The London Palette! If you found something useful or interesting, I’d love to hear from you. Just reply to this email.

Plus, share this newsletter with friends and ask them to subscribe here: https://thelondonpalette.beehiiv.com/subscribe.