The fourth annual Festival of Fun, held on 5 and 6 July at Colchester Sports Park and Colchester Leisure World, wrapped up with great success – delivering a vibrant weekend of free family activities. The event generated an impressive £588,963.48 in social value.
This year also marked the first time Colchester hosted the Big Tennis Weekend – part of the national Barclays Big Tennis Weekend campaign, promoted by the LTA. The initiative invites people of all ages and abilities to enjoy free tennis sessions, with the goal of getting thousands active on local courts across Britain. Its debut in Colchester was met with enthusiastic participation, introducing tennis to new players and reinforcing the city's commitment to accessible sport.
From thrilling stunt performances by the Extreme Bike Battle Show to high-energy Bounce fitness classes, the weekend was packed with engaging activities designed to inspire, entertain, and promote health and wellbeing. Families also enjoyed free swimming sessions and assessments, water polo demos, arcade games, skateboarding, a gaming bus, and of course, ice cream vans on both days.
Cllr Martin Goss, Portfolio Holder for Waste, Neighbourhoods and Leisure at Colchester City Council, said: “We’re thrilled with the success of this year’s Festival of Fun. It’s a brilliant celebration of community spirit and wellbeing, offering something for everyone – completely free of charge. The incredible turnout and the impressive social value generated show just how important events like this are for our city.”
The Festival of Fun and Big Tennis Weekend both reflect Leisure World’s commitment to improving health and wellbeing across Colchester – supporting the city’s wider goal of encouraging active lifestyles and building a stronger, healthier community for all.
Page last reviewed: 8 July 2025