Keep Colchester Cool

Free S.E.N.D. Friendly Summer Stay & Play Sessions
2025-08-04 16:30 - 18:30 (Europe/London) | 9-10 Mason Road, Cowdray Centre, CO11BX Colchester, United Kingdom, 9-10 Mason Road, Cowdray Centre, CO11BX Colchester, United Kingdom
This session has been funded for children with Special Educational Needs & Disabilities by Essex County Council and offers children with S.E.N.D the chance to be active, have a hot meal & dessert, all in a low volume environment. Go Bananas is closed to the public for this session and numbers are limited.The only requirement for a funded space is that children must have S.E.N.D. Funded spaces include a set meal of chicken/vegetarian nuggets.
This session is suitable for 4-11 years.
Adult supervision by parents/guardians is required at all times and all children remain the responsibility of their parents/guardians.
Non-SEND siblings can be booked on, though an admission fee is required for them and the fee does not include a meal. The Cafe will be open to purchase food & drink.
Those attending must abide by our Go Bananas Centre Rules. Socks must be worn at all times and outside food/drinks cannot be brought in to the Centre.
https://www.facebook.com/events/688710420882631/?event_time_id=688710440882629

Kids Summer Programme
2025-08-04 10:00 - 12:00 | 74 High Street, CO1 1UE Colchester, United Kingdom, 74 High Street, CO1 1UE Colchester, United Kingdom
Two hour art fun designed to promote creativity and expression. Children will take part in three different activities during the sessions: designing a pair of shoes (that you get to take home), lantern making using a glass bottle and painting a piece on canvas that is inspired by our own collection.
All the canvases will be exhibited in the gallery at the end of August with a special celebration event – all included in the price.
https://www.facebook.com/events/701902405789469/?event_time_id=701902412456135

Boss Caine @ The Victoria Inn, Colchester - Free Entry Afternoon Show
2025-08-03 17:00 - 20:00 | Victoria Inn Colchester, 10 North Station Rd, Colchester, CO1 1RB, GB
Boss Caine aka Dan Lucas returns to the Victoria Inn in Colchester for the umpteenth time to sing his internationally acclaimed original Americana songs because he ruddy loves it there.
Free entry afternoon session.

SUMMER SUNDAY SESSIONS
2025-08-03 15:00 - 18:00 | 60 High Street, CO1 1DN Colchester, United Kingdom, 60 High Street, CO1 1DN Colchester, United Kingdom
Every Sunday in August | 3PM–6PM | St Nicholas Square
Join us in the heart of town this August for Summer Sunday Sessions — a feel-good series of free live music events bringing sun-soaked sounds to St Nicholas Square every Sunday afternoon. Relax, unwind, and enjoy a rotating lineup of incredible local talent, from crowd-pleasing pop to rich acoustic harmonies.
August Line-up:3rd – Scarlett Rose: Popular hits in the sun — sing along to your favourites with this dynamic performer.10th – OMB Acoustic Showcase: Featuring a hand-picked selection of musicians from Colchester and the surrounding areas. A celebration of local acoustic talent.17th – Vice Herder: An Essex-based acoustic duo known for their beautiful harmonies and quirky, captivating arrangements.24th (Bank Holiday Special) – Vice Herder return by popular demand!31st – Buddie and The Narwhal: A musical journey through the decades — from 70s classics to modern chart-toppers.
https://www.facebook.com/events/1250597543235421/?event_time_id=1250597959902046

Calm At The Castle
2025-08-03 15:00 - 17:00 | Colchester Castle, Colchester Castle
Join us on the first Sunday of the month for a little calm at Colchester Castle.
These sessions are suitable for visitors with ASD, providing an opportunity for them to explore the museum at a quieter time. We aim to minimise sensory stimulation in the galleries by turning off audio and visuals and providing a sensory space off the main gallery.
Ear defenders, visual guides and twiddlemuffs are available from the Museum’s reception free of charge.
You can find out more about our autism-friendly resources by visiting our Access page.
This event is included in Castle admission. There is no need to book; just purchase general admission tickets to the Castle, or consider a Museums Pass to enjoy unlimited visits during the year!

