Events

Tickets £13.50 / £12.50 concessions.Doors open 7.30pm, starts 8pm.This gig is for a seated audience.…as seen on Later with Jools Holland & BBC Four Songwriters’ Circle…BBC Radio 2 Folk Award Winner – Best Original Song…inspiration for Hollywood movie Danny Collins starring Al Pacino…Such Times, new studio album, released in 2021, 50 years after his debut [...]

Sessions are at 10 – 11 am and 11:15 am – 12:15 pm.Designed for children aged 2 1/2 to 4, along with their parents, grandparents, and carers, these monthly sessions offer an immersive journey of exploration and discovery. The April session will focus on the theme of Insects and Mini Beasts.These sessions offer a unique [...]

Calling all show tune lovers, get those jazz hands at the ready for MT Tuesdays every week at Mercury Theatre!Join us for a double bill of Musical Theatre classes every Tuesday:6.15pm - Musical Theatre Dance ClassOur experienced choreographer will teach routines inspired by hit musicals. Incorporating energetic warm-ups, routines from classic and contemporary shows, you [...]

Join us upstairs at Three Wise Monkeys every Tuesday for our weekly Kizomba lessons.Every class is unique. The routines are progressive and adaptive regardless of your experience or dancing background.It’s all about the fundamentals, the rhythm, timing and technique of Kizomba dance and its music.Venue: Three Wise Monkeys, 60 High St, Colchester CO1 IDN.Parking: The [...]

NOT YOUR AVERAGE UKULELE BAND. JOIN US FOR A FUN UKULELE SINGALONG IN THE GROUND FLOOR BAR OF THREE WISE MONKEYS FROM 7.30PM. FREE ENTRYTurn up, tune up and get involved. There is a different songbook each month, downloadable via QR code on the night so anyone can play or sing along. It's not about [...]

Is there a more beautiful sound than bird song? Learn to recognise the sounds of spring, join our expert guide Liz for a half day workshop to introduce you to the world of birdsong.Start the morning with an hours theory talk inside before heading out onto the reserve to see what you can hear!£15. Places [...]

I will be in attendance with my full range of home made Chilli sauces, Chutneys, Jams, Alcoholic jams, marmalade's, and cordials.

​Masters students from Art History at the University of Essex present ‘Call it Love’.Love is fluid, messy, and often political. This exhibition rethinks the narratives we inherit—beyond romance, beyond tradition—to explore love in all its complexity. From chosen families to radical acts of care, this exhibition showcases contemporary artists and archival materials that challenge the [...]

Vinyl Nights - Thursday evenings every other month starting from May 1st. Enjoy a relaxed evening of great music, good company, and some fantastic records spinning all night long! This month - 70s sounds!!!

Join us for a special evening : one of our guides will take you round the reserve in a small group private tour of the reserve to enjoy the speculator sound of the Nightingale.Visitor center cafe and shop will be open from 6-7pm for hot and cold drinks, snacks.Walk will commence at 7pm for approx [...]

A FREE monthly Open Workshop, a chance for current & potential members to come together and catch up.Thinking of becoming a member and want to know more? Already a member and want to catch up with the others? Colchester Makerspace Socials are free of charge, include a short introduction to Colchester Makerspace and an opportunity [...]

Test your knowledge of films and help raise money for an incredible cause!- £3 a head (cash only, all proceeds to charity)- Maximum 6 to a team - Food available throughout - Book via https://sevn.ly/xJWOHUhNIf you book and then decide not to attend, please cancel your booking. Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the [...]

We are a local life drawing group in Colchester. We meet up for untutored drawings with professional models from all backgrounds.All abilities are welcome. Just drop in, draw and pay £10 cash for the session.Drawing boards, easels, papers, charcoal and pencils are provided for free or bring your materials.Accessible venue.Location: Straight Road Community Centre329 Straight [...]

Tickets £6.Doors open 7.30pm, starts 8pm.Monthly nights of retro horror screenings from the mainly Brit school of Hammer, Amicus etc. Presented by Classic Horror buff and local musician Jason Frederick. Popcorn, a monthly themed cocktail, plenty of dry ice and often very daft over-blown intros. Join us!SHOCK WAVESFeaturing the gold and silver age masters of [...]

Join us for an our brand new Thursday night here in Colchester! The big news is it’s 25%Off all drinks all night! 🥤🍸🍷🍺 Plus it’s FREE Entry!After dinner, the pub or Karaoke in the city why not end your night in Colchester with a dance and a drink before you head home!

Join us for the second of our Quarterly Comedy Nights in 2025!Our MC for this date is a regular at Colchester United - Justin Panks who will be presiding over the evening's merriment with his customary wit and comedic timing.Opening the show will be Josh James whose warm delivery, easy-going persona and killer punchlines have [...]

Friday the 2nd May we are transforming CODA back to the golden era of disco. Get Ready to Boogie All Night!Slip into your shiniest polyester outfit and step under the glittering lights. It’s time for Friday Night Fever, the ultimate throwback party where the beats are funky, the vibes are electric, and the dance floor [...]

Join us for a casual evening of reconnecting and reminiscing at Colchester and East Essex CC on Friday 2nd May 2025, 7-11pm. Celebrate the 10th anniversary of the John O'Groats to Land's End cycle and other fantastic FUNdraisers over the years. Tickets are £28pp (plus small booking fee) and include food provided by 'Smashed@Trotters'. Let's [...]

DRAG ME TO THE80’S Meet the cast of our 80’s Divas and join us on an unforgettable journey as this amazing production delivers a dazzling fusion of nostalgia, empowerment and a celebration of the extraordinary.Get ready to dance, sing and be captivated by the powerhouse vocals of the queens who redefine the stage and bring [...]

Enjoy the Colchester Morris Dancers and keep your fingers crossed for dry weather!

Chop Suey! Nu-Metal Anthems is coming to Three Wise Monkeys Colchester on Friday 2nd May for a massive nu-metal party!Tickets on sale now from: skiddle.com/e/40810650Playing Linkin Park / Limp Bizkit / System Of A Down / Slipknot / Papa Roach / Deftones / Korn / Mudvayne / Coal Chamber / Andrew W.K / Drowning Pool [...]

Join us here in the heart of Colchester City for Pop Friday and some May Madness!It’s Free Entry all night and our 2 resident DJs will be playing the biggest Pop, Retro and Dance Anthems from the 80s up till now as we bring the Party back to Colchester!

Get ready to time-travel back to the raddest decade ever – the 80s, for one totally epic night of non-stop fun!Dust off those iconic shoulder pads, slip into your boldest tutu and join us for a wild throwback party celebrating the era of neon leg warmers, dirty dancing and unforgettable hairstyles!Get into the groove as [...]

Artisan Craft Fair, on Saturday 3rd May, 10am-3pm, free entry, at Firstsite, Lewis Gardens, High Street, Colchester CO1 1JH. Folk & Bespoke prides itself as being different, not the same boring shops that you see around town, bringing you the same cheap, unethical goods. Folk & Bespoke aims to bring you something different EVERY month! [...]

We at ACE are pleased to be able to bring you the new Lorcana weekly league. Our weekly league session for the Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game will give you plenty of casual play opportunities throughout the session. This is a great opportunity to meet new players and trade cards and pick up new stock [...]

A fun and exciting experience for train-loving kids!With over 500 feet of track and more than 100 Thomas & Friends trains to choose from, the kids will be entertained for hours. They’ll be talking about this experience for a long time! Choose your preferred time slot and, on the day, relax with a hot drink [...]

We're open on Museum Admission days for visitors to look around our 10 acre site from 10:00 to 17:00.Have a look around our Station buildings, Signal boxes (where you can pull the levers and view the signalling equipment), Working Restoration Shed (where you can see exhibits being repaired), Goods Shed, Heritage Display Room for Displays [...]

The reserve will be open late for a special series of nights to let us enjoy the Nightingales special song.No booking required - Take a self-guided stroll around the reserve to experience for yourself one of nature’s most captivating sounds: Nightingale song. The Visitor Centre will be open for the evening with snacks and hot [...]

Join us for a gentle walk through one of the finest reserves in the county.We shall hear ,and hopefully see, many of the nightingales for which this famous.This walk will last about 2 hours at a friendly pace and is suitable for adults and accompanied older children.All welcome. No need to book. No charge

Tickets £7 / £6 concessions / £22 Family (A family group of 4, including at least 1 child)Doors open 11am, starts 11.30am.Duration: 45minsFrom one of its earliest beginnings in ancient Egypt, a story best known across the globe as Cinderella shape-shifts its common threads into the world of the seas; linking nations and hosting a [...]

Biome London will be hosting a practical workshop giving you a chance to learn how to inoculate logs and create mushroom beds for your projects at home.Mycelium dowels will be available pre order after the workshop.There will be an opportunity to buy lunch in the cafe from 1-2pm, please note lunch is not included in [...]

Copford back in time: follow a route first trod thousands of years ago. Around Gravel Pits Wood, across Copford Plains, to the Church with its fabulous 12th-century wall paintings and Romanesque apse. Children welcome (all off-road, wild woods and activities in the church!). With David Knock and Claire Macaulay.Meet: 11am, Copford Village Hall, CO6 1BX [...]

