Brighton’s shopping streets are preparing for an afternoon of music, Christmas lights and festive atmosphere. Brilliant Brighton’s free Festive Afternoon returns on Saturday 5 December 2026, from 2pm to 6pm, bringing pop-up performances to North Laine, The Lanes, East Street and Western Road.

What to expect at Brilliant Brighton’s Festive Afternoon

Expect choirs, singers and brass music appearing across the city-centre shopping streets. The announced performers include Some Voices, Free Brighton Choir, SHE Choir, South Coast Trombone Choir, Hit The Silk and Jessica Hallam. Festive helpers will also be handing out seasonal treats as Brighton’s independent shops celebrate Small Business Saturday.

When and where?

Date: Saturday 5 December 2026. Time: 2pm–6pm. Admission: free. Locations: North Laine, The Lanes, East Street and Western Road in central Brighton. Performances take place across the area, so consult the organiser’s latest information rather than expecting every act in one spot.

Christmas windows worth discovering

The city’s Christmas window-display competition adds another reason to linger. Local businesses are decorating their windows and visitors can vote for their favourites. The competition runs until Sunday 3 January 2027, with £100 Brilliant Brighton gift cards for the winning business and a lucky voter.

Make a festive Brighton weekend of it

For anyone planning a December escape, the Festive Afternoon is a lovely way to enjoy Brighton’s lively shopping streets under their Christmas lights. Make a weekend of it at The Coach House in Queen’s Park, part of The Grove Collection, with three bedrooms and private parking.

Source: Brilliant Brighton’s official 2026 announcement. The featured artwork is an original editorial illustration, not a photograph of the event.