London’s leading free festival of outdoor theatre and performance art, Greenwich + Docklands International Festival, is back for 2026
In 2022, there was a tidal wave of multi-coloured foam that cascaded through Greenwich Peninsula; in 2023, a gaggle of glowing, colour-changing robotic swans floated on the Thames after dark; in 2024 performers spent eight jaw-dropping hours on top of a block of ice suspended high above the Docklands as it slowly melted away; and in 2025 dancers performed on a huge floating seesawing structure on a lake in Thamesmead.
This year, Greenwich + Docklands International Festival (GDIF) will see even more spectacular performances across its 16-day programme. Over 25 companies from across the world will present new work on the theme ‘WE MOVE’.
The highlights for 2026 include 360, a large-scale dance work performed on a towering circular stage in Woolwich town centre; the UK premiere of Efectos Especiales, which takes audiences behind-the-scenes of an action film set; the London premiere of The Aunties: The House of Masks a dance-theatre show celebrating West African ‘Aunties’ through hip-hop and Afro dance; storytelling, video projection and sound experience Meet Me By The Fountain reawakening Romford’s lost Liberty fountain; ‘festival within a festival’ Dancing City,; and the return of Greenwich Fair, with a programme of street theatre, games and family friendly fun.
Speaking about this year’s GDIF, Artistic Director Bradley Hemmings MBE has said: “We’re living through the most difficult times when it feels more important than ever to keep each other close and remain hopeful. Our theme this year celebrates that legendary London spirit of resilience and community in the face of life’s myriad challenges, deftly expressed by young Londoners in the maxim “We Move”. Through mutual support and adaptation, life goes on, and this year’s festival celebrates that life-enhancing London vibe with free outdoor art, joy, wonder and participation.”
Key Information
Dates | Fri 21st August – Sun 6th September 2026
Address | Various spaces across Greenwich, Thamesmead and East London
For more information | festival.org
