Bevendean advent trail given mayoral seal of approval

The annual event in Bevendean, Brighton, delights residents and passersby as the estate lights up to celebrate the festive season.

It was founded in 2020 by resident Zoe Donegan and the mutual aid group for Higher Bevendean, initially as something neighbours could take part in during the lockdown restrictions. People were invited to create a seasonal display in their windows.

Zoe said: “It was something people could take part in during restrictions, something to look forward to.”

It was such a success that it has now become a tradition.

Zoe said: “I think it helps people feel more connected with their neighbours.”

Those taking part in the trail have created elaborate designs in their windows (Image: @morganafoxes)

Each evening in the run-up to Christmas, a different house is put in the spotlight.

This year marked the first in-person event to celebrate the start of the advent trail and there was a launch party in The Bevy in Bevendean, Brighton’s only community-run pub.

Chris Llewellyn, secretary at The Bevy, said: “The Bevy have been involved with the trail from the start, we’ve done windows in the past.

Now that was a fun night!!! pic.twitter.com/HyKxvnc4aU

— Bevendean Co-op Pub (@thebevy) December 2, 2022

“It was set up during Covid as a way of getting a bit of joy out of the community during lockdown.

“However this year we decided to launch the advent trail with a bang.”
Brighton and Hove City Mayor Lizzie Deane switched the lights on, alongside Father Christmas.

Bevy manager Lizanne Coomber poses for a picture with the Mayor of Brighton and Hove, Councillor Lizzie Deane, along with Father Christmas and the Mayoral Consort. (Image: The Bevy)

Chris said: “Loads and loads of people from around the community came to The Bevy. There was free hot chocolate, mince pies and mulled wine and it was really fun.

“This is just a really good example to work with our community.”

Residents young and old are taking part in the trail (Image: Zoe Donegan)

Councillor Deane said: "I'm so pleased to have been invited to launch this advent calendar in Bevendean, and hope it goes really well. Street advent calendars are a great idea, people can let their imaginations run wild and be creative, they bring communities together, and they look lovely."

There are 33 windows signed up to the advent calendar this year.

Zoe said:” The reaction from the community has been fantastic. It’s been very positive.

“Every window is special and all efforts are very much appreciated. I don’t have a favourite, they’re all so special.”