Festival Day: Commonwealth
Celebrate culture from around the Commonwealth with a special day of performances and talks for all ages.
In the same week as the annual Commonwealth Service, enjoy an exciting day out at Westminster Abbey as we experience the cultural diversity of the Commonwealth. Witness vibrant live performances in our historic nave and find out more about this 56 strong family of nations through performances, stories, art and conversation. Everyone is welcome.
Performances
Join us for a series of dazzling performances from musicians and dancers from around the Commonwealth.
11:15am – 11:35am – African Drumming by One Drum
12:15pm – 12:35pm – Maori Performance by Ngati Ranana
1:30pm – 1:50pm – Sitar Performance by Tommy Khosla
All performances will take place in the nave.
Family Storytelling
Discover stories from across the Commonwealth as we are joined by three captivating story tellers, Usifu Jalloh, Gauri Raje and Wendy Shearer, telling tales from Africa, India and the Caribbean.
10:00am - 10:20am
10:25am – 10:45am
1:00pm – 1:20pm
All performances will take place in the Chapter House.
10-minute talks – The Commonwealth at War
Discover how the shared wartime history of Britain and the Commonwealth is remembered in Westminster Abbey.
10:30am – 10:40am
12:00pm – 12:10pm
This short talk will take place by the Grave of the Unknown Warrior in the nave.
10-minute talks – The Commonwealth in the Abbey
Hear about the role that Westminster Abbey plays in maintaining and celebrating Britain’s relationship with the Commonwealth all year round.
11:00am – 11:10am
1:00pm – 1:10pm
This short talk will take place in the quire.
10-minute talks – The Commonwealth within Culture
Amidst the surroundings of Poets’ Corner, discover the rich variety of stories that can be found across the Commonwealth. Hear from storytellers how stories have been crafted and shared in different cultural contexts.
11:45am – 11:55am – Wendy Shearer
12:45pm – 12:55pm – Usifu Jalloh
2:00pm – 2:10pm – Gauri Raje
This short talk will take place in Poets' Corner.
Commonwealth Connections
Examine archives and photographs that offer a glimpse at our shared history while meeting organisations that work across Commonwealth countries and with Commonwealth diaspora communities today. Find out more about the relationship between Britain and the Commonwealth, past and present.
10:00am – 2:00pm in Poets’ Corner
Art and Craft – Poi making
Have a go at making your very own Poi, a traditional round prop used during Māori performances.
10:00am - 12:00pm in in the North cloister.
Age suitability
This activity is suitable for children aged 3+.
All children must be accompanied by an adult throughout their time at the Abbey.
Access and security
Please have your ticket ready to show our staff (either printed or on your mobile phone).
On your arrival, your bag will be searched and we ask you not to bring any large items with you (for example suitcases, large backpacks or folding bicycles) as these will not be allowed inside and we are unable to store them for you.
The Abbey has uneven floors and parts of the tour may only be accessible up a flight of steps.
The Abbey is committed to creating inclusive and accessible events for all. If you have any access requirements or questions about your visit, please contact us when booking. [email protected]
Filming and photography
Please note that filming and sound recording are not permitted at the Abbey. See our photography policy for more information.
