Plans unveiled for 2026 events celebrating Chester's 'extraordinary' 2,000-year story
More than 50 events are planned - and the majority will be free
A fundraising campaign has been launched to help deliver more than 50 community events celebrating Chester's "extraordinary" 2,000-year story. Heritage Chester CIC is behind the crowdfunding drive as aims to raise £10,000 to fund the 2026 events – with 80 per cent completely free or under £5.
By securing at least 50 community backers, Heritage Chester hopes to unlock significant funding from Cheshire West and Chester Council's Community Innovation Fund, demonstrating the strong community support behind the project. The flagship event is a spectacular 'Community Launch Day' in Exchange Square in May.
It will feature BBC Gladiators 2025 winner Amanda Wah leading gladiator-inspired family fitness sessions. The day will include jesters, puppet shows, ceramic tile workshops, stained glass crafting, henna art, community choir performances, bubbleologists, and mechanical organ entertainment, with heritage talks and films taking place inside Chester Picturehouse – all completely free from 11am-4pm.
"Every child in Chester should have the chance to fall in love with their city's extraordinary heritage”, says Jen McAndrew, project consultant. "Not through expensive attractions, but through bubble shows in the square, gladiator fitness with a BBC star, making Medieval tiles, and experiencing heritage as adventure. With community backing, we can reach in excess of 5,000 people across more than 50 events throughout the year."
The 2026 programme includes:
- Free Community Launch Day (May 23) – Spectacular festival in Exchange Square with Amanda Wah, winner of BBC Gladiators 2025
- Chester Heritage Festival (May-June) – Family-friendly programming including Roman games at Britain's largest amphitheatre
- Summer Celebration (July-August) – FREE drop-in activities during school holidays when families need them most
- Heritage Open Days (September) – Access to normally closed historic buildings with treasure hunts across the city
- Rowvember (November) – Medieval craft workshops and activities celebrating Chester's unique Rows architecture
Organisers estimate that the project could put more than £50,000 into the local economy as families attending free events shop, eat, and visit attractions in Chester city centre. To back the campaign and help Heritage Chester reach their 50-backer goal, visit spacehive.com/heritagechester