A SERIES of celebratory events are to be held in Colchester to mark the first year Colchester being named a city.

Labelled The Year of Celebration, a programme of events will take place across Colchester city centre and its surrounding towns and villages, enabling residents, businesses and visitors to come together and celebrate Colchester’s city status.

The planned celebratory events include a blockbuster exhibition, Gladiators: A Day at the Roman Games at Colchester Castle, the Big Women exhibiton at Firstsite and a Colchester Siege Spectacular – an epic re-enactment of the Siege of Colchester.

There will also be in performances and live music as well as engaging outdoor events and seasonal celebrations.

The events have been planned and curated to ensure there is something for everyone to enjoy throughout the year.

Colchester Council leader David King said: “We’re working with organisations across the city to create a programme of events so everyone can celebrate Colchester’s first year as a modern city. 

 “Although we’re in tough financial times, many of the events taking place are free to attend like the Siege Spectacular. They will provide chance for us all to enjoy what Colchester can offer.

Pam Cox, ColchesterCouncil's portfolio holder for culture and heritage, said: “As Britain’s first city and now one of its newest cities, we are incredibly proud of Colchester.

"We want to unite our communities, businesses and visitors, to come together and celebrate this momentous year.   

 “We have world-class exhibitions in our museums and galleries planned, as well as incredible art, performance and live music. I’m sure we can make this a year to remember.” 

 Sam Good, manager of Our Colchester BID said: "It's great to see Colchester coming together to celebrate the new city status.

“The BID is in the process of organising some great events to align with the Year of Celebration including the return of the Colchester Garden Festival and other free events this summer.”

To discover the full programme of events taking place in Colchester, visit bit.ly/3RhXk00. Make sure to check back regularly, as events are added throughout the year.