New to the calendar Star Wars™: Unlimited league. Join for our Star Wars Unlimited league day & challenge your inner light or dark side.How it worksOur bi-weekly league session for Star Wars™: Unlimited will give you plenty of casual play opportunities throughout the weeks. This is a great opportunity to meet new players, trade cards [...]

Come join in our short notice duel commander event. The first in a long time. This is a 1v1 commander event rather than the usual multi player game.Duel Commander puts a different twist on the 100 card deck we all love to play.This will be a swiss style event and each round will be best [...]

The gathering of souls for a rotary roam around the Hythe and New Town wards. The congregation will assemble for a reflective walk on how elements of life have been saved from peril and demise over the years. With Steve Shaw.Meet: 2pm, Hythe Station (what3words.com ///plants.slowly.kick), (2m, 2hrs)ACCESSIBILITY: The walking route will be hard-surfaced and [...]

A Saturday afternoon showcase featuring:Distorted ModelJames BroomfieldTom HarberStu E Skinner (Hosting)Event Info:A weekly event featuring 3 to 5 acts performing live acoustic sets between 3-5:30pm.Hot & cold beverages served from 2:30pm onwards.This is a family friendly event so younglings are welcome providing they're properly managed.Mics, pa and backline are provided but performers are welcome to [...]

On Saturday 3rd May we are playing a Acoustic set at Coda in Colchester, doors 3pm. Free EntryThis performance will feature Ginny, Scottie and Simon only.

Beltane Women’s Circle CelebrationSaturday, 3rd May, 17:00 - 20:30Join us for a heart-warming evening to honour Beltane, the ancient Celtic festival celebrating the height of spring and the approach of summer. Together, we will gather as women to embrace the spirit of connection, growth, and renewal in a nurturing and sacred space.What to Expect: • [...]

Join us at the Cardinal Bourne Hall for the now traditional fundraising Grand Quiz night., formally opening our week of walks & evening events, and toasting the festival namesake Jane Jacobs.Doors open 6.45pm for a 7pm (prompt!) startBRING YOUR OWN DRINKS (alcohol and soft), glasses to drink from.TEAMS/TABLES of 4-6. Ideally get a team together [...]

JAR Nights presentsHeadliners Shade Of Envy will bring the noise with unique blends of punk and rock. 5 lads ready to rock your socks off.Dharma Hounds come from Chelmsford and bring their brand of heavy rock n roll tunes alongside intriguing stage presence.On first is We Fought a Bear Once, heavy pop punk tunes and [...]

Tickets £12 / £10 concessions.Doors open 8pm, starts 8.30pm.The LipSinkers were formed in East London in 2006 and have developed an international reputation for punk ethos drag, dance and satire.Now with one foot firmly in Colchester (talk about legs akimbo!), their latest onslaught skids into Colchester Arts for May Day weekend.“Camp, Cult and Glorious” The [...]

Get ready for the Madness with this electric Line up from Drum And Bass To Hard House Anythings Possible get ready for the ride of your life and be prepared to have a Mad night.This night we be a Madness in the heart of Colchester Essex £4 on the door £2 online8pm till 3am LOUNGE [...]

Its nearly time for our next gig in Colchester on Saturday 3rd May where we'll be headlining Queen St Brewhouse, playing alongside the amazing Dharma Hounds and We Fought a Bear Once🔥Tickets only £6: https://www.skiddle.com/e/40910047 🎟Thanks to JAR Records for organising 🤘

Country lovers! We’re bringing What Would Dolly Do? Country Club Night back to Colchester on May Bank Holiday weekend! The biggest Country anthems and Nashville classics at Three Wise Monkeys on Saturday 3rd May! Tickets on sale now from: skiddle.com/e/40649635Expect to hear Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Miranda Lambert, Dolly Parton, Taylor Swift, Luke Bryan, Carrie [...]

Playing the biggest Britpop & Indie anthems.

Haunting Nights Ghost Hunts in Colchester EssexHaunting Nights Ghost Adventure Continues. Join the fastest growing ghost adventure company as we return to England’s ancient capital city in haunted EssexColchester Castle has the accolade of being one of the most haunted castles in the UK. This foreboding castles history began almost 2000 years ago as a [...]

A special Retro Night for Bank Holiday Saturday!2 DJs over 2 Floors playing 70s Disco, 80s Classics, 90s club Anthems plus a slice of Pop & Party! A proper night of Retro Escspism which you won’t want to miss!Free Entry before 11pm and 2 Cocktails for just £8 all night!

**Please Read Full Description Before Submitting Your Order**Makerspace Raku Club - Communal Raku Firing Session held at Cuckoo Farm Studios.Led by Peter Jones with support from Makerspace Technician Ed Dan — we supply all the Raku glazes, materials and fire — you just need to bring your ceramics!IMPORTANT NOTES:- Booking for the course will be [...]

Go wild, enjoy games & fun activities with Forest School leader, Jean Quinn. Children of all ages (up to 12 years accompanied by an adult). May be too long for 2-3 year-olds, usually too muddy for pushchairs. Break for snacks; bring a drink. Meet: 10.30am, Wivenhoe Railway Station car park, CO7 9DJ (what3words.com ///rock.achieving.cheer), (1.5m, [...]

Communities divided by road building. Rich and poor in separate roads. Local people’s stories, wartime from siege to WW2, rags to riches, the nurses home, changes in demography and character. And some local history… With Sheila Kelly.Meet: 11.30am, Abbeygate St. by underpass. End: former Essex County Hospital (1.5m, 2hrs)ACCESSIBILITY:This walk is fully wheelchair friendly, pavements [...]

Our all day music event returns! Multiple bands over the course of the day - come and discover someone new!

An alternative look at our city’s history, this time from below. How did the people - & not the kings, queens, lords & generals - forge our city’s story? With Bryn Griffiths.Bryn is not a professional historian and he only claims to be making a small contribution to our city’s story but he hopes to [...]

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 on the galleries by turning off audio and visuals, whilst providing a sensory [...]

The boys are back!!Free gig and donations encouraged!!

With British writer and social historian, Ken Worpole ('Brightening from the East: Essays on landscape & memory', 2025), 'a literary original... whose books combine the Orwellian ideal of common decency with understated erudition’ (The New Statesman). The relentless global relocation from countryside to cities, means 'rural life will be increasingly inhabited by an ageing population', [...]

Tickets £15.50 / £13.50 concessionsDoors open 7pm, show starts 7.30pmThis show is for a seated audienceDavid Preston: GuitarSeb Rochford: DrumsConor Chaplin: BassLondon based guitarist and composer, David Preston has been described by the Guardian as “Virtuosic” and TimeOut as “A superb modern jazz guitarist”. He released his debut album ‘Purple / Black’ on Whirlwind Recordings [...]

It's skank-holiday month in the UK.... Two beautiful days for the banks to rest their weary heads - all in a few weeks.We all know that this means the summer is practically here....Also, what better way to salute the hard working (rhymes with) bankers... than to come dance with your favourite horn blowin' quintet? Festivities [...]

Join us at Twisters Bar on Sunday, May 4, 2025, for a hard-partying selection of The 1975's biggest anthems, deep cuts, and collaborations, plus tunes from their friends and influences! DJ Rom Atkin will be spinning all the indie-pop magic you love.🍻 Bar & Beer Garden open from 5 PM🎧 DJ kicks off from 9 [...]

Join us this coming Sunday night when we party into Bank Holiday Monday!It’s FREE Entry all night and lots of Drinks deals! DJ Jez will be mixing up the Biggest Dance Floor Bangers of all time! Expect everything from 70s Disco, 80s Retro, Throwback 90s & 00s Pop, Party and Dance plus the big floor [...]

What are we missing when we don’t look up at the buildings and skylines around Colchester City centre? Discover new vistas on a walk inspired by the work of Richard Arnopp and Adrian Rushton, who in 2024 took a series of photographs to record Colchester’s town centre buildings ‘from the first floor up’ (published on [...]

Impious Spirit Productions presents an afternoon of Live Music with Bag of Bones, at Kings Arms in Colchester, on Monday 5th May!We're excited to present Bag of Bones, for our first afternoon show this Bank Holiday Monday!Playing rock and pop covers from 1pm to 4pm!Free Entry!

Discover Colchester off-road, from Camp Folley North to Kendal Road Folley, Childwell Alley and thence to The Moors; Parsons Lane to Love Walk (coffee stop at Old Heath Rec) and on to Camp Folley South. Plenty of geography, history, legend and gossip along the way!With Des Bowden and Phil Hitchins.Meet: 2.30pm, Napier Road North carpark [...]

One Man, Two Guvnorsby Richard BeanBased on The Servant of Two Masters by Carlo GoldoniWith popular songs from the era and Grant OldingHeadgate Theatre ProductionsDirector: Sally BroatchProduction week: w/c Sunday 5th October 2025Rehearsals: Monday and Wednesday evenings starting 14th July.Read Through: Monday 5th May, 2025 @ 4pm at The HeadgateAuditions : Audition workshops are scheduled [...]

It’s now possible to book pay as you feeltickets for the Corinne Fowler event.https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/headgatecommunity/t-jzaomxgWith Corinne Fowler, Professor of Colonialism and Heritage at the University of Leicester. Corinne specialises in colonial history, decolonisation and the British countryside’s relationship to Empire. She is perhaps best known for her work with the National Trust to record their property’s [...]

