Keep Colchester Cool

Costumed Characters
2026-03-30 15:00 - 16:30 (Europe/London) | Colchester Castle, Colchester Castle
Meet a medieval costumed character and step back into life at the Castle! Join us every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 3 PM to 4:30 PM, from 30 March to 10 April.
Join our friendly historical character and enjoy simple medieval‑style games, pick up a sticker, and discover what everyday life was really like hundreds of years ago. These playful, informal encounters are perfect for families and curious visitors of all ages.
This event is included as part of Castle admission. There’s no need to book – the sessions are included with Castle admission. Just turn up and see who you might meet!
https://www.facebook.com/events/1307945737840969/?event_time_id=1307945744507635

Fossil Day
2026-03-30 10:00 - 16:00 | Colchester Natural History Museum, Colchester Natural History Museum
Dig into the past this Easter! On 30 March from 10 AM to 4 PM, enjoy expert talks, fun fossil‑themed crafts and worksheets, and bring your own discoveries for identification. A brilliant and free hands‑on holiday activity for budding palaeontologists and curious young explorers.
This event is suitable for ages 5+.
No booking needed – just drop in! Free, but numbers are limited and queuing may be required.

Jungle Cakes x Impulse - Colchester - Truth Nightclub
2026-03-28 21:00 - 2026-03-29 03:00 | Truth Colchester, 8 Crouch St, Colchester, CO3 3ES, GB
Jungle Cakes returns to Truth for our biggest ever DnB event in Colchester.
Get ready… Saturday 28th March.
▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀
– – FULL LINEUP – –
➤ Crossy ➤ Ed Solo ➤ Deekline
➤ Kivi ➤ Øbtain➤ Society➤ SYD ➤ Chlo➤ Zaba ➤ Supermase➤ Buttons ➤ Milhouse
➤ Bacchus
➤ Scoundrel
Hosted By
➤ Beanie MC
▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀𝗧𝗜𝗖𝗞𝗘𝗧𝗦Early Bird On sale Now via Skiddle:
https://www.skiddle.com/e/41461634
▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀𝗩𝗘𝗡𝗨𝗘Truth Nightclub
8 Crouch StColchester CO3 3ES

Nu Project Live at the Bull Colchester
2026-03-28 21:00 - 2026-03-29 00:00 | The Bull Colchester, The Bull Colchester
Debut gig at The Bull. Free Entry

Jack The Lad supporting XSLF Live
2026-03-28 19:00 - 22:00 | Three Wise Monkeys Colchester
Playing the Three Wise Monkeys, Colchester for the first time…Founding Stiff Little Fingers’ member Henry Cluney brings his band XSLF to the venue.
Henry formed XSLF in 2013 with former SLF drummer Jim Reilly, although Jim (on the advice of his doctor) had to leave the band in 2021 and drumming duties are now taken care of by Glenn Kingsmore (also drummer for legendary Belfast band The Defects). Ave Tsarion (also of The Defects) completes the line up on bass and XSLF continue to bring fans a set of greats from SLF’s first three albums.
Supported by skanksters Jack the lad, Granthams own Under the Cosh & locals Blenderhead…4 great bands…this is a nights entertainment you don’t want to miss!!!
All for a £12 ticket in advanceSaturday 28th March, 2026Door time: 7:00pm

XSLF Live
2026-03-28 19:00 - 22:00 | Three Wise Monkeys Colchester
Henry Cluneys brilliant XSLF play the TWM Colchester.Playing the Three Wise Monkeys, Colchester for the first time…Founding Stiff Little Fingers’ member Henry Cluney brings his band XSLF to the venue.Henry formed XSLF in 2013 with former SLF drummer Jim Reilly, although Jim (on the advice of his doctor) had to leave the band in 2021 and drumming duties are now taken care of by Glenn Kingsmore (also drummer for legendary Belfast band The Defects). Ave Tsarion (also of The Defects) completes the line up on bass and XSLF continue to bring fans a set of greats from SLF’s first three albums.Supported by skanksters Jack the lad, Granthams own Under the Cosh & locals Blenderhead…4 great bands….this is a nights entertainment you don’t want to miss!!!–Advance tickets £12.00…Online (stbf): https://www.wegottickets.com/event/674536/Doors 7 till late

