Once a boozy night for art-loving gallery hounds, now First Thursdays is a staple at Old Spitalfields Market too. At the beginning of each month, the 350 year old East London institution stays open late for after hours entertainment. The well established and much loved Antiques Market will be bustling in the centre of Old Spitalfields until 8.30pm, and the surrounding bricks and mortar traders are staying up late too. It’s all so that you can indulge in an array of in store complimentary drinks and cocktails, one night only offers, previews and freebies.
Dr Martens will be the heart of the music action with Our Girls performing live on the shop floor (throw in 20% off purchases and free drinks on arrival and you’ve basically got yourself a party within a party). Blixen are heading outside and setting up a dedicated bar for the evening in their yard. Perfect for pit stops and more permanent bar stool residencies.
Although First Thursdays is cause enough for celebration, it also falls on Bonfire Night. Joshua Kane have that covered with sparklers, mulled cider and autumnal treats in store.
If you want to be really comprehensive in your celebrating then don’t forget it’s International Sherry Week too: get your fix with a tasting and showcase on the Vagabond terrace from 5pm. Or if you’re feeling drab then turn it all around with a free shoe shine at Cheaney. Pass them on your way to Jigsaw Menswear – renowned as the kings of feel-good First Thursdays playlists and achingly tasty cocktails. Belstaff a visit for a few drinks while you browse, and if you’re looking for a serious bargain, then Mercantile are offering 50% of 50 styles for one night only.
How about free stuff? Competitions? You could win your pick of shoes from the new Superga AW15 collection – just head to them on the night to find out how.
For the peckish: take a walk down the market’s street food alley to chow down on a chunky Bleecker Street burger or get traditional with a fish and chip dinner at Poppies. You could always have a pampered sit down affair at the likes of Taberna Do Mercado or a quick shuck at Wright Brothers.
One night only pretty much sums it up. Until next month…
First Thursdays happens every month and it’s free to attend.
