Category: Event

Festival of Friendship

Epsom and Ewell Borough Council Announces First-Ever Festival of Friendship – Ukraine

From 27 January to 1 February, Epsom and Ewell Borough Council is proud to partner with Epsom and Ewell Refugee Network, Epsom Library, and Epsom Picturehouse to host the borough’s first Festival of Friendship – Ukraine.

This week-long celebration will showcase traditional Ukrainian crafts, music, and cultural heritage, while highlighting the friendships formed between Ukrainian nationals who have settled in the borough and the local community that has welcomed them.

The festival offers a vibrant programme of exhibitions, workshops, films, and live performances, all designed to share Ukrainian culture and foster community connections.

Epsom & Ewell Borough Council has worked with partners to curate and run a week of workshops as part of the Festival of Friendship – Ukraine.

Key Highlights:

      • Free Workshops and Exhibitions at Epsom Library, including Ukrainian block printing, paper cutting art, wool crafts, and beading. Spaces are limited; please arrive early to secure your spot. All materials provided.
      • Film Screenings at Epsom Picturehouse, accompanied by live Ukrainian music performances. Tickets available via the Epsom Picturehouse website.
      • Children’s Activities, including a treasure hunt, face painting, and a special Paddington Bear appearance, at Epsom Library.

Ewell Epsom councillor Clive WoodbridgeSpeaking of the upcoming festival, Councillor Clive Woodbridge, Chair of the Community and Wellbeing Community said,

“The Festival of Friendship – Ukraine is a heartwarming celebration of culture and community spirit, it brings together Ukrainian nationals and local residents through shared traditions, crafts, music and friendship. Events like this remind us that kindness and mutual understanding are at the heart of a thriving borough—thank you to everyone helping to make this festival possible.”

The Festival of Friendship – Ukraine supports the three strategic pillars of the council’s Arts, Culture and Heritage Strategy by nurturing creative talents within our community, increasing access to creativity for all and championing economic growth via creative industries. The Festival of Friendship – Ukraine also delivers against the strategic aim of the council’s Health and Wellbeing Strategy which seeks to improve the mental and emotional wellbeing of residents.

Jo Sherring, Lead from Epsom & Ewell Refugee Network added,

“Epsom & Ewell Refugee Network are delighted to partner with Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, Epsom Library and Epsom Picturehouse to create this celebration of our friendship with Ukrainian nationals who live in our community.  Since the start of the war in Ukraine in 2022, we have been working with Ukrainian nationals who fled to the UK, helping them access work, housing, schools and community.  Their courage, resilience and determination have been an example to us. As we have helped them to navigate life in the UK, we have enjoyed building friendships and learning about their culture and traditions.

The Festival of Friendship is a chance for our Ukrainian friends to share their traditions and culture with the local community with activities happening during the week. We hope you will find time to join us during the week to be part of this celebration.”

Festival Timetable Highlights:

      • Tuesday 27 January: Opening Celebration at Epsom Library; Ukrainian craft workshops and exhibitions.
      • Thursday 29 January: Performance by Renaissance Choir and screening of Rocky Road to Berlin at Epsom Picturehouse.
      • Sunday 1 February: Music from Yuliia Komyshan (Ukrainian Bandura) followed by screenings of Sanatorium and Home for Ukraine at Epsom Picturehouse

Information correct at the time of release but please check the website for the most up-to-date information.

For full details and booking information, visit: Festival of friendship – Ukraine | Epsom and Ewell Borough Council.

Arts Alive Arts Festival Now On!

Mole Valley’s Arts Alive festival is underway! Throughout October, Mole Valley is home to 135 artistic and cultural events for people to come and experience. Nearly half of these events will be either free, or under £5 to attend. More good news is that you won’t need to wait until October to get started! Arts Alive kicked off with two big launch events in Dorking and Leatherhead that were free to attend.

You can now browse and book sessions you would like to join via the Arts Alive website here. There are plenty of activities for families as well as evening events, and there’s truly something for everyone whether you’re looking to spectate or perhaps try your hand at something artistic! We want everyone to feel empowered to try something new at Arts Alive this year and find a passion that might grow into an exciting new hobby for years to come! Some interesting highlights for this year include:

      • Come and Sing St John’s Passion at St Martin’s Church with Leith Hill Music Festival – 11 Oct
      • The Magic of Bees – Rituals Workshop with The Wild Bee Company – 25 Oct
      • Come and Try Acro, Ballet, Musical Theatre or Tap with Lisa Allen Dance & Arts (LADA) – 4 Oct
      • A number of fascinating talks and events at the newly renovated Pippbrook House including a wine glass painting class and a talk on the work of Agatha Christie.

