Shake off the festive fog with some of these events in Essex to welcome in the new year
Life With Art
Until 18 April
Firstsite, Colchester
Lucian Freud, Maggi Hambling, John Nash… Just a few of the artists associated with the East Anglian School of Painting and Drawing established in 1940 by Cedric Morris and his partner Arthur Lett-Haines in their home, Benton End (left). An exhibition at Art Fund Museum of the Year winner, Firstsite, will showcase for the first time the network of artists and cultural figures with links to the art school.
Wedding Fair
16 January
The Lawn, Rochford
This wedding fair at The Lawn in Rochford offers a wonderful opportunity to meet leading exhibitors from the local area and beyond, and to discuss your wedding plans and ideas in a relaxed, informal atmosphere. All your questions will be answered, with refreshments on offer along with a warm welcome.
John Bishop
29-30 January
Charter Hall, Colchester
Comedy superstar John Bishop is heading to Colchester Charter Hall with his highly anticipated brand-new stand up show – Right Here, Right Now. This will be Bishop’s eighth stand up show and it is shaping up to be his best yet. It will see him performing across the UK, Ireland, America, Canada and Europe.
All Things Alpaca
Ongoing
Lathcoats Farm, Chelmsford
At All Things Alpaca, visitors are able to trek around the stunning orchards at Lathcoats Farm and spend time with their seven beautiful alpacas. Trekking with the boys, visitors have the chance to learn all about the alpaca and its history, whilst getting to know their alpaca and of course get lots of pictures. This is the perfect day out for all the family when welcoming in a new year.
Nuclear High Ropes
Ongoing
Kelvedon Hatch, Brentwood
One for the daredevils… The biggest highropes course in Essex has three levels, six different courses, 60+ elements, giant zipline and big drop all situated in the treetops. New facilities include a large registration cabin with harness room, induction zone and new course modifications.