Southend High Street was packed on Saturday as thousands turned out for the Big Christmas Switch On, transforming the city centre into a lively hub of music, markets and festive celebration from morning through to the 6pm lights reveal.
The event delivered a full day of community spirit and seasonal excitement. Families browsed the artisan market that stretched from one end of the High Street to the other and continued inside The Victoria Centre. Stalls offered handmade gifts, winter accessories, sweet treats, festive fashion, jewellery and decorations, adding to the bustle of nearby shops, cafes and restaurants.
Live music filled the streets throughout the day. Performances took place on the main stage in Victoria Circus, under the railway bridge and inside The Victoria Centre. Choirs, schools and community groups including The Starlight Majorettes Leigh-on-Sea, the Southend Brass Band and the Little Theatre Company shared the spotlight with solo performers such as George Redwood, Heidi and Ruby Robinson.
A High Street singalong added to the atmosphere, as crowds joined The Rock Choir for favourites including I wish it could be Christmas Everyday and a mash up of The First Noel and Silent Night in the build up to the main moment.
At 6pm, The Southend Mayor, Councillor Nigel Folkard, led the official switch on of Southend’s Christmas lights, joined by cast members from the city’s seasonal theatre productions Cinderella and The Snow Queen.
Cheers rang out as the High Street burst into colour, helped along by flurries of artificial snow, inflatable balls bouncing above the crowd and festive music echoing through the city centre.
Photos by Saul Perryman.
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.”
The Southend Christmas Experience: Bookings Now Open
The hugely popular Southend Christmas Experience at Caddies is returning this December. It’s an event known for delivering the most amazing and memorable Santa meets in the city. Children are genuinely stunned when they see Father Christmas come down a chimney and step straight into the grotto in front of them.
The experience includes a magical Christmas show led by resident elves, combining illusions, comedy, a musical finale and even indoor snowfall. A very limited number of tickets is available each year, and demand is always high, so advance booking is essential.
One parent who visited previously and rated the attraction ‘five stars’ said: “It was the best Santa meet we have ever done. All 3 of my children were absolutely transfixed.”
Click here for ticket availability and more info.
What’s included in the Southend Christmas Experience
- A Proper Santa’s Grotto: The only local grotto where Santa actually emerges from the fireplace.
- An Immersive Christmas Show: An interactive performance in the Elf Workshop with illusions, jokes and a festive finale.
- Crazy Golf: A round of themed crazy golf after the show for extra family fun.
For all the FAQs, to check live ticket availability and to book tickets, visit the Caddies’ website here: https://bit.ly/SouthendChristmasExperience2025