- 28 May -28 June 2026
- FREE
- In partnership
- Workshop
- Young Essex
National Saturday Club – Writing & Talking
Our new Writing and Talking National Saturday Club which will be taking place every Saturday 10am-1pm from March to July. Open to all 13-16 year olds living in and around the Chelmsford area who are passionate about writing and talking. Explore zine-making, poetry, fiction, non-fiction, blogging, spoken word poetry, podcasting and more. Read more
- Restless Brilliance
- Exhibition
- FREE
- Partner Event
Restless Brilliance: The Story of J.A. Baker and The Peregrine
The exhibition explores J.A. Baker’s life, his love of nature and writing, through the archive of his work held by the Albert Sloman Library, University of Essex. It is the first time that this archive has been on public display. Read more
- LAUNCH EVENT
- Guided Walk
- FREE
Radical Essex Procession
Essex Book Festival is teaming up with internationally acclaimed arts organisation, Kinetika, for its Radical Procession from St Leonard-at-the-Hythe Church, a key player in the Siege of Colchester (1648), to University of Essex, famed for its foundational radical innovation in the 1960s. Read more
- LAUNCH EVENT
- FREE
- Workshop
- Young Essex
This Land: The Launch Pad Workshops
Learn how to make traditional ink out of ink gall gathered from 25 destinations across Essex. Explore the art of calligraphy. Try your hand at a range of traditional printing and basic book-making techniques. Read more
- LAUNCH EVENT
- For Writers
- FREE
- SOLD OUT!
- Workshop
Beach of Dreams 25 Launch and Creative Writing Workshop
Come along and meet the Kinetika team, our flag-makers/bearers, and find out how you and/or an organisation you belong to, can get involved in the epic new nationwide Beach of Dreams 25 project. Then, take part in a special Beach of Dreams creative writing workshop led by Dr James Canton, and the Wild Writing team based in the Centre for Creative Writing at the University of Essex. Read more
- FREE
- Performance
- Poetry
How We Live In Essex: Live Poetry Performance
Lelia Ferro's poetry performed by professional actors at the atmospheric Martello Tower. Witness the poetry coming to life in a unique collaboration between Lelia Ferro, theatre director Sofia Bagge and fantastic actors. Read more
- FREE
- Partner Event
- Workshop
How We Live In Essex: Photography Workshop
Sea, Sky, and Landscape Photography Workshop with Dan Sceats. Learn photography techniques using the beautiful views from Jaywick Martello Tower with the exhibition professional photographer. Read more
- For Writers
- FREE
- Workshop
Writing Buddy Meet Up
Whether you're a published author, or a budding writer looking to kickstart your new hobby, come and join international bestselling author Lizzie Chantree & award-winning author Chris Penhall for a morning of writing in this FREE writing buddy session at Fête Grays Yard, Chelmsford! Read more
- Guided Walk
- FREE
- Partner Event
A Peasant’s Pilgrimage
This six-mile walk, organised in partnership with Kinetika’s T100 Festival, commemorates the 1381 Peasants’ Revolt’s links to Fobbing, as Thurrock’s walking, talking and making festival T100 Goes Wild for 2024. Read more
- FREE
- Performance
- Poetry
How We Live In Essex: Poetry Performance Workshop
Learn to lift the words off the page and sharpen your performance techniques in this fun and friendly workshop, hosted by theatre director Sofia Bagge and a professional actor. Why not bring along a poem of your own to the workshop and perform it shortly after at the spoken word evening! Read more
- Discussion
- Essex Writers House
- FREE
Blood and Belonging Panel Discussion
Three different writers from a variety of Romany Traveller backgrounds come together for a reading and event chaired by Louise Doughty. Join us for discussion and celebration of what we have in common. Read more
- FREE
- Partner Event
- Performance
- Poetry
How We Live In Essex: Live Poetry Performance
Lelia Ferro's poetry performed by professional actors at the atmospheric Martello Tower. Witness the poetry coming to life in a unique collaboration between Lelia Ferro, theatre director Sofia Bagge and fantastic actors. Read more
- Open Mic
- FREE
- Partner Event
- Performance
- Poetry
How We Live In Essex: Exhibition Finale – Spoken Word Evening
Come and celebrate an evening of spoken word at the Jaywick Martello Tower by reading a poem of your own, or simply enjoying an evening of poetry . No need to book, just turn up and give your name! Read more
- Restless Brilliance
- Guided Walk
- FREE
- In My Steps - Radical Walks in Essex
- Partner Event
- SOLD OUT!
