Window Wanderland returns to light up Southend ahead of City Day celebrations

February 6, 2025

With Southend’s inaugural City Day less than a month away, the council is delighted to bring back the Window Wanderland festival, helping build excitement for Southend City Day on 1 March.

Window Wanderland will once again transform windows across our city into vibrant canvases of art, colour, and light, creating a visual spectacle that perfectly leads into the excitement of Southend City Day.

Running from 26 February to 2 March, this creative festival offers the perfect opportunity for residents and businesses to get involved, showcase their pride in Southend, and build momentum for City Day.

Councillor Matt Dent, cabinet member for culture, tourism and business, said: “Window Wanderland is a brilliant way to brighten up Southend’s streets and bring people together through creativity. Whether you’re an experienced artist or just want to have fun decorating a window, this is a festival for everyone to enjoy. I encourage everyone to take part, get creative, and celebrate Southend through their displays.”

Southend City Day will see the High Street transformed into a vibrant hub of entertainment, community activities, and cultural showcases. From Victoria Circus to the seafront, there will be a main stage, community stalls, walkabout entertainment, and much more, creating an inclusive and festive atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.

Councillor Daniel Cowan, leader of the council, said: “Southend City Day is about celebrating everything that makes our city special, from our rich heritage and cultural diversity, our city’s pride, as well as the efforts of the late Sir David Amess MP who advocated for Southend’s city status so passionately. Window Wanderland is the perfect way to build that excitement. The creativity and community spirit it inspires will set a fantastic tone leading into the main event on 1 March.”

Window Wanderland - get involved

Window Wanderland invites participation from all corners of our city, from individual residences to shops and offices. Participants can unleash their creativity, illuminating their windows with unique displays and transforming everyday spaces into extraordinary showcases. The event aims to bring joy to communities, fostering connection and collective enjoyment ahead of the City Day celebrations.

Simple materials such as tissue paper, tracing paper, fabrics, or paints and pens can be used to create displays. Whether intricate designs, playful silhouettes, or colourful arrangements of clothing, the possibilities are endless.

To sign up and join in with Window Wanderland, visit the event website at www.southendculture.co.uk/

All participating properties will appear on an online map, allowing the community to follow the trail.

Further details about Southend City Day will be made in the coming days.