Join Southend City BID for festive fun at the Christmas Light Switch On in Southend.
Southend city centre will come alive with a day long extravaganza featuring a diverse array of performances, special guests, and festive activities before the 6pm switch on.
Main Stage
The Main Stage hosted by BBC ESSEX features an eclectic celebration of the diverse communities that reside in our City of Southend.
We will be embracing many of the cultural and community groups that we have in Southend from the school choir at Greenways Juniors, to The Southend Irish association Ceili band, and The Ironworks Additional Needs performance group.
Community performances start at 12pm, culminating in a wonderful Christmas Sing along with The Melvin Beddow Big Band, before The Worshipful Mayor joins The Cliffs Pavilion ‘Jack and The Beanstalk’ Panto Stars and Local Hero ’Salvo The Clown’ in switching on the lights at 6pm.
Follow the Bean Walk, Leave as a Beanstalk’ trail
Elves workshops will be stationed through the High Street, creating a fun trail for all the family.
At each station you are required to partake in an activity that will essentially turn you into a beanstalk!
Ultimately when you become a beanstalk, the prize is a visit to Father Christmas at The Forum.
Busking
Local performers will be busking in the High Street throughout the day.
Walkabout Entertainment
Enjoy the exciting array of walkabout entertainment, from Magic Dave, to the Glitter Belles and naughty elves!
Storytelling Bus
Visit the Ensign bus for stories hosted by local storyteller Hannah Brailsford | 12-4pm
Children’s Rides
Enjoy a host of children’s rides on the south side of the railway bridge and in Royals Square.
Artisan Craft Market
Southend City BID have a host of local creatives excited to trade at the event – located throughout the High Street. There will also be a festive indoor market inside The Victoria Centre.
Indirock Climbing Wall
Come and try climbing with Indirock!