THE August Bank Holiday weekend is fast approaching with plenty of popular events, performances and attractions coming to the borough.

Therefore, we have put together a guide of what you can do to make the most of the long weekend. 

What's on in Southend on August Bank Holiday weekend?

Bank Holiday Weekend Bonanza

Where: Southend Pier

When: Saturday August 24 - Monday August 26, 12pm to 6.30pm

The pier will come alive with the sounds of top DJs and live bands throughout the weekend, with the renown Old Time Sailors returning. The band will take visitors on a musical journey with their mix of sea shanties and folk tunes. 

There will also be a mix of performances from The Silver Darlings, The Tempo Collective, Levent and Taylor’s World Band, The 251, The Tuppenny Bunters, No Good Woman and The Kingsnakes. The Record Department with DJ Daryl Easlea and Middle Age Spread will be hitting the decks too.

This is a free event, but usual pier admission and pier train prices apply.

Music in the Park | August Bank Holiday Weekend

Where: Priory Park bandstand 

When: Sunday August 25 and Monday August 26

While Saturday's performance has been cancelled due to heavy rain forecast, the bandstand is still due to come alive with FREE performances from local bands and musicians on Sunday and Monday.

Dave Jago and Michael Horner will take to the stage on Sunday while The Pat English Band will entertain visitors on Monday. The acts will perform between 3pm and 4.30pm.

El Galeon

Where: Southend Pier

When: Thursday August 22 until Tuesday August 27

The impressive replica of 17th century Spanish galleons has returned to Southend Pier, and will be open all Bank Holiday Weekend for visitors to hop on board and tour its whopping 320 m2 of open deck space. 

The visit to the galleon consists of a self-guided walking tour and once on board, visitors are free to wander its decks, talk to the real sailors living on board, and check out dozens of interactive exhibits, videos, projections and historical documents.

For tickets, visit www.southendpier.co.uk/galeon. Usual pier admission prices apply.

The Lion Inside

Where: The Palace Theatre, Westcliff

When: Friday August 23 until Wednesday August 28

The Lion Inside is a heart-warming tale about confidence, self-esteem, and a shy little mouse who sets out on a journey to find his roar, based on the best-selling story by Rachel Bright and Jim Field. This new stage adaptation is directed by Sarah Punshon (The Jungle Book), with music and lyrics by Eamonn O’Dwyer (Brief Encounter).

It is most suitable for ages 3-plus but all ages are welcome. For tickets, go to palacetheatresouthend.co.uk.

Old Leigh Artists’ Market

Where:  Strand Wharf, Old Leigh

When: Monday August 26, 10am to 4pm

Old Leigh Artist Market is back on Strand Wharf in picturesque Old Leigh on Bank Holiday Monday for another art extravaganza. Visitors will be able to browse stalls featuring a fabulous array of work by 25 of the area’s finest creators.

The event will feature live painting, sculptures, ceramics, photography, street art and jewellery.

Southend Mega Fun Day

Where: Garon Park, Southend

When: Monday August 26, 11am to 4pm

Garon Park will transform into huge kid-friendly festival with inflatable playgrounds, giant slides, and bouncy castles, all designed for children aged 2 to 11.

Also lined up to entertain the youngsters is an adorable children’s game show, magic acts, and a lively disco. Everything is included in the entry ticket, which can be bought at tickettailor.com/events/megafundays/1236867.