Helping to promote this year’s festival is Magic Radio presenter, as well as Surrey local, Jack Pepper! One of the UK’s youngest commissioned composers, national radio broadcaster and featured in HM the King’s “35 under 35” list, Jack can now add “2025 Patron of Arts Alive” to his list of accolades, joining such luminaries as Dame Judi Dench, Lorraine Kelly and Gyles Brandreth.

cllr Nick WrightMVDC’s Cabinet Member for Leisure & Community Assets Cllr Nick Wright said: “It’s great to see Arts Alive return in 2025 with a huge variety of cultural activities for people to experience. Supported by Mole Valley District Council, the Arts Alive Festival committee has worked hard to organise a packed itinerary of events for everyone in Mole Valley to enjoy. Whether you’re building on existing interests, knowledge or skills, or would like to experience something new, I highly encourage you to take a look at the programme online and book yourself a place!”

Arts alive now on

Hobble’ween Returns for Spooktacular Half-Term Fun

This October half-term, the award-winning farm, zoo and adventure park Hobbledown will be transformed into a world of magical mischief, spooky surprises and family fun as Hobble’ween returns from Saturday 25th October to Sunday 2nd November 2025. Families can look forward to a packed programme of immersive activities, live entertainment , hair-raising fun – all included with standard admission.

A Frightfully Fun Line-Up

From bug eating and monster discos to creepy crawlies and mischievous skibblers, Hobble’ween is packed with frightfully good fun for families seeking memorable moments together:

  • • Hobble’ween Storytime – Gather round for enchanting tales from the Hobblers’ world.
  • • Skibbler School – Join the prank-loving Skibblers and master their mischievous ways, from silly walks to cackling laughs.

     

  • • Monster’s Ball – A family-friendly party where fancy dress is strongly encouraged and monster moves are a must.

     

  • • Bug Brunch – Daredevils can sample real dried bugs and gain the title of Bug Champion.

     

  • • Hobble’ween Trail – Explore the park, hunt for hidden clues and reveal the secret word to claim a sweet prize.

     

  • • Skibbler Passport – Collect stickers throughout your visit and trade in your completed passport for a sweet treat – no tricks, just treats.

Add-on Adventure: Trick or Treat Maze Challenge
For just £6 per child, little explorers can brave the Trick or Treat Maze Challenge, held daily at 10:30am to 11:30am and 3:00pm to 4:00pm. Work with the Hobblers to solve the mystery and claim your treats.

Hobbledown Hobble’ween is open from 25th October to 2nd November 2025. Tickets start from £17.50pp when booked in advance online. For more information and to book, visit: https://www.hobbledown.com/epsom/whats-on/hobbleween-at-hobbledown/.

 

The Great Get Together

THE GREAT GET TOGETHER is a free community event to celebrate all that unites us. It’s happening on Sunday 22nd June 2025 at St Joseph’s Church Hall, St Margaret Drive, Epsom KT18 7JQ from 1pm – 4pm

Good Company (Surrey) is hosting a FREE community event for all the family. This is part of a network of events around the country called The Great Get Together, inspired by Jo Cox’s belief that we have more in common than that which divides us.

“Hosting a community event like The Great Get Together allows us to bring people from all walks of life together in a spirit of unity, friendship and shared humanity. It’s an opportunity to celebrate our diversity, forge new connections, and show that Epsom is a place where everyone belongs” explains Jo Sherring, Epsom and Ewell Refugee Network Lead.

The event is completely free, with music, food, activities and entertainment for all the family. It will be opened by The Worshipful The Mayor of Epsom & Ewell, Councillor Robert Leach and the Mayoress.

The free entertainment includes songs from the Ukrainian choir, a Disney Sing-along, the Freedom Pulse Brass Band as well as children’s entertainment and crafts, treasure hunt, henna hand-paintng, artisan displays, and an assortment of games and sports including Crazy Golf.

Good Company incorporates Epsom & Ewell Food Bank, Epsom & Banstead Pantries and Epsom & Ewell Refugee Network.

Even though the event is free, entry tickets need to be booked using the QR code on the flyer below. This also shows the timetable of the afternoon.

The Great Get Together

Happy Birthday Vampire Ride at CWOA

UN-BITE-LIEVABLE! VAMPIRE ROLLER COASTER AT CHESSINGTON WORLD OF ADVENTURES CELEBRATES 35 YEARS.

