Southend is set for a lively weekend of music, history, cinema, and community spirit as four standout events take place across the borough.

From family-friendly open-air performances to immersive historical experiences and vibrant festivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this weekend.

Kicking off the weekend, Music and Beer Festival at the Vulcan returns to London Southend Airport’s historic Vulcan hangar.

The first day of the event took place yesterday, with the second day getting underway from 2pm today.

The space will be filled with live music, street food, and locally brewed beers.

Performances begin at 2.15pm, with a full line-up to be announced soon.

Tickets cost £18 for adults and £4 for accompanied under-18s.

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Free parking is available, and the site is accessible via bus or a short walk from London Southend Airport station.

For families and fans of animated adventures, the Big Screen Summer Cinema continues in Elmer Square outside The Forum, with a free outdoor screening of Shaun the Sheep (2015) at 3pm today.

Inspired by The Reading Agency’s “Story Garden” summer reading challenge, this event encourages children to engage with storytelling through film.

Seating is first come, first served, so early arrival is recommended. Attendees should bring their own blankets or chairs.

History enthusiasts can step back in time at Anglo Saxon Weekend at Prittlewell Priory, running from 11am to 4pm on both Saturday and Sunday.

Anglo Saxon Weekend (Image: Southend Council)

This living history event features a re-enactment camp with combat displays, textile demonstrations, axe throwing, storytelling, and archaeological digs.

Visitors can also explore the Priory’s evolution from Saxon settlement to modern museum, with food and drinks available on site from Melt.

Finally, Music in the Park brings the Priory Park bandstand to life once again.

Today, High Voltage Big Band will perform, followed by Friends of the Shadows on Sunday, both from 3pm to 4.30pm.

This free event is part of a summer-long series sponsored by BTMK Solicitors.

Guests are advised to bring their own seating and consider public transport due to limited parking.

With a diverse array of entertainment across Southend this weekend, residents and visitors alike can soak up culture, music, history, and fun in equal measure.