The county of Essex is home to a rich history, beautiful scenery, and a vibrant cultural scene. In 2024, you can expect a number of exciting events in Essex that will appeal to visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re coming down for a weekend staycation or a family day trip, there’s bound to be an event in Essex perfect for you! Here's a glimpse of some of the big events that you can look forward to:

27 April - 31 August 2024: Harlow Cricket Club 250th Anniversary

This event in Essex is for the cricket enthusiasts! Celebrate 250 years of Harlow Cricket Club with this special exhibition at the Harlow Museum & Walled Gardens. Delve into the history of the oldest organisation in the Essex town through photographs, artefacts, and archives, and enjoy a variety of events throughout the year.

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17 - 19 May 2024: National Flower Show

The National Flower Show returns to Hylands House & Estate in Chelmsford this 2024, promising a stunning display of flowers, plants, and more. Explore the spectacular grounds, enjoy live music, and take a stroll through the themed gardens. This is the perfect day out for any garden lover – and you can bring along your four-legged friends too!

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24 - 26 May 2024: Ford Ride London-Essex

Get your helmets at the ready! This three-day cycling festival will take you on a scenic ride through Essex, with routes for all levels of ability. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, there's something for everyone. You can check out more of Essex’s cycling routes here.

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2 June 2024: Maldon Mud Race

Get ready to get messy at the Maldon Mud Race! This unique event challenges participants to run 200 meters across the famous muddy bed of the river Blackwater to the other side of the river at Heybridge, before heading back to Maldon’s Promenade Park. The event supports a number of amazing local charities. Fancy dress is encouraged, so grab your best costume and prepare for some fun!

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21 June - 14 July 2024: Thaxted Festival

Celebrate the 150th anniversary of the birth of Gustav Holst with this special festival in Thaxted Parish Church. Enjoy performances by renowned professional artists, from chamber music to jazz and organ recitals. Holst founded the Thaxted Festival back in 1916, and it remains a popular event with visitors from across the world to this day.

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13 July 2024: Dunmow Flitch Trials

This wacky tradition is one of the greatest events in Essex. Every four years, couples from around the world gather in Dunmow to compete for a flitch of bacon. The winning couple must prove that they have been happily married for a year and a day. This tradition dates back to at least the 14th century but today, visitors can watch proceedings by purchasing timed tickets for this entertaining cross-examination of couples in the “dock”. The winning couple will be awarded with their flitch of bacon, paraded through the streets, and then kneel in the marketplace where they will swear the Flitch Oath! Basically, an crazy version of Mr & Mrs…

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22 - 23 August 2024: Clacton Airshow

The Clacton Airshow is back for its 31st year, promising thrilling aerobatics, historic aircraft, and spectacular twilight displays. Take in the breath taking airshow display, browse the various stallholders and enjoy food and entertainment along the seafront.

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11 - 13 October 2024: Harwich International Shanty Festival

Harwich will come alive with the sound of shanties at the International Shanty Festival. Join in the singing, listen to musicians along the quay, or take a barge trip with on-board entertainment. There are also shanty trains, pirates, street theatre, and historical re-enactments to enjoy.

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26 October 2024: Essex Day

Celebrate Essex Day and honour the county's patron saint, St Cedd. Enjoy events and activities across Essex, from beautiful countryside walks to peaceful seaside towns and historical attractions.

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2 November 2024: Harwich Sausage Festival

Join in the fun at the Harwich Sausage Festival, taking place across three inns in Harwich, where sausage throwing competitions and a sausage tasting will take place. Sample the wares of the finest butchers in Tendring Hundred and vote for your favourite banger. It's all washed down with real ales and ciders - free of charge to join in and coincides with #UKSausageWeek!

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Essex has something for everyone, so whether you're a history buff, a music lover, a nature enthusiast, or just looking for a fun day out, there's sure to be an event in 2024 that you'll enjoy. So, start planning your visit and be sure to check out our What's On page for more events taking place in Essex!