The first week in September is always an important one for schoolchildren who will be returning to the classroom after their extended summer break. The weekend can't come soon enough, so here's a selection of events across Gloucestershire that are worth checking out this Saturday and Sunday:

Cheltenham Paint Festival
Some of the world’s leading street artists will be painting buildings across the town centre this weekend as the Cheltenham Paint Festival returns for another year. Over 120 artists will be showcasing their skills as buildings across the town centre are transformed with vibrant colours and stylish designs.

Newent Onion Fayre
Held in the centre of Newent, the one-day fayre brings together a whole community who come to see the now famous onion eating competitions as well as enjoy live music and entertainment on what is the busiest day of the year for the Forest of Dean market town. Over 15,000 visitors are expected to enjoy the festivities, completely free of charge. Don’t forget to come and find The Local Answer’s big pink gazebo where we’ll be running a tombola in aid of two great local charities – Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust and Building Circles in Gloucestershire.

Gloucester History Festival
Discover Gloucester’s rich history at one of the largest historical events in the country. The festival is a celebration of city’s heritage with insightful talks and a host of fascinating events planned. Women and Leadership will be the themes of the 2018 festival, which runs until 16th September.

Giffords Circus
Giffords Circus are undoubtably one of the leading circus companies in the UK and this is a show not to be missed. Featuring incredible performances and live music, the show will be a celebration of the birth of circus. The show takes place at Marlborough Common near Minchinhampton.

Lego workshops At Slimbridge Wetland Centre
The amazing giant Lego animal trail, the only one of its kind in the UK, has returned to Slimbridge Wetland Centre. The trial features fourteen giant Lego brick sculptures, including Sam the short-eared owl, Walter the water vole and Skye the stork.