Jazz in the afternoon
2025-08-03 14:00 - 17:00 | Ye Olde Albion Pub, High Street, Rowhedge, Colchester, CO5 7ES, GB
This will be Peter Jezzards last appearance at the Albion playing/singing with the Usual Suspects. Come along and enjoy some jazz and celebrate Peter’s time singing for us!

The Rec Community Market
2025-08-03 10:00 - 16:00 | Colchester old heath Recreation Ground, Colchester old heath Recreation Ground
🌞 The Rec Community Market – Sunday 3rd August 🌞📍 Old Heath Recreation Ground, Colchester🕙 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Join us on Sunday 3rd August for another fantastic day at The Rec Community Market – bringing together local traders, live entertainment, and family fun in the heart of the community!
Here’s what to expect:
🛍️ Over 25 stalls – handmade crafts, affordable fashion, sweet treats, homeware & more🎵 Live music & local buskers throughout the day🍔 Delicious hot food and drinks from local vendors🍰 Cakes, bakes, snacks and refreshments🍺 A fully licensed bar🎈 Bouncy castles and kids’ activities
Whether you’re shopping for something special or just enjoying a day out with family and friends – there’s something for everyone!
Free entry – everyone welcome!
Let’s support our local makers, enjoy great food, and celebrate community spirit together 🙌

Vibe Chemistry! Saturday 2nd August
2025-08-02 22:00 - 2025-08-03 01:00 | 131 High Street, CO11SP, 131 High Street, CO11SP
Trilogy brings VIBE CHEMISTRY to town for a set of DNB bangers!

Rhythm 🎵 of the Night!
2025-08-02 21:00 - 2025-08-03 03:00 | Rubix Bar, Rubix Bar
Celebrate 🍾 the start of August and Summer Time with guest DJ Liam Biss this Saturday night here in the heart of Colchester!
A special night guaranteed to bring back the Good Times with 80s & 90s Club, Party 🎉 and Retro Classics toll 3am!
Free Entry before 11pm 🕚 and 2 Cocktails 🍹 for £8 all night!
Don’t forget Pop in the Loft upstairs as well if you like you cheesy Pop & Party!

Supersonic
2025-08-02 21:00 - 2025-08-03 00:00 | 45 North Hill, CO1 1PY Colchester, United Kingdom
Join us for a night celebrating Oasis and the very best of British rock through the ages! From classic anthems to indie bangers.
🕔 Bar & Beer Garden open from 5PM🎧 DJ kicks off at 9PM🎟 FREE ENTRY!

"Alice and Her Adventures in Wonderland" @ Castle Park Theatre
2025-08-02 16:30 - 19:30 | Lower Castle Park Colchester, Colchester, CO1 1, GB
Chameleon’s Web Theatre Company present their 2025 summer tour, a fun-packed show for the whole family!
“Alice and Her Adventures in Wonderland”From the book by Lewis CarrollAdapted by Tammie Lightfoot
SATURDAY 2ND AUGUST @ Castle Park Theatre, Lower Bowls Green, Lower Castle Park, ColchesterStarts 4:30pm (Gates open: 3:30pm)
THIS IS AN OUTDOORS PERFORMANCE: PLEASE BRING CHAIRS, BLANKETS, PICNICS AND SUITABLE ATTIRE FOR A BRITISH SUMMER – WE MAKE NO GUARANTEES TO THE QUALITY OF THE WEATHER!

Magic The Gathering Edge Of Eternities Release Draft Event
2025-08-02 12:30 - 17:00 | ACE Comics, 42 Culver Street East, Colchester, CO1 1LE, GB
Magic The Gathering Edge Of Eternities Release DraftThis Saturday we will be having a release draft with the super Edge Of Eternities set, with the pre-releases going so well last weekend, this is sure to be a set to make an enjoyable draft. So come join us for some more fun with this set.
Cost £20 (3 boosters for drafting and 1 booster to the prize pool for every player) Swiss rounds, amount of rounds dependent on attendance.Start time: 12:30pmCost £20.00
Aim of the day is to build a Minimum of a 40 card deck with the cards you draft, compete in swiss rounds to find a winner (Land boxes are provided so all you need to bring is you).
Please note all of these events have limited spaces of 24 people, so to avoid missing out please either click attend on this event, come in and speak to a member of staff of call us on 01206 561912 to make sure you don’t miss out. See less

