Southend's much-loved free seafront fireworks return tonight marking the first of eight weekends the event will light up the skies.

Tonight's event - at 8pm - will mark the first of eight consecutive weekends of the free seafront fireworks, ending on November 18 to coincide with the big Christmas light’s switch on. 

After the event was thrown into doubt earlier this year, traders have come together to form a “seaside partnership” to fund the fireworks alongside Southend Council and with support from the business improvement district (Bid). 

Marc Miller, chairman of the Seaside Partnership, said: “Everyone is really looking forward to the City of Southend Fireworks, which starts 8pm this Saturday, the first of eight weekly displays.

“Through the newly-formed Seaside Partnership, raising the funds to ensure the annual fireworks go ahead, has been a massive team effort, which as chair of the partnership I would like to thank every contributing business, Southend Council and the BID for their financial support.

“And not to forget, its free parking along the seafront after 6pm.”

The fireworks are set off from a barge out in the estuary, east of Southend Pier, meaning viewers can get a fantastic and uninterrupted display anywhere from Sea-Life Adventure to Genting Casino.

The seaside partnership was formed after the displays were put in doubt when Bid - which previously organised the events - removed the seafront from its plans. 

Since then seafront traders have joined forces to create the partnership and ensure the fireworks go-ahead. 

Suzanne Gloyne, Southend Bid manager, added: “The seafront fireworks displays are a fantastic community event, and although Southend City BID are not organising the firework displays this year, we have sponsored the Autumn 2023 event series. The events allow families to enjoy free nights out in the city whilst supporting businesses.

“Attendees travelling by rail should be aware of strikes impacting journeys on September 30 and should consider alternative methods of travel.”

Each display will last around ten minutes.

Fireworks dates are listed for the next eight Saturdays on September 30, October 7, October 14, October 21, October 28, November 4, November 11 and November 18.

All events will begin at 8pm however the finale on November 18 will start at 7.30pm.

The November 18 event will coincide with the annual Southend BID Christmas lights switch-on.