Six best free things to do in London this weekend

Time Out London's selection of the best free things to do in London on the weekend of 16–18 October 2026 remains one of the site's most-read 'what's on' pieces going into Saturday 17 October. The list leans into free seasonal and cultural events across the capital: Apple Day celebrations marking the arrival of autumn, a free cocktail party in central London, outdoor art festivals, free screenings and talks tied to the BFI London Film Festival finale, and Frieze Sculpture in Regent's Park, which is open to the public with no ticket required for the duration of the Frieze fairs. Readers are also pointed toward family-friendly events in the parks and small cultural fringe shows. The piece is pitched as a cost-of-living-friendly guide to the weekend, aimed at people looking to make the most of London without paying a BFI, Frieze or theatre ticket.