Hot Box Live is one of Chelmsford’s most important grassroots venues, offering a packed calendar of regular events that celebrate music, creativity, games, and community. From live bands and jazz sessions to spoken word, drag, chess, and electronic music, Hot Box provides an alternative to screen-filled evenings at home — and a genuine space for culture to thrive.
Below is a guide to the regular events you’ll find at Hot Box Live throughout the month.
New Music Wednesdays
4th Wednesday of Every Month (usually)
New Music Wednesdays is all about championing emerging bands and artists loved by City Sound radio and the Hot Box team. This unique collaboration allows audiences to experience live performances either in the venue or through City Sound broadcasts at home.
It’s a first for Chelmsford and a major step forward for grassroots musicians, giving them a wider platform than previously available. The event brings together bands, radio, venues, and promoters with one shared goal: keeping Chelmsford’s local music scene alive, connected, and growing — while continuing the city’s proud radio heritage.
Jazz Sundays with Zak Barrett & DJ Funkendick
Second Sunday of Every Month (with occasional exceptions)
Jazz Sundays are a relaxed but vibrant way to round off the weekend. Led by acclaimed saxophonist Zak Barrett (The Fellowship, Sunchaser and more), these afternoons and evenings blend live jazz, soul, and funk with expertly curated jazz vinyl sets from DJ Funkendick.
Expect a journey through classic jazz, rare grooves, and modern nu-jazz, with past guest musicians including Guthrie Govan, Roberto Manzin, Dave Ital, Seth Govan, and many others. It’s the perfect soundtrack to a laid-back Sunday in Chelmsford.
HotHaus Drag
Friday Nights – Around 10 Shows Per Year
HotHaus Drag brings bold, inclusive, and high-energy drag performances to Hot Box Live. Founded by Essex Queen Kenzie Blackheart, the collective features drag artists from across the UK, regularly performing in Chelmsford, Essex, and London.
After debuting at Hot Box Live in July 2021 following months of planning and lockdown delays, HotHaus has grown into a standout part of the venue’s calendar. Each show celebrates self-expression, performance art, and community in a safe and welcoming environment.
Hot Box Open Mic Night
First & Third Tuesday of Every Month
Hot Box’s Open Mic Night is the place for local musicians to showcase original material to a supportive audience. Performers can sing or play acoustic sets, with equipment provided for vocals, guitar, and backing tracks.
Audience members are just as welcome as performers, making this a great midweek night for discovering new talent and supporting Chelmsford’s music scene.
Hot Box Waxes Lyrical – Spoken Word & Poetry
Fourth Tuesday of Every Month
Waxes Lyrical is Hot Box Live’s dedicated spoken word and poetry night. Whether you’re stepping up to the mic or soaking up the words from the audience, this event celebrates Chelmsford’s literary and spoken word scene.
Free tickets are available for performers and audience members, creating an accessible, creative space where poetry, storytelling, and lyrical expression take centre stage.
Dominoes at Hot Box
Nearly Every Saturday – Back Room
Join local legend Dexter (Papa D) and friends for a relaxed game of dominoes in the Hot Box back room. All abilities are welcome, and there’s no cost to join in.
It’s informal, social, and noisy in the best possible way — a true community hangout.
Big Music Quiz
Second Wednesday of Every Month (usually)
The Big Music Quiz is a monthly test of musical knowledge, covering multiple genres and eras. Some questions are deceptively easy, others brutally difficult, and there’s always Dave’s infamous Dastardly Question up for grabs.
Teams compete for modest prizes, bragging rights, and a £10 bonus for cracking the toughest question. Expect flowing drinks, creative team names, and a lively atmosphere.
Chess Nights
Every Monday, 7pm – 11pm
Chelmsford Chess Club meets at Hot Box Live every Monday night, but you don’t need to be a member to join in. Games take place across tables and even at the bar, with players of all abilities welcome.
Friendly, informal, and slightly competitive, it’s a great way to start the week — and you might even get your game analysed by Dan.
Ignition – Rock, Metal & Punk
Third Thursday of Every Month
Hosted by Impious Spirit Productions, Ignition is the night for fans of metal, rock, and punk. Carefully curated by Liam, these monthly shows consistently deliver quality line-ups in an intimate, independent venue setting.
If heavy music is your thing, this is a regular date for your calendar.
Control Voltage: Electronic Music Open Mic (EMOM)
Third Wednesday of Every Month
Control Voltage’s Electronic Music Open Mic (EMOM) is a free, open-stage night for local electronic musicians. Up to seven artists perform short live sets covering genres such as techno, house, ambient, experimental electronica, industrial, chiptune, and more.
Part of a wider UK movement, EMOM provides a supportive space for electronic artists to experiment and perform live. The night is free for both performers and audience members, and all ages are welcome (under 16s must be accompanied by an adult).
The Only Way Is Melee
First & Third Tuesday of Every Month – Back Room
Retro gaming fans can get their fix with The Only Way Is Melee, a Super Smash Bros. Melee tournament hosted at Hot Box Live. With multiple setups, a competitive bracket, and a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers and veterans alike, it’s become a staple of the venue’s gaming scene.
Winners walk away with £20 and a pint — and the satisfaction of victory.
Resonance Open System
First Wednesday of January, March, May, July, September & November
Resonance Open System invites electronic music producers from across Essex to experience their music on a full club sound system. Artists simply bring a USB and hear their work played at the volume and clarity it deserves.
Hosted by the Resonance collective, this event focuses on listening, learning, and appreciating electronic music in a shared space.
A True Cultural Hub in Chelmsford
With such a diverse range of regular events, Hot Box Live continues to play a vital role in Chelmsford’s cultural life. Whether you’re into live music, poetry, drag, gaming, or just meeting like-minded people, there’s always something happening at Hot Box.