Eastbourne to Ring in 2026 with New Year’s Day Concert

Eastbourne will ring in 2026 with a free New Year’s Day concert, bringing cheer to residents and visitors across the town.

Performed by Eastbourne Silver Band from 11am, the concert joins a festive line-up which already includes the annual Christmas Day Concert and Boxing Day Morris Dancing – all taking place on the Wish Tower Slopes.

The Christmas and New Year’s Day concerts are a long-standing tradition and are this year being held at the Wish Tower Slopes, as work continues at the Bandstand to ensure it is ready to welcome audiences in 2026. 

Both concerts are an annual highlight in the festive calendar for both Eastbourne residents and the many hotel guests celebrating Christmas in the town. In what has become a staple pre-Christmas dinner treat for many, revellers can look forward to the usual mix of traditional carols, festive classics and family favourites performed by Eastbourne Silver Band on Christmas Day from 10.30am – 12pm, all in a stunning seafront setting.

The entertainment continues into Boxing Day with Long Man Morris dancers performing on the Wish Tower Slopes from 10.30 – 11.30am, bringing musical merriment to many.

Finally, on New Year’s Day, Eastbourne Silver Band return to celebrate the first day of the year with a range of classics, songs from the movies and party hits for all the family.

Eastbourne Borough Council’s Lead Member for Tourism & Place, Cllr Jenny Williams said, “We’re delighted to be ringing in the new year with the superb sounds of the Eastbourne Silver Band. The festive concert season is always a highlight for residents and visitors in Eastbourne and is the perfect opportunity for all generations to come together and celebrate at these free events on our stunning seafront.”

The Christmas Day Concert takes place from 10.30am – 12pm on the Wish Tower Slopes, with Morris Dancing from 10.30 – 11.30am on Boxing Day and the New Year’s Day Concert from 11am – 12.30pm – all are free to attend with standing room only and no ticket required.

For warming refreshments, West Rocks Beach Club will be open on the lower parade.

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

For more information on festive events in Eastbourne visit www.VisitEastbourne.com/Christmas.