Your Guide to Festive Shopping in the City
There’s something special about Christmas shopping in Chichester. Twinkling lights, beautifully decorated shop windows, the tempting aromas of festive food and drink, and the pleasure of discovering a gift you know someone will love.
This Christmas, Chichester’s historic streets and venues will welcome a wonderful selection of festive markets, bringing together independent traders, local makers, vintage treasures and seasonal treats.
Whether you’re searching for a special present, meeting friends for a festive shopping trip or simply soaking up the Christmas atmosphere, here’s our guide to Christmas markets in Chichester city centre for 2026.
Chichester Festive Market – 4 – 6 & 11 – 13 December
North Street and East Street, Chichester City Centre
The highlight of Chichester’s Christmas market calendar, the Chichester Festive Market returns to the city’s historic shopping streets for two weekends in December.
Organised by Chichester District Council, this popular outdoor market brings together independent traders and local makers offering Christmas gifts, handmade crafts, festive decorations, artisan products and seasonal food and drink.
Wander between the stalls, browse for unusual presents and soak up the festive atmosphere, with Chichester’s independent shops, cafés and restaurants just moments away.
Whether you’re meeting friends for a festive shopping trip, searching for thoughtful gifts or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of Christmas, it’s the perfect excuse to spend a day in Chichester.
Dates: Friday 4 – Sunday 6 December and Friday 11 – Sunday 13 December 2026.
Vintage and Very Nice Markets – 28–29 November & 12–13 December
The Assembly Room, The Council House, North Street | 10am–4pm | FREE
If you love discovering something a little different, Vintage and Very Nice is well worth a visit.
Held in the beautiful Assembly Room at Chichester’s Council House, these popular markets bring together local traders, artisans and independent makers offering vintage finds, handcrafted gifts and individual creations.
There are two opportunities to visit this festive season:
- Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 November: Vintage and Very Nice two-day market
- Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 December: Vintage and Very Nice Christmas Special
Both markets are open from 10am–4pm, with free entry.
Find out more about Vintage and Very Nice.
The Novium Museum Indoor Christmas Market – Sunday 13 December
The Novium Museum, Tower Street | 10am–2pm | FREE
Discover handmade gifts and festive inspiration at The Novium Museum’s Indoor Christmas Market.
Bringing together local artists and craftspeople, this free market offers another opportunity to support independent makers while finding something special for Christmas.
Browse creative gifts, decorations and seasonal treats, then take time to explore the museum’s fascinating collections during your visit.
Make a Day of Christmas Shopping in Chichester
One of the pleasures of visiting Chichester’s Christmas markets is everything else waiting to be discovered nearby.
Beyond the market stalls, the city’s independent shops and high street favourites offer plenty of gift inspiration, from jewellery and homewares to books, toys, fashion and delicious food.
Take time to explore the historic streets, admire the festive window displays and stop for a warming hot chocolate, coffee or leisurely lunch at one of Chichester’s many cafés and restaurants.
As the afternoon draws in, the city’s Christmas lights add another touch of festive atmosphere to your visit.
Whether you’re shopping with friends, enjoying a family day out or searching for those last few presents, there’s every reason to spend a little more time in Chichester this Christmas.
Plan Your Christmas Shopping Trip to Chichester
With Christmas markets taking place throughout November and December, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy festive shopping in Chichester city centre.
We’ll continue updating this guide as more Christmas markets and festive fairs are announced, so check back for the latest additions.
Discover more festive events, shopping inspiration and things to do at Christmas in Chichester.