Chessington World of Adventures is celebrating 35 thrilling years of its legendary Vampire roller coaster by giving away a fang-tastic 100 fast tracks!

Fast track passes – worth £60 per person – will be awarded to the best-dressed little vampires and their families visiting on Friday 11th April

Chessington World of Adventures’ iconic ride, Vampire, is marking an incredible 35 years next Friday 11th April.

As Europe’s first ever suspended roller coaster, which first took flight in 1990, the London theme park’s Vampire roller coaster has thrilled millions, and cape-tivated visitors with daring drops, swooping turns and eerie theming throughout.

To commemorate this mystical milestone for one of the nation’s favourite rides, the attraction is hosting a special weekend of celebrations, including giving away 100 free fast track tickets worth £60 per person.

Kids aged 6 to 15 are invited to come to the park dressed to thrill, donning their finest vampire attire*, to be in with the chance to win ‘Ultimate 8’ fast track access to Chessington’s top rides, including Croc Drop, Mandrill Mayhem and the iconic Vampire.

Howard Ebison, Divisional Director at Chessington World of Adventures said: “Vampire is one of those rollercoasters that everyone knows and loves. It’s one of our most popular coasters, and what makes it so special is the nostalgia it brings. Every day we have visiting parents (and even grandparents!) reminisce about riding it when they were young. And now they have the opportunity to take their kids on one of their childhood favourite rides. This big birthday weekend is a fantastic opportunity for families to create more unforgettable memories, and we can’t wait to see our park filled with the excitement and creativity of our youngest guests.”

“This special offer serves as a thank you for three and a half decades of support, ultimately making Vampire a cherished part of our attraction history.”

Over the Vampire birthday weekend (11th-13th April), Chessington World of Adventures will be in spooky festive mode. Wild Woods will be transformed into a gothic garden party and Violet, Chessington’s much-loved vampire bat character, will be making a special appearance to meet with children every morning.

John Wardley – one of the world’s leading rollercoaster creators – is the mastermind who designed the iconic Vampire coaster for Chessington back in 1990. On the milestone birthday, John commented: “It is incredible to see the lasting impact Vampire has had over the past 35 years. From initially writing to Chessington Zoo’s director with the idea to transform the attraction into a theme park, to being the first to ride the Vampire track, the process and making-of Vampire has been a thrilling adventure in itself.

“I have always been fascinated with illusions and special effects, and this was something I really wanted to bring to life with Vampire – giving riders the opportunity to be fully immersed in the adventure. It was this inspiration that ultimately led to the revolutionary suspended track – with Vampire being the first roller coaster of its kind in the UK. It’s inspired coasters globally since.

“It brings me immense joy to know Vampire continues to delight and inspire new generations.”

Vampire hangs at 70 feet, soaring through the skies, swooping over the rooftops of Wild Woods and flying through the treetops with speeds of 45 miles per hour. The ride’s height restriction starts at 1.1metre.

For those with an undying love for Vampire, looking to ride it for the first time, or simply joining the celebrations at Chessington, head over to chessington.com/Vampire-35th-birthday for details of the fast track giveaway and what’s on over the birthday weekend.

*To qualify for the offer the child must be dressed in a recognisable Vampire costume – this will be assessed at the discretion of the Chessington ticket office team

HOW TO ENTER:

  • Come to the Safari Hotel at Chessington World of Adventures at 10.15 on Friday 11th April to take part in the contest (Chessington’s Admissions team will direct you from the entrance gates)
  • Entrants should be dressed in a recognisable vampire costume
    The competition is open to children aged 6 – 15 years old, accompanied by an adult
  • Please note participants must have a pre-booked Chessington ticket
  • Each winner will receive four Ultimate 8 Reserve and Ride passes for themselves and three additional people. Up to three children can be part of each group of four. Each group must include at least one adult over 18 years old. Free passes are limited to a total of 100 fast tracks

    See full terms & conditions at chessington.com/Vampire-35th-birthday

Businesses Invited to Free Climate Action Event

Mole Valley District Council (MVDC) is inviting local businesses to a free “Introduction to Climate Change & Carbon Emissions” event designed to help them reduce costs, improve efficiency, and build a more sustainable future.

Taking place on Tuesday, 18 March, from 8.30am to 10.30am at the picturesque Hartsfield Manor, the event, funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), will provide practical steps for businesses to lower their carbon footprint and save money. Hosted by Bioregional, a leading sustainability charity, the session will offer expert guidance on net zero strategies, cost-saving energy efficiencies, and decarbonisation planning.

