Bexhill’s 19th Christmas Tree Festival: A Magical TV-Themed Celebration Draws Crowds and Sparks Interest in Local Travel and Tourism in the UK- Know More New Information

Published on December 8, 2025

Bexhill’s Christmas Tree Festival is a beloved annual tradition that has become a key event in the local community and tourism calendar. For the past 19 years, this festive gathering has brought people together, spreading holiday cheer and showcasing the beauty of Christmas in a unique way. This year, the festival, which was held from December 4 to December 7, 2025, at St Michael and All Angels Church in Bexhill, UK, offered a delightful twist: a TV-themed celebration that was as visually striking as it was nostalgic.

The festival, which featured 20 intricately decorated and illuminated Christmas trees, served as a festive escape for families, tourists, and locals alike. The theme of the event, “TV Programmes, Past and Present,” invited guests to step into a world where their favourite television shows came to life in tree form. Each tree was meticulously crafted to represent a different TV show, from classic favourites to more recent hits, making it an eye-catching spectacle for attendees of all ages.

The Christmas Tree Festival is not just about the trees but also serves as a cultural gateway for those visiting Bexhill. For many, it marks the official start of the Christmas season, providing both a fun and emotional connection to the holiday spirit. The festival is not only a local favourite but also a significant pull for tourists seeking to experience traditional festive celebrations. By merging local heritage, holiday traditions, and the globally popular theme of TV, this event continues to be a great attraction for anyone visiting Bexhill during the winter months.

The Christmas Tree Festival: A Glimpse into Bexhill’s Community Spirit

Held inside the St Michael and All Angels Church, the event invites visitors to step inside this stunning church and immerse themselves in the wonder of the season. The grand interior of the church provides the perfect backdrop for the trees, each carefully adorned with lights, baubles, and decorative elements designed to evoke memories of iconic television shows. From classic British series to international blockbusters, the festival displayed a variety of genres that appealed to every generation.

For visitors who might not typically venture into a church, the Christmas Tree Festival offers a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. The beauty of the trees, combined with the familiarity of TV themes, creates an inviting space where anyone can feel at home. It also serves as an opportunity for those unfamiliar with the church to explore its striking features and learn more about its history. As an event that brings the local community together, the festival helps promote cultural exchange and adds depth to the visitor experience.

This blend of art, culture, and local engagement makes the Christmas Tree Festival an important facet of Bexhill’s tourism sector, providing a unique cultural experience that is tied to the local traditions. Not only does it draw local residents, but it also attracts tourists from across the UK and beyond, contributing to the area’s tourism growth and showcasing Bexhill as a must-visit festive destination.

The Role of Festivals in Promoting Local Tourism

The Christmas Tree Festival in Bexhill is a perfect example of how small-scale community festivals can significantly enhance the local tourism industry. These types of events provide a compelling reason for visitors to explore the area beyond traditional tourist attractions. For Bexhill, known for its rich history, scenic views, and now its festive events, the festival becomes an extension of the town’s charm, inviting people to experience a different side of the destination.

Bexhill, traditionally a seaside resort town, has long been a popular destination for travelers seeking picturesque spots for a peaceful getaway. The festival gives tourists a reason to visit during the quieter winter months, helping to bolster off-season tourism. As travelers seek immersive, authentic experiences during the holiday season, festivals like the Christmas Tree Festival provide them with a sense of local culture and community, setting Bexhill apart as a unique and engaging destination.

The Christmas Tree Festival encourages festive tourism, a growing niche where people travel specifically to experience Christmas-themed events, markets, and displays. As more destinations across the UK and Europe create such holiday celebrations, Bexhill’s festival stands out for its community-led efforts and distinct theme, setting it apart from the more commercialized festivals in larger cities. As a result, it contributes to the growing trend of cultural tourism, where people seek to connect with local traditions and heritage.

Moreover, the event’s integration with TV culture taps into a global phenomenon, appealing to both domestic and international visitors. Tourists with a love for television and pop culture find themselves drawn to the event, making it an effective tool for attracting new audiences and fostering repeat visits.

Beyond the Trees: A Complete Festive Experience

The festival at St Michael and All Angels Church isn’t just about the trees. It’s a full-scale festive experience, offering more than just visual spectacles. On Friday, the festival featured a carol service alongside warm mulled wine and mince pies, turning the event into a social gathering perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers looking to enjoy the holiday atmosphere. The church fair held on Saturday further bolstered the event, providing an opportunity for visitors to browse through local crafts and indulge in freshly made lunches, all while supporting local artisans and businesses.

The mix of holiday shopping, food, and entertainment creates a complete festive package that appeals to a wide array of visitors. Whether they’re looking to take in the beautiful decorations, enjoy the holiday treats, or engage in the lively spirit of Christmas, the festival offers something for everyone. It also presents the perfect opportunity for families and groups to come together, creating lasting memories while supporting local tourism.

The Future of the Christmas Tree Festival

Looking ahead, the Christmas Tree Festival in Bexhill will only grow in significance. Organizers are already planning for the 2026 festival, set to open in December next year. Though the theme for 2026 has yet to be decided, the festival’s lasting impact on local tourism is undeniable. It is a key event that locals and visitors alike can look forward to, as it continues to evolve and offer new experiences each year.

The early planning of the festival allows the local tourism authorities to tailor the event to changing visitor demands and interests, ensuring its continued relevance. As Bexhill continues to invest in its cultural tourism infrastructure, events like the Christmas Tree Festival will remain an essential part of the town’s festive appeal, helping to sustain and grow the tourism industry.

Conclusion: A Symbol of Community and Tourism Growth

The Christmas Tree Festival in Bexhill has proven itself to be more than just a seasonal event; it is a cultural celebration that invites people to connect with the local community, explore the town’s history, and immerse themselves in the festive spirit. For tourists, it offers a chance to discover Bexhill’s charm, its people, and its commitment to preserving cultural traditions.

As more visitors flock to Bexhill each December, the festival will undoubtedly play a central role in the town’s tourism strategy. It underscores the significance of community-driven tourism and the power of local events in shaping a destination’s appeal. The Christmas Tree Festival is a perfect example of how small town festivals can make a big impact on tourism and local culture, and it is set to remain a cherished part of Bexhill’s holiday season for years to come.