An American‑Style Fourth of July BBQ
Join the Founders’ Company, in partnership with the Benjamin Franklin Museum and St Bartholomew the Great, for a fun, family‑friendly Fourth of July celebration at Founders’ Hall.
Cloth Fair has a special connection to American history. Just next door at St Bartholomew the Great, Benjamin Franklin lived and worked as a young printer during his formative years in London, while nearby in Whitechapel the Liberty Bell, an enduring symbol of the Fourth of July, was cast in 1752 before being shipped to Philadelphia. That link is particularly meaningful for the Founders’ Company, as the Whitechapel Bell Foundry was led in its final years by Alan Hughes, our Immediate Past Master. This celebration is warmly supported by the Master and our American Consort, Tom, who are keen to share the day with as many friends as possible. We think these links make Cloth Fair a fitting and authentic place to celebrate Independence Day with our American friends in London.
Our informal summer event marks 250 years since American Independence, celebrating Independence Day with our American friends living in London and the wider community. The focus is on food, music, games, and good company. A joyful cultural celebration suitable for guests of all ages.
What to expect
Guests are invited to enjoy a laid‑back American‑style BBQ afternoon, with a sociable, come‑and‑go format. The event will feature:
An American‑style barbecue with traditional accompaniments
Music throughout the afternoon
A selection of games and informal activities suitable for children and adults alike
A cash bar and a selection of soft drinks
Event details
Date: Friday 4 July 2026
Venue: Founders’ Hall and the Priory Garden of St Bartholomew the Great (Cloth Fair, EC1A 7JQ)
Time: 12:00pm - 17:00pm
Dress code: Casual — red, white and blue encouraged
Tickets (prices include VAT)
Adults: £36pp
Children under 12: £15pp
No cost for babes in arms
Tickets exclude alcoholic drinks.
Numbers are limited and advance booking is recommended. A limited amount of tickets may be available on the door but are not guaranteed.
Additional information
Suitable for all ages
Gazebos and shade will be provided
Dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice
Accessibility: Founders’ Hall has step-free access to the main event spaces however it does not have accessible WC facilities. A portion of the event will take place in the garden of St Bartholomew the Great which is only accessible via a staircase.
If you have any accessibility requirements or would like to discuss adjustments, please contact us in advance of the event.
Please note that photographs may be taken during this event. If you do not wish to be photographed, please let us know.
Booking Form
Please note that submitting this form is an expression of interest rather than a confirmation of attendance. An invoice will be sent to you after submission and, upon receipt of payment, your place will be confirmed.