Primary Times - the definitive what’s on and where to go family guide of activities and events for children of primary school age. Things to do with your kids during the school holidays including arts and craft activities, music and theatre for children, parties, competitions, days out, and family attractions along with term time drama schools, dance classes, after school clubs and sports activities. Things to do at a place near you!
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An early Christmas present for Liwei the red panda!
18th December 2025
On 16th December 2025, Colchester Zoological Society (CZS) had an exciting gift for Liwei the red panda! A small bundle with a red fur coat, furry feet and a fluffy tail – a companion - this is a gift not just for Christmas! The Animal Care Team were delighted to welcome a male red panda named...
Say Hello to Mikolas the Pygmy Hippo!
16th December 2025
On 3rd December 2025, Colchester Zoological Society (CZS) welcomed young male pygmy hippo, Mikolas, from Zoo Dvur Kralove in Czech Republic. Mikolas arrived at CZS just two days after celebrating his 2nd birthday, as part of an EEP (EAZA Ex situ Programme) breeding recommendation. Mikolas has now...
Festival Leisure Park brings festive magic to Basildon this December
12th December 2025
Festival Leisure Park is set to sparkle this December with a programme of festive events designed to delight families and spread Christmas cheer across Basildon. Kicking off the celebrations on Saturday 13th December, the park’s mischievous elves will be “on the loose,” bringing...
Essex Police joins forces with BT and EE to tackle misuse of artificial intelligence (AI)
5th December 2025
Essex Police today announces a new partnership with BT and EE to give simple, practical advice to young people, parents, guardians and teachers to help them avoid harmful AI-generated content online. EE’s LearnSmart platform will host helpful advice for families giving them the confidence to...
Winter Wonderland Norwich Returns for Its Fourth Year of Festive Magic
3rd December 2025
Experience the ultimate Christmas celebration as Winter Wonderland Norwich returns to the Norfolk Showground for its fourth spectacular year of festive fun. Opening Friday 14th November, the event runs through to Sunday 4th January (see website for opening days). Brought to life once again by the...
BRAINTREE VILLAGE HIGHLIGHTS ACCESSIBILITY WITH ICE RINK EVENT
21st November 2025
Braintree Village’s ice rink has returned for a third year as part of the Essex-based outlet village’s Christmas celebrations Featuring real ice, the 800 square metre custom-built ice rink hosted an inclusive skating session on Wednesday 19th November, with more than 100 guests invited...
Festive Fun in Chelmsford This Christmas!
20th November 2025
Looking for ways to keep your children active, creative, and full of festive cheer this holiday? Chelmsford City Sports Mini and City Camps are the perfect treat for kids aged 4–12! Packed with Christmas-themed games, crafts, sports, and even a special party hosted by the ever-popular Mr B....
Make Christmas magical with Colchester Castle’s festive experiences!
15th November 2025
Experience the magic of Christmas at Colchester Castle This December, Colchester Castle invites families to step into a world of festive wonder. From sparkling lights to joyful laughter, our enchanting Christmas events promise unforgettable memories for visitors of all ages. Children can meet Father...
This is Christmas, turned all the way up – at Lakeside!
14th November 2025
Get ready to turn it up this festive season, because Lakeside Shopping Centre is where Christmas comes alive. Turn up style! - From winter wardrobe must-haves to the ultimate gifting inspiration, explore over 220 stores packed with fashion, beauty, and everything you need to sleigh your festive look. Turn...
Make a Splash with Confidence at Leisure World Colchester!
13th November 2025
Swimming is more than just a fun activity it’s a vital life skill that keeps children safe around water. Whether it’s a day at the beach, a pool party, or a family holiday, knowing how to swim can make all the difference in an emergency. That’s why starting lessons early is so important. At...
A Christmas Journey at Old MacDonald’s Farm
12th November 2025
Save 15% when you book over seven days in advance. Treat your little ones to a magical Christmas experience they’ll never forget! Old MacDonald's Farm presents... A Christmas Journey, a perfect family day out jam-packed with holiday magic! Visit for a festive extravaganza. Here's a sneak...
Free Skills Bootcamps for careers in early years
10th November 2025
If you're thinking about a career change or returning to work, consider the childminding and early years Skills Bootcamps offered by Essex County Council and delivered by The International Education Group, supported by the Essex Year of Opportunity. The Skills Bootcamps are fully funded for Essex...
Aladdin Flies into Chelmsford Theatre for a Magical Family Pantomime Adventure!
8th November 2025
Flying into Chelmsford Theatre from 28th November - 4th January is their 2025 pantomime with all the ingredients of a perfect family Christmas treat When Aladdin and his friends innocently get embroiled in a wicked sorcerer's plan for world domination, things seem hopeless. But with the help of...
Santa's North Pole Adventure
6th November 2025
Join Santa and his elves at the North Pole for a festive tale filled with fun, laughter and a touch of mischief, from 13th - 24th December. It's been a busy season for the elves, who have just graduated from Elf School and are now expert present packers and present stackers. Everything is going...