SHOP. EAT. DRINK. BE ENTERTAINED. SUMMER 2025.
Welcome to The Courtyard at Lion Walk - a summer-long celebration of community, culture, and live entertainment in the heart of Colchester. Whether you’re here to shop, dine, or simply unwind, our beautiful open-air space offers something for everyone, every day, and world class entertainment every weekend.
From Open Mic Thursdays (bring your talent or just enjoy the show!) and Acoustic Fridays showcasing the area’s best musical talent, to the lively Popina en Fiesta Saturdays with Mediterranean vibes, and our much-loved Soul Sundays, there’s always a reason to visit.
Look out for special events below - most are completely free, with a handful of exclusive ticketed nights for a curated experience. We encourage you to bring friends and family, explore the delicious food and drinks, and make the most of Colchesters best shopping spot with relaxed, feel-good entertainment. We can’t wait to welcome you!
ALL EVENT LISTINGS
Every Thursday - Open Mic
Start your summer weekends in Lion Walk early with our Open Mic Thursdays at The Courtyard in Lion Walk, Colchester! Every Thursday, join us for a relaxed evening of live music, laughter, and good vibes under the open sky.
Whether you’re ready to perform or just want to listen, everyone’s invited. Don’t have your own instrument? No worries—our free house guitar is ready for you to strum. Enjoy the flavours of authentic Greek food, sip on your favourite drinks, and soak up the Mediterranean-inspired atmosphere.
Perfect for friends, families, or solo adventurers looking to unwind and connect with Colchester’s creative community. All ages and abilities are welcome, and as always—entry is completely free!
OPEN ALL DAY - FREE EVENT - 5PM TO 9PM
EVERY THURSDAY THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER
Every Friday - Acoustic Fridays
Start your weekend with the soothing sounds of Acoustic Fridays at The Courtyard, Lion Walk. Friday from 7pm to 10pm, discover Colchester’s finest musical talent in a laid-back, open-air setting.
From heartfelt originals to your favourite covers, our line-up of live acoustic acts promises the perfect soundtrack for a relaxed evening with friends and family. Pair the music with delicious Greek food and refreshing drinks from Popina, and unwind as the sun sets over Colchester.
It’s the ideal way to escape the week, support local artists, and enjoy the unique summer vibes of The Courtyard. Entry is always free—just bring your love for great music and good times!
OPEN ALL DAY - FREE EVENT - 7PM TO 10PM
EVERY FRIDAY THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER
Every Saturday - Fiesta En Popina
Saturday nights at The Courtyard just got hotter with Fiesta en Popina! From 5pm to 11pm, dive into a colourful mix of Mediterranean and Balearic vibes, where the soundtrack is as vibrant as the setting.
Resident DJ Jaded Soul takes you on a journey through nu-disco, house, soul, and even old-school garage—spinning fresh sounds alongside classic anthems. Enjoy cocktails, Greek-inspired eats, and a sunset party atmosphere in the heart of Colchester.
Whether you’re here to dance, chill with friends, or soak up the festival spirit, it’s your perfect Saturday escape. Free entry, everybody is welcome— let’s make every weekend a true celebration at The Courtyard with Fiesta en Popina!
OPEN ALL DAY - FREE EVENT - 5PM TO 11PM
EVERY SATURDAY THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER
Every Sunday - Soul Sundays
Ease into your Sunday with Soul Sundays at The Courtyard, Lion Walk! Every week from 2pm to 5pm, unwind with smooth soul, funk, and laid-back grooves in our relaxed outdoor setting.
Enjoy the very best of Colchester’s soulful sounds—perfect for a lazy afternoon with friends or family. Treat yourself to delicious Greek food, sip on refreshing drinks, and soak up the sunshine and mellow vibes.
Whether you’re a soul music lover or simply want to savour those easy summer moments, Soul Sundays deliver the ultimate chill-out experience. Entry is always free, everyone is welcome, and all you need to bring is your best Sunday mood. Make it your new weekend ritual at The Courtyard!
EVERY SUNDAY - OPEN ALL DAY - FREE EVENT
EVERY SUNDAY THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER
Saturday 19th July - Secret Island Pre-Party
Get festival-ready with Secret Island Mojams: Festival Warm-Up Party at Popina, The Courtyard on Saturday 28th June! Starting at 8 pm, we’re bringing Mersea Island’s iconic groove to Colchester, featuring house, garage, techno—and more—from the festival’s own DJ collective.
Immerse yourself in a vibrant, pre-festival atmosphere with top-tier beats, colourful cocktails, and delicious Greek street food. It’s your chance to warm up those dancing shoes before heading to Mersea’s main event in August .
Entry’s free, the music’s electric, and the vibes are pure summer magic. Bring your crew, book a table, and kick off festival season with a night to remember—only at Lion Walk Courtyard!
OPEN ALL DAY - FREE EVENT - 5PM TO 11PM
Friday 25th July - Mamma Mia!
Step into a Greek island dream at Mamma Mia! on Friday 25th July at The Courtyard, Lion Walk. Get ready for an unforgettable night of live ABBA music—sing along to all your favourite hits under the stars and soak up the magic of summer.
