Christmas Spectacular & Lights Switch-On

On Saturday 14th November, Southend-on-Sea Town Centre will be transformed into a winter wonderland, with a day full of festive fun and entertainment for all the family - everything you need to get your Christmas off to a cracking start!

This very special day will give you the chance to enjoy a festive experience like no other, with a very special parade featuring Santa and his REAL reindeer, music courtesy of BBC Essex and Heart FM and a whole host of seasonal sensations, including street entertainment, mouth-watering market stalls and, of course, the ever popular Christmas lights switch-on and a truly spectacular fireworks display!

9:00am - 8:00pm, Christmas Market

Visit the popular Christmas Market for German sausages, gluhwein, gingerbread, traditional gifts and much, much more!

8:30am - 5:30pm, Christmas Farmers and Craft Market

Seasonal delights, Christmas treats and unique gift ideas...the Farmers & Craft Market will be on the High Street this festive season.

All day BBC Essex broadcasting at the top of Pier Hill

BBC Essex will keep you entertained through to the
firework finale with live music, fun and on-air updates
on 95.3FM & DAB - so come along and be part of the fun!

1:00pm - 1:30pm, The Royals Christmas Toy Parade

Led by the Essex Marching Corps, Santa will arrive drawn by a team of REAL reindeer! Noddy, Bob the Builder, Ryan the Lion, Pudsey Bear, Starwarriors and  many other familiar characters
will also join in the fun!

Look out for Cinderella's carriage also making a special appearance in the parade.

1:45pm - 6:00pm, Don't forget to visit Santa...

Santa will be greeting people on his throne under the glass dome at the Royals Shopping Centre! Tickets available from Debenhams.

12pm - 2:30pm, Christmas Spectacular Stage

Entertainment on the main stage at Victoria Circus.

3:45pm - 5:00pm, Heart Live

Martin & Su will host the main stage in association with Haven Hospices.

5:00pm, Christmas Lights Switch On from the Heart Stage

Join Martin and Su for the countdown to the Christmas lights switch on with Brian Conley from Cinderella - the greatest panto of them all - at the Cliffs Pavilion running from Saturday 12th December to Sunday 10th January.

5:30pm, Spectacular Seafront Fireworks Finale

For a great view of the spectacular fireworks join BBC Essex at Pier Hill.