The Forest Gate Festival and street party returned to its traditional place on Osborne Road on 2 July and residents put the misery of the last two years behind them enjoying a vibrant series of events – live music, street food, wandering entertainers, children’s activities, market stalls, and busy workshops, all taking place on a single day.

With 5000 visitors on the day the Festival has over the years become a valuable “destination” for community groups and residents and 2022 was an incredible success: with pesky pirates, Absolute Bollywood, King Toadfish, a carnival parade and plenty of sun.

The Newham Writers Workshop stall has collected many positive comments from residents including: “My first Forest Gate Festival after moving to the community last year,” said Caroline. “The effort and enthusiasm by all the stall holders was amazing.”

“It was very nice to see so many happy people in one place,” said Vit. Another festival-goer added: “Came back twice because my girl (19 months today) enjoyed it so much, especially the food, dancing, people, community.”

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