Book signing with Nick Butterworth
2026-03-28 14:00 - 15:00 | 125 High Street, CO1 1SZ Colchester, United Kingdom, 125 High Street, CO1 1SZ Colchester, United Kingdom
Nick Butterworth of beloved ‘Percy The Park Keeper’ fame will be at Red Lion Books signing his most recent books
Saturday 28th March, 2pm
On the ground floor of Red Lion Books until 2.30pm
Nick will be in signing copies of his latest two titles Cross Rabbit and The Easter Egg Hunt
We’d love to see you here. If there is a particular book you would like him to sign, please email us beforehand and we will ensure we have copies in.us@redlionbooks.co.uk

Dave Rowntree: No One You Know: Early Blur Photos Book Tour
2026-03-28 13:30 - 16:30 | Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester Arts Centre
A discussion around Dave Rowntree’s book ‘No One You Know ‘takes place at Colchester Arts Centre on Saturday, 28th March.
Dave Rowntree – politician, lawyer and drummer for Blur – will be in conversation with Keep Colchester Cool’s Ben Howard about his new photographic book, No One You Know, which documents Blur’s formative years.
Dave Rowntree is best known as the drummer for the band Blur. He is also a political activist for the Labour Party, a solicitor, an animator and writes music for film and TV.
Born to musical parents in Colchester, he studied percussion at Landermere Music School on weekends. Dave played in various bands with childhood friend Graham Coxon, before hooking up with Damon Albarn and later Alex James, forming the band Seymour, which later became Blur.
Until recently, Dave was a DJ on XFM, where he debuted tracks by artists such as Rat Boy, Pretty Vicious, The Big Moon and Aurora. He is also the cofounder of The Featured Artists Coalition and Star Boot Sale, a charitable project in which musicians and other artists donate their possessions to raise money for refugees.
All Tickets £15.Doors open 1.30pm, starts at 2pm.This event is for a seated audience.

Easter Worksheet
2026-03-28 10:00 - 17:00 | Colchester Natural History Museum, Colchester Natural History Museum
Try our free Easter worksheet! Available Tuesday to Sunday, 28 March – 12 April, during opening hours.
Follow clues around the museum, complete a fun worksheet, and uncover fascinating facts as you explore natural history in this interactive, hands-on adventure designed for curious young visitors.
This worksheet is suitable for ages 5+.
For useful information, such as how to find us and what facilities the museum has, we recommend reading our Access information.
This event is free to all. No booking needed, just drop in and join the fun!
https://www.facebook.com/events/1474698264368438/?event_time_id=1474698271035104

Goldwork Bee Workshop
2026-03-28 10:00 - 12:30 | Colcheco, Colcheco
Join us at Colcheco for a relaxing and creative afternoon making a beautiful sparkly goldwork bee. You’ll learn how to use beads, sequins and goldwork techniques to create a detailed, shimmering bee design – perfect to frame, gift, or turn into a brooch or decoration.
This workshop is suitable for both complete beginners and those with some stitching experience.
Your ticket includes hot beverages and cake, plus all materials needed.
£27.50 per person
Spaces are limited, so book early to secure your place.
Get your tickets here – https://www.thecreativeworkshopcompany.co.uk/event-details/goldwork-bee-workshop-2

Sumo Beatz - Heist's Birthday Bash
2026-03-27 22:00 - 2026-03-28 03:00 | Trilogy Colchester, Trilogy Colchester
Sumo Beatz is back again this March! Bringing you more Drum & Bass to Colchester Trilogy nightclub Colchester!
This month DJ Heist is celebrating his birthday! We’ve had a few of these special nights in the past and the line ups, music and vibes have always been one to remember as many of you will recall. Heist has curated a line up of awesome headline artists alongside the birthday boy himself and the freshest local artists!
Please share this event with your friends to help spread the word!
This is a limited ticket event, with only 200 spaces available.
Limited £10 Early Bird tickets are on sale now here!
https://www.fatsoma.com/e/5fjn2bel/sumo-beatz-heist-s-birthday-bash
(SECURE YOUR TICKETS ASAP TO AVAOID DISAPOINTMENT.)
18 +
Line up
Heist
Eksman
Pleasure
Kombo
Ruffstuff
Beaker
Feline Reflex
Drastik
Diamond Bliss

