The Soho Village Fete returns on Sunday 19 July with six hours of free entertainment in St Anne’s Churchyard. This is not a quiet country fete. Expect snail racing, a spaghetti-eating contest, the Soho Waiters Race and a tug of war between the police and fire service.

Check the official Soho Village Fete page →

What happens at the Soho Village Fete?

The programme mixes traditional stalls and live entertainment with the wonderfully odd competitions that give the fete its personality. Announced highlights include:

  • A dog show
  • Snail racing
  • A spaghetti-eating contest
  • The Human Fruit Machine
  • Police versus fire service tug of war
  • The Soho Waiters Race
  • Live entertainment throughout the afternoon

You do not need to stay for all six hours. Drop in when it suits you, but allow extra time if there is a particular race you do not want to miss.

What is the Soho Waiters Race?

The Waiters Race is one of the fete’s best-known traditions. Staff from local restaurants and bars race through Soho while trying to keep their tray under control. It is fast, chaotic and very easy to enjoy even if you know nothing about the competitors.

The exact running order can change, so check the organiser’s page or announcements at the fete when you arrive.

How to get there

St Anne’s Churchyard is on Wardour Street in central Soho. Tottenham Court Road, Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square stations are all within walking distance.

The area is busy at weekends and parking is difficult, so Tube, bus, walking or cycling will usually be simpler than driving.

Make a cheap day of it

Bring water and eat before arriving if you want to keep spending low. You can combine the fete with a walk through Chinatown, Leicester Square, Carnaby Street or the free galleries around Mayfair and Trafalgar Square.

There will be stalls and refreshments, but buying something is optional. Carrying a reusable bottle and setting a small spending limit makes this a genuinely cheap afternoon.

Soho Village Fete questions

Do I need a ticket?
The organiser lists the fete as free to attend. You can arrive during the afternoon without buying an admission ticket.
Is it suitable for children?
The fete includes family-friendly entertainment, races and stalls. Soho can become very crowded, so keep young children close and choose a meeting point.
What happens if it rains?
Some activities take place outdoors. Check the official page before travelling and bring a light waterproof if the forecast is uncertain.
Can I bring a dog?
A dog show is part of the programme, but check the organiser’s latest guidance and keep dogs controlled in the busy churchyard.

Source and last check

Event details checked on 16 July 2026 using the official St Anne’s Church event page. Timings and activities can change, so check again before travelling.