Five reasons to love the South Bank this month

With summer officially kicking off later this month (hopefully), the South Bank is once again beckoning us with the promise of fun in the sun. From sipping Pimm's in a dodgem car to some of the most thrilling comedy and circus acts in London, here are five reasons to get excited about the South Bank.

Because life's a beach

Time to dig out the sunscreen as 85 tonnes of white sand has been transported to the South Bank for CopaCABANA, a Rio-themed beach pop-up striving to bring a taste of Brazil to the Thames. Expect Caipirinha cocktails and Brazilian barbecue galore. Until September 30. 

You can finally join the circus

That's right, London Wonderground has returned with a whole new line-up of saucy cabaret and circus acts. Canada's Cirque Alfonse will be serving up some bearded acrobatics while Dr Sketchy's Anti-Art School will give aspiring artists the chance to try their hand at life-drawing as burlesque performers do their thing on stage. All together now: 'Draw me like one of your French girls'. Until September 25.

Belinda Lawley

The chance to cool off

Jeppe Hein's interactive Appearing Rooms fountain once again returns to the Royal Festival Hall. Prepare to get drenched as jets shoot into the air, creating walls of water which appear and then vanish without warning. Until September 18.

Steve Tanner

A bit of magic at Shakespeare's Globe

Don't miss Emma Rice's vibrant rendition of 'A Midsummer Night's Dream', complete with a water pistol-wielding Puck. Making her official debut as Artistic Director, Rice's lively production throws tradition out the window, giving the Globe a much-needed shake-up. The best part? Groundling tickets are only £5. Runs until September 11.

Stacy Sobieski

Comedy inside a giant cow

What would a South Bank summer be without the iconic upside-down purple cow? Now in its eighth year, the Udderbelly Festival promises plenty of (ahem) belly laughs with some of the finest comedy acts London has to offer. There are also family-friendly shows to keep the little ones entertained and a variety of food and drink on offer. Until July 17.

Want more arts and entertainment? See what's happening at the Southbank Centre.