Upcoming events.
Shannon D’Arcy - Live by Candlelight
Sunday 22 November 2026 · Rochford WI Hall
4pm Matinee
Tickets from £15 · Welcome drink included · Just 40 guests per show
Experience Shannon D’Arcy in an intimate live performance surrounded by the glow of more than 400 flickering candles.
For one Sunday only, Rochford WI Hall will be transformed with candlelit table seating, atmospheric lighting and a licensed bar.
With just 40 guests in the room, you’ll experience Shannon up close in a specially curated live set combining familiar favourites, feel-good singalong moments and some of her own music.
A different kind of live show
This isn’t a large concert or a quick public appearance.
You’ll be seated around intimate candlelit tables, just metres from the performance, creating a relaxed and atmospheric setting where you can properly enjoy the music up close.
Your ticket includes:
An intimate live performance from Shannon D’Arcy
More than 400 flickering candles
Candlelit table seating
A welcome drink on arrival
Licensed bar
Just 40 guests per performance
Performance Times
4pm Matinee
Doors open: 3:30pm
Performance: 4:00pm–4:50pm
Doors - 17:30pm
Tickets
Limited Launch Ticket - £15
A limited number available for this performance.
Includes your candlelit table seat and welcome drink on arrival.
Standard Ticket - £18
Includes your candlelit table seat and welcome drink on arrival.
Private Table for Four - £75
Reserve your own candlelit table for up to four guests, including a welcome drink for each guest.
Bookings made together will be seated together. Smaller parties may share a table unless a private table is booked.
Welcome Drink
Your ticket includes a welcome drink on arrival, with house wine and a non-alcoholic alternative available.
Additional drinks will be available to purchase from the licensed bar throughout the event.
Supporting Local Community Work
The event is produced by The Design Cabin Community C.I.C.
Income generated through our events helps support our wider community work, creative projects and opportunities for local people and businesses.
Good to Know
Venue: Rochford WI Hall
Date: Sunday 22 November 2026
Performance: 4pm
Doors: 3:30pm
Capacity: Maximum 40 guests per performance
Tickets: From £15
Welcome drink: Included
Bar: Licensed bar available
All candles used throughout the venue are flameless LED candles. No naked flames are used.
Shannon D’Arcy. More than 400 candles. A welcome drink. Just 40 guests.
Book your table and experience live music by candlelight.
Rochford Night Market
Rochford’s Night Market
Friday 18 December 2026 | 6pm–9pm
Rochford WI Hall
Free entry | Family-friendly
Step into a cosy evening of festive shopping, seasonal treats and community spirit at Rochford’s Night Market.
For one night, Rochford WI Hall will be transformed into a twinkling festive marketplace filled with independent traders, local makers and Christmas cheer. It’s the perfect opportunity to pick up a few last-minute gifts, discover something handmade and support local businesses in the run-up to Christmas.
Throughout the evening you can expect unique gifts and handmade crafts, seasonal treats, live music, warm drinks and festive refreshments, all surrounded by twinkling lights and a relaxed Christmas atmosphere.
Come along with friends and family, browse the stalls, enjoy something warming to eat or drink and soak up the festive atmosphere. You’re welcome to drop in at any point between 6pm and 9pm.
🎁 What to expect
Independent makers and local businesses
Handmade gifts and Christmas present ideas
Seasonal food and treats
Warm drinks and festive refreshments
Live music
A cosy, family-friendly atmosphere
Free entry
Whether you're finishing your Christmas shopping, looking for something a little different or simply fancy an evening out, we’d love to see you there.
Want to trade at the Night Market?
Applications are open for traders through our Make Your Market programme:
https://eventaly.com/event/make-your-market/
Rochford Halloween Trail
Discover the true gruesome history of Rochford this October half-term.
The Rochford Historic Halloween Trail returns from Monday 26 October to Sunday 1 November 2026, following last year’s successful event, which attracted more than 750 participants.
This free, self-guided family trail will lead you around Rochford town centre, visiting participating local businesses and community locations along the way.
At each stop, you’ll discover a story from Rochford’s past, solve a riddle and search for a hidden letter. Collect all the letters to uncover the mystery phrase and complete the trail.
Visit our dedicated Halloween Trail website for the latest information, participating locations, downloadable trail materials and closing-day updates:
www.thedesigncabin.community/halloween
How to take part
Collect the official trail map and answer sheet from Rochford Library, or download a copy from our Halloween Trail website
Visit the participating locations around Rochford
Read the historical stories and solve the riddles
Find the hidden letters
Collect all the letters to uncover the mystery phrase
The trail can be completed at your own pace throughout the October half-term holidays. Posters will be displayed in the windows of participating locations, allowing families to continue the trail even when individual businesses are closed.