A Walk in J.A. Baker Country – Sold Out
Join us for a walk through ‘Baker Country’ visiting sites listed in J.A. Baker’s diaries and identified in his seminal work The Peregrine (1967). Read more
- FREE
- Manifesto For Essex
- Workshop
- Young Essex
Eco-printing and Ink-making workshops – Chelmsford Science Festival
We are delighted to be taking part in Chelmsford Science Festival again this year. We will be at the Family Science Days at ARU Chelmsford. On Saturday 26th October Zoe will be running an eco-printing workshop and on Sunday 27th October Selena will be running an ink-making workshop. Read more
- FREE
- In partnership
- Manifesto For Essex
Manifesto For Essex Climate Action Youth Summit 2025
Aimed primarily at 13-25 year olds, this is your chance to engage in thought-provoking discussions, participate in interactive creative workshops and connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for climate action, culture, and nature. Read more
- FREE
- Workshop
- Young Essex
Celebrating Collecting Dreams, Shifting Futures
Join in the fun at the finale of Essex Book Festival and Kinetika's collaborative story-gathering project, Collecting Dreams, Shifting Futures: a community celebration of Harwich’s fascinating heritage and coastline. Lots of family-friendly activities including beach workshop, silk-flag procession, writing, film-making and eco-podcast workshops, and more... Read more
- Guided Walk
- FREE
- SOLD OUT!
- Young Essex
The Keeper of the Light – Beach of Dreams Silk-Flag Procession – SOLD OUT
A celebratory, community procession of beautiful Beach of Dreams silk penants taking in some of Harwich's key heritage sites including The High Lighthouse, Ha'penny Pier and Electric Palace Cinema Read more
- Discussion
- Exhibition
- FREE
- Partner Event
Tea and Talks – Drawing on Memories
Join Harlow Art Trust for tea and refreshments and meet the people behind the scenes of Drawing on Memories as they discuss and answer questions from you about the Drawing on Memories exhibition. Read more
- Exhibition
- FREE
Community – an exhibition
The photography students at Harlow College are proud to present their work, on the theme of ‘Community’. Throughout the work, they have discovered new insights into their home town and provided empowering representations of areas of Harlow for the viewing public, that offer unique and sensitive perspectives on the people, and culture of Essex. Read more
- For Writers
- FREE
- Partner Event
Weekly Community Writing Surgery
It is no secret that writing is the best thing for writing – but sometimes you need some advice, or just to feel part of a community of writers. With other experienced tutors, Dr Adrian May, Community Fellow and former Deputy Director of Creative Writing at Essex University will be there on call. Read more
- FREE
- SOLD OUT!
- Workshop
- Young Essex
Wildlife Detectives at The Wild Space, Maldon
Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to uncover the mystery of who is causing mayhem in this hidden wildlife sanctuary. Gather your family and test your detective skills as we delve into this intriguing escapade. All welcome. Read more
- For Writers
- FREE
- Partner Event
Weekly Community Writing Surgery
It is no secret that writing is the best thing for writing – but sometimes you need some advice, or just to feel part of a community of writers. With other experienced tutors, Dr Adrian May, Community Fellow and former Deputy Director of Creative Writing at Essex University will be there on call. Read more
- Discussion
- FREE
- Partner Event
Is Wellness the new Clubbing?
