A FREE wellbeing festival is returning to Maldon after a successful second outing last year.

UFest will take place on August 16, in Promenade Park, from 11am until 4pm.

The community festival aims to bring people together in the Maldon district to celebrate everything that makes life worth living whilst giving attendees the chance to become active and learn new skills.

Throughout the day, there will be an array of activities, live music, sports, stalls and events focusing on health, wellbeing, and fun.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Information - UFest 2024's posterInformation - UFest 2024's poster (Image: Maldon District Council)

Maldon District Council leader Richard Siddall, is delighted the festival is returning.

He said: “I am really pleased that UFest is returning to Maldon Promenade Park for 2024.

“The festival received so much positive feedback last year, and the team behind UFest are planning an even bigger and better festival this year.

“UFest provides the opportunity for you to find the support you might need in dealing with the cost of living, or family and personal support.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Promenade Park - A photo taken from last year's UFestPromenade Park - A photo taken from last year's UFest (Image: Maldon District Council)

“It is also a great free fun day where all members of the family can have the chance to enjoy themselves and try new activities and interests.”

The festival is funded by the National Lottery, Nuclear Restoration Fund and Livewell.

It has also partnered with organisations such as the NHS and emergency services, Active Essex, Essex County Council, Carers First, Parkrun, First Essex Buses, Essex Child and family wellbeing service and more, for the big event.

Last year’s UFest had to be postponed from August 4 to August 18 due to forecasted thunderstorms.

However, after this slight setback, the festival was heralded a success.

Musical entertainment was provided by the Big Sing Choir, and singer John Pierce.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Entertainment - John Pierce with members of The Big Sing at last year's eventEntertainment - John Pierce with members of The Big Sing at last year's event (Image: Jake Pursey)

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Busy - Some of the stalls at last year's UFestBusy - Some of the stalls at last year's UFest (Image: Maldon District Council)

At the time, chairman of Maldon District Council, Councillor Kevin Lagan, was thankful for everyone who helped bring the festival to life.

He said: "I just wanted to say an enormous 'thank you' to every single person who was involved in organising and supporting our UFest community festival.

"The joy that it brought to so many visitors was very evident.

“My sincere thanks to all who worked so hard to make the event the success it was, and to everyone who came along and supported UFest this year.”