Christmas is fast approaching and for many of us there is nothing like a carol to get us in the festive mood.

Here are some upcoming concerts to enjoy in and around Colchester.

  • Tiptree Choral Society's Christmas concert

It takes place at St Luke's church today from 7.30pm.  

John Rutter's tuneful Magnificat will be followed by carols from around the world.

Tickets, costing £12, will be available at the door.

  • Here Comes Christmas! - Colchester Choral Society

The Colchester Choral Society will perform directed by Ian Ray at the Moot Hall.

There will be carols and festive music with children from St. John's Green & Langham Primary Schools and brass quintet.

It starts at 4pm on Sunday, December 8, and tickets are £8 for adults and £3 for under 18s.

  • Abbeygate Concert Band Christmas Concert

A free Christmas concert by The Abbeygate Concert Band, to be held at St Stephens Church in Colchester.

It takes place at 2 pm on Wednesday December 11.

There will be a raffle, refreshments and a retiring collection for charity.

Everybody welcome and entry is free.

  • Carols at The Railway Tavern

Join members and friends of the United Reformed Church at The Railway Tavern, in Kelvedon, for festive carol singing.

It starts at 8.30pm and all are welcome.

  • A Jolly Holly Christmas at the Headgate

Enjoy seasonal songs and sparkle at the Headgate Theatre on Saturday December 14.

This event is dedicated to the memory of Ken Smith, in whose name a donation will be made to charity.

Performances are at 3pm and 8pm and tickets are £12.50.

  • Christmas Band Concert

Christmas band concert by the Essex Concert Band and Rowhedge Community Choir, on Tuesday December 17 at 7.45 pm.

It takes place at Rowhedge Village Hall.

Free admission.

There will be a raffle, refreshments and retiring collection for the Huntington's Disease Association charity.

  • Carol concert at the Mercury Theatre

A collection of carols and readings courtesy of the Cinderella panto company and the Mercury Theatre. 

It will take place at the Mercury at Abbey Field venue to celebrate the festive season with a fun filled sing-a-long.

Hear offerings from your favourite panto actors, and join in with all your favourite Christmas songs.

Tickets are free but need to be booked in advance. 

  • Carols on the Quay

Ye Old Albion pub in Rowhedge will be hosting an evening of carols on the quayside.

Visitors will also be able to indulge in a mince pie and some mulled wine.

It takes place on Sunday December 22 from 6pm to 7pm.