Attending businesses will gain:

  • Cost-saving insights by identifying ways to cut energy and resource expenses
  • Clear guidance on net zero by demystifying the jargon and focusing on real-world benefits
  • Tools to calculate carbon footprint to help businesses track and reduce emissions
  • Practical steps for decarbonisation—tailored to businesses of all sizes
  • Access to MVDC assets—helping sustainable businesses to get started
  • Networking with like-minded businesses over a complimentary breakfast and refreshments

 Councillor Bridget Kendrick, Deputy Leader for MVDC and Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Finance said: “Sustainability isn’t just good for the environment—it makes business sense too. By improving efficiency and reducing energy costs, businesses can strengthen their operations while playing a vital role in tackling climate change. We encourage all Mole Valley businesses to attend this free event and take advantage of expert advice on how to future-proof their business while saving money.

This is a must-attend event for businesses looking to stay competitive, reduce risks, and unlock financial benefits while contributing to a greener future. Spaces are limited, so please don’t wait too long to book your complementary space. Register now: Select tickets – Reduce Costs & Boost Your Brand with Climate Change Awareness for Businesses – Hartsfield Manor.”

Amanda Holden to Switch-On Christmas Lights in Oxshott

Amanda Holden from Global Heart FM to Lead Spectacular Christmas Lights Switch-On in Oxshott Village 

Get ready to kick off the festive season in style! On Sunday 24th November, Heart Breakfast’s Amanda Holden will join the community of Oxshott Village for a magical Christmas lights switch-on celebration. The event, which begins at 4:00pm, will bring together an exciting lineup of special guests, live performances, and festive fun for all ages.

A Star-Studded Celebration
In addition to the iconic Amanda Holden flipping the switch, the evening will feature an array of special guests. YouTubers Dad v Girls and social media favourites Golf Life Legends will be joining the festivities, while other surprise stars will be out to make the evening even more special.

Christmas Music & Performances
The festive cheer will be amplified by Britain’s Got Talent finalist Wayne Woodward, who will be unveiling songs from his brand-new Christmas album. His heartwarming holiday tunes will set the tone for an unforgettable evening.

Magical Light Displays & Festive Fun
The streets of Oxshott will be transformed into a winter wonderland thanks to Eriera House, which is putting on a spectacular festive display across the entire High Street. Snow cannons will add a touch of magic as the village is dusted with artificial snow, creating a picturesque setting for the evening’s celebrations. For those who love to dance, former Northern Line boy band member Dan Corsi will be spinning festive tunes as DJ, ensuring the energy stays high throughout the evening.

Family Fun & Festivities
Session Music will be hosting Santa’s Grotto in the newly built Garden at The Victoria pub, where little ones can meet Father Christmas and share their festive wishes. As the celebrations continue into the evening, visitors can head inside The Victoria, a hidden gem in Oxshott, which boasts three AA Rosettes and an exceptional wine list. This year, The Victoria will be showcasing a modern twist on mulled wine, adding to the festive charm of the event.

www.thevictoriaoxshott.com / [email protected]

Support for Local Businesses

The entire Oxshott community will be joining in the holiday spirit, with all local businesses open to showcase their specialities. From unique gifts to festive treats, this event will highlight the best of what Oxshott has to offer, making it the perfect occasion for locals and visitors alike to explore and shop.

Event Details:
Date: Sunday 24th November 2024

Time: From 4:00pm, Lights Switched on at 6:00pm

Location: Oxshott Village, Surrey

Come for the lights, stay for the music, festivities, and community spirit. This is a night not to be missed!

Oxshott Christmas lights

Howl’o’ween at Chessington World of Adventures

Howl’o’ween at Chessington World of Adventures is set to offer spooky fun for the whole family this Autumn, with spine-tingling adventures taking place on 5th to 6th and 12th to 13th October, as well as 19th October to 3rd November 2024.

Britain’s biggest wildlife theme park is gearing up for a magical mix of Halloween fun for all ages, featuring a range of spellbinding entertainment. Highlights include the popular Enchanted Halloween Trick or Treat and a charming pumpkin patch, perfect for seasonal selfies.

Guests young and old can also experience their favourite theme park rides with an eerie twist at dusk, while little explorers are invited to participate in Halloween fancy dress competitions for a chance to show off their spookiest costumes.

