Amphora Events, part of Amphora Group and wholly owned by Colchester City Council, has delivered a significant economic boost to Colchester through the success of the 2026 Colchester Castle Summer Series, with businesses across the city reporting increased footfall, stronger trading and a vibrant atmosphere throughout the concert programme.
Thousands of music fans travelled to Colchester this summer to attend a series of sold-out performances in the historic grounds of Colchester Castle, generating increased activity across retail, hospitality, transport and tourism sectors.
Following last year's independent economic impact report, which revealed Amphora Events generated almost £24 million for the local economy annually and £6.5 million through the Castle Summer Series alone, early feedback from businesses across the city suggests the 2026 programme has once again delivered substantial benefits for Colchester's visitor economy.
Many businesses, including Chappell's, The George and Millets, reported trading levels comparable to the busy Christmas period, with concertgoers spending time and money across the city before and after performances. Millets even sold out of raincoats by 10am ahead of the final two concerts, highlighting the strength of visitor demand and footfall generated by the event.
Businesses feel the benefit
Independent retailer Claydons praised the positive impact the events had on the city centre.
Independent retailer Claydons praised the positive impact the events had on the city centre.
A spokesperson said: "The boost from the Summer Series really helped us this year and I'm sure many other businesses felt the same, particularly independents. The town was buzzing, which was really lovely to see."
Department store Fenwick Colchester also recorded increased activity throughout the event period, with store footfall rising by approximately five per cent and particularly strong visitor numbers on concert days.
Mark Turner, Store Director at Fenwick Colchester, said: "The Summer Series continues to be a brilliant showcase for Colchester, bringing people together and creating a vibrant atmosphere across the city centre. It's fantastic to see the positive impact these events have on local businesses and the wider community, and we're proud to have played our part through our MyFenwick Loyalty Programme and VIP Lounge sponsorship.
“We look forward to seeing the event continue to grow and attract even more visitors to Colchester in the years ahead."
Department store Fenwick Colchester also recorded increased activity throughout the event period, with store footfall significantly rising and particularly strong visitor numbers on concert days.
More than music
Beyond the direct economic impact, the Summer Series once again transformed the city centre into a vibrant destination, attracting visitors from across Essex and beyond while showcasing Colchester as a leading cultural and events destination.
Beyond the direct economic impact, the Summer Series once again transformed the city centre into a vibrant destination, attracting visitors from across Essex and beyond while showcasing Colchester as a leading cultural and events destination.
The programme featured performances from internationally recognised artists including Billy Ocean, Becky Hill, Hollywood Vampires, Bastille, Richard Ashcroft and Fatboy Slim, drawing audiences of all ages and helping to strengthen Colchester's reputation as one of the East of England's premier locations for live outdoor entertainment.
The success of the series demonstrates how major cultural events can support local businesses, drive visitor spending and create a positive sense of pride within the community.
Cllr Dundas, Leader of Colchester City Council, said: "The Colchester Castle Summer Series is a fantastic example of how major events support our local economy, bringing thousands of visitors into the city centre and delivering real benefits for businesses It is one of many large-scale events held in Colchester throughout the year that help drive this footfall, boost to spending and reinforce the city's reputation as a vibrant and thriving destination."
James Young, Operations Manager of Amphora Events, said: "Colchester is proud if its history and cultural offering. The Summer Series compliments the programme of entertainment provided by venues across the year. Working alongside The Mercury, Firstsite, Charter Hall and Colchester Arts Centre, the Summer Series brings something different to the city every August. An opportunity to see internationally known artists in the beautiful setting of Castle Park, encouraging people to visit or extend their stays in Colchester benefiting the local economy."
Looking Ahead to 2027
Following another successful year, Amphora Events has already confirmed that the Colchester Castle Summer Series will return to Castle Park in 2027.
Following another successful year, Amphora Events has already confirmed that the Colchester Castle Summer Series will return to Castle Park in 2027.
The first headline acts have already been announced, with Simply Red and Ronan Keating & BLUE set to take to the stage next summer, promising another exciting programme of world-class entertainment in the heart of the city.
Cllr Venessa Moffat, Interim Chairperson of Amphora Group, said: "It's incredibly encouraging to hear first-hand from local businesses about the positive difference the Summer Series has made to trading across the city.
"These events are about so much more than the performances on stage. They bring visitors into Colchester, support local businesses, create memorable experiences and help showcase everything our city has to offer.
"The feedback we've received demonstrates the value of investing in major events that deliver both cultural and economic benefits, and we're excited to build on this success as we look ahead to Summer Series 2027."
Pre-sale access registration for the announced Summer Series 2027 headline acts is now live: