Looking for a magical festive family day out that’s perfect for the whole family? On Saturday 14 December, Chichester’s city centre will come alive with Christmas cheer from 11am to 3pm. With activities and entertainment for all ages, the Festive Family Day, sponsored by Henry Adams, is your chance to make magical memories while exploring everything our vibrant city has to offer.
From crafting to storytelling and even writing letters to Santa, this day is packed with free festive fun. You’ll encounter delightful surprises at every turn — with festive stilt walkers, elves from Chichester Festival Theatre’s grotto and the captivating Christmas Tree Stroll, a trail showcasing traditional trees and eco-friendly sculptures created by local artists.
Here are just some of the exciting stops you can enjoy on the day:
- Chichester Library, Tower Street: Immerse yourself in the magic of festive storytelling and pen your letter to Santa.
- Jam Café, South Street: Get creative with Christmas crafting, making decorations while enjoying tasty treats and warm drinks.
- Biscuit Pottery, Draper’s Yard, The Hornet: Sculpt your own clay ornaments to add a personal touch to your tree.
- Pallant House Gallery: Drop in between 10am and 12pm to print your own festive-themed cards.
- South Street’s Christmas Light Characters: Snap a festive selfie with the illuminated characters and share your moment using #ChristmasInChichester.
To make the day even more special, families can follow the Festive Family Day Trail. Grab your copy of the trail inside the Christmas in Chichester Festivities Brochure, pick one up from participating businesses or download here. Visit at least three locations to collect stamps and redeem a festive surprise at V2 Radio on East Street, all while enjoying festive tunes.
Helen Marshall, CEO of Chichester BID, says: “Our Festive Family Day is all about offering families a chance to come together and enjoy free festive fun in our city centre, while also supporting our local businesses. We’re so grateful to Henry Adams for their support and all our wonderful partners for making this event possible. Community is at the heart of Chichester city centre, which is why Chichester BID and the city’s businesses want to welcome families from near and far to enjoy the magic of Christmas in Chichester.”
Henry Adams CEO Ian Wiggett adds: “We’re thrilled to support an event that brings families together to enjoy this special season and showcases the incredible community spirit and wonderful businesses in Chichester. We hope families and visitors alike enjoy the day and take the opportunity to explore everything Chichester has to offer.”
For even more festive fun, don’t miss the other Christmas activities happening in Chichester, including the Festive Market on East and North Street, Santa’s Grotto at Chichester Festival Theatre (booking required), a family trail at Chichester Cathedral and festive events at Priory Park, featuring a live pantomime and arts and crafts by Culture Spark (booking required).
Get ready to experience the joy of Christmas with your loved ones. Download your Festival Family Passport here and start planning your festive adventure!