Eastbourne’s much-loved Christmas Day Concert will go ahead this year, but at a new location, due to the Bandstand renovation works.
The long-running festive tradition, which began in 1935, is moving from the Bandstand to the nearby Wish Tower Slopes while essential winter maintenance takes place at its usual home.
Eastbourne Silver Band will once again lead the celebrations, performing a mix of traditional carols, festive favourites and family classics from 10.30am to 12 noon.
The free event is a cherished part of Eastbourne’s Christmas Day, drawing both local residents and visitors staying in the town’s seafront hotels to enjoy a joyful start to the festivities.
The festive fun will continue into Boxing Day with Long Man Morris dancers performing on the Wish Tower Slopes from 10.30 – 11.30am, bringing musical merriment to many.
Eastbourne Borough Council’s Lead Member for Tourism & Place, Cllr Jenny Williams said, “Eastbourne knows how to celebrate and this Christmas we can’t wait to welcome people of all ages to this heart-warming Christmas Day tradition. It is wonderful to see all generations gathering together to sing and dance, in what is always a joyous occasion.
“There is so much taking place in Eastbourne this Christmas, whether you are visiting for a pre-Christmas shopping break, a pampering getaway or the full-on festive package over Christmas itself – there is something to celebrate every day!”
The Christmas Day Concert starts at 10.30am on the Wish Tower Slopes and is free to attend with standing room only and no ticket required.
For warming refreshments, West Rocks Beach Club will be open both days on Lower Parade.
As an extra Christmas treat, on-street parking charges do not apply on 25 and 26 December.
For more information on festive events in Eastbourne visit www.VisitEastbourne.com/Christmas.
