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Christmas in Southend

It's the most wonderful time of the year...

Discover the magic of Christmas in Southend City with a variety of events and activities the whole family can enjoy. From cosy chats with Santa in one of his grottos across the city, to the selection of pantos, to one of the many craft events.

Take a look at our guide to plan your perfect festive visit.

Toy Drive

It’s that time of year again - Southend-On-Sea City Council is bringing the tenth annual Toy Drive to the city this Christmas, with the aim of ensuring all of Southend’s vulnerable children and young people receive a gift.

Christmas Teddy Bear Trail

Journeying through the city centre, uncover hidden letters held by our Christmas teddy bears in venues around Southend. Once all the letters have been found, spell out the Christmas word at the end!

Free Festive Parking

Free parking across the City returns this festive season. All council run car parks will be free every Sunday in December.

Christmas Shopping Guide

Christmas is the time for giving. Southend is the place to visit for all your festive shopping needs! From craft fairs to Christmas markets to our five shopping districts there's sure to be something for everyone!

It's Panto Time!

Join Peter Pan and the characters you know and love this Christmas in this swashbuckling J M Barrie adventure. Starring comedian Joe Pasquale as Smee, broadcaster and barrister Rob Rinder as Captain Hook, dame extraordinaire David Robbins as Mrs. Smee, this family treat will include all your favourites from Neverland including Wendy (Michelle Francis), Tinkerbell (Ciara Ford), John and Michael Darling.

Order a Real Christmas Tree

Make your Christmas magical with a real Christmas tree from Southend on Sea City Council’s award winning Parks Team.

These are available to buy and order for delivery (delivery is free and is only within the City of Southend-on-Sea).

The prices are as follows and the latest an order can be made is Friday 15 December 2023. Please order at least two days before delivery.

Christmas trees

Nordmann (non-drop)

  • 1.25 to 1.50m, 4’ to 5’ – £40.00
  • 1.50 to 1.75m, 5’ to 5 ½ – £50.00
  • 1.75 to 2.00m, 5 ½ to 6 ½ – £60.00
  • 2.00 to 2.25m, 6’ to 7’ – £70.00
  • 2.25 to 2.50m, 7’ to 8’ – £90.00

All prices include VAT.

To order email ParksNursery@southend.gov.uk with your contact details and one of the team will be in touch. Buyers can make an over the phone payment or pay in cash on delivery.

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