Indulge in a feast of authentic Greek cuisine from The Greeks Kitchen, with cocktails flowing and smiles all around. Whether you’re a Dancing Queen or just here for the good vibes, this ticketed event promises music, food, and memories to last a lifetime.
Tickets are £25 per person and selling fast—don’t miss your chance to be part of Colchester’s most joyful party! Book now and let’s say, “Here we go again!”
OPEN ALL DAY - FREE EVENT - 7PM TO 11PM
Sunday 27th July - Irie J: Soul Sundays
Get ready for an unforgettable afternoon of live soul at The Courtyard! On Sunday 27th July, from 3pm to 6pm, join us for Soul Sundays with Irie J, one of the region’s most dynamic and charismatic vocalists.
Let Irie J’s powerhouse voice and infectious energy lift your spirits as he brings classic soul, Motown, and modern grooves to life, all in our relaxed outdoor setting. Gather your friends and family, savour delicious Greek dishes and cocktails, and soak up the laid-back summer vibes.
This is the perfect way to finish your weekend on a high note. Entry is free—just bring your love for great music and good times. Don’t miss this special Soul Sunday!
OPEN ALL DAY - FREE EVENT - 3PM TO 6PM
Friday 1st August - Big Summer Bash
Expect a night packed with dazzling drag, live singers, awesome DJs, cocktails, dancing, and pure summer joy—all for just £10.
This is an inclusive, diverse event created to uplift and unite, championing self-expression and togetherness in a safe, supportive space.
Whether you’re here to dance, cheer, sing along, or simply soak up the festival atmosphere, everyone is welcome. Grab your tickets, bring your friends, and join the party that celebrates love, diversity, and community—only at Lion Walk Courtyard!
OPEN ALL DAY - TICKETED EVENT - 7PM TO 11PM
Friday 8th August - Coyote Ugly
addle up for a wild night of country and western fun at Coyote Ugly on Friday 8th August at The Courtyard, Lion Walk! Enjoy an unforgettable evening packed with live country music, including a showstopping set from local favourite Sarah Louise and performances from top country singers and bands.
Get ready for high-energy Coyote Ugly dancers and test your skills on the rodeo bull bucking bronco! With cold drinks, delicious food, and the electric energy of a Nashville honky-tonk, it’s the perfect summer party for music lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
Tickets are just £8 per person—grab yours now and get ready to kick up your heels, sing along, and dance the night away!
OPEN ALL DAY - TICKETED EVENT - 6PM TO 11PM
Saturday 9th August - Full Moon Party
Get ready for Colchester’s very own Full Moon Party at The Courtyard, Lion Walk! On Saturday 9th August, from 5pm to 11pm, we’re transforming the space into a vibrant Thai-inspired beach party, just like the legendary nights on Koh Phangan.
Dance under a glowing neon moon with our DJs spinning uplifting house and nu-disco, enjoy exotic cocktails, street food specials, and tropical décor. Expect lanterns, UV face paint, and non-stop summer energy—all for free entry!
Whether you’re a party animal or just want to soak up the atmosphere, gather your friends for a night of unforgettable fun. Dress bold, bring your festival spirit, and let’s make it a Full Moon to remember at The Courtyard!
OPEN ALL DAY - FREE EVENT - 5PM TO 11PM
Sunday 10th & 17th August - Colchester Has Talent - Auditions
Colchester Has Talent is back and bigger than ever! Join us on Sunday 10th & 17th August from 2pm to 5pm at The Courtyard, for Heat One, as Colchester’s most talented young performers light up the stage.
Expect singers, dancers, musicians, magicians and more, all competing for a spot in the spectacular Grand Final. Cheer on your favourites, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, and support Colchester’s next generation of stars! Entry is free for friends, family, and all supporters.
The winner will perform at the city’s famous Christmas Light Switch-On. Don’t miss your chance to witness the future of local talent—let’s celebrate our young stars together!
OPEN ALL DAY - FREE EVENT - 2PM TO 5PM
Bank Holiday Sunday 24th August - Darryl Wright & Friends
Celebrate summer in true style with Darryl Wright & Friends at The Courtyard, Lion Walk on Sunday 24th August! This epic birthday bash brings the ultimate Hed Kandi style beach house vibes to Colchester, with Darryl Wright on the decks and the area’s best local talent joining on saxophone, percussion, and vocals.
Expect uplifting house grooves, infectious rhythms, and a soundtrack perfect for sunset dancing and golden-hour cocktails. Gather your friends, soak up the festival atmosphere, and enjoy a night of sun-kissed celebration under the stars.
With stunning live performances and a vibrant crowd, it’s set to be one of the summer’s hottest parties. Free entry—just bring your best beach party spirit and join us for an unforgettable night!
EVERY SUNDAY - OPEN ALL DAY - FREE EVENT
Friday 29th August - Soul'd Out
Get ready to hit the dance floor as local legends Soul’d Out Live return to The Courtyard at Lion Walk on Thursday 29th August! With 20 years of party-starting experience, this iconic band is back to bring you an unforgettable night of live funk, soul, and disco classics.
