The Covent Garden May Fayre and Puppet Festival is an annual international celebration that marks the country's longest-running puppet event. Established in 1976 by Alternative Arts to celebrate Mr Punch's birthday, the festival commemorates the first recorded “Punch and Judy” show in England from 1662.
Taking place on Sunday 10 May in the garden of St Paul's Church, the festivities commence at 11am with a grand puppet procession led by a brass band. The schedule includes a unique church service where Mr Punch often appears in the pulpit, followed by an afternoon of performances from puppeteers, magicians, and stilt walkers.
Now in its 51st year and produced by Small Pond Theatre, the event also features diverse stalls offering puppets, refreshments, and local arts and crafts. You can find out more here.