Christmas is on the horizon, and despite the days becoming shorter and the weather taking a turn for the worse, there are still plenty of ways to stay entertained and full of festive cheer over the winter period. Thankfully, Brighton has more than its fair share of fantastic things to do this winter. From the famous ‘Burning of the Clocks’ to ice skating in front of the glorious Royal Pavilion, Brighton is beginning to feel a lot like Christmas, everywhere you go. Here is our list of the best things to do in Brighton this wintertime…
Burning of the Clocks
The ‘Burning of the Clocks’ is Brighton’s very own Christmas tradition for celebrating the winter solstice. It is when the city comes together in warm coats and wooly hats to celebrate the shortest day of the year. For some, the shortest day of the year would not necessarily be a cause for celebration, but Brighton always finds a unique spirit and ways to celebrate even the darkest of days. Same Sky, who runs the event each year, says that the day is a time for “reflection and thought, who are we? Where have we been? Where are we going? What do we want for our city?” The ceremonial and joyous atmosphere at ‘Burning of the Clocks’ is quite something to behold. There is an eye-catching parade and, of course, plenty of clock burning to be seen. It is definitely not one to be missed.
‘Burning of the Clocks’ takes place on the evening of December 21st.
Brighton Christmas Festival
Brighton loves a good festival, and the annual Brighton Christmas Festival returns this November to help herald in the festive period. Several venues across the strip between St.Peter’s Church and Valley Gardens will host some must-attend events to shake off those winter blues. Perhaps the festival’s most popular attraction, The Brighton Christmas Market, will run for five weeks from November 18th right up until Christmas Eve. The market is free to enter and is always a popular attraction for locals and visitors alike. In addition to the market, Brighton Christmas Festival will also open a pop-up ‘Aprés-Ski Bar’ for some winter-themed revelry. The bar will be located in St Peter’s plaza and is the perfect spot to enjoy a mulled wine or cider with friends and family.
The Brighton Christmas Festival runs from November 18th -December 24th. It is located on the strip between St. Peter’s Church and Valley Gardens
The Royal Pavilion Ice Rink
If you’ve spent time in Brighton over the festive period then the ice rink installed at the Royal Pavilion will no doubt have caught your eye. Lacing up the skates is one of the most enjoyable times of the year, and whether you are a proficient ice skater or not, the rink at the Royal Pavilion is a magical experience. Ice skating is a perfect excuse to treat the kids to a fun evening out, fall with grace in front of your friends, or even show your date a good time. The Royal Pavilion Ice Rink is a cheap and memorable experience for all ages. Tickets are priced according to what time you attend, with adult peak-time prices costing £16 per person, and off-peak-time costing £12 per person. Tickets for children under the age of 12 can skate for either £11 peak or £9 off-peak, while there are discounts for Pavilion members and group packages are also available. Explore the Royal Pavilion’s website for more details.
4/5 Pavilion Buildings, BN1 1EE
Christmas with Aled Jones & Russell Watson at Brighton Dome
Celebrating Christmas wouldn’t feel right without enjoying a few Christmas carols. Carol-singing will be in no short supply this festive season in Brighton, but if you would prefer not to wince at your friend’s out of tune singing then why not enjoy some carols delivered by two of the best operatic voices in the country? After a long hiatus, the iconic duo of Aled Jones and Russell Watson will return to Brighton Dome this November to usher in the festive period with a Christmas themed concert. The two singers’ concert coincides with the release of their new album ‘Christmas with Aled and Russell’ and features many classic carols. Tickets are still available through Brighton Dome’s website, but don’t wait around as there won’t be many left for long.
Wed 24th November, Brighton Dome, Church St, BN1 1UE
Brighton Tap Takeover
Brighton’s annual ‘Tap Takeover’ is a craft beer lovers’ dream. Situated over 22 of Brighton’s most popular drinking establishment, the tap takeover is the perfect excuse to enjoy some of the finest in craft beer from the best breweries in the country. Some of the established and lesser known breweries who will be flaunting their wares include Abyss, Beavertown, Burning Sky, Two Tribes and many many more. With over 130 different beers to choose from you will need to plan the weekend carefully if you don’t want to wake up on the Monday with a foggy head. Buying a weekend ticket for £20 will ensure you are able to enjoy the benefits of discounts on all beers and even 4 free half-pints (or 2 free pints depending on the way you look at it)!
Brighton Tap Takeover is situated over a number of venues and pubs between Friday 11th-Sunday 13th November. Check out their website, or follow them on Instagram for more details.
Komedia Christmas Party
The Christmas Party offered by Komedia is a month long celebration of festive hilarity. Running every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night, the Komedia will host some of the best in stand-up comedy, as well as an all-inclusive Christmas dinner for all guests. The comedy club at Komedia is one of the premier locations for stand-up in Brighton and always delivers on comedy, so trust us when we say that their Christmas Party will leave you in stitches. You will also probably need to order a cab home after the festivites as the Christmas dinner on offer here is quite something. Tickets are priced at £60 per person, but this includes the 3 course meal on offer. You can save £10on tickets by joining the Komedia’s early bird scheme.
44-47 Gardner St, BN1 1UN
