A POPULAR street entertainment festival was a huge success with residents flocking to the town centre for the occasion.

The Witham Street Entertainment Festival was back with a bang, as the town transformed into a “lively hub of entertainment”.

The Street Entertainment Festival is completely organised by Witham Town Council.

Braintree and Witham Times: ALL SMILES: Posing with Spider-ManALL SMILES: Posing with Spider-Man (Image: Witham Town Council)

It originates from the town’s Puppet Festival which started in 1999 and was an annual event for 20 years until 2019. 

The festival first took place to provide a completely free event in town centre to bring the community together and provide entertainment for all ages. 

Braintree and Witham Times: DRESS UP: There were many animals to get up close and personal withDRESS UP: There were many animals to get up close and personal with (Image: Witham Town Council)

The town had no festival in 2020 and 2021 due to Covid and relaunched the event as the Street Entertainment Festival in 2022.  

The name was changed to be more in keeping with the acts performing at the event. 

Braintree and Witham Times: COLOURFUL PAIR: Two flowery trees pose for the cameraCOLOURFUL PAIR: Two flowery trees pose for the camera (Image: Witham Town Council)

It is the council’s most well-attended event, always receiving positive feedback from visitors.

This year the free festival took place at multiple venues across Witham once again, including the United Reformed Church, the Library, the Newlands Shopping Centre, and the Grove Shopping Centre.

Families and friends revelled in the dynamic atmosphere, embracing a wide array of captivating performances and interactive activities.

Braintree and Witham Times: MEET AND GREET: There were a variety of character at the eventMEET AND GREET: There were a variety of character at the event (Image: Witham Town Council)

Attendees were treated to a medley of acts, featuring beloved characters such as Disney princesses, adorable sloths, pandas, playful dolphins, polar bears, the iconic stormtroopers and Granny Turismo among many others.

The diversity of acts ensured there was something for everyone to enjoy.

Adding to the delightful experience, festivalgoers could indulge in a variety of sweet treats and ice creams.

Braintree and Witham Times: FURRY FRIEND: Petting the polar bearFURRY FRIEND: Petting the polar bear (Image: Witham Town Council)

Additionally, a special highlight was the opportunity to get a free temporary tattoo from Witham Town Councillors.

Witham Town Council has said the festival was an “overwhelming success”.

A spokesman said: “The Witham Town Council extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended the Witham Street Entertainment Festival.

“Their enthusiasm and support helped make this event an overwhelming success.

“We are immensely grateful for the community's active participation, which contributed to creating a day of joy and togetherness.”