A SHOPPING centre will host live DJs and firebreathers at an impressive drinks lounge to be launched this summer.

Opening tomorrow, Lion Walk Shopping Centre’s newly installed Vacay Bar will welcome shoppers and passers-by alike to the vibrant event.

It follows hugely successful pop-up experiences held at the same site over past summers, including a charming winter garden in December last year.

The opening weekend promises a festival style lineup of free events in the vacation themed bar and lounge.

Gazette: Chill out - the new summer venueChill out - the new summer venue

Visitors are invited to “chill out and sip cocktails” while firebreathers and entertainers delight the onlooking audience.

Fringe festival artists, live DJs and singers are also set to perform until late this weekend as Vacay Bar kicks off with a bang.

Lion Walk marketing director Joseph Smerdon invited all residents to get down and mark the opening tomorrow, with the courtyard open all day and evening events commencing from 7pm.

He said: “We have a diverse range of talent appearing throughout our stay, from live music to live comedy, as well as some special guests from the Colchester and Edinburgh fringe festivals.

Gazette: Events - the lineupEvents - the lineup

“Come and join us for a cold drink or enjoy wood-fired pizza in our vibrant chill-out lounge.”

On Saturday night, jugglers and stilt walkers will perform alongside the fire breathing show as part of the street entertainment on offer.

DJs will perform on both Friday and Saturday night from 7pm to 11pm, while Sunday and Monday promise “chilled and relaxed vacay vibes”.

And on Monday an exclusive comedy performance will be delivered to the crowd.

Gazette: Relaunched - Lion Walk's courtyardRelaunched - Lion Walk's courtyard

Lion Walk events manager Nicholas Flemming added: “It’s a pleasure to launch a stunning array of events in the heart of Colchester city centre.

“The vacay theme is the best yet, join us all day for events, food and cocktails - and evenings packed with live music, DJs, and artists.

This Friday and Saturday will see the official launch with a magical fire breathing show Saturday evening. Grab yourself a pizza and drink and enjoy the vacay summer vibes.”