The best things to do in Suffolk this September
As we slowly tumble into Autumn, it’s natural to think that events in Suffolk would become few and far between. But while the leaves may turn from green to brown, and the winds start to grow colder and fiercer, there’s still lots to see and do in the local areas this September. And we’re here to give you a taste of what to expect over the next month.
From rousing concert music to fun-filled carnivals and engaging historical events, these are our top six events in Suffolk for September.
Cavendish Fete and Horticultural Show – 1st September
Famous for its thatched cottages and picturesque green, Cavendish is well-known for being a pretty village in Suffolk. It’s great for a visit at any time of year, but particularly at the start of September when the popular Annual Fete and Horticultural Show comes to town.
Starting at 1.30pm, the show includes a giant fete, with numerous attractions and side stalls for visitors to walk around. There will also be traditional Punch and Judy shows, a scale traction engine, birds of prey to be amazed by, a delicious BBQ to quell any hunger pangs, and a dog show for extra cuteness!
Showtime at Teatime – 2nd September
Showtime at Teatime is a one-off special live music event for a summer weekend. Visit Long Melford Country Park on the 2nd September and prepare to be nourished by music, drink and food. Professional singers will be performing songs from classic musical shows from London’s West End and Broadway, including Chicago, Calamity Jane, 42nd Street, Chess, Les Miserables, Sweet Charity, Oliver, A Little Night Music and Guys and Dolls. They will also bring a bit of Hollywood to the park with songs from the movies!
Jenny Wren’s is an alfresco tea shop in the park. Popular with visitors, locals, cyclists and dog-walkers, it is a hidden gem close to both Long Melford and Sudbury that serves tea and coffee, homemade lunches, cakes, and more. Food and drinks will be served from noon and music will start at 3pm.
Proms in the Park – 8th September
The Bury St Edmunds Concert Band returns this year for a night of stirring anthems, rousing sing-a-longs and uncontrolled flag waving. Enjoy this grand British tradition of The Last Night of the Proms in the park at Ickworth.
Popular anthems, fun sing-a-longs, and uncontrolled flag waving will be in full swing as the spirit and atmosphere of The Last Night of the Proms is recreated in the heart of Suffolk. Make sure to bring a picnic and rugs, so you can sit back and enjoy an evening of amazing music.
White Night Festival of Lights – 21st September
The Arbon Arts Centre CIC is putting on an exciting new festival this year – White Night: Festival of Light. Held in Bury St Edmunds over two days and one night, the town will transform into a venue with an incredible carnival atmosphere.
With a Victorian magic lantern show, astounding insect circus museum, light shows and DJ specials, along with fantastic exhibitions and performances, it’s a great opportunity to experience a community coming together to have fun! Most events across the town will be free, the first of which will be a fundraiser for the new Arbon Arts Centre community arts space for Bury, with all donations split between that and the charity, Mind.
As part of the event, visitors are also invited to join the Children’s Lantern Parade, which allows kids to create their own lanterns and display them for all to see. A selection of arts activities, shows, installations and trails will be happening across the town centre and late night shopping will be on, with cafes, restaurants and venues open and free admission.
Michaelmas at Kentwell Hall – 22nd and 23rd September
Step back in time and see Tudor life during Michaelmas at Kentwell Hall. Michaelmas was an important event during Tudor times as it was the time to celebrate and hope for a good harvest.
Kentwell Hall will be holding a weekend event at the end of September so visitors can see what it would have been like during the era. With over 100 Tudors about the manor and in the grounds, the beautiful gardens will be open to view in all their autumn loveliness. Plus, there will be the chance to meet Kentwell’s gardeners and find out about the walled garden and the apples and pears that are grown there!
Roman River Festival – 20th to 30th September
This September, Colchester and Stoke by Nayland will come alive with spoken word, visual art, history, talks, debates, world music, poetry, jazz, walks, and new commissions and compositions by local school pupils and composers, alongside Roman River’s trademark world-class classical concerts.
You can even join in the singing fun with the 100 voices choir, a once in a lifetime opportunity to work with leading choral composer, Dominic Ellis Peckham. Enjoy a day or evening out with friends, outstanding music and arts, and lots of refreshments.