Nadine Somers at Junction 25 LDC
2026-03-27 20:00 - 22:30 | Marks Tey Parish Hall, Old London Rd, Marks Tey, CO6 1EJ, GB
Join us for a night of line dancing to live music.£8 entryDoors open 7:15pm for 8pmNo bar so bring your own.Tea and coffee available.
Contact Trish on 07815 125261 to book a place

Jason Manford: A Manford All Seasons
2026-03-27 19:30 - 22:30 | Colchester Charter Hall, Colchester Charter Hall
Sale Dates and Times:
Public Onsale : Wed, 2 Jul 2025 at 10:00 AM

Under The Turning Light: Abrasive Trees/Rothko/Strandings/Vaahl
2026-03-27 19:00 - 23:00 | Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester Arts Centre
An Enveloping Night Of Sonic Dissonance
Tickets £8 / £7 concessionsDoors open 7pm.This gig is for a standing audience.
ABRASIVE TREESDescribed as ‘utterly enticing’ by Louder Than War and ‘a transcendent experience of euphoric dissonance’ by Post-Punk.com, Abrasive Trees take their name from a Buddhist description of a hallucination-like nightmare realm. Led by Matthew Rochford (Silver Moth/Rothko), the band display a willingness to experiment alongside a sound that sits loosely within an experimental post-punk, post-rock aesthetic. Exploring themes of loss, turmoil, and spiritual realisation, they use a combination of distorted and reverb-drenched guitars, intricate melodies and driving drum beats to create a sense of atmosphere and intensity. When they use lyrics they’re often cryptic and evocative, painting vivid pictures of complex emotional landscapes. After several releases lauded by BBC Introducing, Echoes and Dust, Aural Aggravation, and The Big Takeover, the band are preparing to release their much anticipated debut studio album due for release Spring 2026 on Argonauta Records. Abrasive Trees weave fierce threads of sound into something both haunting and transcendent. On stage, they summon a raw, immersive energy—each performance a spellbinding journey into the unknown.“Post-punk psychedelia…Abrasive Trees deal an evocative and mysteriously mystical, poetic, dark energy that is utterly enticing” Louder Than War… “Colossal…explodes into a monumental extended climax that’s absolutely killer and one hundred percent exhilarating” Aural Aggravationhttps://abrasivetrees.bandcamp.com/
ROTHKOMark Beazley, under his Rothko banner, has crafted a distinctive niche in the music world since 1998. Known for an evocative and atmospheric sound built primarily around the bass guitar, Rothko’s music defies easy categorization, weaving dark textures with intricate, chiming bass melodies. Over his expansive career, Beazley’s contributions have spanned various collaborations and solo works, consistently pushing creative boundaries.https://rothko1.bandcamp.com/
STRANDINGSExperimental solo electronics from dead rat orchestra member Robin Alderton.https://strandings.bandcamp.com/
VAAHLColchester Ambient Drone Warlords – debut performance.

NOW! That's What I Call...DRAG! The Birthday Show! Colchester!
2026-03-27 19:00 - 22:30 | Three Wise Monkeys Colchester
Do you love all things drag?! Well strut right up because “NOW! That’s What I Call…DRAG!” is BACK! Bringing you not only a gorgeous night of drag in COLCHESTER at the iconic Three Wise Monkeys, but it’s also…our Birthday Show! That’s right, it’s been 3 WHOLE YEARS of this iconic drag night making it’s mark in Colchester! Serving up a classic slice of British drag cabaret, expect fabulous lip synching, live vocals, camp comedy, audience games and of course…CHAOS!
Starring some of East Anglia’s finest drag stars Knuckle Sandwich and Will Power (with special guests TBA!) you’ll be in for the night of your lives! So put on those lashes, pack on that glitter and get ready for the drag mixtape to begin! Trust us, you won’t want it to end!
This event is seated, with standing room available! Seating is first come, first served! Please note the venue is upstairs and unfortunately, is not wheelchair accessible.
Doors at 7pm! Show at 7.45pm(ish)!
There will be limited tickets available on the door at £13 each
Please note: We unfortunately do not offer refunds – please message if you have any questions!
NOTE: “NOW! That’s What I Call…DRAG!” is a queer led Drag Cabaret show, and we strive to welcome all audiences into our events! We have a ZERO tolerance policy towards homophobia, transphobia and all forms of abuse. The performers and the audiences deserve your respect at all times. If you do not respect everyone, you will be asked to leave.
We kindly ask that ANY hen or stag party wanting to attend MUST message in advance of tickets being purchased. We reserve the right to refuse admittance if there is no prior contact, and refunds will not be issued. Thank you.

