The Council thanks the organisations, charities, businesses, community groups, and volunteers who made Southend City Day such a success.
Thousands visited the city centre to enjoy events across the High Street, The Victoria and The Royals shopping centres, and the City Jam Zone in The Deeping.
The Southend City Stage and Southend City Songwriters Stage hosted live performances throughout the day, alongside family activities and food stalls. A highlight was Essex's own stage and screen star Denise Van Outen's DJ set under the giant mirror ball.
Elsewhere in the City Southend Museums welcomed nearly 1,000 visitors across Southchurch Hall, Prittlewell Priory, Southend Central Museum and Planetarium, and the Beecroft Art Gallery, offering guided tours, interactive sessions, and conservation workshops. There was also a public display of the Letters Patent, the official document granting Southend city status.
Southend Museums' wellbeing garden proved popular having been recently restored by volunteers. Following their great work, a new volunteer group has been formed to help maintain the space and ensure it remains in top condition.
A moment of remembrance was held for the late Sir David Amess, with new photo boards unveiled at Chalkwell Lifeguards in his honour, attended by local councillors, MPs, and community members.
Cllr Daniel Cowan, Leader of the Council, said: "Southend City Day was a fantastic way to celebrate our city, and it was brilliant to see so many people enjoying everything on offer. We're grateful to all the organisations, volunteers, and performers who helped make it happen, and to our community safety partnership for ensuring a safe and enjoyable day for all."
Cllr Matt Dent, Cabinet Member for Culture, Tourism and Business, added: "It was great to see so many people out enjoying the day. A huge thank you to everyone who took part and helped put on such a fantastic event. Thankfully, the sun was shining, which definitely brought even more visitors to Southend."
We would love your feedback on Southend City Day 2025. Share your thoughts on what you enjoyed and how we can make it even better next year: www.visitsouthend.co.uk/cityday.