What’s On
Click on our events listing link to discover that there’s always something going on throughout the year within and around the Epping Forest District, with activities and events to satisfy all ages and tastes. Children and families are particularly catered for with lots to do around the school holidays and festivals such as Easter and Christmas. Talking of festivals, did you know that Waltham Abbey styles itself a festival town? From regular film shows to real ale festivals, the small historic town centre and Abbey Gardens are popular destinations for locals and visitors alike. A visit to the Epping Forest District Museum in Waltham Abbey is a must and it holds exhibitions and events throughout the year.
Live music is alive and well and performed at a number of pubs and venues across the district. Waltham Abbey Church is connected with Thomas Tallis who was choir master there, so it’s no surprise that his music is performed in its spiritual home. Continuing in a classical vein, Copped Hall is host to concerts and carols again performed against a suitable backdrop. With the National Jazz Archive based in Loughton, it’s fitting that jazz can be heard across the district including performances in Loughton arranged by the archive team. Local bands can be heard at the Speak Easy Bar in Epping and the Woodbine Pub in Waltham Abbey has regular bands playing.
Epping Forest District has a number of markets with histories stretching back as far as the Saxon period. Today markets of various sizes can be found in Epping, Waltham Abbey, Debden and Ongar. In addition there are farmers markets and a large open-air market on Saturdays and Bank Holiday Mondays at North Weald Airfield.
Two popular destinations for visitors are Epping Forest and Lee Valley Park and both run events and activities throughout the year. Their websites have comprehensive listing of what’s available.
During the summer, many of the towns and villages hold shows and fetes. Some of these have become very popular and attract visitors from miles around. Two shows that have a lot of local hard work put into them are put on by the villages of Toot Hill and Abridge and are well work looking out for, as are the others across the district. Local crafts and produce are available along with displays and performances in the arena and classic vehicle owners are always on hand to fill a field with their pride and joy. It’s a great way to get a taste for the area or get to know your neighbours.
For more information visit the various websites and keep an eye on the events section on this site.
