Sydenham Arts Festival returns next Saturday (July 4) for nine days of arts and entertainment.

There’s a packed schedule of fun – here’s just 7 things to look forward to.

Street Celebration

Being July 4, US Independence Day, it makes sense that the theme for the festival’s street party celebration follows an American theme. The High Street will be transformed with performers and interactive fun from 11am to 4pm. It’s free.

Itchy Toothpicks

Acclaimed pop rocker Itchy Teeth host a night of their favourite unsigned acts at Livesey Memorial Hall on July 10. There will also be stalls selling arts and crafts, vintage clothes and snacks. Tickets £10 or £5 concessions.

Festival in the Forest

Get down to Devonshire Road Nature Reserve from 1pm on July 5 for a day filled with folk, Irish, Country rock and Bluegrass music across two stages. Entry costs £9 or £5 for three to 17-year-olds.

Sydenham Comedy Festival

The Golden Lion hosts a comedy spectacular from 3pm on July 11 featuring sketch, character and stand-up shows with lots of acts previewing their full hour shows before they head up to the Edinburgh Fringe. Among the acts are Matthew Crosby, Joanna Neary and Jody Kamali. Tickets £3 in advance or pay what you want on the door.

Feast of Theatre: Long Night of the Cheese Puffs

Nothing does this show justice better than its synopsis: “Janet is right in the middle of her middle age…that’s if she survives to 90. If she doesn’t, well, then she is past her middle age already.

“She should have been someone by now. Except she’s not. She’s a children’s entertainer. A clown, in fact. And not a very happy one at that.

“At least Janet has her cat, although he hasn’t returned home yet. Contains scenes of only very very mild peril, involving an iron,perhaps. Plus a few rude words. Certainly no nudity.

“But there will be scenes where cheesy puffs are used, perhaps to excess.”

It’s on at The Golden Lion on July 9. Tickets cost £8 or £6 concessions.

The Wizard of Oz

Catch the classic movie under the stars at Mayow Park on the evening of July 4. It’s free.

Artists' Trail

More than 150 artists will be exhibiting their work in 37 locations in walking distance. Take a wander round them and maybe stop off at a pub or cafe or two along the way.