Tickets £19.50 / £18.50 concessions.Doors open 7.30, starts 8pm.This gig is for a seated audience.ANDY CUTTING • SAM SWEENEY • ROB HARBRON“You won't find English folk music played better than this.” R2Leveret are a highly acclaimed English folk trio renowned for their innovative approach to traditional music, blending consummate musicianship with captivating spontaneity. Formed in [...]

We are delighted to have regular walk host and ‘walk motivator’ Shawn Leek (Walk, Talk, Support), join our Jane’s Walk 2025 programme. Enjoy our beautiful Castle Park and the companionship of new friends on this open to all walk. Then do it again the week after if it suits you!Meet: 11am, Firstsite entrance, CO1 1JH [...]

Join us for a Curators’ tour of the 'Call It Love' exhibition.MA students from the Department of Philosophical, Historical and Interdisciplinary Studies will lead a tour of their show, expanding on the works on display and the ideas behind them.Free admission and no need to book, all welcome!This event is a part of the public [...]

A trail launched in partnership with Colchester Young Archaeologists Club, the result of an English Heritage challenge to deliver ‘a little known or forgotten’ local story. It tells the tale of some ordinary people - artisans of Tudor Colchester - whose lives took an extraordinary turn, at a shocking event in the town more than [...]

Join natural voice singing quartet Voce Silva in a walk through Westlands Country Park and beyond, stopping to learn acapella songs together in harmony. Songs will be taught by ear, no singing experience necessary. With Lorraine Francis & Julie Linton. Meet: 6.30pm, inside entrance gate in James Carter Rd, opp. Shillito Close CO3 9XA (1.3m, [...]

Taster Nights at Three Wise Monkeys - explore cuisine with four taster courses of food, each paired with drinks to experience flavour and contrast.Join us on Tuesday 6th May for our Belgian Beer Taster Evening, where we’ll be serving a selection of Belgian beers, paired with expertly crafted food dishes to complement each brew.Our tasting [...]

Tickets £18.Doors open 7.30pm, starts 8pm.This gig is for a seated audience.Keeley Forsyth:Voice and Piano TourAcclaimed singer Keeley Forsyth returns for a rare and stripped back performance, accompanied by Matthew Bourne on piano.In recent years, Keeley has worked with many esteemed collaborators, including Ben Frost, Colin Stetson, Teho Teardo, Louis Carnell, Gazelle Twin, Evelyn Glennie, [...]

Follow in the footsteps of the Emperor Claudius and Queen Boudica to uncover Colchester's fascinating Roman history! The tour will include a visit inside the Roman theatre and will end at the Roman Circus Centre.Price - £9pp FREE for under 16sBook via any of the following:Call the Visitor Information Centre on 01206 282920 Email vic@colchester.gov.ukOnline [...]

Learn to weave a willow plant support at The Romano Lounge.All materials are provided and no experience necessary.Workshop includes a hot drink and cake (£35pp)Book via PayPal or bank transfer (no fees) or eventbrite (fees apply):https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1281019877939?aff=oddtdtcreator

From the pre-Christian era to the Victorian, from Greek Orthodox to Quakers, from Muslim to Masonic, we have always had churches. Colchester's former churches have become a museum, an arts centre, a masonic hall, a theatre, or have been demolished entirely leaving only a few gravestones. This walk will discover many forgotten gems as well [...]

Have you ever wanted to try D&D or are looking for a game to join? Come along to our regular D&D sessions! £5 to playSign Up at the following link...hhttps://form.jotform.com/250884624156058https://www.facebook.com/events/669380822343768/?event_time_id=669380825677101

Test your knowledge of all things film, TV and music, and help raise money for an incredible cause!- £3 a head (cash only)- Maximum 4 to a team- Outside food & dogs welcome - Book on 01206 514510Please arrive at least twenty minutes before the quiz is due to start to place drink orders.If you [...]

Join an evening walk and listen to the nightingales of Middlewick Ranges. One of the premier sites in the country due to the ideal habitats of scrub and woodland. We should be serenaded during our short walk by several singing nightingales. With Dougal Urquhart, Chair of CNHS.Meet: 7pm, Speedwell Road footpath entrance to Middlewick, Old [...]

Topper Promotions present;COMEDY IN COLCHESTERCOLCHESTER COMEDIAN OF THE YEAR 2025.SPONSORED BY OTHER MONKEY BREWING & COLCHESTER TROPHIES6 of the best comedians will give you their best jokes and play silly games to make you laugh, cry and laugh again!Hosted by the amazing Louie Green it will a great night where YOU the audience will get [...]

Join an evening walk and listen to the Nightingales of Middlewick Ranges, one of the premier sites in the country due to the ideal habitats of scrub and woodland.We should be serenaded during our short walk by several singing Nightingales.Dougal Urquhart, chair of Colchester Natural History Society, will be leading the walk.The walk is free [...]

Adapted by Rachel Wagstaff and Duncan AbelBased on the novel by Dan BrownDan Brown’s bestselling thriller novel comes alive in a way you’ve never seen before, in this electrifying stage adaptation written by Rachel Wagstaff and Duncan Abel.Professor Robert Langdon and fellow cryptologist Sophie Neveu embark on a pulse-pounding quest across Europe. When a brutal [...]

(Brief) AGM followed by our ever popular French themed Quiz Night.Prepare for a challenge on your knowledge of all things French.Laughter and surprises guaranteed!!Refreshments included. Visitors welcome for a small fee of £5.00.

Pay what you can affordDoors open 7:30 pm, Show starts 8 pmThis show is for a seated audienceAn Autopsy of a Mother, a Bear and a FridgeBy Mover, Maker and Mother - Deborah Light.‘Rage hides a wound’ Sharon BlackieYou are warmly invited to witness the examination of three seemingly unconnected objects.As Deborah uncovers connective tissue, [...]

An Autopsy of a Mother, a Bear and a FridgeBy Mover, Maker and Mother - Deborah Light.‘Rage hides a wound’ Sharon BlackieYou are warmly invited to witness the examination of three seemingly unconnected objects.As Deborah uncovers connective tissue, between mother, bear and fridge, she reveals her own vulnerability, anger, humour and strength. With cold clinical [...]

More off-road surprises: from Camp Folley to Old Heath Rec; Parsons Walk and Grant Meadows to Distillery Lane; Bourne Valley to the cemetery, and The Folley to Plum Hall. With Des Bowden and Phil Hitchins. Meet: 4pm, Napier Road North carpark (what3words.com ///vent.acting.scrap), End: Odd One Out PH (3.4m, 3hrs). ACCESSIBILITY: Step-free and mostly hard-surfaced, [...]

A walk around Colchester Cemetery, learn its history and visit some headstones to remember the Colcestrians who walked our streets before us and now rest in our beautiful Victorian burial ground. Interesting stories of lives gone by. With Sharon Mooney.Meet: 5:30pm, at the lower Cemetery entrance, opp. Bourne Rd, inside the gates on the left-hand [...]

Showing at Firstsite Cinema - Tall Tales (TBC)!Fabled English record producer Mark Pritchard, luminary songwriter Thom Yorke and ground-breaking visual artist Jonathan Zawada present Tall Tales – a debut collaborative visual and audio cinema experience a decade in the making.Tall Tales is a fairy tale for the modern world; depicting rising tides, kings & queens, [...]

Enjoy the exquisite craft of Linocut, a traditional printmaking technique and a variant of woodcut.Suitable for beginners or those wanting to refresh their memory.During this 3 hour session you will be inspired, cut your own design into the linoleum surface and then print onto paper or fabric using our proofing press with support from Makerspace [...]

Whether you are new to writing poetry or a seasoned poet looking for something to enhance and energise your writing, this workshop will give you an experience in writing from art. We will look at and discuss example poems by a variety of poets to identify various approaches and help stimulate your creativity.Basic materials provided. [...]

Gain confidence in drawing the figure, with these tutored sessions on some basic principles of life drawing. As evening falls we will use ink washes over wax resist to create atmospheric drawings of the model in the studio.Come along to each session to experiment with a different themeSuitable for all abilities. Basic materials provided. For [...]

Semi final 1 of this year's Metal 2 The Masses Essex - Winner plays Bloodstock.This semi final features Dismanibus, Red Matter, Seventh Fear and BlackWater Kings.Kensei will headline the night too, with tunes throughout the night provided by DJ Pressplay. Doesn't get much better than that!Doors at 7pm. Tickets are £4

‘An epic, intimate, and poetic meditation on architecture and how the design and construction of buildings from the ancient past reveal our destruction — and offer hope for survival and a way forward. Through Kossakovsky’s lens, the grandeur and folly of humanity and its precarious relationship with nature posits two urgent questions: how do we [...]

Come and have a ROOOAARRSOME time with everyone at Go Bananas.With fabulous entertainment from The Only Way Is Entertainment Agency join us for some soft play fun with dancing and games.Go on a dino dig, hunt for some fossils and identify the different dinosaurs.Children's ticket includes a themed snack box, allergies can be catered for.

A circular ‘growers’ walk from East Bay allotments (with Level Best) via High Woods Country Park up to the Together We Grow community garden, a 2-acre site with orchards, veg beds & poly tunnels (+tea/coffee & cake!), then returning to town via Mercers Farm allotments. With Clare Smee. Meet: 10am, East Bay allotments (what3words.com ///jolly.tags.dinner) [...]

