Chelmsford City Centre is blasting off this October half-term with exciting, space-themed activities for children and families - and Chelmsford Cathedral is ready to launch!
From crafting stars and building brick spaceships to learning about Chelmsford’s role in real-life space exploration and enjoying a musical journey through the cosmos, these half-term events at Chelmsford Cathedral offer something for everyone. Chelmsford’s city centre will be buzzing with excitement, making it the perfect destination for families looking to spend time together during the October break. Best of all, these activities are completely free, ensuring everyone can enjoy a week filled with space-themed fun, creativity, and learning!
Mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable half-term packed with Chelmsford For You's Out of This World adventures!
Chelmsford in Space
📅 Monday 28th & Tuesday 29th October
🕛 12:30pm (Approx. 30 minutes)
📍 Chelmsford Cathedral
🎟 Free Event (Family-friendly)
Ever wondered how Chelmsford is connected to the mysteries of outer space? In this short, fascinating talk, discover the incredible work carried out by Teledyne e2v, a world leader in space technology, based right here in Chelmsford. We’ll explore how some of the most famous images of outer space and Earth were captured, thanks to technology developed locally. Learn how giants of the space world, including NASA, Hubble, and the European Space Agency (ESA), have all relied on Chelmsford’s expertise for their space missions.
Perfect for curious minds of all ages, this family-friendly event will leave you feeling proud of Chelmsford’s amazing contributions to the exploration of the universe!
Organised by Chelmsford For You.
Stay and Play: Brick Creatives – Space Explorers
📅 Wednesday, 30th October
🕙 10:00am – 12:00pm
📍 Chelmsford Cathedral
🎟 Free Event
Calling all young space explorers! Join Stay and Play: Brick Creatives for a fun-filled, interactive building session where children can construct spaceships, planets, and perhaps even a few friendly aliens. Using little bricks, kids of all ages will have the chance to unleash their creativity in this cosmic-themed playtime.
For younger space adventurers, there are big bricks available, ensuring everyone can join the fun. This drop-in session is open to all, so no need to book—just come along with your budding builders and enjoy some free, hands-on fun. Parents are asked to stay with their children during the session.
Paper Galaxy: Origami Star Garland Workshop
📅 Thursday, 31st October
🕚 11:00am – 4:00pm (Drop-in sessions)
📍 Chelmsford Cathedral
🎟 Free Event (All Ages)
Get ready to channel your inner cosmic artist! Join us for a celestial-themed crafting workshop where you’ll learn how to make beautiful origami star garlands, mould your own galaxy-themed playdough, and engage in space-themed colouring activities. This hands-on event at Chelmsford Cathedral is the perfect way to immerse yourself in creative fun with a cosmic twist. Drop in anytime between 11:00am and 4:00pm—no need to book. Whether you’re a child or simply young at heart, this workshop is open to all ages.
Organised by Chelmsford For You.
Lunchtime Concert: An Astronaut’s Playlist
📅 Friday, 1st November
🕛 Doors open at 11:30am, Concert begins at 12:00pm
📍 Chelmsford Cathedral
🎟 Free Event
Get ready for a musical journey through the stars with Samuel Bristow, the Assistant Director of Music at Chelmsford Cathedral. This special Lunchtime Concert will feature space-themed favourites on the majestic Cathedral organ, with thrilling pieces inspired by iconic films like Star Wars, E.T., and 2001: A Space Odyssey. Samuel will also treat the audience to a unique arrangement of Neptune from Holst’s beloved suite, The Planets.
Before the concert, bring the little ones along for a rocket-making craft activity starting at 11:30am. Let their imaginations soar as they create their very own rocket, preparing for an exciting musical adventure that’s out of this world!
Find out more about what's coming up at the Cathedral on our Events page.