How do we make sense of a world in constant change? Discover how some of Britain's most influential artists, like Barbara Hepworth, Henry Moore, and L.S. Lowry, used colour, shape, and form to capture feelings, emotions, and experiences during a century of change. Through…
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!
How do we make sense of a world in constant change? Discover how some of Britain's most influential artists, like Barbara Hepworth, Henry Moore, and L.S. Lowry, used colour, shape, and form to capture feelings, emotions, and experiences during a century of change. Through…
Take a walk through the seasons at Crapes Fruit Farm in Essex in this immersive audio-visual exhibition by artists Hana Loftus and Maddie Persent. A year in the orchard Beginning in January 2024, the artists documented a year's cycle at Crapes – a sixteen-acre orchard near…
Join us in November 2025 where we will light up the skies of Mersea with our FREE annual firework display. Hot Food // Licensed Bar // Live Entertainment // Children’s Rides // Sparkler Zone // Side Stalls // First Aid Point Gates open at 5pm with the firework display…
Expect joyful harmonies from The Big Sing Choir, panto magic from Headgate Theatre’s Goldilocks and the Three Bears, and a return of Frozen favourites Elsa, Anna and Olaf after last year’s crowd-pleasing show. There’ll also be a special…
The much-loved Langham Handmade Fair returns this November for its special Christmas edition. With both indoor and outdoor stalls, the fair will feature a stunning selection of handpicked makers, artists and small businesses offering unique handmade gifts perfect for the festive…
Set in a welcoming environment, our fair showcases a stunning array of original artworks, including paintings and sculptures. Whether you're on the hunt for a unique gift or treating yourself to something special, this is your chance to discover one-of-a-kind pieces that…
We are holding our annual Festive Market on 29th and 30th November! Join us as the Minories transforms into a festive marketplace. There will be stalls from local artists, makers and craftspeople, and food and drink as always by The Commons Cafe.
Returning for 29th and 30th November 2025! Following the success over the last two years, we are thrilled to announce the return of the Tiptree Tea Room Christmas Fair! This festive celebration will once again be held at the Tiptree Tea Room and Marquee, offering a fantastic…
On Saturday 6 December, Hollytrees Museum opens its doors for a free-entry day with activities for the whole family. Step inside this historic setting and enjoy a day filled with fun and discovery. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore Hollytrees Museum at no…
Made in Colchester are a collective of artists, makers and designers who are based within the Colchester area. A diverse group with a common thread of Colchester, quality and innovation, the work and message of the collective spreads through shows, workshops, talks, exhibitions…
The Annual Festive Market hosted by Colchester Market and the Colchester BID returns with up to 80 stalls on a pedestrianised Colchester High St on Sunday 7 th December 2025. The family friendly event runs from 10:00 to 17:00 featuring live music, entertainment, funfair…
Join us on Sunday 7th December 2025 as the Moot Hall Christmas Gift Market returns to the heart of Colchester for a festive shopping experience like no other! ️ 40 Handpicked Gift Stalls – Browse a stunning selection of unique, handcrafted, and locally sourced gifts, perfect for…
As a special festive treat, Colchester Castle’s FREE Christmas Open Evening returns for 2025 from 3 pm – 8 pm. Soak up the festive atmosphere whilst seeing over 2,000 years of amazing history, with festive refreshments. With the Castle decked out in Christmas cheer…
Our Christmas Evening Market is looking very special! On the evening of December 13th we’ll be filling The Piazza outside The Mercury Theatre with a wonderful mix of crafts, food, drinks and Street Food stalls. We’ll have wood fired pizza from The Little Pizza Oven…
Join us for a Christmas Organ Recital with William Saunders, Colchester's new City Organist. This festive performance will feature a sparkling selection of seasonal favourites. Admission free.
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…