Pokemon League / Learn To Play / Trade Event
2025-08-02 12:30 - 17:00 | ACE Comics, 42 Culver Street East, Colchester, CO1 1LE, GB
Pokemon is now back at ACE….That’s right we are pleased to announce that Pokemon League & general play is back. This Saturday we will be running our league meet up & this will be a regular fortnight event.
It is the idea time to come along, learn to play, trade cards and play games against each other in a relaxed friendly environment.
Your only requirement is that each week you will have your Pokemon ID with you (you can get this by creating an account on the Pokemon web-site). As a result we will be able to gain league promos for those that have submitted Pokemon id’s.
This really is a meet up for anyone regardless of if you are beginner, intermediate player or expert. So don’t miss out come join in the fun and drop by to see us this Saturday.
COST : This is a free to enter event.START TIME : 12:30pmEND TIME : 5:00pm
Please note all of these events have limited spaces of 24 people, so to avoid missing out please either click attend on this event, come in and speak to a member of staff of call us on 01206 561912 to make sure you don’t miss out.

Secret Island Festival 2025
2025-08-02 12:00 - 23:00 | Mersea Island, Colchester, GB
Join us for the 5th year of Secret Island Festival!
We can finally announce that The Streets’ frontman, Mike Skinner, will be headlining Secret Island Festival this summer, 2nd August, with one of his iconic DJ sets.
Alongside Mike Skinner our phase one lineup includes Stanton Warriors and stellar names in Jungle and Drum & Bass, Jumpin Jack Frost and Heist who will be taking the lead on the Rough Tempo stage.
For our fifth year we are thrilled to introduce our new LIVE MUSIC STAGE – punk, roots, indie, country, rock and everything in between, featuring Wilswood Buoys, Popes of Chillitown, Hobo Chang and Bridget.
We have many more acts we’re looking forward to announce in our phase two lineup. We can’t wait to dance with you again!
Tickets available from our website. Link in Bio.
https://secretislandfestival.co.uk/

Secret Island Festival 2025 (Live Stage)
2025-08-02 12:00 - 15:00 | Strood Field, East Mersea Road, East Mersea, CO5 8SL on Mersea Island, Strood Field, East Mersea Road, East Mersea, CO5 8SL on Mersea Island
Secret Island Festival is introducing a brand-new band stage for 2025!
The festival stage will feature live bands, with the first wave of acts including Bridget, Millie Manders & The Shut Up, Hobo Chang, Wilswood Boyos, and more to be announced.
Additionally, Mike Skinner (The Streets) will be headlining the main stage. Tickets are selling quickly, so grab yours via the link in bio before they’re gone!
Strood Field, East Mersea Road, East Mersea, CO5 8SL on Mersea Island in Essex

Holiday Fun: Summer 2025 – Afromoves
2025-08-02 12:00 - 13:00 | Lewis Gardens, Colchester, CO1 1, United Kingdom, Lewis Gardens, Colchester, CO1 1, United Kingdom
Dance your way into the Summer holidays with fun and energetic Afro-Moves at Firstsite Holiday Fun in Colchester!
Most suitable for 4 – 11 years, but all ages welcome. Caregivers are required to stay on site throughout the activities.
Activities take place outside. Please make sure those taking part in activities are dressed appropriately for the weather.
Our Holiday Fun activities are for families facing economic challenges or who require additional support during the school holidays, including those that qualify for benefits-based free school meals.
To find out more and book, visit our website: https://firstsite.uk/event/holiday-fun-summer-2025-afromoves/
https://www.facebook.com/events/723424857105794/?event_time_id=723424860439127

Rapture Gaming Festival - Colchester
2025-08-02 10:00 - 2025-08-03 17:00 | Colchester Charter Hall, Colchester Charter Hall
Rapture Gaming Festival is returning in August 2025 to where it all started in Colchester at the Charter Hall along with a massive outdoor festival at the outside pitch . Twice the size of the last show and packed with even more fun activities and content than ever before.
Included in the price of admission:Gaming hall full of hundreds of gaming stations, retro gaming exhibition and arcade, gaming tournaments with £1000s worth or prizes, stage shows, cosplay village and prize masquerade, Wrestling shows from SOS Wrestling, Robot arena with 36 teams battling it out for Robot Rebellion championship, Merch Market with a wide array of exciting traders, Games development zone where you can try the latest indie titles or learn how to get into the industry with Game Anglia. Life Size Dungeons and Dragons with the award winning Lifesizednd experiences for you to enjoy alone or in a party of friends, Gel blaster arena, the Karaoke rock band stage and much much more.
One ticket gets you into both the indoor and outdoor festival spaces.
EARLY BIRD prices will be the cheapest you can get them up until the end of April. Get them while you can!

