CULTURAL events and activities in Colchester have been chosen to receive council funding.
Colchester Council has revealed the successful recipients of its Cultural and Creative Events Fund for 2026, which will support a programme of events across the city and district.
A total of £30,000 has been awarded to 25 projects, all set to take place between May 1, 2026 and April 30, 2027.
Projects receiving funding include music, performance, visual arts, comedy, pop culture, festivals and community-led celebrations.
Lee Scordis, councillor responsible for culture, heritage and environment, said: "We are delighted to support such a wide and inspiring range of cultural and creative projects this year.
"The response to the fund shows just how much talent and passion exists across Colchester.
"These events will bring people together, animate our public spaces, and continue to build Colchester’s reputation as a place where culture and creativity can thrive."
The fund, delivered in partnership with Colchester Amphora Events, aims to promote high-quality cultural experiences, champion talent and celebrate the city’s history and diversity.
This year, the fund attracted more than 50 applications from arts organisations, venues, charities, community groups and individuals, with final selections made by a panel chaired by Mr Scordis.
The range of funded events will include city-wide festivals and open-air performances, as well as smaller neighbourhood-based activities.
Events will take place across a variety of locations, from historic sites and parks to community venues and the city centre itself.
The goal of the fund is to keep culture accessible and inclusive for people of all ages and backgrounds.
Among the successful applicants is pop-culture event Invasion Colchester.
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Kerrie Williams, organiser of Invasion Colchester and owner of Ace Comics, said: "Support from the Cultural and Creative Events Fund makes a huge difference to events like Invasion Colchester.
"It helps us bring people together, celebrate creativity and put Colchester on the map in a really positive way.
"We’re incredibly grateful for the backing and excited to deliver another event that the whole community can enjoy."
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