In 2023/24, to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the school, St. John’s Green Primary launched a multi-disciplinary project using history, art, geography and language to embrace the school’s place at the heart of our city. This year’s edition of the Poetry in Motion walk is a collaboration between the school and Essex Poetry Collective, as [...]

On Friday 9th May we are holding our special Beer & a Board game offer! £6 for a beer or cider and game time for the whole evening! I can't think of a better way to spend a Friday than a Beer & a Board Game!

All the ghosts you could want, a walk over the bodies you didn’t even know were there, and vivid descriptions from times gone by. A rollicking tour of Colchester for the Dead anD Undead. not for the faint hearted! With Max Fox.Meet: 5.30pm, between the Mercury Theatre and Balkerne Gate (1m, 2 hrs)ACCESSIBILITY:A city centre [...]

Join us for some darling wines of May in our latest roadshow, taking the essence of The Wine Society around the country. We’ll have a premium selection of fine white wines, a mini-Greek odyssey, a journey around Portugal and the pick of brand new wines from our May list alongside a ‘just for fun’ blind [...]

Do you play the Battletech?The legendary wargame of giant Battlemechs fighting in the far future?Have you ever wanted to try it out? Come along to Battletech meet-up! If you play Classic or Alpha Strike bring your Lances and Stars and get involved! Beginners Welcome!

S H I N E Our hugely popular Nightclub Event for Adults (over 16s) with Additional Needs https://www.citizenticket.com/events/stanway-lakelands-community-centre-3/shine/ 🗓️Friday 9th May⏰6:30-9:30📍Trilogy Nightclub🪩£5.00 per person- Support staff free 🎤Resident DJ- BRIANJAY playing all our favourite party tunes and club classics 🪩Free glow sticks for everyone 🪩

Do you love all things 00s?! Are you a huge fan of drag?! Well shantay this way because “NOW! That’s What I Call…DRAG! Me Back To The 00s!" is HERE!Combining the iconic decade of the 00s with tons of camp, comedy and chaos, get ready for a classic slice of British drag cabaret as we [...]

Share this showDates9 May 2025Venues:Colchester Arts CentreCategories:GIGSTickets £23.50.Doors open 7pm, starts 7.45pm.This gig is for a standing audience.What makes AC/DC such an exciting, pulse pounding band and how do we recreate the fire of their live performances? That’s the main question we asked ourselves when we fired up the rock and roll train that was [...]

Read through for 'Our Walk Through The World' by Ross HowardHeadgate Theatre ProductionsDirected by Forest MorganPerformances: Wed 5th – Sat 8th November 2025Read through: Friday 9th May 225Audition workshops: Tuesday 24th and Wednesday 25th June 2025Further details to be announced

Doors Open at 7pm Quiz starts at 8pmColchester Rugby Club in partnership with Big Jims Pub Quiz presents The Real 60 General knowledge quiz. The 2nd Friday of every Month. “Get your phone's or tablets charged and ready" CRC presents a new way to quiz in a new Rugby Club in the heart of the [...]

Join expert guide, Steve from Swallow Birding for an early morning walk round the reserve to experience the delights of the dawn chorus!After the walk head backto the Visitors Centre for a bit of well deserved breakfast!Please wear strong footwear and dress suitably for the weatherBooking essential, incs hot drink and breakfast roll £25Pop in [...]

Dried flower wreath workshop with the choice of a hot beverage and cake or lunch, please let me know if you have any dietry requirements.Lunch choices:Fish & ChipsTLC Burger & Fries (GF bun available) orThai Vegetable Curry with rice (V, GF)All materials are provided and no experience necessary.Book via PayPal or bank transfer (no fees) [...]

Unleash your creativity in our hands-on Kite Making Workshop! Whether you’re an art lover or a enjoy flying kites, this workshop offers the perfect opportunity to craft your very own kite.In this hands-on session, participants of all ages will create their own colourful kites with the guidance of artists and kite enthusiast Tom Armstrong.Learn the [...]

Dried flower wreath workshop with the choice of a hot beverage and cake or lunch, please let me know if you have any dietry requirements.Lunch choices:Fish & ChipsTLC Burger & Fries (GF bun available) orThai Vegetable Curry with rice (V, GF)All materials are provided and no experience necessary.Book via PayPal or bank transfer (no fees) [...]

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 [...]

Join us for a vibrant day of fun, food, and community! Bring the whole family and enjoy a fantastic day packed with exciting activities, music, and delicious food. Date: 10-05-25 Time: 10.00am - 4.00pm Location: First Site on the Lawn Exciting Activities Include: ALL FREE Bouncy Castles Face Painting Music & Entertainment BBQ Food & [...]

Bring an old pair of jeans, denim jacket, t-shirt, dress, cushion cover, or whatever you like to explore with Associate Artist Katie Kennedy how we can improve, reuse and recycle fabric using printing techniques. During this workshop : > Create an upcycled item that's totally unique to you > Explore screen printing techniques using hand-cut [...]

***NEW: NOW OFFERING LESSONS!***📅 **Date**: Saturday, 10th May 2025📍 **Location**: Charter Hall, Colchester**Session Times**:- 🌿 **Relaxed**: 11 AM - 12 PM- 👨‍👩‍👧 **Family**: 12 PM - 5 PM- 🎉 **Over 14’s**: 7 PM - 11:30 PM🎟️ **Tickets**: £12.50 (4 for 3 offer)🛼 **Skate Hire Available but must be pre-booked- and sold out in advance last [...]

Book your tickets now at www.rollerworld.co.uk

The tour is approximately 30-45 minutes long and will run on Saturday, 10 May, at 2 PM.Colchester Castle is offering free* monthly tours focusing on LGBTQ+ historical figures and themes, open to anyone with an interest in new historical perspectives. Each tour promises a unique exploration of LGBTQ+ history, and no two tours will be [...]

A family bike ride with free bike flags, spokey dokeys, streamers and horns. A safe, flat, marshalled ride. All welcome (0-99 yrs). Children under 12 must be accompanied by a responsible adult. With Jean Quinn and Kim Barnetson.Meet (and end point): 2pm, Richmond Rd kid’s play park, CO2 7FR (1.5m, 0.5hrs). Cafe stop, with play [...]

Join longtime Jaywick resident, community ​motivator and ​TV pundit​, Danny Shine On Sloggett, for ​a walk along ​Jaywick's seafront​ and hear from the people who live there: "​We've been left out for years. My job in life is for us not to be left out any more. Everywhere you go in life has culture and [...]

A Saturday afternoon showcase featuring:Ed Talbot??Rosalind Harniess (Hosting)Event Info:A weekly event featuring 3 to 5 acts performing live acoustic sets between 3-5:30pm.Hot & cold beverages served from 2:30pm onwards.This is a family friendly event so younglings are welcome providing they're properly managed.Mics, pa and backline are provided but performers are welcome to bring their own [...]

Get ready for an epic showcase of indie short films at the Colchester 5th Independent Short Film Festival 2025!

Get ready for an epic showcase of indie short films at the Colchester 5th Independent Short Film Festival 2025!

A panel-led discussion of the campaign to protect Middlewick Ranges for biodiversity and as a green space for people (with Martin Pugh, Caroline White, Mark Goacher and Ted Benton). Speakers will cover the role of citizen science in establishing the importance of the site for wildlife, the effectiveness of local planning, and the vision for [...]

Tickets £15.Doors open 7pm, starts 7.30pm.Age Restriction 18+This is a standing event, with a limited amount of unreserved seating at the sides of the space.After a year of wonderful events for the Mayor’s Charities, please come celebrate with us at the Marvellous Masquerade Ball!Get ready for a night to remember as we come together to [...]

Have you ever listened to a symphony and wanted to know more about it?We will be delving into what makes Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7 so great. A guest speaker will give a talk, along with example musical excerpts from the orchestra.SBMS will then give a full performance of, in Beethoven’s own words, “one of my [...]

Showing at Firstsite Cinema - Björk’s Cornucopia (12A)!This unique cinematic experience immerses viewers in Björk’s spectacular stage production, featuring a setlist spanning her iconic early works to the visionary Utopia (2017) and Fossora (2023).The production showcases bespoke instruments, including a magnetic harp, a circular flute, an aluphone, and a reverb chamber.Björk is joined on stage [...]

This walk gives children an introduction to Jumbo, combined with the opportunity to draw and paint the iconic water tower close to and on the skyline. All materials provided. A walk for primary aged children, 7-11 years. Pre-booking is required. To book, please email: info@walkcolchester.org.uk giving this walk number. All children to be accompanied by [...]

The Rec Community Market – Our Second Market is Coming!After a fantastic launch, we’re back for round two—and it’s set to be even better!📅 Sunday 11th May⏰ 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM📍 Old Heath Recreation Ground, Colchester (next to the play park)💥 Free EntryExpect a fun-filled day out with:25+ local stalls selling everything from crafts [...]

Join us at theColchester 10k on Sunday May 11th 2025 at 10:30 at the Garrison Athletics Track.Entries limited.Sign up early to avoid disappointment.http://colchester10k.com/enter-online/

http://colchester10k.com/enter-online/

A round trip ride to Fingringhoe Nature Reserve via Friday Woods and back (mostly off-road, suitable for most cyclists). With a refreshment stop at the reserve cafe for tea/coffee, and music from Elmer van der Hoek and Frank Sebastian (with more at the Minories afterwards). Booking advisable (email: info@walkcolchester.org.uk). Please ensure bikes are roadworthy & [...]

