Discover: Museum Wonders at Hollytrees Museum
MEET 150 MILLION YEARS OF HISTORY AT COLCHESTER MUSEUMS... For the first time in Colchester’s…
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There's always something happening in Colchester! From vibrant community events to large-scale festivals and concerts, you're bound to discover something to keep you entertained while you visit our fantastic city.
You could catch a show, watch a band, browse the stalls at a market, or take in an exhibition at one of our wonderful galleries! Check out our event listings to discover what's happening during your trip to Colchester - this handy tool will show you everything coming up in the city. You'll be sure to find hidden gems, large scale events that you don't want to miss and everything in-between.
MEET 150 MILLION YEARS OF HISTORY AT COLCHESTER MUSEUMS... For the first time in Colchester’s…
Join us on 20 June 2026, from 10 am to 1 pm, for an immersive workshop exploring the ancient…
Take a guided walking tour around Colchester to discover its history and heritage with an expert…
Colchester-based charity Lepra will showcase a unique free exhibition at St Mary's Church, Dedham from 7-28 June 2026. A 'New Face for Leprosy' challenges the myths and perceptions of this neglected tropical disease. For over a century, Lepra has worked to diagnose…
Developed across India, East Africa and the UK, discover a photographic series that explores the connected histories of Arpita Shah, her mother, and grandmother. "My grandmother was born in India but grew up in Kenya for 12 years before moving back to India. Although I visit…
Café in the Park is proud to present Soundwave Sessions! Join us on selected dates for a fantastic mix of live music from some brilliant performers, all set in the beautiful surroundings of Castle Park. Free to attend – just bring your friends and enjoy the music!…
The Minories Gallery is delighted to announce ‘The Constant State of Becoming’, the first major exhibition of work by Wivenhoe-based artist Charlotte Bernays, opening Saturday 9 May and running until Sunday 28 June 2026. The exhibition brings together sculpture…
MEET 150 MILLION YEARS OF HISTORY AT COLCHESTER MUSEUMS... For the first time in Colchester’s history, a real dinosaur skeleton has taken centre stage at Hollytrees Museum…
Essex Book Festival is one of the highlights of the Essex cultural calendar. Each year, the festival lineup boasts 100 events in 40 venues across the county, including theatres, libraries, schools, universities, cafes and art galleries. The Festival was established by Essex…
Step into a boxing ring. Stand face-to-face with the leaders and resisters who shaped history. Walk through waves of figures rising from the pages of the Financial Times. Experience Godfried Donkor's first UK institutional show at Firstsite – a powerful, immersive exploration…
“The Minories Gallery felt like the creative hub of Colchester when I arrived with my husband Keith and young family in the mid 70’s. I began by opening an Arts and Craft shop in Fordstreet, Aldham, in our house which was an old Bakery. Keith went on to become the…
Much Ado About Nothing Sigh no more, ladies (and gentlemen), sigh no more, because Shakespeare in the Park returns with the original Rom Com. When Harry Met Sally, You’ve Got Mail, and of course, Anyone But You – they all started with Beatrice and Benedick. For quick…
Join us for a thought-provoking and insightful session by Rosalind Whyte in The Arts Society at Firstsite (TASAF) Lecture series! The Arts Society at Firstsite is an organisation about connecting people who have a passion for art. TASAF is part of a global network of local…
A fascinating new exhibition displaying one of the most stunning Roman burials discovered in Colchester in recent years, and the remarkable story behind the woman and her burial.
Celebrate the next generation of Colchester's artists in this dynamic, two-part exhibition from students at University Centre Colchester. This exhibition unfolds in two stages, offering a unique insight into the artistic journey: "To Be Continued" presents a…
This first major exhibition of works by Wivenhoe-based sculptor Charlotte Bernays. Charlotte is an artist in perpetual motion. Moving fluidly between two and three dimensions, across media and materials, her practice mirrors its central subject: the endless cycle of…
Celebrate Chappel Galleries 40th Anniversary. Julie Giles attended Camberwell School of Art DipAD 1965-69 studied painting where her tutors were Dick Lee and Tony Eyton. She has lived and painted in Suffolk for 59 years…also painting in Italy, France and Spain. Member of…
A teenager with a brilliant mind for mental maths and astronomy discovers the suspicious death of his neighbour's dog. His Sherlock Holmes style investigation uncovers deep family secrets which shatter his ordered world. Our talented company will employ inventive physical…
Come and spend two hours with the fabulous Holly who will guide you through carving and printing Soft Cut Lino upstairs at Red Lion Books. Holly will bring a couple of design inspirations, but of course feel free to bring your own idea. Due to the time frame, keep it…
Abberton Birds of Prey Evening. Join Essex wildlife trust & Barleylands Birds of Prey for a talk at Abberton Discovery Centre on 19th June Ever wondered how a Kestrel hovers or what speed a peregrine can dive at ? Come along to this evening where experts will Answer your…
Founded in 1926, Colchester Morris celebrates its 100th birthday in 2026. To help us celebrate our Centenery we have invited other Morris sides to join us for a Day of Dance on 27th June. There will be dancing at numerous location through the city, culminating in a massed…
Join us on 20 June 2026, from 10 am to 1 pm, for an immersive workshop exploring the ancient arts of spiritual protection. Step into a welcoming circle of wisdom and discover practical, time‑honoured techniques designed to help you feel grounded, protected and empowered…
A concert performance of Gilbert & Sullivan's much loved operetta 'Iolanthe', a hit from its very first performance in 1882. When fairies and members of the House of Lords collide, what could possibly go wrong?
Take a guided walking tour around Colchester to discover its history and heritage with an expert guide. Colchester was Britain's first city, and is now it's newest after regaining city status in 2022. With a story stretching back over 2000 years, join one of our official…
Step inside Jumbo, the magnificent water tower that has been watching over Colchester for generations! This incredible opportunity lets you climb through a piece of living history while giving the opportunity to see Colchester like never before. WHAT AWAITS YOU: Ascend all 157…
The Roman Circus Visitor Centre is open from 10 AM to 4 PM. See the archaeological site of Britain's only known chariot racing track, the Roman Circus! The Visitor Centre provides insights into what a "Day at the Races" was like in Roman Colchester nearly 2,000…
Rowhedge Reggatta returns on Saturday 20th June 2026 for another fantastic year! This one day, family orientated event celebrates the village's maritime history. Spanning the water and the landside, you'll see racing, entertainment and food & craft stalls, operated by…
A fan favourite, 'The Castle Park Bandstand Concerts' - presented by Cafe in the Park - return for another year. The Colne Endeavour Band is a charity run band. We love making music together and helping others to learn how to play too. So our members are from…