Christmas Lights | West Sussex

Midhurst Christmas Street Party – 5th December 2025

From 4:00pm to 8:00pm, Midhurst bursts into festive cheer with its beloved Christmas Street Party. The streets will be buzzing with artisan stalls, live entertainment, and late-night shopping at the town’s charming boutiques. Children can meet Father Christmas in his Santa’s Grotto, while families soak up the warm glow of the twinkling lights and festive music.

Light Up Chichester – 22nd November 2025

Families won’t want to miss Light Up Chichester, when the city is illuminated in dazzling Christmas lights. Follow the Starlight Trail at The Novium Museum and Pallant House Gallery, where children can craft their own paper lanterns before gathering outside the Assembly Rooms for the official switch-on at 5:00pm. With festive elves from Chichester Festival Theatre’s grotto and two local heroes flicking the switch, this much-loved event marks the official start of Christmas in Chichester.

Don't miss the seeing the enchanting Willow Bauble by Two Circles Design, which is beautifully lit - situated outside The Guildhall, Priory Park.

Let It Glow: A Magical Winter Illumination at Chichester Cathedral – 8th to 21st December 2025

Experience a world of light, colour, and creativity as Chichester BID brings you the chance to light up the Cathedral's historic Bell Tower. The Let It Glow illumination invites you to take part in the show, using iPads inside a cosy, weatherproof marquee to “paint with light,” projecting beautiful designs onto the Cathedral’s ancient walls transforming into a glowing illumination. With evolving themes and vibrant displays each evening, every visit offers something new for the whole family.

Selsey Christmas Light Switch-On – 29th November 2025

Head to the seaside for the Selsey Christmas Light Switch-On, running from 2:00pm to 6:00pm. Enjoy festive food and drink, browse local stalls for Christmas gifts, and join the crowd as the town’s Christmas lights sparkle to life, bringing a little seaside magic to the season.

Petworth Christmas Cracker – 6th December 2025

In the picturesque market town of Petworth, the Petworth Christmas Cracker offers a day of festive shopping and entertainment from 11:00am to 7:00pm. Browse over 70 artisan stalls, enjoy seasonal treats, and gather in the town square for the Christmas lights switch-on at 6:00pm. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate Christmas in West Sussex, surrounded by the charm of this historic town.

Christmas at Uppark House and Gardens

Step into a Traditional Christmas at Uppark House and Gardens, one of West Sussex’s most charming Georgian mansions near Chichester. From 7th to 24th December 2025, wander through rooms adorned with towering Christmas trees, sparkling lights, and timeless seasonal decorations. The air is filled with the scents of pine, citrus, and cinnamon, creating an unforgettable festive atmosphere.

Explore the house below stairs to discover how servants prepared feasts and celebrated Christmas in contrast to the elegant festivities above. With its rich history and magical ambience, Uppark offers one of the most memorable Christmas experiences in West Sussex, perfect for families seeking a traditional festive day out.

When: 7th to 24th December 2025

Cost: Standard National Trust charges apply.

Don't miss: The pre-loved bookshop.  From classic volumes and colourful children’s tales to modern fiction and vintage treasures, discover something new (to you) to keep or to gift as a Christmas treat to friends or family.

A Christmas Enchantment at Petworth House

From 29th November 2025 to 4th January 2026, Petworth House and Park transforms into a winter wonderland for its spectacular Christmas celebration. Step into A Christmas Enchantment, a midwinter journey inspired by the Winter Solstice and the rhythms of nature. Visitors can explore eight beautifully themed rooms filled with dazzling decorations and show-stopping Christmas trees.

Beyond the house, enjoy a festive Makers Market, creative workshops, and magical evening events with Christmas lights, perfect for capturing the season’s spirit.

Highlights of Christmas at Petworth:

Christmas Makers Market: 29th and 30th November 2025 – discover artisan gifts perfect for Christmas.

Christmas Lates: 29th November to 20th December 2025 – explore Petworth House after dark and enjoy magical evening festivities.

Wreath Making Workshop: 2nd and 7th December 2025 – get creative with traditional wreath making.

Festive Block Printing: Learn hand-printing techniques with the Indian Block Print Co.

Cost: Standard National Trust charges apply.

Don't miss: This year, fans of Jill Barklem’s beloved Brambly Hedge series will delight in a special appearance from the charming mice, who have built their cosy oak-trunk home in the Little Dining Room.

Christmas at Stansted House

Experience the festive charm of Christmas at Stansted House on Sunday 7th, 14th, and 21st December 2025, from 11am to 4pm (last admission 3pm). This Edwardian mansion is beautifully decorated for the season, offering a fascinating upstairs, downstairs experience.

Discover how the Earls of Bessborough celebrated Christmas and learn about Queen Elizabeth’s visit in December 1939. Explore the servants’ quarters to uncover how Christmas traditions, including the origins of Boxing Day, were celebrated below stairs.  You will visit Stansted House's extensive Servants Quarters, where you will explore the servants experiences during the festive season, including the origins of Boxing Day. 

Stansted House and the Chapel of St Paul: are open for free-flow visits across the three Sundays, offering a relaxed and festive experience for all ages.

Family-friendly activities include:

Donkey Rides: Sunday 7th December – tickets available in the Main Hall.

Petworth Voices Performance: Sunday 14th December at 11am & 2:30pm in the Music Room, included with admission.

Cost for standard tour prices: £10.00 for Adult, £8 Student and 60+, £5 Child (5-16), Under 5's go free. Tickets can be booked in advance online or purchased on arrival. Online ticket purchases incur a small booking fee.

Don't miss:  Christmas Late Tours (to experience the lights at their best)

Why West Sussex Stately Homes are Perfect for Christmas

From Uppark House to Petworth and Stansted, Sussex’s stately homes combine history, festive charm, and family-friendly activities to create magical Christmas experiences. Whether exploring the twinkling Christmas lights, joining in craft workshops, or simply soaking up the traditional decorations, there’s no better way to enjoy a classic Christmas in the heart of England.