This September, Croydon is the place to be for families and young creatives alike! As part of London’s Open House Festival, it’s hosting a vibrant series of events that showcase the borough’s unique architectural landscape. Are you ready to unleash your inner artist while exploring Croydon’s fascinating history? From clay sculpting to storytelling, there’s something for everyone between September 13 and 21, 2025. This article will guide you through the exciting activities planned, ensuring you make the most of your visit.
Whether you’re an aspiring architect, a budding artist, or just looking for a fun family outing, Croydon’s Open House Festival promises engaging experiences that celebrate creativity and community. So, what can you expect during this week of exploration and imagination? Let’s dive into the details!
Hands-on Creativity: You Build Croydon with Clayground Collective
Why not get your hands dirty at Queen’s Gardens with Clayground Collective? Over the weekend of September 20 and 21, you can mold your very own version of Croydon using raw clay. This activity is open to everyone, regardless of age or experience, so bring your creativity! Reimagine iconic sites like the Croydon Clocktower or create an entirely new skyline from your imagination. The best part? Your creations will contribute to a collaborative installation that showcases the artistic spirit of Croydon.
- Dates & Time: September 20 & 21 | 11am – 4pm
- Location: Queen’s Gardens, Park Lane, Croydon CR0 1YJ
- Age Group: All ages welcome
Storytelling Magic: The Gigglemugs at Croydon Town Hall
Join the delightful storyteller Bernadette Russell as she narrates tales of the whimsical Gigglemugs and their adventures at Croydon Town Hall. This engaging storytelling session is perfect for children aged 5-8 and their families. Plus, you’ll discover how to join the ranks of the Gigglemugs yourself!
- Dates & Times: September 20 | 2pm and 3:30pm
- Location: Croydon Town Hall, Katherine Street, Croydon, CR0 1NX
- Age Group: 5-8 years old
Building a Greener Future: You Play Croydon with MATT+FIONA
Let your imagination run wild as you construct a miniature version of Croydon with MATT+FIONA! Using recycled materials, colorful fabrics, and creative techniques, you’ll build a joyful and eco-friendly vision of Croydon’s future. This hands-on experience is not only fun but also promotes sustainability.
- Dates & Times: September 20 & 21 | 11am – 4pm
- Location: Croydon Town Hall
- Age Group: All are welcome
Art in the Park: You Draw Croydon – Nature and the Big City
If you enjoy drawing, you won’t want to miss this event! Local artist Neal Vaughan will guide you through a charcoal drawing session in Croydon’s Queens Gardens. This family-friendly event encourages both novice and experienced artists to create their own masterpieces inspired by the natural beauty and urban landscape around them. A collaborative drawing will also be created, which will later be displayed at the Croydon Clocktower.
- Dates & Times: September 20 & 21 | 11am – 4pm
- Location: Queens Gardens, Park Ln, Croydon CR0 1YJ
- Age Group: All ages
Fashion Forward: You Wear Croydon with Samia Tossio
Unleash your inner designer at Croydon Town Hall, where you will create a unique hat inspired by local architecture. Using recycled materials, you can craft anything from a towering hat resembling the Croydon Clocktower to a whimsical Shirley Windmill design. This creative session will surely result in one-of-a-kind fashion statements!
- Dates & Times: September 20 & 21
- Location: Croydon Town Hall
- Age Group: All ages
As you can see, Croydon’s Open House Festival truly has something for everyone. From hands-on creative workshops to captivating storytelling sessions, you won’t want to miss out on this opportunity to engage with your community and celebrate the borough’s rich history and architecture. Prepare to dive into a world of creativity this September!