Join us for an afternoon of incredible live music at the OMB Acoustic Showcase! Starting at 1pm, immerse yourself in a vibrant array of acoustic performances by talented local artists.Performers:Suzy CramerLuke FisherWoody PearceTime: Music begins at 1pmHost: Sam YoungCome and enjoy a relaxing Sunday filled with soulful tunes and great company. Don't miss this opportunity [...]

Colchester is full of surprises. Some pretty amazing people who made the world a very different place.Local buildings and sites which may have more to them than you think.Join Dorian on one of his very different urban walks with poetry, readings and pop-up surprises. With Dorian Kelly. Meet: 2pm, Colchester Arts Centre, Church Walk CO1 [...]

Showing at Firstsite Cinema - National Theatre Live: The Importance of Being Earnest (12A)!While assuming the role of a dutiful guardian in the country, Jack lets loose in town under a false identity.Meanwhile, his friend Algy adopts a similar facade. Hoping to impress two eligible ladies, the gentlemen find themselves caught in a web of [...]

Come and listen to the Saxophone quartet on the beautiful Victorian bandstand on a lovely sunny May afternoon

Join us at The Commons Cafe to celebrate the close of another festival week, with jazz from Elmer van der Hoek, Frank Sebastian and friends. Venue/Time: 4.30pm, The Commons Cafe at The Minories (garden entrance).

🌟COME AND LEARN ARGENTINE TANGO IN COLCHESTER!🌟Join us at our next informal and friendly Argentine Tango lesson and practise session at the Stanway Lakelands Centre on SUNDAY 11th MAY 2025 from 7.00-10.00pm. ⏰Lesson for improvers from 7.00-7.45pm followed by dancing and practise from 7.45-10.00pm.💰Entry: lesson: £8 (including practica). Practica only £6.🏠Venue information: Stanway Lakeland’s Centre, [...]

Join us for a peaceful evening walk under the full moon at Hilly Fields Nature Reserve in Colchester!Full Moon Reflection Walk - Hilly Fields Nature ReserveJoin us for a calm evening stroll under the luminous glow of the full moon at the Hilly Fields Nature Reserve.As the sun sets and the moon illuminates our path, [...]

Tickets £15 / £14 concessions.Doors open 7.30pm, starts 8pm.This gig is for a seated audience.'A duo whose voices combine to create a seamless flow of rich, harmonic beauty' ~ Americana UK‘Captivating musical narrative that intertwines sincerity, harmony, and genuine emotion’ ‘An enchanting blend of joyful Americana harmonies and heartfelt lyricism’ ~ Earmilk‘They weave their voices [...]

The Department of Literature, Film and Theatre Studies present their annual Launch Festival! Where undergraduate Drama students present their final degree pieces in a four day festival across both Lakeside Theatre stages.Tickets to this event are free to all! Day tickets will allow you access to all performances that day, please book in advance if [...]

Build your own open terrarium£35ppJoin us at The Romano Lounge where you will build an open terrarium.No prior experience or skills are needed.What you will learn• How to make a terrarium• What tools to use• What techniques to use• How to look after your terrariumWhat is included• All materials; glass terrarium, stones, earth, plants• A [...]

Platform MusicalsLERNER & LOEWE'SCAMELOTBook & Lyrics by ALAN JAY LERNER Music by FREDERICK LOEWE This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre InternationalAll authorised performance materials are also supplied by MTI http://www.mtishows.co.ukWith an extraordinary score that features the romantic "If Ever I Would Leave You". the iconic title song and the exuberant "Lusty [...]

Impious Spirit Productions presents Tales of Time at Coda Colchester, on Wednesday 14th May 2025!UK Symphonic Metal quintet Tales of Time embark on their first ever headline shows this May, playing songs from their debut EP "The Journey"!For fans of Epica, Nightwish, Children of Bodom and Wintersun, Tales of Time are a band not to [...]

It's Open Mic Night!Bring yourself... or send your friends in place of you.... or come with your friends and get involved.Bring your instruments or borrow mine (Guitar, Piano, Cajon & Mics provided).*We run a sign up board & work through the names in order & attendance prioritising those who arrive before 9.*The sign up board [...]

Pay what you can affordDoors open 7:30 pm, Show starts 8 pmThis show is for a seated audienceGALA A Disco OperaEnter into a world of sex, glamour and Surrealism in the self-created royal court of the art world's most bespangled and amorous glitterati, in a disco inferno of lust, faith and money.Gala - wife of [...]

Join my drawing workshop on Thursday 15th May, 10-12 at Patch cafe, Trinity Street, Colchester. Every third Thursday of the month. £35 per person, materials and guidance supplied AND coffee and cake from Patch. We will be working in pencil, fine line marker and water brush. Participants should bring a photo of an animal to [...]

Got piles of old miniatures sprues or a bits box filled to the brim?Why not come along to our first Colchester Kit Bash!Bring your unused sprues and bits and build some new miniatures - or just come along and use our to make you're very own customised miniature! Food & Drink Menu and Licenced Bar!

“Hell is empty and all the devils are here…”For twelve years Prospero, the rightful duke of Milan, has dwelt on an island after his brother Antonio betrayed him and cast him adrift in a small boat. For twelve years he has plotted revenge on those who overthrew him...Classical language combines with live music and choral [...]

Showing at Firstsite Cinema - Ocean With David Attenborough (PG)!After nearly 70 years of filming the natural world, Ocean With David Attenborough is Sir David’s most powerful and urgent message yet.This compelling documentary takes viewers on a breath-taking journey showing there is nowhere more vital for our survival, more full of life, wonder, or surprise, [...]

Step into a world of unlimited creativity at our monthly Fabulous Fridays! Immerse yourself in a world of artistic inspiration with different workshops, art, tasty treats and films.Throughout the evening, we will be hosting an array of creative events and workshops across Firstsite. Expect pop-up performances, arts and crafts, and surprise artist collaborations that leave [...]

Showing at Firstsite Cinema - Four Mothers (12A)!Edward is a dazzling upcoming author who is set to go on tour in the US. However, his plans are stalled when he becomes the primary carer for his elderly mum Alma, after she suffers a stroke.Things take a further turn for the worse when his friends decide [...]

Join us for an exciting hands-on workshop where creativity meets sustainability at our EcoArt Collage and Craft workshop!In this unique group experience, we’ll explore the art of collage-making using eco-friendly, repurposed materials. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a beginner, this workshop is designed to inspire creativity.Your tutor will guide you through the process of [...]

This ancient art form has been used as meditation, stress relievers and a fun social activity with friends. In our Origami Workshop, Lu Yu will guide you step by step through the creation of specific origami shapes, teaching essential techniques such as valley folds, mountain folds, squash folds, and reverse folds.These foundational skills will help [...]

Test your knowledge of all things film, TV and music, and help to raise money for an incredible cause!- £3 a head (cash only)- Maximum 6 to a team- Food served throughout - Book on 01206 687287Please arrive at least twenty minutes before the quiz is due to start to place drink orders.If you book [...]

International sensation What’s Love Got To Do With It? is back!Brought to you by the award-winning producers behind the hugely successful Whitney - Queen Of The Night, What’s Love Got To Do With It? pays homage to one of the most iconic and much-loved musical artists of the 20th Century: the legendary Tina Turner.In this [...]

Tickets £18.50.Doors open 7.30pm, show starts 8pm.A brand new stand-up show from Angela Barnes, star of Mock The Week and Live at The Apollo.Angela is a worrier. Whatever it is, she’ll worry about it. But don’t let that worry you – she’ll worry enough for the both of you.This hilarious show has some stories of [...]

Step Into a World of Magic, Laughter, and Joy with Peachy & Me Join the delightful duo, Cherry and Peachy, as they take you on a whimsical journey of magic, art, and mischief in their captivating family show, Peachy & Me.Premiering across stages nationwide, this enchanting performance combines comedy, dance, and interactive fun, offering an [...]

Three Wise Monkeys Colchester presents our Back To The 80s Bottomless Brunch!Pull up your leg warmers and get into the groove at Three Wise Monkeys as we take you back to the 80s for an afternoon of bottomless drinks and live entertainment.We are rounding up the East End boys and West End girls to join [...]

FAMILYTickets £7 / £6 concessions / £22 Family (A family group of 4, including at least 1 child)Doors open 11am, show starts 11.30am.Step Into a World of Magic, Laughter, and Joy with Peachy & Me Join the delightful duo, Cherry and Peachy, as they take you on a whimsical journey of magic, art, and mischief [...]

Annual Shed Brewers beer festival, 15 beers all brewed by home brewers. Tickets are £15 which includes 4 pints of beer (in 13 tasting glasses) and food.Pop into the pub to get a ticket or give them a call to reserve.

A Saturday afternoon showcase featuring:Ryan Sharman??Stu E Skinner (Hosting)Event Info:A weekly event featuring 3 to 5 acts performing live acoustic sets between 3-5:30pm.Hot & cold beverages served from 2:30pm onwards.This is a family friendly event so younglings are welcome providing they're properly managed.Mics, pa and backline are provided but performers are welcome to bring their [...]

Showing at Firstsite Cinema - MET Opera Live: Salome (TBC)!MET Opera Live: Salome is derived from a brief biblical account. A young princess of Judea dances for her stepfather Herod. She chooses as her reward the head of the prophet John the Baptist.This subject captured the imaginations of generations of visual artists, but its full [...]

