Free Bandstand Concerts To Continue Eastbourne Christmas Day Tradition

Thursday, 7 November 2024 16:20

By Dominic Kureen @WriteOnDom

Christmas concerts will return to Eastbourne Bandstand this December, with free concerts on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

The annual free concerts date back to 1935 and are a long-standing Christmas tradition attracting thousands across all three days, starting with the biggest Christmas Day concert in Britain.

Taking centre stage on Christmas Day, Eastbourne Silver Band will once again bring a mix of traditional carols and festive classics from 10.30am – 12pm, as friends, family and visitors celebrate together in a pre-Christmas dinner treat.

The Criminal Records will be making their Boxing Day debut bringing festive party hits guaranteed to get people dancing from 11am – 12.30pm.

The band return on New Year’s Day from 11am – 12.30pm, this time joined by singer Joel White, for more party hits and celebrations – including the annual Bandstand conga.

All concerts are free with standing room only and no ticket required, although revellers are invited to make donations online to support running costs.

Capacity will be limited in the main arena on the day, however access to the middle balcony will be unrestricted and bars on both levels will be open with hot drinks, mulled wine and more. Friends of Eastbourne Bandstand receive a 10% discount at the bar.

As an extra Christmas treat, on street parking charges do not apply on 25, 26 December and 1 January.

Councillor Margaret Bannister, Eastbourne Borough Council’s Lead Member for Tourism, Leisure, Accessibility and Community Safety, said:

“This annual tradition is always an outstanding attraction in our seasonal programme.

"It’s the perfect opportunity for friends and family to get together and celebrate before their Christmas dinner, as well as being a real highpoint for visitors spending the festive break in our hotels.

“With plenty of singing and dancing guaranteed, it is sure to be one of many memorable highlights this Christmas.”

Tickets for 2025 Bandstand concerts will be on sale in December with details to be announced soon.