Tootopia, Tooting’s neighbourhood festival championing local food, drink and culture, returns in September!

Once again, they’re inviting locals and Londoners from all walks to explore Tooting’s culinary corners on the Foodie Trail as restaurants of all cuisines conjure up enticing festival specials. Take a break in a new watering hole on the Thirst Quest; maybe a cocktail or two or a sumptuous summer smoothie under the sun? Catch a band in an 80-year-old market or dance in a line at a pub soiree. Got kids in tow? Dance among glitter at a family rave in an old tram shed or pitch up in Tooting’s biggest beer garden for a street food party. And if strolling is more your thing, enjoy a wander while hearing stories of Tooting’s past, or glimpse the grandeur within London’s only Grade I-listed bingo hall.
 

Way back in 2012, Tootopia began as a small pub trail, curated by Antic London to highlight the area’s heritage pubs. Landlords across SW17 showcased the best they had to offer through food and drink specials and events.

Fast-forward seven years and Tootopia has become real community festival and in 2018 saw fifty-seven local participants promoting their businesses through the event, including restaurants, pubs, market traders, heritage sites, community event organisers, two charities and even a church. South London makers and food traders pitched up at the annual Handmade Market and Street Food Takeover, whilst an array of bands entertained in a variety of locations across the weekend.
 

Each year the core schedule of events are accompanied by a fringe line-up of everything from workshops to walks, quizzes to crafting sessions and much more for all ages. Most events and workshops are free, with some charging a small fee or donation to local charities.

All events that make up Tootopia are run by Tooting businesses with festival management and promotion funded by Antic Pubs. Festivalgoers can begin planning their Tooting adventure in early August when the official event listing is publicised.

Regular updates are posted through the official Tootopia newsletter and on the festival social media accounts.

Are you a local business, trader, community group or organisation who wants to get involved? See tootopia.co.uk for full details.

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