Southend Switch On Returns Saturday 15th November!

Southend’s Christmas season officially begins this Saturday 15th November with the return of the Big Switch On event. Brought to you by Southend City BID, the day offers a full day of festive fun, live entertainment, and community spirit across the city centre.

Two supporting sponsors have joined the celebrations - The Victoria Centre, bringing music and crafting activities to the heart of the city, and Stambridge Group, sponsoring the tree and enabling an accessible stage solution so everyone can perform and enjoy the festivities.

Patrick Bourke, Managing Director of the Stambridge Group, said:

“The Stambridge Group is proud to sponsor Southend’s Christmas in the City celebrations this year, supporting such a wonderful community event that brings people together. Our contribution towards the Christmas trees, the accessible viewing area, and improved performer access reflects our belief that everyone should be able to enjoy the festivities.

Inclusivity and community are at the heart of what we do, and we’re delighted to help make this year’s celebrations welcoming and accessible for all.” 

Dennis Baldry, Centre Manager, The Victoria Shopping Centre, said:

“The Victoria Shopping Centre is delighted to sponsor Southend’s Christmas Switch On again for 2025. It’s such an important event for Southend - a time when the whole community comes together to celebrate, support local businesses, and enjoy the start of the festive season.

We’re proud to play a part in bringing that magic to life and to see the High Street filled with families, laughter and festive spirit once again.”

Southend City BID, alongside headline sponsors Southend Theatres, promises a packed programme of festive highlights:

• Creative Lantern Making– craft your own light‑up lantern to carry to the Switch On or pop by one of the other free crafting stations.

• Busking spots – enjoy music from talented local artists.

• Storytelling Bus – enchanting tales for all ages.

• Festive Characters - roaming the High Street throughout the day.

• Stage Performances – choirs, schools, community groups, and local musicians performing from 12.40pm.

• Artisan Market and Family Fun – stalls, rides, and shopping to get you feeling festive.

• Big Switch On – watch Southend’s Christmas lights and two sparkling trees come to life at 6pm.

• Fireworks Finale – a dazzling display to close the celebration in style at 7.30pm.

Suzanne Gloyne, Southend City BID Manager, added:

“We’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our headline sponsors Southend Theatres, and our supporting sponsors, The Victoria Centre and Stambridge Group. Their commitment enables us to deliver an inclusive, creative, and magical day for the whole community.

We’re excited to bring Southend together to celebrate the start of the festive season and create memories that will last long after the lights are switched on.”

Visit Southend for the Big Switch On this Saturday 15^th November with stage performances beginning at 12:40pm, and the spectacular tree and lights countdown at 6:00pm.