Unlock The Secrets of Classical Andamento
2025-08-02 10:00 - 16:30 | Colchester Roman Circus, Colchester Roman Circus
Transform Your Mosaic Practice with Classical Andamento
Location: Roman Circus House, Roman Circus Walk, Colchester CO2 7GZ
Time: 10am – 4,30pm
Choose from these dates: 14th June 2025 – 12th July 2025 – 2nd August 2025
Do you want to deepen your understanding of the flow and structure of mosaics? Are you looking for a way to master the fundamentals of classical andamento in its purest form? Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced mosaic artist, this one-day workshop will give you the solid foundation you need to enhance your craft.
This workshop isn’t just about learning a technique; it’s about transforming how you approach mosaics. By the end of the day, you’ll have a deep understanding of classical andamento—a core skill for anyone serious about mosaic artistry, whether you’re replicating Roman mosaics or working with your own designs.
What to Expect:
We’ll begin the day with a fun, rapid fire exercise, to create a small mosaic designed to highlight a very crucial aspect of this training.Next, you’ll create two separate Andamento Pathway Boards, these are permanent references that will, at a glance, remind you of what classical andamento does when it is used, and the effect on the lines when it’s not used!
Then, you’ll choose your own mosaic to work on—either a Roman pattern (for those who want to explore the world of Roman mosaics) or a different design of your choice. You’ll apply the gold standard of classical andamento to your chosen design, ensuring that you build confidence in your technical skills without getting distracted by all the different styles and standards of work when classical andmento is used.
Throughout the day, we’ll also explore:
How Roman mosaics use andamento to create structure and flow, with practical examples.How Victorian mosaics (from the late 1800s) apply similar techniques, showing how classical training influenced later works and providing valuable insights for professional tilers involved in restoration.The variations in applying andamento, highlighting how artists with classical training still produce unique stylistic outcomes.Who Is This Workshop For?
This workshop is designed for modern mosaic artists of all levels who want to fully understand the principles of classical andamento, whether you’re working on Roman mosaic reproductions or creating your own designs. It’s ideal for those who are serious about mastering this foundational technique and want to approach their mosaics with a deeper understanding and intention.
It’s also perfect for professionals working on Victorian mosaic floors or any mosaic restoration project, as we’ll cover the classic and contemporary applications of andamento.
What’s Included:
*One full day of hands-on learning from 10 AM to 4:30 PM, with personal guidance through every step.
*A hard copy of the Classical Andamento Workbook (Workbook 1), which you’ll use during the workshop and take home for reference.Tesserae to complete your mosaic if you don’t finish on the day.
*Second Zoom workshop on classical andamento in Roman mosaics (Workbook 2) at scheduled dates, for further learning and follow-up support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q. Can I choose my own pattern? A. Yes, you can choose your own pattern, but please send it to me in advance for approval to ensure it fits the workshop’s focus.
Q. Do we grout? A. There’s no time for grouting during the workshop, but if you need it you’ll have enough grout to take away to finish at home (the two pathway boards won’t need grouting).
Q.What if I don’t finish my mosaic? A. No problem! You’ll leave with enough tesserae to complete your mosaic on your own.
This workshop is a foundational experience that will leave you with a richer understanding of mosaics, and how to approach your work with confidence and skill. By the end of the day, you’ll see mosaics differently—you’ll see beyond the surface.

