Last year's cultural extravaganza attracted an estimated 25,000 revellers to Trafalgar Square, and a similar crowd is anticipated on September 14, when the headliners of a varied musical bill will be Grammy-winning New York ensemble the Klezmatics. Shofar-blowers of all ages will join in a mass blast and there will also be youth choirs, dance groups, exhibitions, children's activities and books, jewellery, music and arts stalls.

The free event is being staged by the Jewish Music Institute on behalf of Jewish Culture UK, involving organisations from throughout the UK. It is supported by the Greater London Authority. London Mayor Boris Johnson said: "This year's Simcha on the Square promises to delight the crowds more than ever before. Apart from being a fabulously fun day out for all the family, Londoners will be able to experience the genuine tastes, sights and sounds of both modern and ancient Jewish heritage.

"It's also an opportunity for London as a city to recognise the contribution that the Jewish community, in all its diversity, makes to the capital."

The www.simcha.org.uk website has a full line-up of events.