Please check each business's opening hours if you would like to visit them in person.
Closing day – Sunday 1 November
Join us on Sunday 1 November for the official closing day of the Rochford Historic Halloween Trail, featuring additional activities and special opportunities to explore Rochford’s history.
Guided tours of Rochford’s Old House
Rochford Town Team will be offering guided tours of Rochford’s Old House, giving visitors the opportunity to learn more about this important historic building.
Tour times, availability and booking information will be published on the Halloween Trail website.
Rochford Town Rooms
Rochford Town Council will open the Rochford Town Rooms, where visitors can view the Rochford tapestry and a special pop-up museum display celebrating the town’s history.
Rochford WI Hall
Further family activities will also take place at Rochford WI Hall, helping to bring the week-long trail to a close.
Full details of the activities and timings will be announced shortly.
Please note: Rochford Town Rooms and Rochford WI Hall are official stops on the trail, but they will only be open and accessible on Sunday 1 November. Families completing the trail earlier in the week should return on the closing day to visit these two special stops.
Shop Local Prize Draw
We are also planning a special shop-local prize draw with one £20 prize, funded by The Design Cabin Community C.I.C.
To enter, purchase an item or service from a participating business during the trail and submit a copy of your receipt. The winner will receive £20 to spend with the business named on their winning receipt.
Full entry details and terms will be published on the Halloween Trail website before the event begins. Please retain your receipt.
Event information
Trail dates: Monday 26 October–Sunday 1 November 2026
Closing day: Sunday 1 November 2026
Location: Rochford town centre
Price: Free
Registration: Free household registration is encouraged. You can still take part without registering.
Some guided tours or closing-day activities may require advance booking. Details will be announced once the programme has been confirmed.
Children must be accompanied and supervised by a responsible adult while completing the trail and attending closing-day activities.
Find out more
Maps, participating locations, closing-day details and the latest event updates will be available at:
www.thedesigncabin.community/halloween
Would your business or organisation like to become a trail stop or support this year’s event? Please contact events@tdc.community
The Freight House - End of Contract Party
Join us for our end of contract party to celebrate all of the wonderful achievements throughout our 8 months of re-opening The Freight House.
Harmonie Concert Band
Harmonie Concert Band and The Design Cabin are delighted to present Harmonie in Concert, a relaxed and uplifting evening of live music at The Freight House, Rochford.
Enjoy a carefully curated programme of familiar classics and much-loved music from stage and screen, performed by the talented Harmonie Concert Band. The evening also features a special guest appearance from singer Shannon Darcy, bringing an extra layer of warmth and emotion to an already memorable concert.
Perfect for music lovers of all ages, Harmonie in Concert promises an inviting, informal atmosphere where audiences can sit back, relax, and enjoy the joy of live performance.
📅 Saturday 28 February 2026
🕖 7pm
📍 The Freight House, Rochford (SS4 1BU)
As this is the final show in The Freight House before it is closed to have building work completed, we will be remaining open until 12am. So join us after for our closing party!
Brazilarte Carnival
Join Brazilarte Academy for a vibrant Carnival evening at Freight House, Rochford, celebrating Brazilian culture through movement, rhythm and live music.
This intimate, cabaret-style show features performances of Capoeira, Samba de Roda, Maculele, Samba, Samba Reggae, and more. Brought to life by live musicians and performers from the Brazilarte community.
Energetic, expressive and welcoming, this is Carnival experienced up close. Shared, joyful and full of connection.
Food
Guests can also choose to enjoy a traditional Brazilian Feijoada, served throughout the evening.
Feijoada is Brazil’s most iconic dish. A slow-cooked black bean stew, rich in flavour and made for long conversations, laughter and shared tables.
Traditional meat & vegan options available.
Event details
Venue: Freight House, Rochford, Essex
Date: Friday 27th February 2026
🕖 Doors open: 7.00pm till Midnight
Food served: 7.30pm - 8.30pm
This is a family-friendly event. All are welcome.
The Day Before Tomorrow by N-Act
A gripping one-woman play about the unseen pressures facing young people today — honest, moving, and unforgettable.
“Conversations may happen that otherwise would not have — and these conversations may save lives.”
— Ian Russell MBE, father of Molly Russell, Chair of Molly Rose Foundation.
N-Act Theatre Company presents The Day Before — a gripping one-woman play inspired by a true story. Told with warmth and honesty, the play explores the hidden pressures of online worlds, manipulation, and the devastating consequences they can have.
“A moving and thought-provoking performance that stayed with me long after the show.” — Audience member.
