Village Green is not all about the music, and as anyone knows who has been before, has an abundance of other activities and fun to get involved with.

The festival takes place next Saturday at Chalkwell Park and includes acts such as Southend rockers Nothing But Thieves, Nitin Sawhney, and Roland Gift from Fine Young Cannibals.

One of the new additions to the programme this year is a Games Tent, hosted by Leigh-based film and theatre producer Jo Farrugia, known for her work on films such as Calendar Girls, Made in Dagenham and last Christmas’s local charity pantomime hit, Cinderelleigh.

Some of the activities you can expect to take part in at the Games Tent include Musical Flares – musical chairs but with funky flares – and a giant Pass-the-Parcel.

You can also become part of the Great Clever Essex Debate, a project that was launched by Phil Jupitus at last year’s Village Green.

Another workshop at the tent will be Kate Flatt’s the Oss & the Ox, where the worlds of England and Brazil meet. Once you’ve learnt the music and the dance you have the opportunity to take part in a procession with professional performers and local children celebrating two vibrant figures from English and Brazilian folklore. You can also try your hand at English Dance workshops.

There will also be an Alice Treasure Hunt, featuring artists from Nevendon Manor. Festival-goers are encouraged to search for the Wonderland characters, unlock the clues and bag an invite to the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party at 4pm in the Games Tent.

Tickets to Village Green are free for those 10 years and under, £5 for 11 to 17-year-olds and £10 for an adult ticket. They are available at villagegreenfestival.com or by calling 0844 884 2920.