Colchester's Free Eco Festival announces return in September

The city’s second Free Eco Festival will take place in Lower Castle Park as volunteers gear up to deliver another day of entertainment.

More than 90 stalls from environment groups, projects and individuals will be on hand selling a wide range of repurposed, upcycled or eco-friendly products at the event on September 3.

Andrew Wilkinson, of Colchester-based charity en-form, said the 3,500 visitors at last year’s event were a welcome surprise.

“If they all made just one change to their lifestyle after the festival that is 3,500 actions to improve the environment,” he said.

Fun - 3,500 people attended last year's festival

“Hopefully they will pick up a few more tips on the day making their impact even bigger.’’

The festival, which will run from 11am to 6pm, will include a children’s tent boasting a range of free activities and performances throughout the day.

The electric vehicle car show, e-bike and e-scooter trials and the health and wellbeing area will be available for visitors to enjoy, as well as a new babies and toddlers workshop.

Music and dance acts will also perform on the stage while a range of vegan and vegetarian food and drinks stalls will be on offer, as well as the opportunity to revamp wardrobes at the frock swap.

Malcolm Laquis-Alden, the festival’s project manager, said “We are living in a climate emergency, a fact we are all well aware of after this year’s environmental problems.

“It’s a big ask, but we all need to change. The way we eat, the way we shop, what we buy, how we use water, how we use energy and how we travel.

“It’s the everyday changes in how we consume products and services that can have a positive social impact on our community and the planet.

“Come along and see what’s on offer. You can even try out some e-bikes and e-scooters.“

Entry is free on the day but you can see more information or reserve tickets in advance via bit.ly/3PSyW2A.