Southend’s Christmas Lights Switch On Returns with a Sparkle!

September 26, 2025

Southend High Street is set to dazzle once again as Christmas in the City returns on Saturday 15th November 2025 for a full day of festive fun, culminating in the spectacular Christmas Lights Switch On at 6pm, followed by the fireworks finale on the seafront at 7.30pm.

From 1pm, the city centre will burst into life with a festive market, live entertainment, and magical moments for the whole family to enjoy. Brought to you by Southend City BID, this year’s event will be bigger and brighter than ever.

Discussing the excitement of the Switch On event, Southend City BID Manager, Suzanne Gloyne, said:

“The festive period is a highlight for our businesses, residents, and visitors alike. We’re delivering a stunning lighting scheme, including two Christmas trees, and a full-on day of celebrations to kick off the season in style.

And we’re absolutely delighted that Southend Theatres have returned as headline sponsor, helping bring the magic to life in Southend.”

Nick Parr, Theatre Director at Southend Theatres commented:

“Southend Theatres have loved being part of Christmas in the City in recent years and we can’t wait to continue our headline sponsorship in 2025. Southend Theatres are the home of Christmas - from our festive parties in our Maritime Room, Rylan in the Cliffs’ panto Cinderella to the premiere of our brand-new family musical adventure The Snow Queen at the Palace Theatre and Santa’s On His Sleigh in the Dixon Studio.

We entertain thousands of customers across our venues every year and we are so looking forward to celebrating Christmas 2025 with our fantastic audiences in Southend!”

The switch on will fill the city centre with the sounds of the season, featuring performances from local choirs, schools, and community groups including The Show Choir and Faces Theatre Arts. Fantastic local musicians including Heidi and Ruby Robinson will perform on stage, and they’ll be rich local talent at busking spots across the High Street. Everything will build to the main event at 6pm when the Christmas lights will be officially switched on by The Worshipful Mayor, Councillor Nigel Folkard, and stars from this year’s Southend Theatres productions – Cinderella and The Snow Queen.

Christmas in the City promises to be a joyful celebration of Southend’s community, creativity, and festive spirit. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy the High Street as it comes alive with people, performances, and plenty of Christmas cheer.