Eastbourne Bandstand reveals when it will be reopening – and if Christmas is cancelled

The seafront landmark has been closed ever since the coronavirus lockdown began in March.

As restrictions began to ease, the attraction said it would not be reopening for the rest of 2020.

Today (September 3) it revealed it will be back next April with a full season of concerts planned.

It also officially confirmed the free Christmas and New Year concerts have been cancelled for this year.

But 2021 promises tribute shows, 1812 fireworks, Big Band and more.

The team behind the venue say they are currently finalising a packed programme of shows, with tickets on sale from December.

Eastbourne Bandstand announces it will not be reopening for the rest of 2020

The current closure due to social distancing requirements means the historic venue will not be opening for its annual Christmas or New Year concerts, which attract more than 4,000 revellers every year.

The annual tradition will miss out a year, as organisers say distancing cannot be feasibly managed.

Eastbourne council tourism boss Councillor Margaret Bannister said, “The partially enclosed nature of this outdoor venue and the thousands of festive spectators expected at Christmas, would simply not be manageable while social distancing is still a requirement.

“We have therefore taken the decision to regretfully cancel this year’s Christmas and New Year concerts.

“We shall however return next spring with a sensational line-up of live music, and we look forward to welcoming many of this year’s acts back to the iconic Bandstand stage for some first class performances.

“In the meantime, while remedial works continue, we shall be tidying up the appearance of the Bandstand and providing visual displays to brighten up the structure while it is not in use.”

Multi-million pound repair programme for Eastbourne Bandstand backed

Seafront visitors can still visit the Bandstand’s middle prom balcony during the day, where the bar is open for takeaway refreshments and outdoor seating until September 30, with a music playlist broadcast throughout the auditorium speakers.

Tickets for next year’s concert season will be on sale from December 1 and will be available from the venue’s new website www.eastbournebandstand.co.uk as well as Visit Eastbourne’s new ticketing website www.visiteastbournetickets.com

For more information, or to sell event tickets through the VisitEastbourne ticket agency, contact the seafront team on 01323 410611 or email [email protected]

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