Christmas is finally upon us which means it's time to wrap up warm and enjoy some festive family fun. 

Whether you want to see a Christmas show or celebrate the festive season in style, there really is something for everyone this year.

Here are five of the best events taking place this Christmas in Southend: 

See Santa at SeaLife

Echo:

Where: SeaLife Southend

Price: £7.50. 

Dates: Between December 3 and 24 from 10am. 

This magical Christmas experience is a right of passage, getting to visit Santa and his elves in the North Pole grotto and getting lots of fun freebies too. 

Children will be given a sweet treat by Father Christmas and children can eat free at the Three Shells restaurant. You will also get a free child's meal at the Sands by the Sea between January 1 and 31 as well as free adventure golf.

For more information visit the website

Christmas Market

Echo:

Where: Southend High Street

Price: Free

Dates: Daily between December 14 and 24 from 8.30am to 5pm.

Stock up on locally made Christmas gifts, cards and produce for you and your loved ones. 

Expect the stalls to include cards, festive refreshments, ornaments, personalised gifts and more. 

Visit Eventbrite to find out more.

Cromwell Christmas Market with Muppets Christmas Carol​

Echo:

Where: Cromwell Manor, Basildon

Price: £5.50

Date: Thursday December 10 from 4.30pm to 9.30pm

A true celebration of Christmas and what it's all about, the cosy Christmas market at Cromwell Manor is bringing us all the festive cheer we needed.

Enjoy a mulled wine, open fires and some roast chestnuts, browse the stalls of some amazing local gifts and produce then sit down to enjoy A Muppets Christmas Carol from 7pm.

For more information and tickets visit the website.

Christmas Drive-In Cinema 

Echo:

Where: Southend Outdoor Cinema, Purdeys Ind Est, SS4 1LB. 

Price: £20.00 per car

Dates: Between December 3 and 30.

This covid-secure event is back for Christmas with a huge array of blockbuster movies to see. 

Films include Frozen, Elf, The Holiday and Home Alone to name a few. 

Not one to miss, this awesome event runs throughout December and will be sure to get you in the Christmas spirit. 

Tickets must be pre-booked. 

RNLI Reindeer Run

Where: Anywhere

Price: Donations to the RNLI. 

Dates: December 12 and 13.

Why not give a little back this festive season and get in shape ahead of your big Christmas dinner? 

This year's RNLI Reindeer Run will be taking place virtually so you can take place anywhere in the country over the weekend. 

Choose your own route and distance and go at your own pace to raise money for this amazing charity that saves lives at sea. 

Sign up online now. 

Will you be going to any festive events this year? Let us know in the comments.