Ipswich is at its best when people come together, and the half‑term holidays bring a brilliant mix of activities for families, young people, and anyone who simply wants to feel more connected to their town. Whether you’re drawn to local events, creative workshops, or outdoor adventures, there’s something happening around every corner.
With the weather looking as good as it does (or at least for some of the week), take a look at just some of these events taking place over the holiday period:
Constable 250 Workshop: My Favourite Place
On Thursday 28th May join Ipswich Art Society artist Allan Williams to create a unique painting of your favourite place. Inspired by Constable’s painting of the landscape of Suffolk, participants will be invited to think of their favourite place and capture it in paint. It could be real or imagined e.g. a favourite holiday destination or somewhere you like to go. Families are invited to bring photographs of their favourite places with them to inspire their work, however this is not essential to take part.
May half term hideouts at AMPP Studio
Hideouts are full day art camps for primary age young artists during school holidays. A range of different projects and access to all our amazing kit, materials and space to get creative and messy!
The Suffolk Show
The Suffolk Show is an iconic agricultural event that celebrates the rich heritage, culture, and industry of Suffolk. Dating back to 1832, the Suffolk Show has become a beloved tradition and a highlight on the county’s calendar. At this year’s event, attendees can expect an immersive experience that showcases the best of Suffolk’s agriculture, food, exhibitors, crafts and more!
147th Annual Open Exhibition 2026
Feeling arty? The 147th ANNUAL OPEN EXHIBITION – Paintings, Drawings, Ceramics, Textiles, Prints and Sculptures by Art Society Members and Independent Artists. All Welcome to this celebration of Visual Art at St Clement’s Arts Centre
St Peter’s by the Waterfront Summer Opening
Discover St Peter’s by the Waterfront — Few buildings in Ipswich can match St Peter’s for atmosphere or story. Its 900‑year‑old site, its rare Tournai Limestone font, and its close ties to Cardinal Wolsey make it a natural anchor point for anyone tracing the town’s medieval past. Inside, you’ll find layers of history that reward slow wandering.
Walk: Terrible Tales And Gory Stories
Discover the cruel punishments, dreadful diseases and the overflowing graveyards of the past, and about trial by ordeal and a haunted pub! Come and see where it all really happened in Ipswich on this Walk: Terrible Tales And Gory Stories .
Dock Stories
Whilst the weather is good, why not take a look at the Dock Stories trail. Stoke Bridge Wharf is one of Ipswich’s most historic landmarks — and now, its stories are coming to life. With the Dock Stories app, you can step back in time and experience Ipswich’s maritime past through the voices of the people and pioneers who shaped it.
Kids’ Crafting Club: Pom-pom Making
A hands-on pom-pom crafting event for kids aged 3+. Join us in-store at John Lewis for a fun pom-pom making class specifically designed for kids aged 3+.
Most importantly, getting involved strengthens the sense of pride and belonging that makes Ipswich special. When residents show up, participate, and support local initiatives, the whole town feels more vibrant, more connected, and more full of possibility.
So this May half term, step out and explore these and the hundreds of other regular events, activities and community organisations listed on our website.
There’s never ‘nothing to do’ in Ipswich. Bring the kids, meet your neighbours, try a new activity, or simply enjoy the buzz. Ipswich is ready — all it needs is you.
Who wrote this about Ipswich?
Sam Sherman
Sam is a Co-Founder of Ipswich.love. Passionate about Ipswich, Sam looks to see how we might jointly reverse some of the recent negativity and bring some deserved positivity back to our beloved Town.
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