What's On In London...

The following listings are current community events that HWC have been advised of - they may exist within the NW3 or greater London area.

FEBRUARY

Kew’s Tropical Extravaganza 4 February 2012 – 4 March 2012

Displays of exotic tropical flowers and foliage in the Princess of Wales Conservatory form the centrepiece of Kew's colourful annual festival. The theme for 2012 is 'Forces of Nature', with displays inspired by the elements air, fire, water and earth, and arranged according to colour - including hanging baskets filled with blooms in aquatic hues and arches decorated with reds, yellows and oranges to represent fire. The festival also illustrates how plants and fungi depend on and moderate the elements. In addition, there are hands-on sessions and behind-the-scenes tours including a tour of the tropical nursery followed by a Q&A session (1.30pm, 2pm, 2.30pm every Sat; £5; booking essential on 020 8332 5604); see the website for full details; www.kew.org

Jewish Book Week 2012 18 - 26 February 2012

Jewish Book Week 2012 in London promises to be as diverse and fascinating as ever with something for everybody. You definitely don't have to be Jewish to enjoy the many literary treasures on offer. During the Jewish Book Week in London, several major Jewish figures in the literary field will discuss their writing and issues in today's world. JBW 2012 in London will have world-renowned speakers to address the key subjects. Jewish Book Week in London has encouraged several of Britain's very exceptional scholars, including historians and philosophers, to engage visitors with interesting and key subjects.

The JBW '12 in London narrators will speak to subjects of genetics and identity, the role of the artist, international justice, love that kills and much more. You will listen to tales from India, South Africa, Brazil, France, Austria, Egypt, Iraq, Poland, and Italy. There will also be fashion, food, humour, writing workshops and a Yiddish cabaret to advance your writing talents. They also have a great children's programme with Lynne Reid Banks, Adele Geras and Moris Gleitzman. After trying the delicious kosher cafe and an extraordinary book fair care of Foyles, you will understand why everyone loves Jewish Book Week in London. For more information on Jewish Book Week 2012 in London, please phone +44 (0)20 7446 8771.

Ceramic Art London 24 - 26 February 2012

Ceramic Art London 2012 at Royal College of Art London is a leading art event, recommended to everyone passionate about contemporary ceramics. Over 75 most important nationwide and worldwide ceramic artists will present their collections in an informal and buzzing environment - perfect to relax and visit with friends.

The London exhibition promises to attract collectors, gallery owners, potters and general public to the London Royal College of Art where they will be given a chance to view and buy the latest pieces of ceramic arts. Only the best new work has been selected for the Ceramic Art London Exhibition, so you can expect a high standard art displayed for purchase.

In addition, the Ceramic Art London Exhibition at Royal College of Arts in London will offer an integrated programme of talks, films and demonstrations to boost your experience. Visit the Ceramic Art London '12 event in central London and view the most competitive selection of contemporary ceramic art currently available in the city. For more information on the Ceramic Art London 2012, please phone +44 (0)20 3137 0750. Or visit www.ceramics.org.uk for more details.


MARCH

WOW: Women of the World Festival 2012 7-11 March 2012

In celebration of International Women's Day (March 8) the WOW festival features music, talks, debates, market stalls and participatory opportunities, some of which are free to attend. Returning this year is the women-only orchestra. Events include Lisa Dwan's one-woman play 'Beside the Sea' (March 7-8; £15), music by the Duo DorT (March 9th at 1pm; free), 'Equals Live', contemporary music by women performers (Mar 9 7.30pm; £35-£50), 'Mirth Control: March of the Women 2012', comedy with Sandi Toksvig, Jo Brand and others (Mar 11 7.30pm; £15-£25). Southbank Centre, Belvedere Rd, London, SE1 8XX, http://www.southbankcentre.co.uk

London’s Historic Head of the River Boat Race 17 March 2012 11am

The Head of the River Race is one of the London's longest running sporting traditions. Every spring, 400 crews from around the globe take to the waters of London's famous river Thames to compete in this historic boating event. The Head of the River Race (HORR) was started in 1926 by Cambridge and Tideway oarsman Steve Fairbairn. It was conceived as a way for crews to practice long rows during winter, in preparation for the summer regatta.

The annual event now sees hundreds of boats, each manned by eight men, row over the 4.25 mile (6.8km) championship course from Mortlake to Putney. The race sees crews from all over the world competing, from Australia to Austria. The event is a great way for Londoners and visitors alike to celebrate the start of spring as they cheer on teams along London's picturesque River Thames. Don't forget to pack your Pimm's and arrive early to grab a good viewing spot! For more information visit www.horr.co.uk

St Patrick’s Day in London 17 - 18 March 2012

Everyone loves the traditional celebrations that make up St Patrick's Day. This event celebrates all things Irish, with laughter, fun and, of course, Guinness! St Patrick's Day is on 17 March but you'll find special events taking place throughout the week.

The exciting St Patrick's Day Parade takes place every year in London. This year's parade will be on Sunday 18 March (TBC). London's St Patrick's Day Parade involves marching bands, floats, street theatre and more. All 32 Irish counties are represented, dressed in their traditional county colours. Other parade participants include members of London's Irish community and other Londoners. The parade begins at Piccadilly at 12pm and travels along: Piccadilly, Lower Regent Street, Pall Mall East, Trafalgar Square, Whitehall.

As well as the parade, you'll be treated to the best of Irish music, dance and culture in Trafalgar Square at the free St Patrick's Day Festival. The festival offers free entertainment all day including ceili dancing, traditional Irish music, celebrity MCs, and Irish speakers ready to teach you a few Irish phrases. Don't miss this free family day out.

For more about Irish culture in London, take a look at our Ireland in London blog post on Visit London's blog. Or visit www.london.gov.uk/stpatricksday