The award-winning fire and special effects dance show Banyan – The Final Flame will be performed at Adventure Point, while loveable werewolf and friendly vampire bat, Wilf and Violet, will delight little ones on the Mini Stage. YouTube sensation Cocomelon’s JJ and Cody will also make appearances to celebrate the Halloween season.

For those seeking their first taste of Halloween fright, Wild Woods transforms into a scare zone playing host to the Vile Villagers who are on the hunt for new souls to join their fang-tastic club!

Families can also extend their spooky season experience with a Halloween short break at one of Chessington’s resort hotels.

Visitors will also enjoy all the experiences at Britain’s wildest adventure, including 40 rides and attractions, and the zoo with over 1,000 mammals, birds, and reptiles spread across the 128-acre resort. Iconic rides such as Vampire, Mandrill Mayhem, Tiger Rock, and River Rafts will be part of the thrilling experience.

Tickets for Howl’o’ween are available at chessington.com/Halloween, with prices starting at £35 per person, including entry to the theme park, zoo, and SEA LIFE aquarium. Those under 90cm enter for free

 

Hobble’ween at Hobbledown Epsom

Hobbledown is excited to announce its much-anticipated Hobble’ween event, which will be running for an extended period this October. 

This year’s Hobble’ween promises spooky thrills and family fun, with general admission tickets covering a wide range of Halloween activities.

Event Dates:
12th & 13th October | 19th & 20th October | 26th October – 3rd November

Included Hobble’ween activities:

  • Bug Brunch: For the daring, sample dried bugs as part of the Bug Brunch Challenge.
  • Skibbler School: Learn the ways of the mischievous Skibblers, including their secret handshake.
  • Fancy Dress Monster Ball: Show off your creepiest costumes and compete for the best-dressed award.
  • Wake the Dragon: Help Hobbledown’s characters wake up the resident dragon from its slumber.
  • Hobble’ween Costume Parade: March and dance in our spooky costume parade, with a prize for the best outfit.

And that’s on top of all the adventure play villages, role play areas, huge indoor playbarn, immersive Imaginarium and more…

In addition to these free activities, Hobbledown will also be offering an exciting Trick or Treat Challenge, a separate ticketed event for £6pp.

General Manager Lee Froud said: “We’re delighted to offer an extended Hobble’ween this year, providing more families with the chance to experience the spooky magic of Hobbledown. With new dates and exciting activities, we’re sure this will be our best Hobble’ween yet!”

Book online and more details at www.hobbledown.com/epsom

Join the Big River Watch

Join the Big River Watch and help rivers across South East England.  

The Big River Watch is returning! From 6th to 12th September, the South East Rivers Trust is inviting people across the South East to join the only UK and Ireland-wide citizen science survey of river health, which has attracted more than 9,000 participants in its first year.

Anyone can join the Big River Watch by downloading the free, easy-to-use app and spending 15 minutes by their local river, answering the simple survey questions. The results will be made available on an interactive dashboard and will help drive action to improve rivers both on-the-ground and via campaigns and political advocacy.

We want to build a complete picture of river health, and topics covered include the plants and wildlife people can see, as well as visible signs of pollution or observations on flow levels. Some of the rivers and chalk streams across South East England provide habitats for rare species such as Beavers, Otters, Nightingales, Turtle Doves, Salmon and Brown Trout. It’s essential that we try and restore healthy ecosystems for these rare species and local communities by carefully monitoring the health of the waterways across the region.

The South East Rivers Trust is running a series of volunteer events across the South East throughout September, including river clean-ups, gravel seeding and planting, where local communities can get involved and help restore their river: www.southeastriverstrust.org/events

Dr Bella Davies, Co-CEO of SERTBella Davies, CEO at The South East Rivers Trust, said: “People across the UK and Ireland are becoming more and more interested in the health of their rivers, using their voices – and their votes – to show they care. With the Big River Watch, anyone can get involved in monitoring signs of pollution, spotting wildlife, and sharing their connection with their local river. This isn’t just important for us gathering data but is also empowering for people who are demanding better for our rivers.”

Tessa Wardley, Director of Communication & Advocacy at The Rivers Trust, said: “We know that no rivers in England are in good overall health, but we also know that environmental monitoring is currently very sparse. Having a large set of data from one weekend will help our experts to understand what’s going on in our rivers, and what needs to be done to make them cleaner, healthier, and part of a thriving wider environment. As well as learning where pollution and wildlife are spotted, we also want to know how spending time near rivers affects people’s wellbeing, so I’d encourage anyone and everyone to spend some time by their river and make their voice heard.”