From their infectious energy to their crowd-pleasing anthems, Soul’d Out know exactly how to keep the party going. Gather your friends, grab a cocktail from Popina, and enjoy the feel-good vibes as Colchester’s favourite party band lights up the night.
Entry is free and everyone’s welcome—don’t miss your chance to celebrate with the best in the business at The Courtyard’s last weekend of August!
OPEN ALL DAY - FREE EVENT - 6PM TO 11PM
Sunday 31st August - Soul Sundays: Soul Man
See out the August summer holidays in true Soul Sunday style with The Soul Man at The Courtyard, Lion Walk! On Sunday 31st August, from 2pm to 5pm, let those smooth vocals and timeless soul classics set the perfect vibe for a relaxing afternoon.
Whether you’re winding down after a busy summer or looking for one last sunny celebration, join us for uplifting tunes, great company, and a laid-back courtyard atmosphere.
Enjoy delicious food from Popina, sip a cocktail, and soak up the final sunshine of the summer holiday season. Entry is free—just bring your best smile and your Sunday soul. There’s no better way to wrap up August summer holidays than with The Soul Man serenading you at The Courtyard!
OPEN ALL DAY - TICKETED EVENT - 6PM TO 11PM
Saturday 6th & 7th September - Invasion Colchester & ALB Festival Takeover
Get ready for a legendary takeover as Invasion Colchester meets ALB Festival at The Courtyard, Lion Walk! On Saturday 7th September, join us for an epic charity spectacle—featuring costumed characters, live music, creative performances, and festival vibes galore.
This unique event brings together the joy of Invasion Colchester (star‑wars & superhero favourites roaming the venue) and the family-friendly festival spirit of ALB Festival, with ALL proceeds from Lion Walk fundraising initiatives going to the Invasion Colchester collection.
We promise dazzling characters, immersive themed areas, city‑best creators and entertainers, and a full day of fundraising fun. Whether you're cheering on heroes or jamming to local bands, every ticket, raffle, and sip you take supports St Helena Hospice, Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity, and MIND.
Friday 12th September - Mamma Mia Finale
The curtain comes down on summer with the final Mamma Mia! night of the season at The Courtyard, Lion Walk on Friday 12th September! Don’t miss this last chance to dance, sing, and celebrate with all your favourite ABBA hits performed live in a magical Mediterranean setting.
Indulge in a feast of authentic Greek food from The Greeks Kitchen, toast to good times with friends, and soak up the electric atmosphere under the stars. Whether you’ve joined us before or it’s your first time, this is your ultimate feel-good farewell to summer. Book now and let’s make this last Mamma Mia! the most memorable yet!
OPEN ALL DAY - TICKETED EVENT - 7PM TO 11PM
Saturday 13th September - Colchester Has Talent: The Final
Don’t miss the show-stopping Colchester Has Talent Grand Final at The Courtyard, Lion Walk on Saturday 13th September, 2pm–5pm! After weeks of incredible auditions and heats, the city’s brightest young stars (ages 8–16) take to the stage for one last chance to impress the judges and the crowd.
Expect live music, dance, comedy, and surprises from Colchester’s next generation of talent—all in a buzzing festival atmosphere. The winner will earn the ultimate prize: a starring spot performing at the iconic Colchester Christmas Light Switch-On!
Bring the whole family, cheer on your favourites, and be part of an unforgettable afternoon celebrating creativity and community. Who will be crowned Colchester’s next big star? Come and find out!
Friday 26th September - Oktoberfest
Get ready for a Bavarian blowout as The Oomparty Band brings the ultimate Oktoberfest vibes to The Courtyard, Lion Walk on Friday 26th September! Dust off your lederhosen, raise your stein, and warm up those vocal cords—because this is the baddest Bavarian party in town.
Expect high-energy live oompah music, singalongs, and plenty of German-inspired fun, with great food and drinks from Popina. Gather your friends, get into the spirit, and prepare for a night of laughter, music, and unforgettable memories.
Whether you’re a beer hall pro or just love a good party, everyone’s welcome at Colchester’s most unique autumn bash. Don’t miss out—prost to an epic night with The Oomparty Band at The Courtyard!
OPEN ALL DAY - TICKETED EVENT - 6:30PM TO 11PM
Saturday 27th September - Closing Party: The House of Popina
End the season in style with the ultimate Closing Party: The House of Popina on Saturday 27th September at The Courtyard, Lion Walk! Join us for an unforgettable night as resident DJs Josh Bond, The Greek, and Jaded Soul spin the best in house, disco, and dancefloor classics.
Expect dazzling lights, big energy, and a party atmosphere that will keep you moving all night long. Celebrate the end of summer with friends, great music, and delicious food and cocktails from Popina. Whether you’ve danced with us all season or this is your first time, everyone’s welcome to the grand finale.
Free entry—don’t miss the chance to make one last memory under the stars at Colchester’s favourite party spot!
OPEN ALL DAY - FREE EVENT - 5PM TO 11PM
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