You know the dealFree entry - a couple big sets from your favourite brass fed romping bandFrank's on the 1s and 2s playing his favourite bass-heavy selections in the interims .afterwards playing dub, roots and old school reggae vibes til late! 😀All are welcome. Great beers, good vibes.it's gonna be another good night at the [...]

Join us for a Thriller of an evening, as we celebrate the legendary music of the KING OF POP.This is the“Man in the Mirror”–The brand new must-see, electrifying tribute concert to Michael Jackson.Starring CJ, one of the world’s greatest Michael Jackson Tribute Artists and supported by a talented cast of performers and musicians who capture [...]

FLEETWOOD BAC were the world’s first and are regarded as the UKs most authentic Fleetwood Mac Tribute show, raved about by Peter Green’s biographer, and are the only Mac tribute band in the world to authentically replicate the classic Stevie/Lindsey/Christine/John/Mick ‘Rumours’ line-up.

Party all night long to the biggest hits of the 90's which will keep you on the dancefloor all night long! Our photobooth will be open, and fancy dress is always encouraged! Doors open from 7.30pm and the night finishes at midnight. Guests need to be over 18.

a night of Soulful, uplifting House with Jo Bless and Jay Man taking the lead... come down and check it out @jotcreativeartist @jayman888 8pm til Late... FREE ENTRY

It will be great to see people out and about on the 17th for this one we have put together a great line up of DJs for you all including the the man himself BT on percussion, & not forgetting master of ceremonies R🎩cks https://www.skiddle.com/e/40912308

Bringing the Funk Shed recipe of Funk, Soul, Disco, Reggae with a pinch of ROCK to Colchester's favourite music venue. We'll be introducing our amazing new vocalist. Can't wait!Look forward to seeing friends old and new for what promises to be a great night of classic sounds

Here on Saturday 17th May playing some old classics

Colchester Stampede 10KDate: 18th May 2025Minimum Age: 17Colchester Zoo, Maldon Rd, Heckfordbridge, Colchester CO3 0SLCome and run at Colchester Zoo, home to over 160 species and set in 60 acres of parkland and lakes!The Zoo is proudly listed in the top 2 zoos in the UK and listed as the 11th best zoo around the [...]

The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride on May 18, 2025, is a global event that unites motorcycle enthusiasts to raise funds and awareness for men's mental health and prostate cancer research. Participants are encouraged to don their finest attire and ride classic or vintage-style motorcycles while supporting the Movember Foundation. The event is scheduled for Sunday, May [...]

Dealers and collectors from around the region selling a wide range of items to tempt you! Venue post code CO7 8LD. Close to the A133.

This creative writing workshops will address the relationship between writing and the self in a productive and fun way.It will explore how we can use our personal experiences directly and indirectly to inform artistic writing with a focus on natural environments and building visual worlds as writing stimulus.Basic materials provided. No experience necessary, just enthusiasm! [...]

A guided walk with naturalist Chris Gibson exploring a variety of local environments and their inhabitants.In towns and cities, walls provide artificial but often valuable wildlife habitats. The older the better is a good general rule, and none is older than our Roman Wall!Meeting in the Minories Garden, Chris will take us through the Meanwhile [...]

Community Climate Action Workshop – Colchester📍 Firstsite, Colchester🗓️ Saturday, May 18th | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM💚 Free | Includes lunch, tea, coffee & cakeReady to take climate action in Colchester and surrounding areas? Join us for an energising, hands-on workshop designed to support residents, local groups, and organisations in building a greener future—together.Whether you're [...]

Good to be back at The Vic for a sunday sessionexpect sweaty rock in roll and good times,, stick it in your diaries5pm ish)free entry

Tickets £22.50.Doors open 7pm, starts 7.30pm.This gig is for a seated audience.As the singer in I Am Kloot from 1999 to 2014, John Bramwell achieved a Mercury Prize nomination for 2010’s The Sky At Night, a Top 10 chart position for 2013’s Let It All In, numerous UK and European tours and a triumphant farewell [...]

Tickets on sale from Monday 14th April.Come and join us in venues across Colchester to hear from leading local scientists talk about their research.You'll hear about all sorts of topics from from atoms and galaxies to our society, and everything in between.No prior knowledge required!Details for events will be posted soon, so make sure you [...]

FolkTickets £18.50 / £17.50 concessions.Doors open 7.30pm, starts 8pm.This gig is for a seated audience.FLOOK : CELEBRATING 30 YEARS IN 2025! What began in 1995 as a ground-breaking union of musicians and instruments, has continued as a unique musical offering through one live album, four studio albums and countless outstanding performances. A new recording is [...]

Sessions are at 10 – 11 am and 11:15 am – 12:15 pm.Designed for children aged 2 1/2 to 4, along with their parents, grandparents, and carers, these monthly sessions offer an immersive journey of exploration and discovery. The May session will focus on the theme of Camouflage and Habitats.These sessions offer a unique opportunity [...]

EA Festival kicks off a new event series in partnership with Essex Book Festival and The Minories.To inaugurate the series of art-themed talks, James Birch, the curator, gallerist and art impresario with many ties to East Anglia, will introduce his newest book, Gilbert & George and the Communists. The book memorialises James’ experience of mounting [...]

Join my drawing workshop on Tuesday 20th May, 7-9 at the legendary Victoria Inn, North Station Rd, Colchester. Every third Tuesday of the month. £25 per person, materials and guidance supplied. Sadly drinks are not supplied, but do buy one (and there is no pressure to buy alcohol - teetotallers are 100% welcome in this [...]

An evening of drinking & drawing in the pub.Bring a sketchbook, pen, and money for beers.See you there.

Tickets £14 / £12 concessions.Doors open 7.30pm, show starts 8pm.This gig is for a standing audience.With her highly anticipated third solo studio album, To Shoot Another Day, out on November 1 2024, multiple award-winning singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Rosalie Cunningham is finally on the cusp of reaping the rewards of staunch dedication to her chosen [...]

Have you wanted to try stand-up comedy?Been told you are the funniest in the group?Come to a writers' workshop, Roots & Grooves, Colchester.The workshop starts at 6pm with an open mic for people who'd like to see some new acts from around the UK.🚨 IT'S FREE! 🆓 🚨⏰ 6pm to 7.30pm⏰ 7.30pm OPEN MIC SHOW [...]

Join us on Wednesday 21st May for our Infusions Taster Evening!Prepare to tantalize your taste buds as we present a carefully curated selection of dishes infused with our very own craft, each offering a unique flavor profile. Paired perfectly with a refreshing craft beer, this evening promises to be a feast for the senses.Join us [...]

It's Open Mic Night!Bring yourself... or send your friends in place of you.... or come with your friends and get involved.Bring your instruments or borrow mine (Guitar, Piano, Cajon & Mics provided).*We run a sign up board & work through the names in order & attendance prioritising those who arrive before 9.*The sign up board [...]

PERFORMANCEPay what you can affordDoors open 7:30 pm, Show starts 8 pmThis show is for a seated audienceA ‘work in progress’ show“Livia Kojo Alour belts out a song that fizzles with energy: a celebration of her life, and the power of saying no.” – Broadway Baby“Her voice, on versions of songs such as I Put [...]

A relaxed late Spring evening of wine and glorious romantic music at The Minories: add a lovely cafe meal, or a drink in the gorgeous gardens, and then lose yourself in the soulful voice of the clarinet played with charm and compelling artistry by rising star Jonathan Liebowitz.For tickets (only £25) and details of how [...]

We are excited to announce our first winemaker tasting event in collaboration with Street Wines Ltd on Thursday 22nd May for Painted Wolf Winemaker Tasting.The tasting will feature 7 wines presented by Jeremy Borg from South Africas Painted Wolf Wines. The emphasis for this tasting is really on the wines although they will be complimented [...]

We're excited and have come over all of a quiver to be inviting you all to:✨️Victoria's Big Easy Early Evening Album Launch Party✨️ (just did a lap of the kitchen table😃🎶💃🏻)Come along to the gorgeous venue The Three Wise Monkeys in Colchester from 7pm to 9pm and celebrate the launch of our shiney new Mini [...]

Join us for an evening of exceptional music (in the lovely setting of The Minories) for clarinet and piano performed by award-winning, 2022 Classic FM ‘Rising Star', Jonathan Liebovitz, accompanied by pianist and composer Joseph Havlat. The programme includes Claude Debussy's Première Rhapsodie, Clara Schumann's Three romances and sonatas for clarinet and piano by Poulenc [...]

We are a local life drawing group in Colchester. We meet up for untutored drawings with professional models from all backgrounds.All abilities are welcome. Just drop in, draw and pay £10 cash for the session.Drawing boards, easels, papers, charcoal and pencils are provided for free or bring your materials.Accessible venue.Location: Straight Road Community Centre329 Straight [...]

ComedyTickets £19.Doors open 7.30pm, starts 8pm.We're talking all things The Inbetweeners at this special evening with actor/comedian Joe Thomas!It wasn't long after audiences were first introduced to hapless sixth-formers Will McKenzie, Neil Sutherland, Jay Cartright and Simon Cooper that The Inbetweeners became one of the nation's best loved shows. With its endlessly quotable lines and [...]

