SOUTHEND will be as festive as ever this month as the Essex Winter Wonderland has opened.

The Essex Winter Wonderland, located at Garon Park, is open and ready to spread festive cheer this December.

The Wonderland opened yesterday and will now be open every day all the way up until New Years Eve from noon until 11pm.

Visitors can enjoy fairground rides, street food, bars, a giant Ferris-style wheel, and a Christmas market.

In addition, there is an ice rink built underneath a Christmas lights, so there is no excuse not to get your skates on.

Entry is free so a ticket is not required unless you would like to watch one of the shows or use the ice rink.

A shuttle service taking fun-lovers to the Wonderland is running to and from Southend Victoria and Southend Central throughout the month.

There is parking available but it is limited, you can purchase a ticket in avance. 

Councillor Carole Mulroney, cabinet member for environment, culture, tourism and planning, said: “We are delighted that the organisers have chosen to host the Essex Winter Wonderland at Garon Park.

“It is a fantastic addition to the many Christmas activities in the Southend area already and is sure to give a boot through the festive periods.

“The outdoor event boots plenty of activities to suit families and groups of friends, which is another fantastic addition to the visitor offering here in Southend-on-Sea, so there will be truly something for everyone to enjoy this Christmas.

“However, attendees are reminded to stay vigilant in regard to keeping safe and sanitised, and I also encourage to consider getting a booster vaccine this Christmas period if applicable.”

To find out more or to book tickets for a show, the ice rink or car park, visit: https://www.essexchristmaswonderland.co.uk/