If you’ll be in or near Eastbourne this December 25th, make sure you don’t miss out on the Christmas Day Concert.
Regularly drawing crowds of over 4,000 people, the iconic Eastbourne Bandstand will play host to the Eastbourne Silver Band, who will fill you with Christmas spirit with a selection of festive tunes.
This is a free event with no ticket required, but you’re certainly advised to turn up early. It’s one of Eastbourne’s proudest and most popular traditions, with Christmas concerts beginning way back when the Bandstand was first opened to the public in 1935. It has been a Christmas favourite ever since, with the Silver Band continuing to draw immense crowds. You’ll be able to take in the traditional Christmas favourites, but even the event’s youngest guests will be entertained by a smattering of modern festive songs.
Starting at 10:30 and ending at 12:00, the Christmas Day Concert is an ideal way to enjoy yourself between the thrill of delving into your stocking to see what Santa dropped off and the feasting that comes with Christmas dinner.
The Bandstand is situated right on the seafront opposite Devonshire place, so plenty of families wander down each year from nearby hotels. If you’ll be waking up a little further afield on Christmas Morning, there’s no need to worry; the Bandstand is just a 10-minute walk from Eastbourne railway station, and there’s pay and display parking nearby each day of the year, though you can park for free on Christmas Day as a nice little stocking-filler from the council. Children are more than welcome to attend, and the Bandstand offers disabled access.
Once you’re there, make sure you take time to admire the Eastbourne Bandstand itself. Built in 1935, it’s the busiest bandstand in the UK, as well as one of the most exceptional. 140 events take place each year beneath its blue domed roof, and the enchanting semi-circular design makes it unique within the country. You’ll be able to reflect upon the fact that you’re taking in the same festive event that people were enjoying on Christmas Days generations ago. In fact, the Eastbourne Bandstand has been used prominently in period television programmes and films thanks to its beautiful appearance.
The Eastbourne Silver Band’s concert is one of the most cherished events along the South Coast, so make sure you experience it this Christmas to start the day off right.