Under The Turning Light: A Night of Post Rock & Alternative - Abrasive Trees + Rothko + Strandings +
2026-03-27 19:00 - 22:00 | Church St, CO1 1NF Colchester, United Kingdom
Tickets £8 / £7 concessionsDoors open 7pm.This gig is for a standing audience.
ABRASIVE TREESDescribed as ‘utterly enticing’ by Louder Than War and ‘a transcendent experience of euphoric dissonance’ by Post-Punk.com, Abrasive Trees take their name from a Buddhist description of a hallucination-like nightmare realm. Led by Matthew Rochford (Silver Moth/Rothko), the band display a willingness to experiment alongside a sound that sits loosely within an experimental post-punk, post-rock aesthetic. Exploring themes of loss, turmoil, and spiritual realisation, they use a combination of distorted and reverb-drenched guitars, intricate melodies and driving drum beats to create a sense of atmosphere and intensity. When they use lyrics they’re often cryptic and evocative, painting vivid pictures of complex emotional landscapes. After several releases lauded by BBC Introducing, Echoes and Dust, Aural Aggravation, and The Big Takeover, the band are preparing to release their much anticipated debut studio album due for release Spring 2026 on Argonauta Records. Abrasive Trees weave fierce threads of sound into something both haunting and transcendent. On stage, they summon a raw, immersive energy—each performance a spellbinding journey into the unknown.“Post-punk psychedelia…Abrasive Trees deal an evocative and mysteriously mystical, poetic, dark energy that is utterly enticing” Louder Than War… “Colossal…explodes into a monumental extended climax that’s absolutely killer and one hundred percent exhilarating” Aural Aggravationhttps://abrasivetrees.bandcamp.com/
ROTHKOMark Beazley, under his Rothko banner, has crafted a distinctive niche in the music world since 1998. Known for an evocative and atmospheric sound built primarily around the bass guitar, Rothko’s music defies easy categorization, weaving dark textures with intricate, chiming bass melodies. Over his expansive career, Beazley’s contributions have spanned various collaborations and solo works, consistently pushing creative boundaries.https://rothko1.bandcamp.com/
STRANDINGSExperimental solo electronics from dead rat orchestra member Robin Alderton.https://strandings.bandcamp.com/
VAAHLColchester Ambient Drone Warlords – debut performance.

Radio City Tap Takeover
2026-03-27 18:00 - 21:00 | 10 North Station Rd, Colchester
Our first Tap Takeover of 2026 is landing at The Vic – and we’re kicking things off in style with the brilliant Radio City Brewery 🍻
For the very first time, Radio City are bringing a line-up featuring 100% cask beers on the pumps, alongside three seriously tasty keg pours. If you love your beer fresh, flavour-packed and straight from the source, this one’s for you.
The Radio City lads will be attending on the night, chatting all things brewing, beer and what makes their Chelmsford operation tick. Expect great pours, great stories, and a proper buzz behind the bar.
Full beer list dropping very soon… keep your eyes peeled 👀
See you at the bar!!

The Lexden Crown presents An Old Skool Pen and Paper Quiz with Big Jim
2026-03-26 19:00 - 22:30 | The Lexden Crown, Bistro Pub – Colchester, The Lexden Crown, Bistro Pub - Colchester
The Lexden Crown presents an Old Skool Pen and Paper QuizIts Time to take it back to the Old Skool, with a Pen and Paper style Quiz.
Big Jims Old Skool Pub Quiz, fun for all, with 5 themed rounds of quiz fun, including both Audio and Picture rounds and the return of the World famous Stealer round, to steal the win on the last question, as well.
£2 per person, max 6 people per team.
So grab a pen, round up your friends or family and welcome back that old skool feeling of quizzing on a Thursday Night with Big Jim
Great food and drinks offers avaiable, and it’s pizza night with there great wood fired pizzas, as well as a great bistro pub with a warm atomsphere and lovely people, and an average quizmaster.
Come and test your teams knowledge against Colchesters finest Quiz Teams, enjoy some food, beer and a great atmosphere,whilst getting Quizzical with one of Colchester;s finest Quiz Hosts
See you there My Quizzy Quiz Loving Preps

