Come and discover wonderful West Sussex Christmas markets, fabulously festive concerts and productions, unforgettable family activities and of course, Father Christmas. The festive season is the perfect time to explore West Sussex locations like Chichester, Petworth and Midhurst where Christmas cheer has been liberally dusted to bring you wonderful experiences to enjoy, from twinkling Christmas lights to shopping and markets.
Christmas in Chichester
West Sussex's only city invites you to come and experience Christmas celebrations, from twinkling Christmas lights and the interactive family event, Let It Glow, to a performance trail and festive fun days. Chichester's Christmas markets offer you a chance to shop local with a Sussex twist as you explore stalls where handmade and artisanal products are the name of the game. Accompanied by warming food and drink and lively entertainment, visiting a Christmas Market should certainly be on your list for some Sussex Christmas shopping inspiration.
Christmas in Petworth
Christmas in Petworth officially kicks off on 29th November as Petworth House (National Trust) welcomes you to 'A Christmas Enchantment' (until 4th January). Come and explore a spellbinding journey through the grand state rooms where beautifully adorned trees, twinkling lights, celestial skies and roaming woodland creatures have transformed the house into a winter wonderland. This year, the mice of Brambly Hedge, Jill Barklem’s beloved book series, are making a special appearance. Atmospheric late night opening of the house will be on 29th November, too as well as 20th December where you can enjoy the sounds of a choir singing in the courtyard, and the lights looking particularly twinkly (last entry to the house will be 6pm).
29th & 30th November also offers you the chance to explore the treasures of Petworth Pop Up's Makers Market (Sat 29th Nov, 10am-6.30pm & Sun 30th Nov, 10am-4pm), held within the grounds of Petworth House. Here we're sure you'll tick off Christmas presents as the artisan and handcrafted items provide inspiration aplenty.
See the Christmas lights switched on at the annual Petworth Christmas Cracker on 6th December as the town becomes a wonderful Christmas market. Stalls featuring gifts, food and festive cheer line Petworth's pretty streets accompanied by Christmas entertainment. The light switch on will take place at 6pm.
Christmas in Midhurst
Come and find a Christmas stocking full of festive joy in the heart of the South Downs National Park as Midhurst celebrates Christmas. Discover fabulous Christmas markets for one of a kind gifts, plus Midhurst's Christmas spirit overflows at the annual Christmas street party on 5th December. Maybe you'll indulge a loved one with a festive afternoon tea at Cowdray's The Walled Garden (various dates in December) - perfect for festive catch ups with family or friends. Midhurst town centre looks extra pretty decorated for Christmas season - come and take a wander for some instagram worthy photos!
Christmas at Goodwood
From Goodwood's annual and hugely popular Apres Ski party (12th & 13th December) to festive feasting at Farmer, Butcher, Chef, as well as an unforgettable Christmas Afternoon Tea, guided tour and candlelit carols in the hall at Goodwood House (edit: this event is now sold out).
Christmas at East Wittering, West Wittering and Selsey
Adding coastal charm to Christmas celebrations, come and enjoy Christmas lights being illuminated at Selsey on 29th November, join the Festive Procession at East Wittering on 28th culminating in the lighting of the Christmas Tree as well as late night shopping and family trail to explore in the local shops. West Wittering hosts two Christmas markets where you'll find special gifts for your loved ones, the West Wittering beach Christmas Market and The Artisan Craft Market.
Ice Skating fun
Don't miss the Ice Rink at Seal Bay Resort in Selsey. Opening on 12th December with skating slots during the week and at weekends, plus festive food and drink to enjoy, this is a real Christmas crowd pleaser.
Christmas Light Switch Ons and Light Trails
No festive season is complete without seeing some of West Sussex's beautiful Christmas lights. From the twinkly Christmas Enchantment at Petworth House and the town light Switch on at The Christmas Cracker, to Chichester's stunning Christmas lights and new Let It Glow interactive family light experience. Find traditional Christmas Tree splendour in Midhurst, and the coastal towns of East Wittering and Selsey.
Family Friendly Christmas Events
There's no end of Christmas cheer for families to enjoy this festive season. Find heartwarming Christmas entertainment at Chichester Festival Theatre with A Boy Called Christmas - the magical tale of 11 year old Nikolas and the true story of Father Christmas or The Three Little Pigs. Meanwhile Let It Glow brings hands on fun to Chichester City Centre as children design their own illuminations to project onto Chichester Cathedral's bell tower. Join Green Father Christmas for a Magical Elf School Experience at Weald & Downland Living Museum where children become Santa’s helpers for the day with hands on family workshops, creative activities, and Christmas storytelling as they earn their Elf Certificates. A Chichester Christmas classic not to be missed are Chichester Canal's Father Christmas Boat Trips. Find more family Christmas fun here.