The Firstsite Art Fair
2025-08-02 10:00 - 16:00 | Lewis Gardens, CO1 1JH Colchester, United Kingdom
The Firstsite Art Fair is a vibrant celebration of creativity, bringing together a diverse range of artists, collectors, art lovers and all who are simply curious about art.
Set in a welcoming environment, our fair showcases a stunning array of original artworks, including paintings and sculptures.
You will have the opportunity to meet talented emerging and established artists, explore their unique creations, and purchase one-of-a-kind pieces to add to your collections.
With interactive workshops, live demonstrations, and thought-provoking artworks, the event offers something for everyone.
Join us for an inspiring and dynamic experience where art, culture, and community come together.
For more info: https://firstsite.uk/event/the-firstsite-art-fair/or call us on 01206 713 700.

Drop-in Family Painting
2025-08-02 10:00 - 16:00 | 74 High Street, CO1 1UE Colchester, United Kingdom, 74 High Street, CO1 1UE Colchester, United Kingdom
An activity for the whole family to do together!
Join artists Tom Armstrong and Iris Gunnardottir for some open-air painting in our beautiful garden.
This loose session is designed to be as flexible as possible, with advice and support from Tom and Iris available if you need. No need to book ahead, just turn up. No minimum or maximum session time, just be prepared that you might have to share resources with others during busy periods.
Refreshments are available to purchase from our cafe.

The Firstsite Art Fair: Drawing with Charcoal
2025-08-02 10:00 - 12:00 | Lewis Gardens, CO1 1JH Colchester, United Kingdom
Join Jordan Cook in making quick and playful drawings with charcoal into ambitious and imaginative works of art.
In this session you’ll learn how to sharpen your skills in drawing from life and the world around you and explore the various ways you can use charcoal to draw.
Your tutor will guide you through both slower, focused drawing and faster sketching exercises, with space to work in your own way.
Basic materials will be provided. Suitable for ages 16+. All experience levels welcome!
For more info: https://firstsite.uk/event/drawing-with-charcoal/ or call us on 01206 713 700.

The Firstsite Art Fair: Decorate a Trinket Dish with Posca Pens
2025-08-02 10:00 - 11:00 | Lewis Gardens, CO1 1JH Colchester, United Kingdom
Decorate a trinket Dish with Posca Pens in this relaxed, family-friendly workshop into something uniquely yours.
Using vibrant Posca pens, you’ll be guided through simple decorating techniques to help you create your own design.
Your tutor will be available to support you as you explore ideas and work at your own pace. You’re welcome to draw inspiration from your own style, favourite colours, patterns, characters or animals!
Basic art materials, including a ceramic trinket dish to decorate and take home will be provided.
Basic materials will be provided. Suitable for ages 4-11 years.
For more info: https://firstsite.uk/event/decorate-a-trinket-dish-with-posca-pens/ or call us on 01206 713 700.
https://www.facebook.com/events/1285984246377515/?event_time_id=1285984249710848

Twisters Celebrate 10 Years Since Tame Impala Currents
2025-08-01 21:00 - 2025-08-02 00:00 | 45 North Hill, CO1 1PY Colchester, United Kingdom
On Friday 1st August, Twisters Bar will be celebrating 10 years of the iconic Tame Impala album, Currents!
Throughout the night DJ Rom Atkin will play the tracks from Currents album all mixed in with the best summer indie and electro tracks.
Bar and Beer Garden opens at 5pm, DJ from 9pm.FREE ENTRY!

90’s vs 00’s Throwback Club Night
2025-08-01 21:00 - 2025-08-02 00:00 | 60 High Street, CO1 1DN Colchester, United Kingdom, 60 High Street, CO1 1DN Colchester, United Kingdom
Get ready to dance the night away at the ultimate throwback party! Join us for a vibrant night as we celebrate the best hits from the 90s and 00s.Date: Friday, 1st AugustTime: Doors open at 9 PMVenue: Top Floor, Three Wise Monkeys, ColchesterTickets: £5 + booking feeDJ Matt Huffle and Ben HowardExpect to hear songs by iconic artists such as Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, Spice Girls, and Nirvana from the 90s, as well as hits from artists like Beyoncé, Usher, and Blink-182 from the 00s.Come dressed in your best retro outfits and prepare for a night filled with nostalgia, great music, and fun. Don’t miss out on this exciting club night—grab your tickets now and get ready to party!This Show is 18+, , we operate a strict challenge 25 policy, so please bring ID.Accessibility Information:Please note that access to the top floor of Three Wise Monkeys does not have a lift, but there are rest opportunities between each flight of stairsViewer Discretion:Please be aware that this event may feature flashing and strobing lighting effects.

