Incredible basketball Christmas celebration to help hospital charity  

An incredible Christmas celebration is coming to Colchester as part of an amazing basketball bonanza – featuring a family fun-packed market, charity toy drive, and a day of topflight sport.  

The Essex Rebels will host the Christmas Special at the University of Essex this Saturday, December 13.  Starting from 2pm, outside the Essex Sport Arena, the celebration will feature seasonal stalls, carol singers, and more.  

Highlights include a festive BBQ, a Wivenhoe House Hotel pop-up, and an incredible 360 cam experience – that will create merry mementoes for the whole family.  

As giving is the true spirit of Christmas the Rebels have teamed up with the Colchester and Ipswich Hospital Charity to provide gifts to children and elderly patients staying in hospital over the festive period.  

Either bring a toy or donate a gift through the charity’s Amazon Wishlist online.  

A charity spokesman said:

“We’re truly thankful to the Essex Rebels for supporting Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity through their Toy Drive this year. For patients who find themselves in hospital over Christmas, whether they are young or old, these gifts bring moments of happiness and remind them they’re not alone. We hope fans will join us in making this festive season a little brighter for those in hospital.” 

On-court action begins with the Rebels Women tipping off against the B. Braun Sheffield Hatters at 4PM. The women come fresh from a storming trophy run, which saw them just miss out on a finals spot in a closely run 93-95 semi-final against Caledonia Gladiators. 

The Rebels men take on the Nottingham Hoods at 6.30pm in British Championship Basketball (BCB) competition. If they sink the Hoods the Rebels will climb the table and cement a highly-sought play-off spot. 

Diana Voynova, Essex Rebels Manager, said:

“We’re very excited to deliver another Christmas Special for our amazing community. Partnering with the Colchester & Ipswich Hospital Charity for this year’s Toy Drive is something we’re truly proud of. At the Rebels, we’re committed to making a difference in our community and being able to bring joy to patients during the holidays is something that means a great deal to us.”  

Tickets for the Rebels Christmas Special are available on Fanbase. Don’t miss out and get your tickets now!