The August 2022 bank holiday is coming up soon and you may not have a set plan of what you'll get up to on your extended weekend.

To take the guessing work out of what’s happening in and around Southend, we’ve put together a list of some of the events and activities to keep you occupied.

You can also take a look at Echo News’ Local Events Listings to stay in the loop.

Bank Holidays to look forward to in 2022

Here is what is on over August 27-29 in and around Southend.

What’s on near Southend this Bank Holiday weekend?

Southend Craft Beer Festival

Where: Leigh Library Gardens, Broadway, Leigh-on-Sea, Southend-on-Sea, SS9 2DA

When: Saturday, August 27

Southend's first craft beer festival takes place at the beginning of the bank holiday weekend.

More than 50 breweries will be represented at the event, with the chance to sample many fine drinks, tuck into great street food and enjoy some music.

You can book tickets for the event at the website here.

Southend Barge Match

Echo: The Southend Barge Match is returning for its 55th year (Newsquest)The Southend Barge Match is returning for its 55th year (Newsquest)

Where: Thorpe Bay Beach

When: Sunday, August 28

Thames barges will be back to race again this year, but with a different format that will see them come closer inshore to make it more of a spectacle for watching crowds.

This event, now in its 55th year, will have a changed format, with a start line in Thorpe Bay close to the Yacht Club.

Racing is aimed to begin at 11.30am and will continue whilst the tide is in.

Inflatable Family Fun Day

Where: Priory Park, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, SS2 6ND

When: Monday, August 29

If you're looking for something for your kids to enjoy then the Inflatable Family Fun Day at Priory Park could do the trick.

Attractions include interactive bouncy castles, 70ft assault course, football arena, gladiator duels and much more.

There will also be an area dedicated to smaller and less confident children, so everyone can enjoy the day.

Tickets can be purchased from the website here.

Music in the Park

Where: Priory Park, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, SS2 6ND

When: Saturday, August 27 to Monday, August 29

Priory Park will be the location of live music over the bank holiday weekend, with the free event running between 3pm and 4.30pm every day.

The acts that will perform are:

  • Saturday – Circle of Fifths – Jazz Quintet
  • Sunday – Jam Jars – Rock n Roll and 60s
  • Monday – Dave Jago Quintet

No chairs will be provided so please bring your own or a blanket.

Southend Fire Station Open Day

Where: Southend Fire Station, Sutton Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS2 5PX

When: Saturday, August 27

Southend Fire Station are hosting an open day at the start of the bank holiday, giving people the chance to learn more about their local firefighters.

You'll get the opportunity to meet your local firefighters as well as see things like a chip pan fire demonstration, learn about road safety, go on the Aerial Ladder Platform and much more.

The day runs from 10am to 4pm and more details can be found here.

Raver Tots Outdoor Festival

Where: Garon Park

When: Monday, August 29

The family friendly outdoor festival Raver Tots is returning to Southend for the bank holiday weekend.

Alongside the live music there will be inflatables, fairground rides, parachute games, face paint artists and much more.

Tickets can be purchased on the website here.