About this Event
IO SATURNALIA!
Join us at the Roman Circus Visitor Centre for a festive afternoon celebrating Saturnalia, one of ancient Rome's most popular festivals!
Held on 17 December, the traditional opening day of Saturnalia, this special event offers a wonderful opportunity to discover how the Romans celebrated the winter season.
From feasting and gift-giving to games, merriment, and a temporary relaxation of everyday conventions, Saturnalia turned Roman life decidedly festive!
Enjoy an entertaining illustrated talk exploring Saturnalia's history, customs, and traditions, including some of the more surprising ways Romans celebrated this much-loved festival.
After the talk, relax and enjoy a delicious Christmas Afternoon Tea, featuring a tempting selection of festive sandwiches, savoury pastries, cakes, and mince pies, with warming mulled fruit punch, tea, and coffee.
Whether you are fascinated by Roman history or want something a little different this Christmas, join us for an afternoon of history, festive food, and good company.
Roman costumes and Christmas jumpers optional!
This is also a fundraising event, with proceeds going towards new interpretation and display boards for the Roman Circus Visitor Centre. Your support will help us improve our exhibitions and bring even more of Roman Colchester's fascinating history to life.
Speaker: Samantha Rowley, MA – Classicist and Roman Historian
What's Included?
- An entertaining illustrated talk exploring the Roman festival of Saturnalia.
- A festive Christmas Afternoon Tea, with a selection of sandwiches, savoury treats, cakes, and mince pies.
- Warming mulled fruit punch, tea, and coffee.
- An opportunity to enjoy the Roman Circus Visitor Centre in a relaxed, festive atmosphere.
Food Allergies & Dietary Requirements
We want everyone to enjoy their festive afternoon tea. If you have any food allergies, intolerances, or special dietary requirements, please let us know when booking so that we can make suitable arrangements wherever possible.
Space is limited to 30 guests, so booking is essential.
Event venue & nearby stays
Roman Circus Visitor Centre, Roman Circus Walk, Colchester, United Kingdom
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.