There are a number of great activities taking place across Essex this weekend.

From family fun to cultural, there is something for everyone.

Here are a few top picks for this weekend:

1. Meet the author of Princess Swashbuckle at The Forum, Southend

October 13, 2pm to 3.30pm

Tired of the same old princess-meets-her-prince stories? Meet Princess Swashbuckle. She's Swashbuckle by name, swashbuckling by nature and she's about to show the world what a great pirate captain she can be. Charmingly breaking the mould, Princess Swashbuckle is a rollicking tale of adventure and finding your own happy. Join the author for a reading of the princess's story, followed by piratical arts and crafts! Age 4+. There will also be books for sale and time for signing. All children should be accompanied by an adult - one accompanying adult goes free.

Tickets, £4

www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/meet-the-author-hollie-hughes-tickets-49897561951?aff=eac2

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2. Autumn Plant Fair at Beth Chatto Gardens, Colchester

Saturday and Sunday, from 10am

The gardens will be open to all during this special plant fair weekend. Enjoy talks on gardening, plants, the gardens, and behind-the-scenes tours.

Free entry

https://www.facebook.com/events/1897109310595099/

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3. Colchester Games Fair 2018 at Colchester Arts Centre

Saturday from 10am to 4pm

If you're into tabletop gaming of any variety, or even if you are new to tabletop gaming, there will be something for you. Board games, miniatures, card games, wargames and RPGs.

There will be a variety of different traders and demonstration games so you can try and buy.

There will also be a bring and buy. So if you have some games, miniatures, rulebooks or anything game related gathering dust bring it along and make some money to spend at the fair.

Free entry

www.colchesterartscentre.com

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4. Fantastic Fungi at High Woods Country Park, Colchester

Saturday at 10.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 3.30pm

Join fungi expert Sarah Manning on this stroll around the woods discovering the fascinating mushrooms and toadstools that grow there.

www.visitcolchester.com

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5. Southend fireworks, Southend seafront

Enjoy fireworks on the seafront

Free

visitsouthend.co.uk/whats-on/seafront-fireworks.aspx

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6. Apple Day at Cressing Temple Barns, near Braintree

Sunday, 11am to 4pm

The annual Apple Day is coming to Cressing. Celebrating all that is apples and Autumn, you will find a variety of apple produce, autumn related items, clog dancing, entertainment and more.

£2

http://www.visitparks.co.uk/events/apple-day/