No plans for this weekend and fancy a day out south of the river? You should get down to the Balham and Tooting Carnival, South London’s first annual local carnival. It’s on this weekend, 30th & 31st August, 11am - 7pm on both days.

This multi-cultural event aims to foster community spirit with music, cuisine, arts and entertainment of the diverse and vibrant South London community. There will be two live music stages showcasing local and international acts, organic and halal food stalls, a licensed bar, arts and crafts, family and children’s area, music and art workshops, theatre productions and a children’s fun fair. Best of all, admission is free.

All profits will benefit local charities; Re-Play Music (Merton Abbey Mills), Raw Material Music and Media (Brixton), the Friends of the Neo Natal Unit at St. George’s Hospital (Tooting) and Music4Children - all of which are working to improve the lives of children in South London. The event will be run using green energy, and support recycling and waste reduction initiatives.

If you’re in the area you might want to check out some of the places our community trust.

Mario’s favourite French restaurant is in Balham - Mini Mundus. “The menu is quite short and changes regularly, and the food was absolutely excellent! I had a very filling cassoulet (delicious, with belly of pork and a duck leg). The cheese selection was vast compared to what you often get even in restaurants that call themselves French, and I was so full that I actually struggled (well, a little bit) with the dessert (apple tart with cinnamon ice cream). And the bill for the whole lot was more than reasonable.”

Mollymc likes to go to Onam for authentic South Indian Cuisine. “Onam is my favourite Indian restaurant. I lived in South India for a while and I never had a masala dosa as tasty as those at Onam.”

QueenB loved Chez Bruce. “Chez Bruce puts fine dining in a league that doesnt need to be saved for one off special occassions due to its reasonably priced menu, great selection of wines and champagne, delicious cheese board - which I love! Yet, you still get that feeling that you’re something just that little bit extra special.”

How about a glass of wine at a friendly independent wine bar? The Gateway “is the best thing that’s ever happened to Wandsworth Common” according to itz_luce. “The food is fantastic and incredible value, as are the vast array of spirits. They include the delicious Budvar on tap amongst other beers, and stock an impressive selection of wines. They also sell the new fair trade Cola.”

Wine not your tipple? What about a pint with the crew from The Bill at The Castle in Tooting? Nixon thinks that “it’s clean, bright and tastefully done up like a good old fashioned boozer. Very plush and comfortable, big with plenty of room. The barmaids are really welcoming and the landlady is a cheeky sort that rules the place with a firm wink and giggle.”

Looking at this list and wondering why your favourite place isn’t there? We want your recommendations on the best places to while away our time. Come on in and share your experience - write a review!

More info on the carnival at the Balham & Tooting Carnival website.