Events in Colchester From 13th April – 19th April 2026

This week in Colchester, events highlight how civic life and creative expression meet across public spaces. At Castle Park, an open-air exhibition runs featuring drawings by local artists interpreting Roman-era motifs using modern techniques, an effort led by the Colchester Civic Arts Collective with heritage conservation teams. Performances take place on Thursday evenings near the remains of the old town wall, where musicians play regional folk traditions in a circle that invites audience participation without formal seating.

On Friday night, an intimate showcase at The Forum presents digital installations based on archaeological data collected during recent digs beneath High Street, each piece projected onto weathered brickwork to emphasize layers of history. These displays are part of the ‘Seeing Through Time’ series run by Colchester’s cultural department and remain open until 9pm each evening.

Saturday features a community music event in Balkerne Park, organized with First Essex Transport for access via designated bus routes (notably service 13). The programme includes brass ensemble pieces composed to respond specifically to the acoustics of this green space. Children’s events are scheduled throughout, such as guided story walks through Roman walls near Colchester Castle and art workshops at Balkerne Gate, where families can create clay tablets inspired by surviving inscriptions.

Evening gatherings in quieter spots like Northgate Street or just behind St Botolph’s Church offer low-key settings for reflection: curated lighting highlights architectural features visible only after dusk. All events are accessible via the Great Eastern Main Line and A120 Colchester Bypass, with designated drop-off points near Castle Park to reduce congestion.

Check the listings below for times and venues.