01/09/2026
‘Between the Tides’ Walton Arts Festival will return this September for another jam-packed weekend of live music, art, storytelling, performance, and fun for kids.
On Thursday 17th, we have a free outdoor cinema hosted by East Coast Five. Walton’s Screen on the Green will be on the grass amphitheatre in Station Gardens, screening ‘The Greatest Showman’ from 7 pm.
On Friday evening, visitors can arrive on an Old School Disco Train’ (running from Colchester North to Walton-on-the-Naze). Passengers will continue their journey down The Parade to the Walton Tavern, where the Jam Project DJs will continue the party. Walton and Frinton Yacht Club in Mill Lane will showcase the ‘Exploring Walton’s Secret Backwaters’ exhibition by local photographers inspired by the Arthur Ransome book ‘Secret Water’.
On Saturday, early risers are invited for a sunrise swim followed by a Sandcastle competition and works of Sand Art on Walton Beach. The Naze Tower will be holding its favourite Teddy Bear Parachute jump. The Market Between the Tides returns to market square wth artisan stalls, art workshops and a live music stage between 10 am-5.30 pm. There’s a special gig in All Saints Church from 6pm with contemporary singer-songwriters Sam Eagle and Evy Frearson.
On Sunday 20th, local eco-artist Jane Stewart will be leading a ‘Shoe Box Carnival’, a miniature procession for kids which meets at Bath House Meadows at lunchtime and parades to Walton Pier, where bands will be performing on the Dodgems stage.
Most events will be free or low‑cost, ensuring the festival is open to everyone in the community. Walton Arts Festival gratefully acknowledges funding from Arts Council England.