An evening of creative conversation exploring themes including the challenges facing the nighttime economy, the rise of sober and day time raves, and finding new forms of connection and community through wellness and fitness. Read more
- For Writers
- FREE
- Partner Event
Weekly Community Writing Surgery
It is no secret that writing is the best thing for writing – but sometimes you need some advice, or just to feel part of a community of writers. With other experienced tutors, Dr Adrian May, Community Fellow and former Deputy Director of Creative Writing at Essex University will be there on call. Read more
- For Writers
- FREE
- Partner Event
Writing Buddy Meet Up
Whether you're a published author, or a budding writer looking to kickstart your new hobby, come and join international bestselling author Lizzie Chantree & award winning author Chris Penhall for a morning of writing in this FREE writing buddy session at Fête Grays Yard, Chelmsford! Read more
- FREE
- Storytelling
- Young Essex
Storytelling and Family Fun at The Minories
Join us for some midsummer family magic in The Minories Garden. Take your seat for our Twinkle, Twinkle Storytelling Armchair featuring BBC Essex’s Rob Jelly and local children’s authors. Explore the fascinating stories of spices from around the world with writer, cook and storyteller Radhika Howarth. Get creative and messy in our very own Earth Kitchen. Learn how to weave your own star… Read more
- For Writers
- FREE
- Partner Event
Weekly Community Writing Surgery
It is no secret that writing is the best thing for writing – but sometimes you need some advice, or just to feel part of a community of writers. With other experienced tutors, Dr Adrian May, Community Fellow and former Deputy Director of Creative Writing at Essex University will be there on call. Read more
- Discussion
- Essex Writers House
- FREE
Creative/Critical Writing- Live Art Writers Network
All creatives welcome! This will be a gentle, participatory space for creatives with an interest in writing and performance, live art, poetry and all the weird and interesting spaces between. Read more
- FREE
Thurrock Local Authors Fair
Discover the rich wealth of local writing as Thurrock Libraries celebrates authors and poets from across the borough. Discuss writing, hear author stories, learn creative writing tips, and browse their books to buy and take home. Read more
- For Writers
- FREE
- Partner Event
- Workshop
Sundream: Monologue Writing Course – FREE
Want to learn how to write plays? This is the first of two workshops in Jaywick run by scriptwriter Molly Anne Sweeney, exploring how to craft a monologue for the stage inspired by your local surroundings - no experience is necessary. Read more
- FREE
- Poetry
- Spoken Word
Art:Up Poetry – Radical Islands
The Art:Up Continues! Join us on Thursday 13th November at Hot Box Chelmsford for live poetry performances and an open mic. New collaborative work to premier. The theme for this event is Radical Islands. Read more
- FREE
- Manifesto For Essex
Manifesto For Essex Eco-Gathering
An opportunity to hear about local eco-projects and how to get involved, participate in creative eco-workshops to learn new skills, and connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for climate action, culture, and community. Read more
- FREE
- Partner Event
- Stand Up for Diversity
Stand Up For Diversity Sudbury!
You are invited to an evening of three-minute mini-talks and short shout-outs, bringing together those who want to champion diversity in Sudbury. Make new connections, explore the transformative power of creativity, and collectively celebrate diverse voices involved in the arts and in our communities. Read more
- FREE
- Partner Event
- Stand Up for Diversity
Stand Up for Diversity Shoeburyness
Join us at the Cart & Wagon Shed to explore heritage, community and hospitality, and how those in the area are working to capture, celebrate and preserve stories around ‘people and place’ for future generations. Read more
- FREE
- Young Essex
Oi Chelmsford! Family Day at Museum of Chelmsford
This event is part of Oi Chelmsford! - a family day of author events and creative workshops at the Museum of Chelmsford set against the fabulous backdrop of the exhibition Oi Chelmsford! Kes Gray: Chelmsford Born and Read - a celebration of the work and life of Kes Gray. Read more
- FREE
- Memoir
- ONLY A FEW TICKETS LEFT!
