Grow Urban Festival highlights shared vision for London’s leadership in urban agriculture, food security and sustainability

“The case for urban greening and growing could not be more urgent,” commented Sal Chebbah, founder of the festival and of Elysian Roots. “There are significant social, economic and ecological benefits of ensuring our green spaces are prioritised. There are many projects and organisations in London creating meaningful and impressive change and the festival allows us to create a collaborative space to support these changemakers in the critical work being undertaken.”

Launched in 2021, the Grow Urban Festival has developed into an important greening movement which unites activists, educators, innovators and stewards across London. More than 30 workshops, presentations and other events will take place during the week including foraging walks, interactive talks, mushroom growing and bee hotel building workshops. Participants in the festival include initiatives that, for example, provide community access to fresh food, promote public health through urban greening, drive adoption of sustainable agriculture practices and empower marginalised groups through gardening.

The festival is supported by the National Trust, National Park City, The Natural History Museum, Great Big Green Week – Climate Coalition, The Conduit Club, Elysian Roots, Charles Downing, together with over 30 event partners.

Sal Chebbah commented: “The Grow Urban Festival represents the best of community and celebrates the abundance that flourishes when we cultivate gardens and growth mindsets in urban spaces. It is fantastic to be able to showcase the diversity of London’s urban growing efforts and this demonstrates how we have a real opportunity to take centre stage in the broader global greening community.”

More information on the festival and the programme can be found at www.growurban.london and @growurbanfestival_london