What’s On

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 on a trip to Colchester.

You could catch a showwatch 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. From hidden gems to large scale events that you don't want to miss, this handy tool will show you everything coming up in the city.

This Month's Highlights

Coming Up in Colchester...

Abberton Winter Warm-Up Feb 15

Let's think about ways to warm up this winter. We will build a shelter, go for a short walk around the reserve, and then return for a campfire feast. You will have the opportunity to make and cook a selection of tasty treats on the fire. This event is recommended for age 5+…

Guided Walking Tour: From Camulodunum to Colchester Feb 15

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…

Halla Groves-Raines Life in Patterns Feb 15

Celebrating 10 Years of the Firstsite Collectors' Group Bursary Awards We're thrilled to mark a decade of the Firstsite Collectors' Group Bursary Awards with our second exhibition this year that celebrates East Anglian artists who have received or applied for these…

Jane Ostler: Finding the Hand of Kindness Feb 15

'Finding The Hand of Kindness' is inspired by Jane's own life, reflecting on her roles as a caregiver, the impact of patriarchal expectations, and the everyday moments of kindness. Through her art, Jane invites us to see how creativity can be a source of comfort and…

Josh Berry: Best Man Feb 15

It's clear what toxic masculinity is, but what does positive masculinity look like in a modern context? Josh Berry intends to provide some sort of answer to this question, through his many impressions and characters, as he tells the tale of being his best friend's best…

Knightzzz at the Museum Feb 15

Sleepover in Colchester Castle! Knightzzz at the Castle is back! If you’ve ever wondered what Colchester Castle is like at night, then this is your chance to find out. Join the team for a sleepover experience like no other. Set up camp in your chosen spot and get…

Leonora Carrington: Avatars & Alliances Feb 15

Marking 50 years since the English translation of 'The Hearing Trumpet', Leonora Carrington's 1974 novel, was published, this exhibition offers a fresh exploration of her extraordinary life, career and travels. What to expect Featuring over 50 artworks and objects by…

Margaret Cavendish: Trailblazer Feb 15

This Valentine's Day, Colchester Museums announces the opening of a new exhibition at Hollytrees Museum: Margaret Cavendish: Trailblazer. Running from 14 February to 31 August 2025, the exhibition celebrates the life and legacy of Margaret Cavendish, a remarkable figure born…

Nicola Burrell Concrete Dreams Feb 15

Nicola Burrell is a Colchester-based artist and sculptor who creates three-dimensional artworks that reflect her fascination with built environments and artificial spaces. Her creative process often begins with drawing and mapping out various locations, allowing her to capture…

Oil Painting for Beginners with Jevan Watkins Jones Feb 15

Explore the techniques and styles of oil painting with the inspiring work of contemporary and historic artists in these fun and experimental sessions! Experience the versatility of the medium through set tasks and be inspired by looking at the work of contemporary and historic…

Roman Gods Trail Feb 15

The trail runs from 15-23 February, during our regular opening hours. Join us for a journey through Colchester Castle, where the myths and legends of Roman gods come to life. Take on the trail as a family or individually and uncover the secrets of ancient deities, their rituals…

Swing That Music Feb 15

Join Down for the Count All-Stars, the UK's hardest swinging band, for "one hellova celebration of vintage music" (TimeOut London) – it's time to Swing That Music! The band are set to bring the sounds and vibes of the nation's best jazz clubs to…

Black Is The Color Of My Voice Feb 16

Inspired by the life of Nina Simone, and featuring many of her most iconic songs performed live. Apphia Campbell’s acclaimed play follows a successful singer and civil rights activist as she seeks redemption after the untimely death of her father. She…

Create a Creature: Craft Session Feb 18

Join us for drop-in sessions from 10:30 AM to 12 PM and 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM as we dive into a world of creativity inspired by Margaret Cavendish and our exciting new exhibition! Little ones (ages 3+) can unleash their inner inventor and craft their very own fantastical creature…

Mark Thomas: Gaffa Tapes Feb 18

Mark's now famous mix of standup, theatre, journalism and the odd bout of performance art has made him one of our oldest surviving alternative comics. Often referred to as the 'godfather of political comedy' (amidst many other things), Mark has been performing comedy…

Snow White and Rose Red Feb 19

Two sisters, Snow White and Rose Red, live in a pretty cottage in a garden full of white and red roses. Their kind hearts and happy dispositions help a Bear and a Wolf to get along so they can break a magic spell. Loosely based on the original tale by Brothers Grimm, the…

BULL Feb 20

‘They just don’t like me, this is nothing to do with business. A razor-sharp play about the fine line between office politics and playground bullying, Bull offers ringside seats as three employees fight to keep their jobs. Sally Woodcock directs a new production of…

C.L. Miller & James Henry in Conversation Feb 20

Join us to hear two local authors talk about their latest novels. C.L. Miller's second book in her Antique Hunter's series will be released in hardback in mid-February. If you love golden age crime fiction, these will be a real treat for you. A stolen painting and a…

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