With Christmas just a few days away, we’ve all seen our coastal city Brighton transforming into a winter wonderland with Christmas lights around the city, pubs and bars serving mulled wine, unique festive menus at restaurants and cafes, and beautiful window displays (minus the snow). Although for many Christmas involves family festivities, some people will be spending Christmas Day alone in Brighton in 2023.
While the thought of spending Christmas alone might initially evoke a sense of solitude, fear not! Brighton, with its vibrant spirit and welcoming community, offers a handful of activities for those spending the holiday season solo. If you’re also spending Boxing Day in Brighton, here are some things you can do.
Discover Christmas Events in Brighton happening on Christmas day
| So Talk at Rockwater | Supportive space for conversations |
| Yoga Class at About Balance | Flow yoga with Allison Alexander |
| Christmas Day Swim | Christmas sea swim tradition near Brighton Pier |
| Puzzle Treasure Hunt | Outdoor adventure exploring the city |
| A Nutcracker Christmas Family Trail | Christmas adventure with sparkling trees and Nutcracker soldiers |
| Christmas Potluck at The Queery | LGBTQ+ friendly Christmas Potluck |
| Communal Table at Arcobaleno | Festive communal table with a two-course menu and a complimentary drink |
| Christmas at Aydo Lounge & Grill | Special Christmas Day menus and a DJ |
| Christmas Celebration Mass at St. Peter’s Church | Christmas Day church service in central Brighton |
So Talk at Rockwater in Brighton
Join So Talk this Christmas Day at The Lodge at Rockwater. This is a free event providing a supportive space for conversations. Recharge, connect, and share in a warm, welcoming environment. No themes, no agendas, just friendly chats.
When: 25th of December 2023 from 10 am until 11 am
Where: Western Esplanade, Hove, BN3 4FA
Website: https://rockwater.uk/hove/whats-on/
Yoga Class at About Balance
Start your Christmas Day with an energising flow yoga class at About Balance in Brighton. Led by Allison Alexander, this intermediate-level session integrates breath and body, promoting strength, flexibility, and inner peace. Open to all at the community wellness centre.
When: 25th of December 2023 from 9 am until 10 am
Where: 20-22 Gloucester Pl, Brighton, BN1 4AA
Website: https://www.aboutbalancebrighton.com/timetable/
Christmas Day Swim in Brighton
Join the tradition of Brighton’s Christmas sea swim, dating back to 1860. Expected around 11 am on Brighton Seafront, this festive event attracts participants in Santa hats. If you decide to brave the swim, make sure to stay safe in cold water and enjoy hot drinks afterwards. You are also welcome to watch the event from the beach if you don’t feel like braving the water.
The 2022 event saw 100 participants and took place on the west side of the beach from where the Doughnut, also known as Afloat, is (near where Tide and Horizon Nightclubs are). Please note that this event is discouraged by the Brighton & Hove council, and the beach area around the Pier may be closed on Christmas day.
When: 25th of December 2023 from 11 am
Where: Near Brighton Pier
Brighton Fun Puzzle Christmas Day Treasure Hunt
Experience an extraordinary outdoor adventure with The Great Game Treasure Hunt in Brighton this Christmas Day! Navigate the city’s famous landmarks, solving puzzles and unravelling its history. Armed with a treasure map and clues, explore hidden streets and engage in challenges like riddles.
Successfully decode the route to discover the ‘X’ spot, leading you to the ultimate treasure—a delightful pub! You’ll be able to enjoy a 20% discount on food and drinks at the designated pub.
When: 25th of December 2023
Where: Bagelman at Brighton Railway Station, Brighton, BN1 3XP
Website: https://www.designmynight.com/brighton/the-great-game-virus-safe-outdoor-treasure-hunt-brighton
A Nutcracker Christmas Family Trail @ Nymans (National Trust)
For nature and story enthusiasts, the National Trust presents A Nutcracker Christmas Family Trail at Nymans on Christmas Day. Immerse yourself in a mesmerising Christmas adventure with sparkling trees, vivid decorations, and scenes from the classic Christmas tale. This event can be a great activity, not just for families!
When: 25th of December 2023
Where: Handcross near Haywards Heath, West Sussex, RH17 6EB
Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/nymans/events/
The Queery Christmas Potluck
Experience a cosy Christmas Potluck at The Queery on December 25th. Bring a dish, enjoy diverse foods, and revel in community spirit. Vegan and gluten-free options are available. The venue asks that attendees wear a mask and take a COVID test before coming to help ensure safety. This is an LGBTQ+-friendly event and venue.
When: 25th of December 2023 from 12 pm until 10 pm
Where: 46 George St, Kemptown, Brighton, BN2 1RJ
Website: https://thequeery.co.uk/event/christmas-potluck/
Arcobaleno’s Christmas Communal Table
Arcobaleno welcomes those spending the holiday alone to their communal table. Enjoy a festive atmosphere, a two-course Christmas menu, and a complimentary drink. Celebrate the spirit of the season with new friends who you will meet on the day. This is an LGBTQ+-friendly event and venue.
The Christmas menu will feature a roast dinner. Choose from roast turkey, roast beef, or festive nut roast. Dessert options include Christmas pudding, profiteroles, and more. This event will run on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day (a deposit is required when booking).
When: 25th of December 2023 from 12 pm until 6 pm
Where: 120 St George’s Rd, Kemptown, Brighton, BN2 1EA
Website: https://www.myarcobaleno.com/christmasbookings
Christmas at Aydo Lounge & Grill
Celebrate Christmas Day at Aydo Lounge & Grill with special menus and a DJ performance. Choose from two options, each with three courses and a welcome drink. Whether dining solo or with friends or family, you can book your festivities at this eatery serving a festive menu now!
When: 25th of December 2023 from midday – 11.30 pm (times may vary)
Where: 3 The Waterfront, Brighton Marina, Brighton, BN2 5WB
Website: www.aydorestaurant.co.uk/menus
St. Peter’s Church Christmas Celebration
Head to St. Peter’s Church for a festive Christmas Day service. St. Peter’s Church is part of the Church of England, and their vision is to evangelise nations, revitalise the church, and transform society.
When: 25th of December 2023 from 10 am until 11 am
Where: York Place, Brighton, BN1 4GU
Website: https://stpetersbrighton.org/christmas-at-stpeters/
