Culture of Southend-on-Sea

The Southend-on-Sea Film Festival is an annual event that began in 2009 and is run by The White Bus who are based at TAP, Old Water Works in Southend. Ray Winstone attended the opening night gala in both 2010 and 2011, and has become the Festival Patron.

The films shown are a combination of world cinema, independent cinema, documentaries, children's films, sing-a-longs, popular classics, and British noir. The Festival usually takes place over 5 days in spring, at the Palace Theatre, Park Inn Palace Hotel, and the Southend Central Museum and Planetarium. Fringe events including musical performances take place at a variety of locations in Southend.

Leigh Folk Festival is a three-day event each summer in Old Leigh, featuring live music by the sea.

Leigh on Sea Fishing Festival is held in Old Leigh and is organised by local fishermen. It provides an opportunity to see the port in action and taste the local catch.

Old Leigh Regatta is a family event with stalls, dancing, local food, music, and water activities