Here at the Orsett Show, we are proud to champion the fantastic community groups, charities, and organisations that make Thurrock such a vibrant place to live. Today, we are shining a spotlight on one of our wonderful show supporters, Start Thurrock, who have just announced the highly anticipated return of their incredible Big Lunches for summer 2026!
Many of you will know Start Thurrock from their fantastic, interactive children’s activities at the Orsett Show each year. As a charity dedicated to bringing world-class arts, culture, and creativity right to our doorsteps, they are back this summer with a packed programme of free family events you won’t want to miss.
What’s on at the Big Lunches?
Get ready, Thurrock! This summer’s Big Lunches are starting to take shape, and an incredible line-up of performers, artists, and activities has just been confirmed.
Based directly on feedback from local residents, Start Thurrock has booked high-energy dance and circus acts across all locations to bring a massive burst of energy to the community. Families can expect a spectacular mix of circus, theatre, stunts, storytelling, acrobatics, and plenty of surprises.
Some of the brilliant national and local highlights include:
- ‘Grow’ by Highly Sprung Theatre
- ‘Bamboo’ by the renowned NoFit State Circus
- ‘Ride’ by ZoieLogic
- Exclusive acts: Exciting circus artists who have been developing brand-new work specifically for Thurrock’s audiences!
Packed with Family Activities
It’s not just world-class performances on offer. Start Thurrock has teamed up with brilliant event partners—including Impulse Leisure, Active Essex, Thurrock Council, and Thurrock CVS—to ensure each Big Lunch is jam-packed with free family fun.
Depending on which location you visit, you can look forward to face painting, bouncy castles, live DJ sets, basketball, skateboarding, and dance demonstrations. For those looking for something a bit different, there will also be Qigong, sound therapy, and creative workshops run by amazing local organisations like Kinetika, CoDa Dance, Arts Outburst, Thurrock Museum, and Thurrock Libraries.
Where and When?
The Big Lunches will be bringing the fun to five key locations across the borough:
- East Tilbury
- South Ockendon
- Chadwell St Mary
- Corringham
- Blackshots
Each location will feature its own unique mix of activities, making every single event special.
Find Your Nearest Big Lunch!
As a charity, Start Thurrock puts an immense amount of work into making these events completely free, accessible, and full of joy for local children and families. We highly encourage our Orsett Show community to get involved, pack a picnic, and support this fantastic initiative.
To see the full schedule, timings, and specific details for your local area, head over to the Start Thurrock What’s On Page.
Don’t forget to look out for the Start Thurrock team at the Orsett Show later this year, where they’ll be bringing even more creative activities for your little ones to enjoy!