Au Pairs *
2026-03-26 19:00 - 22:00 | Church St, CO1 1NF Colchester, United Kingdom
Tickets £26.50Doors open 7pm.This gig is for a standing audience.
AGMP Concerts proudly presents AU PAIRS‘Playing With A Different Sex’ 45th Anniversary + very special guests:GINA BIRCH & THE UNREASONABLES
First concert in over 40 years for legendary Post Punk group AU PAIRS.
Au Pairs formed in late 1978 in Birmingham, UK in the post-punk era. They were a much-loved band who combined fun, dancey music with an innovative and, for that time, a daringly progressive message. In their original form they were 2 women and 2 men, the objective being to show that women and men can work together as equals. Lesley Woods led the band as frontperson, lead singer, songwriter and guitarist. Lesley was once described as “”one of the most striking women in British rock”. Their first album ‘Playing With A Different Sex’ is a post-punk classic and focusses on gender and other politics. A critic from The Guardian praised it for its “viciously well-observed lyrics on contemporary life, love and the role of women “.
The band is re-forming beginning 2026 when they commence a UK tour with Lesley Woods and new members. The 2 women/2 men balance remains . Au Pairs blend political lyrics with a tough funk-dance-rock idiom which is as relevant today as it ever was.
Special guest support is Gina Birch and the Unreasonables. Gina Birch was a founding member of influential post-punk group The Raincoats. Her next project was Rough Trade Records signings Dorothy. Gina’s debut solo LP ‘I Play My Bass Loud’ was released in 2021 and her second release ‘Trouble’ is out now.

Wivenhoe Funny Farm 7.30pm start!
2026-03-26 19:00 - 21:30 | Wivenhoe Bowls Club, Woodland Way, Colchester, CO79, GB
Booking info at bottom of this post.
Thursday 26th March 7.30pm to 9.30pm – back at Wivenhoe Bowls Club – doors 7pm (please use Woodland Way entrance)
Top notch live stand-up comedy from Pam Ford“Pam Ford is a force of nature” The Scotsman“Bold, brash, and absolutely hilarious, Pam Ford is a powerhouse of comedy” Jongleurs Comedy
Support: Joe Jacobs“The Stomzy of Stand-up” Chortle“Always funny” – Beyond the Joke
& Tom Alban
MC Hazel Humphreys​
Please read!ALL BOOKINGS NEED TO BE CONFIRMED VIA HAZEL – email – FUNNYFARMCOMEDY@GMAIL.COM
PLEASE PAY IN ADVANCE unless agreed with us.
We will be asking for donations to help pay acts for reservations. Recommended £8.50 donation per seat booked (£7 concessions) but whatever you can manage.
This is an indoor gig at Wivenhoe Bowls Club starting 7.30pm (doors 7pm), there is limited seating available. Please book tables.
We will be requesting donations for table reservations in order to help us pay our professional acts. This would be preferable via BACs in advance.
This is a cracking comedy line-up with pro comics and the Funny Farm needs the audience’s help in covering the costs.
I’ve been asked by the Bowls Club to ask people to not form large queues at the bar and if possible return empty glasses at the end of the night. Done x

Willow Heart Workshop
2026-03-26 18:30 - 21:30 | Romano Lounge, Romano Lounge
Join us for a beautifully relaxed and creative evening at Romano Lounge, where you’ll learn to weave your very own willow heart with lights. This stunning piece makes a perfect decoration for your home, a thoughtful handmade gift, or even a lovely early Valentine’s project.
No experience is needed, you’ll be guided step-by-step, and all materials are supplied. Just come along, enjoy the atmosphere, and get stuck into a calming, hands-on craft.
Tickets include your choice of refreshments:
£35pp including a hot drink & cake
Held in the warm and welcoming surroundings of Romano Lounge, this workshop is a lovely way to spend a winter evening with friends, family, or simply for a little creative time to yourself.
Spaces are limited early booking recommended.Book here: https://www.thecreativeworkshopcompany.co.uk/event-details/willow-heart-workshop-2

