Looking for the best Easter events for families in Essex in 2026? From lively Easter festivals and family shows to countryside adventures, nature activities and seasonal days out, there’s plenty happening across the county to keep children entertained during the school holidays. Whether you’re planning a day out with younger kids, looking for something different to do over the long weekend, or simply want to make the most of the spring sunshine, these family-friendly Easter events in Essex offer fun for all ages. Here’s our roundup of 10 great Easter activities and days out in Essex for 2026 to help you plan an egg-cellent Easter break.
1. Danbury Spring Fair
Venue: Danbury Parish Council
Town: Danbury
Date: March 21, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Price: FREE
Description: Join us for a fun-filled day at the Danbury Spring Fair, a seasonal celebration organised by Danbury Parish Council and Danbury Leisure Centre. Browse the craft market, enjoy Easter-themed games and children’s activities, and keep an eye out for a special visit from the Easter Bunny. Refreshments will be available throughout the day.
Website: Danbury Spring Fair
2. Clacton Pier Free Fireworks Display – Easter Sunday 2026
Venue: Clacton Pier
Town: Clacton-on-Sea
Date: April 5, 2026
Time: 8:00 PM
Price: FREE
Description: Clacton Pier will light up the skies with a spectacular free fireworks display this Easter Sunday. Locals and visitors alike can gather along the seafront to enjoy a dazzling evening show. A fantastic way to end an Easter day by the sea.
Website: Clacton Pier Free Fireworks Display – Easter Sunday 2026
3. Easter Afternoon Tea
Venue: The Walled Garden Café (Acorn Villages)
Town: Manningtree
Date: April 2, 2026
Time: 2:00 PM – 3:45 PM
Price: From £2.50
Description: Enjoy a delightful Easter-themed afternoon tea at the charming Walled Garden Café. Indulge in seasonal treats and relax in the beautiful surroundings of the café and gardens. A lovely way to celebrate Easter with family or friends.
Website: Easter Afternoon Tea
4. Fairy Tale Easter Trail
Venue: Cammas Hall
Town: Hatfield Broad Oak
Date: March 31 – April 12, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Price: From £5
Description: Step into a magical fairy tale adventure at Cammas Hall. Follow the enchanting woodland trail, meet fairy tale characters and enjoy themed games along the way. Children will receive an Easter treat at the end of their journey.
Website: Fairy Tale Easter Trail
5. Easter Fun
Venue: Layer Marney Tower
Town: Colchester
Date: April 5 – April 6, 2026
Time: 11:15 AM – 4:00 PM
Price: From £7
Description: Celebrate Easter at Layer Marney Tower with classic family activities including the famous egg and spoon race and an Easter egg hunt for toddlers. Visitors can also take a tractor ride to see the lambs and explore the beautiful grounds.
Website: Easter Fun
6. Belfairs Family Forest Fun Easter Special
Venue: Essex Wildlife Trust – Belfairs Nature Discovery Centre
Town: Leigh-on-Sea
Date: April 2, 2026
Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Price: From £8.80
Description: Head into the woodland for a nature-filled Easter adventure. Children can explore signs of spring, build bird nests, hunt for bugs, swing in hammocks and enjoy Easter-themed crafts. A fantastic outdoor activity for families who love nature.
Website: Belfairs Family Forest Fun Easter Special
7. Royal Gunpowder Mills Easter Extravaganza
Venue: Royal Gunpowder Mills
Town: Waltham Abbey
Date: April 4, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Price: From £10.78
Description: Celebrate Easter and the reopening of Royal Gunpowder Mills with a family fun-filled day. Take part in the Easter quest around the site and enjoy a special Easter show performance. Visitors can arrive earlier to explore the attraction and other activities across the historic grounds.
Website: Royal Gunpowder Mills Easter Extravaganza
8. Easter at Barleylands
Venue: Barleylands
Town: Billericay
Date: March 28 – April 12, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Price: From £14.85
Description: Step into spring at Barleylands Farm Park this Easter and enjoy a fantastic family day out packed with baby animals, Easter fun and live entertainment. Meet adorable animals, enjoy hands-on activities and watch exciting shows throughout the park.
Website: Easter at Barleylands
9. Knights of Middle England Joust
Venue: Hedingham Castle
Town: Castle Hedingham
Date: April 5 – April 6, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Price: From £17.50
Description: Experience the thrill of medieval jousting at Hedingham Castle this Easter. Watch the Knights of Middle England battle for victory while enjoying archery, axe throwing and spectacular birds of prey displays. A truly unique historical day out.
Website: Knights of Middle England Joust
10. Robin Hood 2026 Easter Tour
Venue: Palace Theatre
Town: Southend-on-Sea
Date: April 9, 2026
Time: 2:00 PM / 6:00 PM
Price: From £22.50
Description: Join Robin Hood and his band of Merry Folk for a laugh-out-loud Easter pantomime adventure. Packed with toe-tapping tunes, dazzling dance routines and audience participation, this family show promises plenty of fun and laughter.
Website: Robin Hood 2026 Easter Tour
With so many Easter events for families in Essex, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate spring and keep the kids entertained during the holidays. From outdoor adventures and seasonal festivals to creative activities and family days out, these events offer something for children of all ages. If you’re planning your Easter break, be sure to check the official event websites for the latest dates, timings and ticket prices before you visit. Have a wonderful Easter and enjoy exploring some of the best Easter family events happening across Essex in 2026! If you’re looking for Easter Egg hunts – check out our other article – Easter Holiday What’s On: Easter Egg Hunts.
