Spring suddenly seems within reach, doesn’t it? And with it, the evenings are lighter, the first green shoots of life are clearly visible and there are already exciting rumblings about this year’s Jubilee celebrations. It feels like things are on the up, and if ever you needed a reason to head off to Eastbourne and Beachy Head in East Sussex, these are reasons enough. But this half term, there are also a couple of other events that might add to the allure of Eastbourne and might just tempt you to head this way!
The Eastbourne Jubilee Lantern Festival
14 – 20 February at the Pavilion Gardens, from 1 pm to 8 pm each day with free entry.
By way of launching the start of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee year, the seafront gardens in Eastbourne are going to be lit up and decorated this February half term. Handcrafted lanterns and flags will be displayed in a trail throughout the gardens each afternoon and evening, starting from Valentine’s Day. The lanterns, ranging from botanical-inspired creations to colourful creatures and royal displays to celebrate the Jubilee year will be provided by Samesky, a charity behind many of the creative lanterns found at winter light events across the county. It’s a charity that will also be working with local school children to produce community art to appear within the display.
There will also be live music in the gardens and Pavilion café at key times throughout the festival, along with food and hot drinks from the café. Eastbourne Borough Council Lead Member for Tourism and Culture, Councillor Margaret Bannister said “…This really is a magical treat for families, friends and even romantic couples, looking for a vibrant escape this February.”
For more information visit the Visit Eastbourne website.
The Spring Rise Festival at Beachy Head
14 – 20 February at The Beachy Head Story, with free ticketed entry. Free tickets are now available.
Beachy Head is worth a visit at any time of year, but following on from the Twighlight Festival that celebrated the arrival of autumn, it feels almost like it’s with a sense of relief, that we can now enjoy their festival of spring. The event is described as a celebration of “the natural landscape of the South Downs National Park and the emerging spring season with a range of activities from wildlife walks, craft workshops and photography to folk-inspired puppetry and even graffiti.” There are pre-bookable activities based out of The Beachy Head Story visitor centre throughout the day and evening. With activities day and night, visitors can also enjoy the star-studded night sky due to Beachy Head’s Dark Sky Reserve location, as well as some night time wildlife walks with experienced guides.
Visitors to the festival can also visit the free exhibition at the Beachy Head Story and learn more about the history of the iconic landmark which started 90 million years ago. A free photography exhibition “Through the Aperture: The View from Here” is also available to view until 31 March.
For more information and to book tickets visit the Visit Eastbourne website.
