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Things to do in Brighton over the festive period (December 2023)

If you are in Brighton or Eastbourne over the festive period, check out some of the fun events happening around near you and at the university. If you are staying locally over the Christmas break familiarise yourself with your support network.

Brighton Student Union December events

Get discounted ice skating at Brighton and Eastbourne, learn Christmas Wreath Making, grab tickets for The Big Drag Christmas Quiz or attend one of many society specials and bar deal evenings. Check out all the BSU events.

Brighton events

Artist Open Houses at Christmas 25 November – 10 December
Artists Open Houses offer you the unique opportunity to visit artists in their homes and studios and to buy work directly from them. At various locations around Brighton and Hove.

Brighton Royal Pavilion Ice Skating 28 October – 7 January
Ice skating in a sparkly, picturesque setting. The UK’s most famous Christmas ice rink by the beautiful Royal Pavilion.

Churchill Square Late Night Shopping from 14 December
Extended opening times at Brighton’s premier shopping centre. Check the website for times and dates.

Carols By Candlelight 17 December, 5pm and 7pm
St. Peter’s Church, Brighton

The Snowman & Magical Music Sun 17 Dec 2023 at the Brighton Dome Concert Hall
The classic animated film accompanied by a live orchestra.

The Big Christmas Singalong! Tue 19 Dec 2023 at the Brighton Dome Concert Hall
A feel-good Christmas singalong with Choir With No Name and special guests

Burning of the Clocks Thu 21 December, starting at 18.30 near the Pavilion and Brighton Dome
A unique Brighton traditional parade celebrating the shortest day of the year. With lanterns and fantasy costumes, the parade winds its way through Brighton town and along the seafront.

Midnight Mass 24 December, 23.00
St. Peter’s Church, Brighton

Eastbourne events

Ice skating in Eastbourne 9 – 31 December
Fully covered rink at Enterprise Shopping Centre, Eastbourne.

Eastbourne Victorian Christmas 7 – 10 December, 10am – 6pm
A Victorian Steampunk themed market in the town centre where there will be live music, carol singers, mulled wine and cider, stilt walkers, Bavarian bar, Christmas market, circus acts and a Christmas parade.