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Summer has been a bit of a damp squib so far – let’s heat things up with the hottest 10 events in August

The Balham Free Fringe Festival
Get ready for LOLs a’plenty at Balham’s free, weekend long chortle-fest. Some of the biggest names in comedy will be attempting to tickle your funny bones, including Trevor Lock, Pippa Evans and Luke Benson, and with stand-up, sketch and performance comedy all covered, you’re guaranteed to find something you like. Oh, and did we mention it was totally free?
29-31 July, balhamfreefringe.com

Rio Olympics
Celebrate the start of the 2016 Rio Olympics by getting into the Brazilian spirit at Pop Brixton. Take in all the sights and sounds of Rio with live drummers, samba dancers, Brazilian bands, DJs and capoeira and as usual, a wide array of street food and drink stalls will keep you going as you cheer on the athletes.
From 6 August, popbrixton.org

Caught by the River Thames
Festival season rolls on thanks to Caught by the River Thames, a remarkable two days of music, art and nature in the beautiful grounds of Fulham Palace. Beth Orton and Super Furry Animals will be playing sets, Kate Tempest and Lauren Laverne will be giving talks and you test your wits in Roy Wilkinson’s Pop and Waterways Quiz – expect musical questions on trout (yes, really). Quirky, crazy and a whole load of fun.
6-7 August, caughtbytheriverthames.com

Dodgeballdayer
Do you have what it takes to survive one of the most ferocious, prestigious Dodgeball tournaments of the modern era – whilst dressed as a Smurf? Mencap’s fancy dress, day-long event raises vital funds and awareness for learning disability and gives you and your team mates the chance to duck and dive your way to Dodgeball glory.  With prizes, food and drink served all day, this a is a great day out with an even better cause at its heart.
6 August, mencap.org.uk/Dodgeballdayer

The Le Bureau Olympic Games
OK, a trip to Pop Brixton is a guaranteed good time, but why just watch the Olympics when you can BE IN the Olympics? Le Bureau invites you to don your lycra, limber up and head to Clapham Common for our office’s inaugural Olympic Games. Take part in such traditional sporting events as the egg-and-spoon race, hula-hooping and giant beer pong, and there’s even a closing ceremony/after party if you can’t make the main event. If you haven’t already registered, there is still plenty of time – please see Magda for details.

The Doctor’s Orders: The History of Hip-Hop Terrace Party
The Doctor’s Orders, otherwise known as the kings of London’s hip-hop scene, are taking over Southbank for a very special party. Top DJ’s will take you on a hip-hop journey, starting with ‘60s funk and the 80s golden age of rap right through to today’s new school and Trap. When you’ve bopped ’til you’ve dropped, head inside to The Record Fair where you can buy mint condition vinyl and own a little piece of hip-hop history.
August 13, southbankcentre.co.uk

Brother Marcus
Balham is making a name for itself on the trendy food and drinks scene. Its latest outpost of culinary cool is Brother Marcus, a ‘garden cafe’ founded by old school friends Alex Large, Arthur Campbell and Tasos Gaitanos. The  focus is on seasonal, organic and high quality produce, whilst coffee comes from East London’s excellent Caravan. Come the evenings, they’ll be hosting supper clubs and letting the cocktails flow.
brothermarcus.co.uk

South West Four
Too late to book a bank holiday getaway? Then stay right here and let sunny Clapham Common provide the entertainment. It all kicks off on Saturday 27 with South West Four: two days of dance, house and electronica headlined by Rudimental and The Chemical Brothers. Then if you’re still in the mood on Monday…
27-28 August, southwestfour.com

House of Common
…carry on the party with Suggs! Things take on a more laid-back vibe as Madness bring reggae, funk and soul to the crowds. Mike Skinner, Rob Da Bank and Ms Dynamite will all be making appearances. Bank holiday weekend sorted.
29 August, madness.co.uk/houseofcommon/

Summer Mondays at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home
Warning: the summer sessions at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home might well see you acquiring a new pet. Learn about rehousing a cat or dog and spend some time playing with the four legged residents. The friendly staff will be on hand to answer any questions you might have.
Every Monday in August, battersea.org.uk