The Grand Babylon Hotel
2026-03-25 19:30 - 2026-03-29 16:00 | Balkerne Gate, CO1 1PT Colchester, United Kingdom, Balkerne Gate, CO1 1PT Colchester, United Kingdom
Nella Racksole wants steak and beer for her birthday treat, but these are not on the menu of the exclusive Grand Babylon Hotel – so her American Railroad Millionaire father obligingly buys the chef… the kitchen… the entire hotel.
However, The Grand Babylon is not all it seems, and Theodore Racksole soon discovers there’s more than a juicy steak on his plate – with kidnapping and murder for starters!
Have Theodore and Nella bitten off more than they can chew?
The Grand Babylon Hotel is a rollicking comedy thriller, with a virtuoso cast of five bringing you many faces, chases, glamour, intrigue, and a couple of German princes thrown in for good measure.
A riotous evening out!

The Grand Babylon Hotel (Colchester)
2026-03-25 19:30 - 21:50 | Mercury Theatre Colchester, Mercury Theatre Colchester
The Grand Babylon Hotel by Arnold Bennett�Adapted for the stage by Deborah McAndrew�Directed by Conrad Nelson
Nella Racksole wants steak and beer for her birthday treat, but these are not on the menu of the exclusive Grand Babylon Hotel – so her American Railroad Millionaire father obligingly buys the chef… the kitchen… the entire hotel.
However, The Grand Babylon is not all it seems, and Theodore Racksole soon discovers there’s more than a juicy steak on his plate – with kidnapping and murder for starters!
Have Theodore and Nella bitten off more than they can chew?
The Grand Babylon Hotel is a rollicking comedy thriller, with a virtuoso cast of five bringing you many faces, chases, glamour, intrigue, and a couple of German princes thrown in for good measure.
A riotous evening out!
Content to ConsiderThis show is a 12+ and contains a gun shot sound effect.
Accessible and Q&A PerformancesThere will be a captioned performance on Sat 28 Mar, 2pm.
https://www.facebook.com/events/26128761030045763/?event_time_id=26128761046712428

Projected Digital Image League Competition - 5th Round
2026-03-24 19:30 - 22:00 | Ireton Road, CO3 3AT Colchester, United Kingdom, Ireton Road, CO3 3AT Colchester, United Kingdom
Appraisal by Paul Parkinson ARPS CPAGB BPE 3*
Header Image: Elusive Little Bittern – Naomi Foster CPAGB BPE2*

Mini Museum Explorers
2026-03-24 10:00 - 11:00 | Colchester Natural History Museum, Colchester Natural History Museum
Designed for children aged 2 1/2 to 4, along with their parents, grandparents, and carers, these monthly sessions offer an immersive journey of scientific or historical exploration and discovery.
Got a preschooler interested in science and the natural world? Why not book a place on our fabulous Mini Museum Explorers session! This month we’ll be reading the Very Hungry Caterpillar together and exploring the lifecycle of a butterfly on 24th March at 10 AM – 11 AM or 11:15 AM – 12:15 PM. We have so much lined up from story to craft and looking at real butterflies under the microscope!
Mini Museum Explorer sessions are designed for pre-school children and their carers – they are unsuitable for larger nursery groups (although we are happy to organise these for you!)
Spaces cost £3 per child.
https://www.facebook.com/events/1168239925463642/?event_time_id=1168239932130308

Ben Holder Quartet. "Get your feet tapping and your jaw dropping." - Little Live Music Company
2026-03-22 19:30 - 21:30 | Wivenhoe Congregational Church, 101 High Street, CO7 9AB Wivenhoe, United Kingdom, Wivenhoe Congregational Church, 101 High Street, CO7 9AB Wivenhoe, United Kingdom
“Get your feet tapping and your jaw dropping at the speed of his fingers. Top quality musicianship and utter entertainment.” – Little Live Music Company
“Chilled and confident, he also has the capacity to switch seamlessly within the same bar from virtuosic violin to vocals.” – London Jazz Review
Expect an abundance of Hot Club excitement with the arrival of Ben Holder, the extraordinary rising star of Stephane Grappelli-style jazz violin and arguably one of the most talented and captivating jazz musicians you will encounter live.
Dubbed ‘The ginger violin guy’, you can look forward to an energetic blend of traditional jazz, mainstream jazz, and swing, complemented by a selection of Ben’s own infectious originals – all reminiscent of the fun and exuberance of the 20s and 30s.
A musician whose performances have frequently been described as ‘swing on steroids’, Ben’s innate sense of swing, breathtaking technical prowess, and genuine onstage charisma result in impeccable musicianship, and boundless energy, along with a palpable passion for his art.
Prepare to leave an evening spent in Ben’s company filled with infectious joy, pondering the question, “Where does he get his energy from?!”
Ben Holder (Violin/Vocals), Chris Ingham (Piano), Paul Jefferies (Double Bass), George Double (Drums).

