Free Family Festival Returns to Cressing Temple Barns This July
A free festival for all the family is set to take place in July at the historic Cressing Temple Barns, offering a vibrant celebration of Essex's rich archaeological and heritage legacy. The Festival of Essex Archaeology and Heritage will be held on Thursday, July 23, building on the success of the previous year's event, which attracted over 1,000 visitors of all ages.
Exciting Activities and Exhibitions
Attendees can look forward to a diverse range of family-friendly activities, including museum exhibitions, archaeological organisations showcasing their work, re-enactment groups bringing history to life, and thrilling falconry displays. The event aims to make the county's past accessible and engaging through interactive experiences.
Expert Talks and Professional Insights
The festival will feature a programme of talks from leading archaeological and historic experts, designed to educate and inspire. Additionally, specialised talks for owners of listed buildings and heritage professionals will provide valuable insights into preservation and management of historical assets.
Council and Organiser Enthusiasm
Councillor Mark Durham, Cabinet Member for The Arts, Heritage and Culture, expressed his delight at the festival's return, stating: "We are pleased to bring back the highly popular Festival of Essex Archaeology and Heritage. Last year's event saw over 1,000 people of all ages visit the family-friendly festival, and we would encourage anyone interested in the county's archaeology to come along."
Tim Murphy, Place Services Historic Environment Manager, highlighted the event's growth ambitions: "Last year's festival exceeded our expectations with the number of visitors attending, but we want this year's event to be bigger and better. Within the county there are lots of fascinating historical assets which we want to celebrate and promote to the public as widely as possible. This festival is ideal for those who want to meet Essex's leading experts and those involved in discovering, preserving and presenting the best of the county's heritage."
Organised by Essex County Council, the festival serves as a key platform for promoting local heritage and fostering community engagement. With its blend of entertainment and education, it promises to be a highlight of the summer calendar for history enthusiasts and families alike.