The performance blends powerful theatre with space for reflection, leaving audiences deeply moved and inspired.
Format of the Evening
Performance: 55 minutes
Interval: 20 minutes
Post-show Q&A: 30 minutes (an integral part of the experience)
Essex wide tour
This one-night-only performance is part of our Essex-wide rural tour in 2026. All proceeds will support N-Act’s future community and schools work, helping ensure these vital performances remain free to those who most need them.
Audience Guidance
Suitable for ages 15+
Contains sensitive themes, including suicide
Rochford District Micro-Brewery Beer Festival
You asked, we listened.
Since opening The Freight House, many local residents have asked for the beer festival to make a return — and we’re excited to say it’s back. (In a similar format)
We’re proud to be working with Black Box Brewery to deliver a celebration of locally brewed beer and Amphora to bring the very best wines, bringing together independent breweries, great food, and live music in one vibrant community space.
Join us from 12pm to 10pm for a full day of beer, bites, and brilliant atmosphere.
🎟 Three ticket options available:
• Day Session: 12pm – 5pm
• Evening Session: 5:30pm – 10pm
• All Day Ticket: 12pm – 10pm
Whether you’re stopping by for a daytime pint or making a day of it, this is your chance to support local brewers, enjoy fantastic food, and experience live music at The Freight House.
Terms and Conditions
Door Policy
Rochford District Micro-Beer Festival is looking forward to welcoming you to The Freight House. However, to make sure everyone has a safe and enjoyable time we do have a few rules of entry. Generally, these are common sense, and in addition can save you money, so are worth remembering.
Re-admittance is allowed subject to venue capacity
This event is child-friendly
All under-18s must be accompanied by a parent or carer
All under-18s must vacate the premises by 5:30pm
Photo ID will be required to gain entry
No drinks / food is to be brought onto site
No dogs or animals are allowed into the venue unless they are assistance animals
All visitors will be searched on entry to the venue by our door security for public safety
Identification
Our licensing policy states that you must be either be at least 18 years of age to be admitted into the venue or be accompanied by an parent or carer who are over 18yrs. Therefore, we need to see photo ID for you to gain entry. Identification will need to be a valid photographic ID that shows your name, date of birth and has an expiry date.
Unacceptable Behaviour
If you are drunk or appear drunk, WE CANNOT LET YOU IN. We are sorry if this ruins your day, but it is the law, and we need to ensure your behaviour does not spoil the enjoyment of everyone else. Similarly, if your behaviour is likely to cause offence or endanger other people, we will ask you to leave.
Creative Heritage Flag Project
Join us for an artist-led creative project to make story flags that celebrate the history and evolving story of The Freight House.
Be part of creating Rochford’s living history.
Across four relaxed and welcoming sessions, participants will research, design and create textile patches inspired by the building, its historic stories and its community. These patches will be sewn together to form a series of flags and pendants that will become a lasting visual legacy of the space.
Suitable for all ages and abilities. Children must be accompanied by a supervising adult.
No previous experience needed — just curiosity and creativity.
Book your place is essential via our website!
Jack and the Beanstalk Panto
With a Sprinkling of Panto Magic we are pleased to announce
Our Jack will climb the Beanstalk in Rochford's Freight House!
Our cast of six will bedazzle you with incredible vocals, and with ingenious set pieces and brand new comedy routines - this is a panto you’ll remember for years to come!
We are bringing theatre to Rochford!!! We'll be transforming The Freight House into a panto wonderland, with a maximum capacity of 100 people our pantomime will be a intimate experience.
You'll be greeted in the foyer by our friendly Front of House team who will check your name off the guest list, no need to print your tickets but feel free to have them ready on your phone. Then you'll head through the main door into the hall - there's no separate front of house area so when you're in you'll be in the auditorium. Feel free to grab a drink from the Bar or check out our panto goodies stall - there'll be snacks and ice creams available too!
The show will run for approximately 2 hours including an interval. The whole venue is on one level including the toilets.
There is a large car park next to the venue but please check out the FAQS on our website for more information on parking and public transport options.
Get your tickets here.
Christmas Night Market by Make Your Market, Rochford
🎄✨ Step into the magic of Rochford’s Night Market! ✨🎄
Join us on Friday 19th December from 6pm to 9pm at The Freight House, where twinkling lights, local makers, and festive cheer come together for a cozy evening of community celebration. Browse unique gifts, handmade crafts, and seasonal treats from talented local traders — perfect for last-minute Christmas shopping or simply soaking up the atmosphere.
🎶 Enjoy live music, warm drinks, and good company — with the Freight House Bar open till 10pm to keep the merriment flowing.
