Artisan Markets, Carols, Walkabout Entertainment, Teddy Bears AND FREE Parking!
Southend City BID is thrilled to announce a month long celebration of Christmas events in Southend High Street, ensuring a festive atmosphere and joyful experiences for residents and visitors alike.
Following the successful Christmas Switch On, the city is set to host a series of engaging activities that include artisan markets, carol performances, walkabout entertainment, a Teddy Bear Trail, and, thanks to the Southend City Council, FREE Christmas parking every Sunday throughout December.
Free Christmas Parking
To make your Christmas shopping even more delightful, Southend City Council is offering FREE Christmas parking in their car parks every Sunday in December. Take advantage of this opportunity to explore the festive happenings in the city centre without worrying about parking fees.
Artisan Market
Discover unique and handcrafted gifts at the bespoke artisan market, located near the railway bridge in the centre of High Street every Sunday until December 17th. This market provides the perfect chance to find one of a kind treasures for your loved ones.
Carols by the Tree
On December 10th, immerse yourself in the traditional festive spirit with 2 hours of fantastic local choral entertainment from Sweet Charity Choir at 12pm and then the LODS choir at 2pm. Enjoy a wonderful repertoire of Christmas songs by the Christmas Tree, creating a magical atmosphere for shoppers.
Walk-about Characters
Experience the enchantment of the city centre on December 3rd and 17th with captivating walk-about characters. Beware of mischievous elves causing havoc on the 3rd and be amazed by festive Ice Queen stilt walkers on the 17th, and also roller skating presents adding a touch of wonder to your Christmas shopping experience.
Teddy Bear Trail
Embark on a journey through the city centre by following the Teddy Bear Trail. Uncover hidden letters held by Christmas teddy bears in various venues around Southend, and once all the letters are found, spell out the Christmas word at the end.
All teddies from the trail will be donated to Little Havens, spreading joy to those in need.
Participating Teddy Bear Venues: IndiRock, Toys ‘n’ Tuck, Maxwell's, River Island, Renall's Jewellers, The Board Game Hut, Primark, Taylor's Hairdressers, Utopia and TK Maxx.
Suzanne Gloyne, manager of Southend City BID, expresses her delight, saying, "We are thrilled that this year's Christmas entertainment is extended, coinciding with Sunday free parking around the city centre. We hope this encourages more people to shop locally. Thanks to our sponsors, Toys ‘n’ Tuck, we can offer an even more exciting array of entertainment this year."