A Celebration of Dave Monk
Join us as we celebrate the Essex life of ‘BBC legend’ and festival patron, Dave Monk, who sadly died last year. We will be sharing fond and funny memories, talking about his memoir, Whatever Happened to Dave Monk? and the contribution he made to Essex. Read more
- FREE
- Manifesto For Essex
- Partner Event
- SOLD OUT!
- Young Essex
Sketching & Story Adventure – SOLD OUT
Join us at The Wild Space, where nature reminds us that everyone is a storyteller. Families will search for natural treasures and transform their finds into imaginative characters. A joyful, creative session for all ages set in a hidden community Foraging Garden in Maldon. Read more
- Date changed
- FREE
- Partner Event
Thurrock Local Authors Fair – Date Changed to 20 June
**Date changed to 20 June** Discover the rich wealth of local writing as Thurrock Libraries celebrates authors and poets from across the borough. Discuss writing, discover author stories, learn creative writing tips, and browse their books to buy and take home. Read more
- FREE
- Young Essex
Midsummer Madness Family Fun
A day of other worldly storytelling and creative mayhem in the enchanted setting of The Minories, Colchester’s oldest art gallery and garden. Our Midsummer Madness Family Day is the perfect place to get crafty and messy with our delectable range of free hands-on drop-in workshops, and more. Read more
- FREE
- Young Essex
Behind the Scenes of Snowy Joy & The Toysavers
Following two sell-out runs at Colchester Arts Centre, this special event offers a unique opportunity to go behind the scenes of Snowy Joy & The Toysavers! and discover how the story journeyed from page to stage. Meet some of the cast and Q&A session with the author, director and choreographer. Plus screenings of highlights from the shows. Read more
- FREE
- Partner Event
Murder in Season – Book Launch
Rosie Sandler will be in conversation with Silver End Heritage Society secretary, Jackie Nesbitt. They will discuss Rosie's latest book, Murder in Season (new from Embla), set in a fictionalised version of Silver End garden village. Read more
- FREE
Thurrock Local Authors Fair
Discover the rich wealth of local writing as Thurrock Libraries celebrates authors and poets from across the borough. Discuss writing, discover author stories, learn creative writing tips, and browse their books to buy and take home. Read more
- Guided Walk
- Essex Writers House
- FREE
Walk and Explore Prittlewell Greenway with Lora Aziz
Join artist Lora Aziz exploring the Prittlewell Greenway through landscape, observation and language. How can we pull inspiration from the backstreet places and welcome in wonders we might pass every day? Read more
- FREE
The Human Library – Clacton
The Human Library is coming to Clacton! Just like in a real library, a visitor to the Human Library can borrow a book from a range of titles. The difference is that books are PEOPLE, and reading is a CONVERSATION. Come along, connect with people you wouldn’t normally meet, and celebrate positive differences in our communities. Read more
- Open Mic
- FREE
- Poetry
Art:Up! Homecoming Poetry Reading And Open Mic
The final instalment of the Art:Up! This collaborative poetry project has seen more than fifty poets get together and share new poetry since launching at the 2025 Essex Book Festival. Come along to the finale event and support diverse voices from around the county. Read more
- FREE
Stand Up For Diversity Clacton
An evening of mini-talks and short soap-box shout-outs bringing together people who want to champion and celebrate diversity in the arts and in our communities, share the work they do with others, and collectively celebrate strong diverse voices. All welcome. Read more
- Essex Writers House
- FREE
- In Conversation
Writing and the Power of Language: Camilla Balshaw, Emily Abdeni-Holman and Boakye D. Alpha
Join us for an evening with the National Centre for Writing’s Escalator Writers Emily Abdeni-Holman and Boakye D. Alpha, in conversation with award-winning author Camilla Balshaw about writing and the power of language, with discussion rooted in cultural histories, oppression and identity. Read more