Illustration of a crowd in scarves watching a tall lit Christmas tree in a snowy town square (Christmas Lights Switch On)

Christmas Lights Switch On

Visitors can browse a festive Christmas market and enjoy family entertainment spanning the High Street and seafront. Live acts take to the main stage and pop-up spots across the city centre, showcasing local choirs, school groups, and musicians. The crowd can also join in a massive Christmas sing-along before the city's festive lights are illuminated.

Details Official site

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Browse Christmas in Southend-on-Sea

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Plan Your Visit

Website / Tickets

southend.gov.uk

When

Tickets

Free.

Going?

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and local community groups

Vibe

Festive and communal

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Make time for the market and family entertainment, as festive activities are spread across the High Street and city-centre pop-up locations.
  • Catch the main-stage and pop-up performances to see the announced local performers and community groups.
  • Join the Christmas sing-along before the lights switch on, as it is scheduled as the festive finale beforehand.
  • Allow time for the full-day programme, since festive activities and performances take place across the city centre.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Free entry.
  • BBC Essex presenter Sonia Watson will host the event on November 14.
  • Barling Magna Primary Academy, Ruby Robinson, Kangoo Southend and The Show Choir are on the November 14 line-up.
  • The Show Choir leads a Christmas sing-along just before the lights switch-on.

Links & Contact

Website / Tickets

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can families do during the event?

The programme includes a Christmas market, family entertainment and live performances on the main stage and at pop-up locations around the city centre.

Which performers are announced?

The announced performers include Barling Magna Primary Academy, Ruby Robinson, Kangoo Southend and The Show Choir.

Is there a sing-along?

The Show Choir leads a large Christmas sing-along just before the lights switch on.

Who hosts the main stage?

BBC Essex presenter Sonia Watson hosts the main stage.

Are more performers and activities planned?

Further performers, special guests and festive activities are due to be announced.

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

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