Whether you're shopping, socializing, or just strolling under the stars, this is a night to remember. Free entry, family-friendly, and full of festive spirit!
This is a free event to attend.
The Freight House Bar will remain open until 10pm.
To apply to be part of the market, please visit: https://eventaly.com/event/make-your-market/
Folk Herbalism Workshop
Step into the world of wild plants, nature wisdom and creativity with Brazilarte’s Folk Herbalism Course – a 3-week immersive journey into local herbal traditions, connecting with nature and creative journaling.
Held in the beautiful grounds of The Freight House in Rochford, each session invites you to explore and identify native herbs growing around us. With expert guidance, you'll learn how to respectfully harvest, record, and use these plants – creating your own handmade book along the way.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a curious beginner, or someone looking to reconnect with the land, these workshops offer a grounding, hands-on experience rooted in the rhythms of the earth.
Join us for the 3-week course.
All our events include a Pay It Forward scheme. If you're able, you can purchase an extra ticket that will be gifted to someone who may be having a tighter month. Our team makes no judgments and never asks for proof—it's all built on the goodwill and generosity of our community.
To apply for a Pay It Forward ticket, please email events@tdc.community
Cloths swap, Rochford
Join us for our next Clothes Swap event, where you can refresh your wardrobe sustainably by exchanging or choosing from donated items— with leftovers going to Lady McAdden Breast Cancer Charity, additional donation drop-offs available at Launchpad Southend and The Mill Hall on 27th Nov, coat hanger contributions welcomed.
This event was made possible with the support of Roche South Ward Councillors Cllr Mike Steptoe, Angelina Marriott and Arthur Williams through the Rochford District Council grant fund.
This is a free event to attend.
Rochford Global Village
Global Village regularly tours the East of England, bringing an explosion of colour from all corners of the world. This Autumn we will be at the Freight House, a beautifully restored former British Rail goods shed in the centre of Rochford, Essex.
There will be lots to see throughout the afternoon…
Come along and enjoy Giddha female Punjabi dance with the Saheli Group; traditional dance and music from Molodova and Romania with Vedance Studio; storytelling from Sierra Leone with Usifu Jalloh; a Bollywood Dance class with Jaymini Nakum; a djembe drumming workshop with Samantha Everitt; as well as dance, entertainment and music from Southend Tamil School, Southend Sivan Kovil and the newly opened Rochford Hindu Temple.
Candlelight Christmas Concert
Join us for a heartwarming evening of seasonal music at our Candlelight Christmas celebration. Set in a beautifully lit venue filled with the glow of candlelight, this special event is the perfect way to ease into the festive season.
We are delighted to welcome Harmonie Concert Band, a talented group of musicians based in Rayleigh, Essex. Known for their rich musicality and community spirit, Harmonie Concert Band will perform a magical selection of Christmas classics and winter favourites, guaranteed to get you in the festive mood.
Whether you're coming with loved ones, friends, or flying solo, Candlelight Christmas promises a cosy, joyful atmosphere for all ages to enjoy.
All tickets are non-refundable. However, if you can no longer attend, your cancelled ticket will be made available through our Pay It Forward application. This system gives those who are a little short the opportunity to enjoy our events free of charge.
Get your tickets here.
Drumming Workshops
Unleash your rhythm and reconnect with your inner beat in this energising 8-week Drumming Workshop Series led by Brazilarte.
No matter your experience level, these 2-hour sessions offer a welcoming space to explore the ancient art of drumming. Learn how rhythm can become a powerful tool for stress relief, creative expression, and personal wellness. Each week we'll dive into the traditional rhythms from Brazil, the different drums, their role and how to play them. Each session will invite us to come together as a community band.
Feel the beat, find your flow, and discover the transformative power of percussion.
🎶 Come to one workshop or join us for the full experience – every session brings something new to explore.
Get your tickets here.
Spooktacular by Make Your Market, Rochford
🎃👻 Get Ready for a SPOOKTACULAR Saturday! 👻🎃
📣 Join us at Spooktacular by Make Your Market in Rochford on Saturday 1st November from 11 am to 3pm at the Rochford Women's Institute Hall. 🕰️✨
🛍️ Discover a treasure trove of spooky delights, from frightfully tasty treats to enchanting handmade decorations that will make your Halloween celebrations unforgettable! 🍬🕷️💀
🏆 Show off your skills in our Pumpkin Carving Competition! Arrive at the WI Hall by 11 am sharp with your pumpkins, ready for judging at 12 pm. The winner will take home a £20 Voucher (of your choice) to make your Halloween extra special. 🎨✂️🎃
Don’t miss out on this frightfully fun day! Mark your calendars, bring your family and friends, and join us for a spooktacular celebration with Make Your Market. 👻🌟
To apply for a stall, apply via our application form here, email us on hello@makeyour.market or call us on 0333 335 5369
Folk Herbalism Workshops
Step into the world of wild plants, nature wisdom and creativity with Brazilarte’s Folk Herbalism Course – a 4-week immersive journey into local herbal traditions, connecting with nature and creative journaling.
