Following the exciting announcement that Sugababes will be performing in Central Park in August, now feels like the perfect time to take a look at the bumper list of events Chelmsford is hosting this summer! Read on to find some dates to add to your diary…

For music lovers

Chelmsford is set to be a hotspot for live music this summer, with a packed programme of concerts and DJ events catering to all musical tastes.

The Chelmsford Summer Series will see big name artists such as the Sugababes, Mel C, McFly and Craig David perform in Central Park over the August bank holiday weekend. A new festival, State Fayre has Kings of Leon, Alanis Morissette and The Lumineers taking the headliner spots at Hylands in June.  

As the summer continues, there’s even more to enjoy, including Fake Festival, Ibiza Orchestra, and Country Calling Festival at Kings Farm to name just a few.

For foodies

There are plenty of mouthwatering events popping up around Chelmsford this summer.

June brings the Sweet Treat Food Festival to Chelmsford High Street, offering a fresh twist on traditional food festivals with a confectionery-only focus packed full of tempting treats.

In July, the Chelmsford Vegan Market returns to Bond Street with a wide range of plant-based street food, drinks and artisan stalls. Beer lovers can also look forward to the Chelmsford Beer and Cider Festival, which will transform Admiral’s Park into the city’s largest beer garden.

If that still leaves you hungry for more, Central Park will host both the Sausage and Cider Festival and another Street Eats ’n’ Beats Festival, rounding off a packed calendar of food and drink events in the city.

For families

Little ones – and adults too – have plenty to look forward to, with several family‑friendly events coming up.

In June, Adventure Cinema rolls into Hylands Park, bringing big‑screen movie magic to the outdoors. Marsh Farm’s Toddler Festival returns for the first three weekends in July with exciting new attractions, including a carousel and upside‑down house.

Also in July, Chelmsford Market’s Family Fun Day takes over Market Square, featuring soft play and plenty of free activities, and KidzFair will hit the High Street, offering entrepreneurial youngsters the opportunity to turn their idea into a real business. Plus, don’t miss out on DOSE Fest in Broomfield – a one‑day wellbeing festival designed to help people reconnect with joy, community and what makes them feel most alive.

For the curious

Curious minds will be well catered for this summer, with a range of festivals celebrating books, science, art, volunteering and local heritage.

The Essex Book Festival is in full swing until 28 June, welcoming a host of acclaimed authors to Chelmsford for talks and literary events. Concrete Canvas arrives in May, transforming the city into an open‑air gallery bursting with colour, creativity and inspiration. There’s plenty more to look forward to too, with the Chelmsford Science Festival, Heritage Open Days and VolFest 2026 all coming up later in the year.

For outdoor explorers

Gardening fans are in for a treat this summer, with Flower Shows at Hylands House and Hyde Hall celebrating all things horticultural. Visitors can enjoy beautiful gardens, pick up expert gardening tips and take home new plants to brighten their own outdoor spaces. And for those whose lives revolve around a four‑legged friend, All About Dogs returns to Hylands Park in May for a pawsome day out.

For sports fanatics

Chelmsford will welcome the Women’s International T20 cricket match on Thursday 28 May, with England Women taking on India Women at the Ambassador Cruise Line Ground. Ahead of the sold out game, a community event at Tindal Square will feature cricket themed activities, live performances and pop ups from local sports clubs. 

As the summer comes to a close, Chelmsford Marathon and Half Marathon returns in October, to raise money for Little Havens Children’s Hospice.