Dive into Leisure World’s Festival of Fun – booking now open

Leisure World's Festival of Fun is back for its fifth year, and it is going to be amazing!

A group of children wearing boxing gloves practise punches on pads in a gym.


Families looking for the ultimate summer weekend need look no further. Leisure World's Festival of Fun is back for its fifth year, and it is going to be amazing!

On Saturday 4 July and Sunday 5 July, Colchester Sports Park and Leisure World Colchester will host a massive, entirely free two-day family event packed with sports, games, arts, and entertainment. Designed for all ages and abilities, Festival of Fun is split into two distinct daily themes, ensuring there is something for everyone. While entry to the festival is completely free, select sessions require advanced booking. 

Saturday 4 July – Colchester Sports Park

The action kicks off with a focus on movement, energy, and trying new things. Highlights include:

  • Sports & Games: Bookable Simmply Active Sports football, dodgeball, and tennis sessions.
  • Wheels & Thrills: An Extreme Battle Bike experience, alongside open access to the Free Cycle Track and Pump Track. Don't miss the Dry Skate Project!
  • Family Favourites: A massive Gaming Bus, Inflatable Fun, Soft Play, and Bounce zones.
  • Creative Corner: Face painting, arts and crafts, and bookable Box Art and sports item painting sessions.

Sunday 5 July – Leisure World Colchester

The excitement continues day two with a focus on community, magic, and specialised sensory activities, alongside free Leisure Pool access:

  • Make a Splash: Enjoy free access to the Leisure Pool Swim or watch the Water Polo competition as a spectator.
  • Entertainment & Wonders: Jaw-dropping performances from James Magic, the popular Gaming Bus, and Inflatable Fun.
  • Roll into the Community: Hosted by the Rollerworld Foundation, families can enjoy a pre-booked Relax Skate Session or take part in a Roller World Community Taster Session.
  • Accessible & SEN-Friendly Creativity: Specialised Special Educational Needs (SEN) Box Art, sports item painting, and general item painting sessions designed to be inclusive for all children.
  • Crafts: Ongoing face painting and arts and crafts throughout the day.

Cllr Martin Goss, Portfolio Holder for Waste, Neighbourhoods and Leisure, said: “We’re excited to welcome back the Festival of Fun at Leisure World and Colchester Sports Park. We wanted to create a weekend that breaks down barriers to play and fitness. By providing a wide variety of fully accessible, free sessions that cater to all ages and abilities, we are making sure everyone in our community has a place to connect and enjoy themselves this summer."

Spaces are limited and fill up fast, so secure your spot today here: Festival of Fun - Leisure World.  (Please note: Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times during the event and during any booked sessions.)