Showing at Firstsite Cinema - The Penguin Lessons (12A)!Starring Oscar nominee Steve Coogan, The Penguin Lesson is a this poignant dramedy from director Peter Cattaneo.The film follows an Englishman’s personal and political awakening after he adopts a penguin during a cataclysmic period in Argentine history.Book now on our website or call us on 01206 713 [...]

Take a Break, Grab a Bite, and Share Your StoryIntroducing a new way to connect with others working in Colchester. Step away from work at the end of the week and join us for the Lunchtime Social.Whether you’re running your own venture, part of a team, or just curious about the local business landscape, this [...]

Join Us for a Board Game Demo Event!Battle forge against forest in Ironwood or practice witchcraft in Septima.Learn these exciting games in a friendly, welcoming environment.Our hosts will guide you through the rules. Bring your friends or come solo—there’s always a seat at the table!No experience needed, just a love for games. See you there!

Showing at Firstsite Cinema - A Minecraft Movie (PG)!Four misfits — Garrett “The Garbage Man” Garrison (Jason Momoa), Henry (Sebastian Eugene Hansen), Natalie (Emma Myers) and Dawn (Danielle Brooks)—find themselves struggling with ordinary problems in A Minecraft Movie.They are suddenly pulled through a mysterious portal into the Overworld: a bizarre, cubic wonderland that thrives on [...]

Join us for an unforgettable evening of smoky flavours, soulful music and great company at Smoke & Harmony, our gourmet food and music experience in partnership with The Hungry Hog.Indulge in a delicious handcrafted menu featuring slow-smoked meats, vibrant sides, and mouth-watering vegan options, all perfectly paired with the rhythm of live performance.Book your tickets [...]

GIGSTickets £21.50.Doors open 7pm, starts 8pm.This gig is for a standing audience.2025 sees the 40th anniversary of The Smiths’ legendary second album “Meat is Murder”.Arguably the band’s most controversial release (the band considered it as a protest album), not only did it do more than anything in pop culture to encourage a generation to become [...]

Join us in the café/bar area for a lively, fun and creative evening.Unlike Boozy Brushes, where the subject is a different celebrity every month, now the subject is your furry friend! Doesn’t your pet deserve a tribute?Bring a photo of your pet and Sirena will guide you through an acrylic paint tutorial while entertaining you [...]

Madison headline TWM on Friday, 23rd May,The event will be held on the Top Floor, with doors opening at 7:30 PM. This special evening will also feature incredible performances by The Wicked Ravensand Mr B & The Wolf, promising a night full of energy and great music. Tickets are priced at £7 plus a booking [...]

Sale Dates and Times:Public Onsale : Fri, 26 Apr 2024 at 10:00 AMPriority from O2 : Wed, 24 Apr 2024 at 10:00 AM

Join us for a night of all your favourite ABBA hits!

Drongo Records are back in Colchester hosting Takeda. FREE ENTRYSupport from Big In Sheboygan and Dean Frost

DJ Jules Zillion will be serving up a fantastic mix of tunes from the last 5 decades to give you a night to remember!

Ready to get behind the wheel but don’t know where to start? Join us for our Introduction to Driving Workshop—a beginner-friendly session designed to help new drivers feel confident, informed, and prepared for the road ahead.This workshop covers the basics of driving, including road safety, traffic signs, vehicle controls, and what to expect during driving [...]

GEMS are holding a fund raising event for en-formLadies’, Men’s & Children’s Clothes and ShoesBedding and SundriesBooks, DVDs, and CDsFill a Bag –£2.50 (Bags Provided)Any questions please contact goldenyearsgroups@yahoo.com

From the 24th May through the 1st of June, pick up a fun paper trail and explore Colchester Castle on a quest filled with knights and dragons!Follow the clues, solve puzzles, and spot legendary characters as you journey through history. This simple, self-guided adventure is perfect for younger visitors aged 6+. Grab your trail sheet [...]

Free concert on the bandstand, playing 2.30pm - 5.00pm

Free EntryAs part of CODA Colchester's Acoustic Sessions, following Stu Skinner's opener, BearFootSoul - Matt White (ex front man from Swagger, WhiteOut and Matt White & The Emulsions) will tread the boards, serving up a solo acoustic-fuelled heaping helping of authentically soul-powered roots, blues, country, Americana original and classic favourites!Sun Machine will top off the [...]

A Saturday afternoon showcase featuring:Sun MachineBearFootSoul featuring Matt WhiteStu E Skinner (Hosting)Event Info:A weekly event featuring 3 to 5 acts performing live acoustic sets between 3-5:30pm.Hot & cold beverages served from 2:30pm onwards.This is a family friendly event so younglings are welcome providing they're properly managed.Mics, pa and backline are provided but performers are welcome [...]

4-10pm.Bring chairs if you can! Free parking on siteNo picnics please Dress for the weather! No dogs to our evening events please.Gluten free and vegan options available. Book tickets online!

A fun evening celebrating the the music of the 80’s

GIGSTickets £7.Doors open 7.30pm, starts 8pm.This gig is for a standing audience.Our local showcase night in partnership with KEEP COLCHESTER COOL returns! This time featuring...Indie Rock from F.O.L...https://folmusic.co.uk/Heady Grunge -Rock from ELEPHANT JANE...https://elephantjaneband.wixsite.com/elephantjaneMelodious indie from THIS IS SOPHIE'S...https://www.facebook.com/people/this-is-sophies/NUKLEOPATRA's poignant lyrics take aim at tech corporations, the fossil fuel industry, and social media, crafting a soundtrack [...]

Sale Dates and Times:Public Onsale : Fri, 29 Sep 2023 at 10:00 AMTicketmaster Presale : Wed, 27 Sep 2023 at 10:00 AM

Join us in Getting Started with Drawing, a relaxed and beginner-friendly drawing workshop, where you’ll explore sketching with pencil and fine-line pens.Whether you are completely new to drawing or looking to build confidence in your skills, this workshop will help you master different drawing techniques and materials.Each session will focus on a new theme – [...]

Showing at Firstsite Cinema - The Royal Ballet: Ballet to Broadway: Wheeldon Works (TBC)!The Royal Ballet: Ballet to Broadway: Wheeldon Works showcases the remarkable choreographic range of The Royal Ballet’s Artistic Associate, Christopher Wheeldon.Sensuous contemporary ballet meets the energy of musical theatre in four distinctive short works; Fool’s Paradise, The Two of Us, Us, An [...]

Learn to Rap / MC with industry professionals in this FREE workshop funded by Essex County Council via the Arts and Cultural Fund, Colchester City Council, the Tudwick Foundation and Grassroots Charity.Exclusively for young people aged between 14 & 25.Please email artoftheroadz@gmail.com to book a space.

An evening in a great setting on, hopefully, a warm night. We take loved songs and give them a Gooseberries twist with 4 vocalists and wide range of acoustic instruments.

JazzTickets £19.50 / £18.50 concessions.Doors open 7pm, starts 7.30pm.This gig is for a seated audience.The Pete Roth Trio features leader Pete on guitar, Mike Pratt on bass, and the legendary Bill Bruford as a special guest on drums.The band creates jazz for a new generation of music enthusiasts, exploring beyond traditional jazz conventions.A jazz standard [...]

£2 cash per team and max 5 people per team.

EASTER BANK HOLIDAY SUNDAY SPECIAL @ BABAS withDJS Gordon B, Project LandoMq Aurelian WizhardTom Lock ClaymoreGallier Riley-VMCS Scotfree ST RangerCherry B Jay P D Lowhttps://www.facebook.com/events/2366953603677136/?event_time_id=2366953623677134

Come and join the talented Lucy from Pink Parrot Pottery who will help you turn all of your favourite characters into painted ceramic plates!Choose from one of the below character designs upon pre-booking and your chosen character will be pre-drawn, as an outlines for you on to your plate; all ready for you to then [...]

Drop-in sessions are available from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM on 26th, 28th & 30th May. As well as 3pm – 4pm on 27th & 29th May. Get hands-on with history in the Castle’s Armoury! Try on replica helmets, handle historical weapons, and step into the shoes of knights from the past—plus, keep an eye [...]

The RSPCA Essex Mid & North is teaming up with Colchester Hospital Radio for their family fun day, on Bank Holiday Monday 26th May. Join us in Lower Castle Park, Colchester, for a fun-filled day with a dog show, stalls, a fun fair, good food, and many family activities. They’re hosting the animal-related activities as [...]

Come along and meet Darren Shan to celebrate the 25th anniversary of his international bestselling book Cirque du Freak. Atmospheric, funny, realistic, moving and terrifying, Cirque du Freak has been thrilling readers for twenty-five years and is now available in a stunning anniversary edition. Darren will be signing copies and meeting readers.Book a ticket in [...]

Guided tours will run from 11 – 11.45am and 2.30 – 3.15pm everyday between Monday 26th – Friday 30th May.Step back in time and experience Colchester Castle like never before on this family-friendly tour that brings history to life! Explore the castle’s fascinating past, searching for dragon eggs and learning the tasks of a knight [...]

Gather round inside Colchester Castle on the 26th (1.30-2pm) 28th (2-2.30pm), or 30th of May (1.30-2pm) for a magical storytelling adventure like no other!Our friendly storyteller will be sharing thrilling tales full of myths, legends, and fiery surprises. It’s a fun-filled, interactive session that’s perfect for little ones aged 4+ and guaranteed to spark imaginations [...]

