MORE than 70 events are to take place in the city as part of a festival aimed at getting the creative juices going and encouraging residents to engage with different cultures.

It is hoped the two-week Ideas Festival, which will run from Monday, October 20, to Sunday, November 2, at venues across the city, will showcase its cultural diversity.

Leonie Ramondt, festival director, said: “People are inspired to see how much culture and creativity is all around us in Chelmsford and what is possible, especially when we pool our skills, talents and knowledge.”

Among the array of events will be a River Celebration Day in the town centre on Saturday, October 25, and a weekend of wellbeing workshops at the Marconi Social Club.

During half-term week, there will be a string of events to entertain youngsters. They will get the chance to learn about animation, record their own radio show, make a Shamballa-style bracelet or explore natural objects at the Ideas Hub.

They can also join the Big Draw at Hylands House, make a crystal radio set at Sandford Mill Museum, or create a 3D Tudor house at Essex Records Office.

An organisation called Churches Together has arranged a music extravganza at the Salvation Army HQ, which will take place on Friday, October 24.

A team of volunteers, called Changing Chelmsford, backed by Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford City Council and High Chelmer, along with a number of local businesses, has worked hard to organise the festival.

Go to www.changing chelmsford.org/if2014