Take part in The Big Draw 2025

We are always looking for ways to bring together our member businesses, their employees and the local community. So we are pleased to announce that Better Bankside is taking part in The Big Draw for the first time this October. As a festival sponsor, we will be hosting events across the BID area, collaborating with member businesses to engage new audiences, inspire others, and simply celebrate the joy of drawing.

What is The Big Draw Festival?

The Big Draw Festival is the world’s biggest celebration of drawing, taking place every year from 1-31 October. It is made up of thousands of drawing activities across the globe that connect people of all ages with schools, galleries, museums, libraries, heritage sites, outdoor spaces, artists, designers, illustrators, and each other. Whether you’re looking to engage new audiences, inspire others, or simply celebrate the joy of drawing, The Big Draw Festival is your chance to join a worldwide movement that promotes creativity, wellbeing, and visual literacy.

Who is it for?

The Big Draw Festival is for anyone who loves to draw, as well as those who think they can’t! It’s an opportunity for creative businesses to engage with new visitors and to join a global community in celebration of the universal language of drawing.

What is this year’s theme?

The theme for the 25th anniversary of The Big Draw Festival is ‘Drawn Together’, celebrating how creativity unites us, how The Big Draw has brought people together over the past 25 years and how collaboration and connection are at the heart of making and creating.

How can people get involved?

The Big Draw Festival is designed to be as flexible and creative as you are. There’s no single way to take part. Better Bankside will be bringing the Festival to life through a huge variety of events and activities, aimed at both the general public, and our member businesses.

We are currently looking for member businesses, artists and other creatives who are interested in hosting their own activities, such as:

• Hands-on workshops
• Live drawing demonstrations
• Collaborative installations
• Sketchwalks and outdoor sessions
• Artist talks and panel discussions
• Family drop-in activities
• School and community projects
• Themed creative challenges

We are also looking for venues, such as pubs or cafe who are happy to host any sessions, or any interesting venues which could be used as a backdrop for our visitors to draw.

I want to be involved. What next?

Reach out to Emma Charter, ec@betterbankside.co.uk to discuss your ideas.