Free Events

As well as Colchester's fantastic free attractions, you'll find an impressive selection of free events happening in and around the city all year long. Firstsite Art Gallery always has an exhibition on that's bound to impress, and during the summer months Castle Park is home to pop up bandstand concerts, and a number of festivals with free admission in the lower park. Later in the year, firm favourites like Heritage Open Day and Invasion Colchester provide fantastic entertainment at absolutely no cost. Find our picks in the listings below!

Chappel Duck Race May 17

Come and join us! The annual Duck Race is back, raising funds for Chappel Primary School. The fun starts from 12 noon, with the first race kicking off at 2 PM. Enjoy a delicious BBQ and hog roast, bounce around on the bouncy castle, treat yourself at the cake stall, and try your…

Mersea Island Art Trail May 23

Come to beautiful Mersea Island and embark on a creative journey!  Mersea Island Art Trail is a celebration of our community's creativity! This is your opportunity to meet the MERSEA ART COLLECTIVE passionate artists. Explore their studios, and witness their creative…

Culver Square: Cirque du Square May 30

Looking for a fun and free family day out this half term? Join us at Culver Square on Saturday 30th May for Cirque Du Square – a full day of circus-themed entertainment, live performances and family activities in the heart of Colchester. From 10am…

Open Farm Sunday 2026: Rix Farms Jun 04

Come and discover what really happens on the farm during harvest! We’re opening up our farmyard and inviting you to join us for a guided farm tour on the evenings of Thursday 4th June and Friday 5th June 2026. During the tour, we’ll take you around the yard and show…

Open Farm Sunday 2026: Bennison Farm Jun 07

We are taking part in Open Farm Sunday again this year. This years activities include: Farm Trail: Explore the fields at your own pace or join one of two guided tours with Danny, who will be able to answer any of your veg related questions. Family Fun: Outdoor games and…

Pipes in the Park Jun 14

Come to our mini Highland Gathering as pipes and drums from across the south of England play amazing medleys of Scottish tunes throughout the day. Admire the colourful tartan kilts and the skill of the young Highland dancers. Relax at the bar, enjoy the food outlets, browse the…

Colchester Morris Centenary Day of Dance Jun 27

Founded in 1926 Colchester Morris celebrates its 100th birthday in 2026. To celebrate this milestone we have invited other Morris dancing sides to join us for a day of dance on 27th June. Starting at 10am there will be dancing at a number of locations across the city, with the…

Heritage Open Days in Colchester Sep 11

Heritage Open Days return to Colchester and Wivenhoe for 2026. Find out more on our dedicated page here! You'll be invited into some of Colchester's most iconic buildings, including churches, art galleries and museums. Stay tuned for more info.