Christmas in the City - Southend Sparkled Once Again

Southend’s most magical day of the year did not disappoint as thousands visited on Saturday 15^th November for the Big Switch On event. The High Street came alive with music, markets, and festive cheer, all leading up to the spectacular switch on at 6pm.

The day was full of community spirit, creativity and celebration, with visitors enjoying live entertainment, bustling market stalls, busy shops, and family fun from start to finish.

The festive artisan market stretched the length of the High Street and inside The Victoria Centre, offering an incredible selection of handmade gifts, sweet treats, festive fashion, jewellery, and decorations alongside lively High Street shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Music filled the streets with performances all over the city, from the impressive stage in Victoria Circus to busking spots under the railway bridge and in The Victoria Centre. Choirs, schools and community groups including The Starlight Majorettes Leigh-on-Sea, the Southend Brass Band, and the Little Theatre Company, all showcased their talents alongside fantastic solo performances from George Redwood, Heidi, Ruby Robinson, and more.

The festive sing a long was another joyful highlight amongst the crowds as the audience accompanied the Rock Choir for songs including ‘I wish it could be Christmas Everyday’ and a brilliant mash up of ‘The First Noel’ and ‘Silent Night’ in the build up to the switch on.

The moment everyone had been waiting for arrived at 6pm, as The Worshipful Mayor, Cllr Nigel Folkard, officially switched on Southend’s Christmas lights joined by stars from Southend Theatre’s festive shows, Cinderella and The Snow Queen. The High Street was filled with cheers, music, and sparkle as lights illuminated the city. With snow flurrying, festive music singing out, and inflatable balls bouncing across the audience, the magical scene was complete.

Extra touches of festive magic included the return of the Storytelling Bus at the south end of the High Street, a brand new Christmas tree in Royal Square, children’s rides, walkabout entertainers, and two popular children’s Creation Stations. Families loved making their own glowing lanterns, Christmas decorations, and jingle bell bracelets to take home.

Suzanne Gloyne, Southend City BID Manager, said:

“It was a truly unforgettable day that captured the joy and community spirit of Southend at Christmas, with the fireworks finale capping the day off nicely.

A huge thank you to everyone who joined us, performed, traded, sponsored, or helped make our Christmas in the City event such a success.

And the festive fun doesn’t stop here as we’re bringing Festive Sundays to the city this December to keep the celebrations going!”

Festive Sundays will take place from 12-3pm under the railway bridge in Southend City Centre on the following dates:

• Sunday 7 December - Snow Queen Sunday, with storytelling, crafts and live performances

• Sunday 14 December - Musical Sunday, featuring local choirs and community groups

• Sunday 21 December - Festive Fun Day, with face painting, magic shows and festive characters