Digital Mystery Presents | Summer This, Summer that | 01.08.25
2025-08-01 20:00 - 2025-08-02 04:00 | Truth Colchester, 8 Crouch St, Colchester, CO3 3ES, GB
Digital Mystery Presents: SUMMER THIS, SUMMER THAT
📅 1st August 2025📍 Truth, 8 Crouch Street, Colchester, CO3 3ES🕗 8PM – 4AM🎟 £7 advance • £10 on the door
Get ready, Colchester. This summer, we’re bringing the energy straight to Truth with a heavy-hitting night of underground sounds. Expect 8 hours of pure vibes across the DnB spectrum — from upfront rollers to late-night filth; hosted by *Digital Mystery, curated by Sister of Anubis* in collaboration with *Modes of Vibration, Rough Tempo and Audio Anarchy*
🔥 Line-up:• WHATKNOTZZZ — 8:00–9:00PM• RUFFEDGES— 9:00–10:30PM• MODES OF VIBRATION — 10:30PM–12:00AM• HEIST — 12:00–1:30AM• MISSREPRESENT— 1:30–3:00AM• COOKEY — 3:00–4:00AM
Not one to miss…Get your tickets now!!!
BUY TICKETS BELOW:
https://www.tickettailor.com/events/sisterofanubis/1735533?fbclid=IwQ0xDSwLWdQtleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHiZksROaj73lknAhAc03TTY20tzWPOuVo-6aMOs3QH4IzstUX0lXebVTnrGa_aem_TCfi1HO-Y7p8J-ZSAI7RCw

GIG - ROB LEWIS
2025-08-01 20:00 - 23:00 | The New Inn Colchester, 36 Chapel Street South, Colchester, CO2 7AX, GB
GIG ALERT 🚨
ROB LEWIS – FRIDAY 1ST AUGUST
Music from 8PM 🕗
Pop down this Friday 1st August, to hear some cracking high-energy 90’s Indie, Country and so much more! PLUS some original tunes!
FREE ENTRY – just grab a pint! 🍻

The Laughter Zone Comedy Club
2025-08-01 20:00 - 23:00 | Church St, CO1 1NF Colchester, United Kingdom
Tickets £15.50/ £13.50 concessions.Doors open 8pm, show starts 8.30pm.This show is for a seated audience.
Come on in for a riotous night of laughter where the bar will be open throughout.
We get all the big names of comedy on their way up – Eddie Izzard, Billy Bailey, Jimmy Carr and Michael McIntyre have all appeared at our club when they were in the early stages of their careers.
So catch the acts causing a stir on today’s circuit, and you might even be witnessing comedy greatness of tomorrow!
The acts performing are announced on the night.
https://www.facebook.com/events/1228580922300520/?event_time_id=1228580935633852

Black Cactus Quiz Night
2025-08-01 19:30 - 22:30 | Berechurch Arms, 177 Shrub End Road, Colchester, CO3 4SL, GB
Come join us for a fun and challenging night of trivia at the Berechurch Arms! Test your knowledge on a variety of topics for a chance to win a team prize.
Each team is up to 6 players.
All proceeds from this event will be donated to Lighthouse Women’s Aid (https://www.lighthousewa.org.uk/)

Wine & Crisp Pairing (Colchester)
2025-08-01 19:30 - 22:30 | patch, Colchester, patch, Colchester
Love wine and love crisps? Then this is the perfect event for you!
Join us in Colchester for this exciting twist on wine tasting as we match a selection of delicious English wines with classic (and quirky) crisps to see just how well these two unexpected worlds go together. This fun and flavourful evening promises surprising pairings and plenty of palate-pleasing moments.
The event is expected to last 2 hours.
Please purchase tickets via our website. Walk ins will not be accepted.
*Please note that the wines and crisps in the event photo are not necessarily those which will be showcased at the event.

Rock Vs Pop!
2025-08-01 19:00 - 2025-08-02 02:00 | Coda Colchester, Coda Colchester
Join us for non-stop rock and pop tracks back to back……All Night!This night is always busy and full of unexpected bangers!you do not want to miss this!
