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Ancient Abbey fest coming to B&D – save the date! Join us 26/27 July for two jam-packed days of free family fun! 

There will be historical re-enactors, medieval music-making and loads more – and it’s all FREE!

Barking Abbey Ruins 

Saturday, 26 July 11am – 4pm.

Location

21 Abbey Rd, Barking IG11 8AS

Valence House Museum

Sunday, 27 July 11am – 4pm.

Location

Becontree Ave, Dagenham RM8 3HT

This thought-provoking session, led by author and former teacher Juneha Chowdhury, explores how South Asian women are perceived in society and the challenges of navigating identity, prejudice, and discrimination.

Through interactive writing tasks, participants will reflect on their personal journeys and experiences. 

The event is part of Pen to Print’s contribution to South Asian Heritage Month and aims to inspire open discussion and creative expression .

This free outdoor community event celebrates Indian Independence Day and South Asian Heritage Month under the theme “Roots to Routes – Honouring Our Journeys.”

Organised by Events 2 Empower CIC in collaboration with LBBD Public Health, NHS Vaccination UK, and the GP Federation, the event features:

• 🇮🇳 Cultural performances
• Mobile animal farm & kids’ attractions
• Wellbeing talks & vaccination awareness
• Free henna & face painting
• Women-led local stalls

Women's Museum, in partnership with Curated Community Cinema and to celebrate South Asian Heritage Month, presents a free screening followed by a Q&A

Feature Film - Sister Midnight

In Mumbai, an arranged marriage spirals into darkness as the spineless husband watches his wife morph into a ruthless, feral force within their marital confines. 

Director: Karan Kandhari

Cast: Radhika Apte, Ashok Pathak, Chhaya Kadam 

Cert: 15 

Duration: 1h 48m

Q&A: TBC

The Boathouse are showing the classic 1972 film The Harder They Come, the best reggae film ever made, starring Jimmy Cliff and credited with popularising reggae across the world. 

The film will be introduced by Fraser Campbell, a family friend of Jimmy Cliff, and after the film Fraser will be playing records from his extensive vinyl collection of the time. 

There will also be a fully licensed bar and Caribbean food. 

Entrance is “pay what you can” to make it fully accessible to all residents.

RefreshWell are hosting a Black History Month event aimed at tackling burnout through fireside conversations, a boxing/fitness workshop, a wellness lounge and painting/craft workshop. 

Lunch to be provided.

Throughout October.

Do you have a child with a disability and would like to meet other parents?

Then why not come along for a cuppa and a biscuit to our coffee morning, to share experiences and suggest what session you would like us to deliver?

We have monthly information sessions that cover common challenges children with disabilities and their families experience.

At the Children & Young People Disability (CYPD) Hub

Come along, meet our new manager, Jacqui Miller and staff members Janette and Maria!

Outside the main entrance.

Celebrate Black History Month with us at Dagenham Library through an evening of meaningful dialogue and creative expression!

In celebration of Black History Month, join authors, poets, and cultural storytellers: Jerry Chiemeke, Alex Murdock, Danny Baxter, Damilola Olaniyi in a powerful conversation with Amaka Obioji. 

Hosted by local writer and poet Amaka Felly Obioji with the support of Pen to Print, this special Open Mic Night is part of our celebrations for Black History Month and National Poetry Day.

The evening will showcase powerful performances from guest poets Michelle Nnayelugo, Eyitayo Salami, Nisola Jegede and Danny Baxter. Whether you're a seasoned performer or a passionate poetry lover, this is a space to connect, reflect, and celebrate voices that inspire and empower.

A new house trail for visitors of all ages; discover the often hidden histories of Black Tudors, and learn about their lives.

Date

Sunday 5 October 2025 – Wednesday 29 October 2025 during opening hours.

Join us for The Black Digital Innovators Showcase — a celebration of Black excellence in technology and innovation! 

Discover inspiring stories of 30 Black innovators shaping our digital world. 

Explore interactive displays, take part in fun learning activities for all ages, and find resources to spark your digital journey.

Date and time

Dates: 13th - 23rd October 2025 

Time: 10 am–5 pm daily

Register

FREE entry but you must register to attend – bring a friend and share widely!

Exhibition of Black History Month art work from Barking and Dagenham schools inside Barking Town Hall on first floor.

Monday 27 October 2025 – Sunday 30 November 2025, every day from 9am -5pm.

Please note this event is ideal for children ages 6 to 11 and they will need to be accompanied by an adult on the day.

NB: As the session will involve crayons, glue, and glitter, it may get a little messy. We recommend that children dress appropriately for creative activities.

Voices rising. Stories leading. Pride shining. Join us for a night of celebration, leadership & pride, hosted by Cllr Bright. 

The programme includes an inspiring keynote on leadership, a dynamic panel discussion on Power, Pride and the Future, spoken word, music and dance performances, and recognition of outstanding community achievers.

Save the date! The African & Caribbean Health Show is back where you'll be able to:

• see a GP & speak directly with NELFT services
• connect with local organisations
• enjoy FREE African & Caribbean food
• indoor African & Caribbean market & exhibition
• plus children’s activities, panels & more

Dress code is cultural/traditional wear – rep your flag, rep your culture with pride!

Don’t miss it - this is the place to be!

In celebration of Black History Month, the Specialist Intervention Service will be hosting a mini symposium on the theme of “Black Contribution To Empire”.

Come and hear interesting, exciting, and enlightening presentations from The British West India Regiments Heritage Trust and others. This will include an overview of the service and sacrifice made by black men and women to protect and build the British Empire from World War 1 onwards.

TNBFC screening finale. The Woman in the Yard is a 2025 American psychological horror film directed by Jaume Collet-Serra and written by Sam Stefanak.  

Actors include Danielle Deadwyler, Okwui Okpokwasili, Russell Hornsby, Peyton Jackson, and Estella Kahiha.

Unity in diversity: A celebration of Black heritage and culture. 

Special guests include Cllr Folasade Bright and Mayor Princess Bright. 

Featuring AfricanShowcase market, which includes: commerce, fashion show, Afrobeat DJ Shott and food vendors.

For booking and sponsor please call Ola Mustapha on 07956675412