GIGSTickets £8 / £7 concessions.Doors open 7.30pm, starts 8pm.This gig is for a seated audience.Finnish-born Joose Keskitalo is regarded as one of the most original contemporary singer-songwriters in Finland. A prolific songwriter who has published music in Finland since 2004, being involved in projects like the psychedelic folk collective Paavoharju. Joose Keskitalo experiments with forms [...]

Head to Hollytrees Museum on the 27th or 29th of May from 10 AM to 12 PM for Secrets Below Stairs—a wonderful experience where you can meet a servant from Colchester’s past.Discover life in Hollytrees House through the eyes of those who lived and worked there. Suitable for ages 4+.This event is included as part [...]

On this one-day course you will learn how to create your own stained glass candle lantern 7cm x 7cm x 9cm high to go over a tea light.Beginners choose from [...]

Join us to continue our historical walks around Colchester led by yellowbadge tour guide, Kate.This tour covers the history of Colchester and includes St Botolph's Priory, Tymperlys, Trinity Street Church [...]

Taking place again at COLCHESTER ARTS CENTRE, Church Street. Colchester. CO1 1NFWED 28th MAY: 12 Noon-10:30pmTHU 29th MAY: 12 Noon-10:30pmFRI 30th MAY: 12 Noon-10:30pmSAT 31st MAY: 11am-10:30pmRefundable glass deposit.FREE ADMISSION [...]

Come in and play a multitude of games (Ping pong, Jenga, puzzles etc). A bit of fun for the whole family during the summer half term.

Award-winning Scratchworks Theatre explores the fabulous worldof fungi, uncovering the scientific superpowers and amazingabilities of mushrooms! Packed with interactive theatre, playful music, and plenty of laughs, The Mushroom Show is [...]

It's Open Mic Night!Bring yourself... or send your friends in place of you.... or come with your friends and get involved.Bring your instruments or borrow mine (Guitar, Piano, Cajon & [...]

Our Wilder Holiday Club includes themed, inspiring activities led by our team of experts. There will be plenty of opportunities for nature discovery, learning new skills, and following your interests [...]

Join us for a digital based Holiday Fun miniClip Soundscapes session making mini soundscapes using an app to help create audio, inspired by the themes of our upcoming Voyager 2000 [...]

Children can get active and release some steam this May with Rugby at Firstsite Holiday Fun in Colchester!Most suitable for 4 – 11 years, but all ages welcome. Caregivers are [...]

Discover what it would have been like to be a Victorian child through nursery rhymes, activities, and games. Explore old and new toys and make a craft to take home!This [...]

Join us on the last Thursday of every month at Other Monkey Brewing – The Taproom for a night of incredible flavours and craft beer. May is all about the [...]

Join us at the launch party for our Into the Woods exhibition!Into the Woods creates a platform for artists who question our relationship with the natural world around us. Through [...]

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 [...]

Create your own mashterpieces in a two-hour workshop with professional artist Tom Armstrong. Aimed at 7 year olds and upwards, this fun workshop is a chance to work with Tom to sculpt, draw, print and even eat potatoes as we come together to celebrate the International Day of the Potato. Under 16s will need to [...]

Children can show off their best moves this May with Breakdance at Firstsite Holiday Fun in Colchester!This session is a session for children who have had variable experience breakdancing. Most suitable for 4 – 11 years, but all ages welcome. Caregivers are required to stay on site throughout the activities.Activities may take place outside. Please [...]

Showing at Firstsite Cinema - Bluey At The Cinema: Let’s Play Chef Collection (U)!Bluey at the Cinema: Let’s Play Chef Collection is an hour-long treat for fans of Bluey to enjoy, made up of eight episodes from the TV show’s three series, all based around the fun of food!The compilation will showcase memorable moments such [...]

Join us for these hands-on sessions where you will learn how to care for plants through nature inspired arts, crafts and planting. Learn how to care for plants and our native wild while connecting with the outdoors with nature inspired arts and crafts. Please make sure those taking part in activities are dressed appropriately for [...]

TWM Live is excited to present Evy Frearson’s first headline show at Three Wise Monkeys in Colchester on Friday, 30th May. Doors open at 7:30 PM, and tickets are priced at £7.50 plus booking fee.This special night will feature incredible performances from special guests Flores Blue, Nelblu, and Slow Husky, making it a must-see event [...]

Colchester's No. 1 GOTH ROCK METAL night with DJs K-Sera & Gentleman Jim spinning the hardest and moodiest tracks 7.30pm-12.30am.Dance the night away!!🎧 🪩 🕸️

Join us at Twisters Bar for a night of indie anthems past and present on Friday 30th MayOur resident DJ Chelsea Paige will be spinning indie dance floor fillers from 9pm till late🍹 Bar and Beer Garden opens at 5pm🎧 DJ from 9pm.🎟️ FREE ENTRY!

Back by popular demand, our in-person plant and seed share event!We hope to see you there 🌺🌸🌷

Our in-person plant & seed share event is back by popular demand! Hope to see you there 🌸🌷🌺

Showing at Firstsite Cinema - Bluey At The Cinema: Let’s Play Chef Collection (Relaxed) (U)!Bluey at the Cinema: Let’s Play Chef Collection is an hour-long treat for fans of Bluey to enjoy, made up of eight episodes from the TV show’s three series, all based around the fun of food!The compilation will showcase memorable moments [...]

Mercury Creatives are excited to announce they are organising a series of Masterclass and Relationship Building events for Deaf, disabled and neurodivergent artists, in association with Graeae Theatre.This is being spearheaded by Christian Markham who is the Mercury’s new Graeae Associate.If you are a D/deaf, disabled, or neurodivergent creative who wants to know more about [...]

To celebrate the release of Chapter 8 Return Of Jafar, we will be run a sealed event.Event Details.Build a Minimum of a 40 card deck with the 6 Return Of Jafar boosters you get. Your deck can contain all of the colours. You will be given 40mins to build your deck with.Then compete in swiss [...]

We will explore what makes a striking black and white image, with the use of strong lighting, simple subject choices, and strong composition. We will also go into turning your images into sepia and colour wash tones.

Join The Hoy Boy for the Rowhedge Sea Shanry Festival on Saturday 31st May 2025 for a fantastic day of Sea Shanties and Maritime Folk Music. Come along and be part O me Crew Shipmates 12 / Noon - The Three Crowns 1.45 - Lion Quay2.20 - St Lawrence Church3.30 - The Anchor4.40 - Ye [...]

A Saturday afternoon showcase featuring:Velvet FrequencyIf Not NowVice HerderStu E Skinner (Hosting)Event Info:A weekly event featuring 3 to 5 acts performing live acoustic sets between 3-5:30pm.Hot & cold beverages served from 2:30pm onwards.This is a family friendly event so younglings are welcome providing they're properly managed.Mics, pa and backline are provided but performers are welcome [...]

The Over 30s Club at Silk Road – A Daytime Clubbing Experience Like No OtherA monthly Saturday afternoon session for those who still love a proper dancefloor, but not the 3AM regrets.Step into a new kind of clubbing experience, where style meets nostalgia and the music takes centre stage.The Over 30s Club is bringing its [...]

Fabulous fundraiser Drag Bingo & Raffle - Get ready for a night of glitter, glamour and good times, all for a good cause.Come help us raise the funds to get our dear friend Stu/Burb the treatment he needs.All monies raised will go to his GoFundMe.£20 a ticket entry, OVER 18s, please DM for your ticket.BRING [...]

Join Diaspora for a night of Irish folk rock music. Playing a mixture of originals culled from their five albums as well as premiering tunes from their new "Family Matters" album, there'll also be a fair few traditional tunes to sing along with, all played in Diaspora's inimitable folk rock style.Diaspora is led by Lee [...]

IBIZA is coming to Colchester!The legendary Judge Jules headlines an unmissable night of club anthems from the party island.Support from DJ Jake Carrington, our very own DJ Enzy and live Sax from the awesome Heather Hoyle.

Nymphic is Alternative nu-metal from the shadows of London.Blenderhead isGood old fashion punk from ColchesterAnd here's a little excerpt from a recent review for Hoof. 😁"Hot Box Live reviewHoof! I was sure I'd seen before.I was wrong.I was also confused. How to describe what they play? Punk? Hardcore? Stoner? With slap bass? Such a diverse [...]

Catch us live at the awesome coda in Colchester

Get ready for a night of classic rock at Twisters Bar! DJ Rom Atkin will be on hand bringing you an epic night of classic rock anthems, from AC/DC to ZZ top and everything in between. Free Entry all night | Bar Opens 5pm | DJ DJ Rom Atkin from 9pm

Book here: https://linktr.ee/tinabullenRegular event starting Sunday 1st June. Take time out in the woods to get creative, relax, breathe and have a nice time with others while you improve your [...]

🌞 The Rec Community Market – Sunday 1st June 🌞📍 Old Heath Recreation Ground, Colchester🕙 10:00 AM – 4:00 PMJoin us on Sunday 1st June for another fantastic day at [...]

If you have any unwanted games, miniatures, roleplaying books, dice or anything game related then this is the perfect place to come and sell them, and obviously come and find [...]

Enjoy some fabulous jazz whilst enjoying a drink or 2!

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 [...]

Fraser and the band are back but this time it's a very special day!!Fraser Will be releasing his EP on this day! The EP will be available to stream, but [...]