Held in the beautiful grounds of The Freight House in Rochford, each session invites you to explore and identify native herbs growing around us. With expert guidance, you'll learn how to respectfully harvest, record, and use these plants – creating your own handmade book along the way.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a curious beginner, or someone looking to reconnect with the land, these workshops offer a grounding, hands-on experience rooted in the rhythms of the earth.
Join us for the 4-week course.
Get your tickets here!
Last night of the Proms - Live Steam
Join us for the live streaming of the Last Night of the Proms at The Freight House!
The Freight House
Rochford
SS4 1BU
Book your tickets here.
If you have a question about this event, please contact:
TDCC Events
0333 335 5369
events@tdc.community
Cheeks & Cherries
Cheek and Cherries Cabaret Show coming to The Rayleigh Mill, Essex, SS6 7ED
Comedians and Cabaret artists apply now - link to google form in bio on the Cheek and Cherries Cabaret Instagram page
https://www.instagram.com/cheekandcherriescabaret...
Casting closing at midnight 2nd March
£50 fee but as stated in the form, please note if fee is higher/travel costs and we will try our best to accommodate with what our budget allows. You know how it goes with these things, all about the ticket sales!
Tech: 6pm
Doors: 7pm
Show: 7.30pm
Curtain call: 10pm
Fully wheelchair accessible
Parking on site
The Greatest Showman - Sing-Along Film Screening
JOIN US FOR THE GREATEST SHOWMAN SING-ALONG!
Step into the magic of entertainment with our spectacular screening of The Greatest Showman Sing-along!
Bring the family, wear your best showman attire, and let’s create some unforgettable memories together!
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/greatest-showman-sing-along-tickets-1228230513529
Candlelight Carols
Full event details to be annouced.
✨ Join Us for a Magical Evening! ✨
🎄 Candlelight Christmas Carols🎄
Immerse yourself in the warmth and wonder of the season as we gather for an evening of traditional Christmas carols by candlelight. Bring your family, friends, and neighbors to celebrate the true spirit of Christmas in a serene and beautiful setting.
✨ Highlights:
- Live Performances of beloved Christmas carols
- Candlelit Atmosphere to warm your heart
- Community Connection in a night of togetherness
This event is perfect for all ages. All proceeds from this event is being donated to The Design Cabin Community C.I.C to support it with its project delivery across Rochford District.
🎶 Let the music and light fill your soul with peace and joy this holiday season. See you there!
#ChristmasCarols #CandlelightService #HolidayMagic #CommunitySpirit #Christmas2024
Please note due to health and safety regulations candles will be battery powered and not flame candles.
Make Your Market, Rochford - Great Wakering
We are so excited to be back with Make Your Market, Rochford. (Formerly Rochford Teenage Market). Being held at Great Wakering’s very own Old School!
Make Your Market is a new platform that showcases small businesses and performing talents at various themed events. Our family friendly days offer an amazing selection of local businesses, performances from local talent and creative workshops!
Make Your Market, Rochford
We are so excited to be back with Make Your Market, Rochford. (Formerly Rochford Teenage Market). Being held at Rochford's very own WI Hall!
Make Your Market is a new platform that showcases small businesses and performing talents at various themed events. Our family friendly days offer an amazing selection of local businesses, performances from local talent and creative workshops!
Make Your Market, Rochford - Canewdon
Join us for an egg-citing Easter-themed event on Sunday, March 24th, 2024.
Get ready for a day filled with joy, laughter, and egg hunts that will delight both young and young-at-heart!
Bring your family, friends, and a basket for an egg-stra special time together! Let's make this Easter unforgettable with games, activities, and a whole lot of Easter cheer.
Stay tuned for more details and get ready to hop into the springtime spirit! Can't wait to celebrate this egg-cellent day with all of you!
Pop-up by Make Your Market, Rochford
A pop-up market inside Rochford Parish Council Christmas Lights Switch On.
Pop-up by Make Your Market, Rochford
A pop-up market inside Rayleigh Town Council Christmas Lights Switch On.
Spooktacular by Make Your Market, Rochford.
Spooktacular by Make Your Market, Rochford. Details TBC.