Mark the New Year in West Sussex with gala dinners, live music and fireworks or opt for something a little more relaxed, family friendly activities or even unforgettable water sports experiences.
Firework displays and events
See Sussex skies sparkling with fireworks ringing in 2026. Choose from a gala evening of dinner, entertainment and fireworks at Potager Restaurant, Crouchers Orchards near Chichester, or for a more relaxed New Year view points like The Trundle and Harting Down offer you the chance to see colourful displays across the West Sussex countryside.
New Year's Eve Parties & Galas
You'll find a variety of destinations in Chichester where you can celebrate the New Year with friends and family in style. From Goodwood's sparkling New Year Celebrations at The Kennels (Members only) and a gala dinner at The Ivy, to glittering New Year dinners at The Ship, Harbour Hotel, Chichester, Chichester's chic new Italian, Piccolino, Farmyard at The Feast, and Purchases. Toast the New Year with expertly mixed cocktails at The Chantry or The Rocking Horse, or for a relaxed evening, visit traditional welcoming pubs like The Old Cross or Hole in The Wall where you can expect to find live music. At the Millstream Hotel in Bosham, the New Year’s Eve package, available for stays of 1, 2 or 3 nights features a champagne and canapé reception, a five-course dinner with music provided by our resident pianist followed by a live band, and of course that all important champagne toast at midnight!
Family Friendly New Year activities
Spend a memorable New Year exploring family friendly activities in West Sussex. In Chichester Children can spend time following a Festive Gonk Trail at The Novium Museum, or helping Wilfrid The Seal on his Great Christmas Hunt at Chichester Cathedral, both of which are open for the twixmas days and New Year's Eve. Immerse yourselves in festive family theatre at Chichester Festival Theatre and A Boy Called Christmas which has a matinee and evening performance to choose from on New Year's Eve.
Things to do in West Sussex this New Year
Ring in 2026 with some unforgettable experiences. Top of our list is Fluid Adventures New Year's Eve Kayak where a glass of prosecco is provided as you paddle the waters of Chichester Harbour while the skies of Sussex sparkle with fireworks (please note, this is not suitable for beginners). Join the knowledgeable guides at RSPB Pagham Harbour for New Year's Day bird watching, where you'll be watching the winter ducks and visiting wading birds, and if you're lucky maybe a Kingfisher or Marsh Harrier.
Embrace the wintry weather and join The Big Dip at East Wittering beach! This annual event sees hundreds of people brave a sea swim on East Wittering Beach on New Year's Day for a sea swim from 1pm.
Top Walks for New Year
Winter walks to blow away the cobwebs and burn off some of the Christmas over-indulgence are an essential part of our New Year's Day! Choose from our pick of Boxing day (and beyond) walks, circular walks, family friendly walks or walks which feature a welcoming West Sussex pub en route.
Great places to eat out at New Year
Find perfect places to eat for your New Year celebrations, whether you're searching for restaurants in Chichester to the perfect country pub.