Ben Holder Quartet @ The Music Mix. Swing on steroids!
2026-03-22 19:30 - 21:30 | Wivenhoe Congregational Church, 101 High Street, Colchester, CO7 9AB, GB
Expect an abundance of Hot Club excitement from Ben Holder, the extraordinary rising star of Stephane Grappelli-style jazz violin and arguably one of the most talented and captivating jazz musicians you will encounter live.
​Dubbed ‘The ginger violin guy’, you can look forward to an energetic blend of traditional jazz, mainstream jazz, and swing, complemented by a selection of Ben’s own infectious originals – all reminiscent of the fun and exuberance of the 20s and 30s.
​A musician whose performances have frequently been described as ‘swing on steroids’, Ben’s innate sense of swing, breathtaking technical prowess, and genuine onstage charisma result in impeccable musicianship, and boundless energy, along with a palpable passion for his art.
Prepare to leave an evening spent in Ben’s company filled with infectious joy, pondering the question, “Where does he get his energy from?!”
​Ben began his classical music studies at the age of six, enhancing his education with training at the Birmingham Conservatoire.
​His journey into jazz commenced in his early teens when he discovered the music of Benny Goodman, Oscar Peterson, and Stephane Grappelli, and he has never looked back.
​Ben Holder (Violin/Vocals) Chris Ingham (Piano) Paul Jefferies (Double Bass)George Double (Drums)

Stranger Things Quiz (Colchester) SOLD OUT
2026-03-22 18:40 - 21:40 | Three Wise Monkeys Colchester
Test your knowledge of the amazing show, and help raise money for an incredible cause!
– £3 a head (CASH ONLY)– Maximum 6 to a team– Food served throughout – Book by selecting the date of the quiz and choosing quiz booking: threewisemonkeyscolchester.com/book-a-table
If you book and then decide not to attend, please CANCEL YOUR BOOKING.
Please attend with the number of people you book for.
Please arrive at least twenty minutes before the quiz is due to start to place food and drink orders.

Ostara Celebration Sacred Drum Circle
2026-03-22 16:15 - 18:15 | The Tree Room, Trinity Street, Colchester, United Kingdom, The Tree Room, Trinity Street, Colchester, United Kingdom
Ostara Women’s Drum Circle –Awakening Spring
You are warmly invited to gather in sacred circle as we honour Ostara, the Spring Equinox, a time of balance, renewal and new beginnings. As light and dark meet in perfect harmony, we come together as women to awaken what is stirring within us, to shake off the heaviness of winter and gently call in growth, creativity and possibility.
Through the steady heartbeat of the drum, guided rhythm, intention and shared presence, we will drop out of the thinking mind and into the body, the earth and the wisdom of the seasons. This is a space to connect, release, remember and be held by community, no drumming experience is needed, just an open heart and a willingness to listen within.
We will work with the energy of spring, and nature, planting seeds for the months ahead through rhythm, reflection and simple ritual, allowing ourselves to be supported by the collective pulse of the circle.
Date: Friday 22nd MarchTime: 4.15pm – 6.15pmLocation: The Tree RoomExchange: £15.00Open to: Women of all ages
Drums and natural instruments will be available, though you are welcome to bring your own if you feel called. Please wear comfortable clothing and bring anything that helps you feel cosy and grounded.
Spaces are limited to keep the circle intimate. Booking is essential.If you feel the quiet nudge, trust it. Spring is calling.

Handel's 'Messiah'
2026-03-21 19:30 - 22:30 | St Botolphs Church, Colchester, GB
Join us for a fresh and energetic performance of Handel’s ‘Messiah’ with some top quality soloists on Saturday 21st March at St Botolph’s Church. https://colchesterchoralsociety.co.uk/
