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!

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…

Colchester Town Hall Tours Jun 05

On the tour you will discover a grand building located in the heart of Colchester. The Town Hall was opened in 1902 and designed by John Belcher in the Edwardian Baroque style. It is the third municipal building to stand on this site. Inside, you'll find an impressive…

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…

Colchester Town Hall Tours Jul 03

On the tour you will discover a grand building located in the heart of Colchester. The Town Hall was opened in 1902 and designed by John Belcher in the Edwardian Baroque style. It is the third municipal building to stand on this site. Inside, you'll find an impressive…

Colchester Town Hall Tours Aug 07

On the tour you will discover a grand building located in the heart of Colchester. The Town Hall was opened in 1902 and designed by John Belcher in the Edwardian Baroque style. It is the third municipal building to stand on this site. Inside, you'll find an impressive…

Colchester Archaeological Trust Open Day 2026 Aug 22

The day will celebrate Colchester's archaeology and heritage, the presence of craft and trade activities in the past, the involvement of living historians, and the expansion of our local history further than just the Roman period. There are lots of fun activities for all ages…

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.