October Half Term in Chichester – Halloween Fun, Family Adventures and Autumn Treats
It might feel as though you’ve only just sent the children back to school, but October half-term is lurking around the corner. Don’t let that frighten you, though; Chichester city centre is ready to welcome your little horrors, perfect pumpkins and everyone in between for a week of Halloween preparations, pumpkin-spiced latte sipping, movie magic and, of course, the return of Chichester Cathedral’s spectacular annual Light Experience.
Whether you’re planning a family day out, looking for ways to entertain the teenagers or simply fancy embracing all things autumn, there’s plenty happening in Chichester this half-term.
See Chichester Cathedral in a whole new light
One of the highlights of the October half-term calendar is the return of Chichester Cathedral‘s spectacular Light Experience, running from Friday 23 to Saturday 31 October.
This year’s all-new show, Illuminating Art, sees the Cathedral transformed through extraordinary projections, colour and sound, taking visitors on an immersive journey inspired by art and creativity.
Created by the award-winning artistic collaboration Luxmuralis, the experience offers a chance to discover one of Chichester’s most iconic buildings in a completely different way, making it an unforgettable evening out for families, friends and visitors of all ages.
When: 23–31 October, 5.30pm–8.30pm
Where: Chichester Cathedral
Booking ahead is recommended.
Get creative with some Halloween crafting
If Halloween preparations are already underway in your household, Jam Café has a selection of creative activities to help everyone get into the spooky spirit.
On Monday 26 October, there’s Halloween cookie decorating, while Friday 30 October brings a Wacky Witches Hat craft club. On Halloween itself, Saturday 31 October, the café is hosting a Halloween drop-in craft club.
Whether you’re decorating a spooky biscuit or creating something suitably witchy to wear, there’s plenty of hands-on Halloween fun to enjoy.
Enjoy some movie magic
There’s something particularly appealing about a trip to the cinema as the afternoons get darker.
At Chichester Cinema at New Park, Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom returns for three special half-term screenings at a discounted price. Expect plenty of mischievous monster-themed entertainment in Shaun’s latest adventure.
Screenings:
- Monday 26 October, 1.30pm
- Tuesday 27 October, 1.30pm
- Thursday 29 October, 12 noon
Game on at Continue Arcades
For some good old-fashioned arcade fun, head to Continue Arcades in Southgate, where two floors of gaming bring together retro classics and the latest arcade machines.
The best bit? It’s pay once, play as much as you like, with no extra charges or clock-watching. Perfect for a family challenge, an afternoon with friends or a rainy-day escape, especially for teenagers looking for something a little different.
Book online or simply pop in and play.
Autumn adventures in Chichester’s parks and gardens
Sometimes the best half-term adventures don’t cost a penny. Pull on your wellies, wrap up warm and head out to enjoy Chichester’s beautiful parks and gardens as they turn golden for autumn.
Priory Park is perfect for letting off steam and kicking through fallen leaves, while the peaceful Bishop’s Palace Gardens offer winding paths and colourful autumn foliage.
For a little history with your fresh air, take a walk along Chichester’s historic City Walls and enjoy a different perspective on the city.
Step back in time at The Novium Museum
Head to The Novium Museum on Wednesday 28 October for The Tale of the Nightingale, an interactive storytelling experience with Red Sauce Theatre.
Led by Nurse Rachel and her collection of handcrafted puppets, children can enlist in Florence Nightingale’s Medical Corps and discover how one determined woman transformed nursing forever.
The 45-minute performances are designed for children aged 5–9, accompanied by an adult.
When: Wednesday 28 October, 10.15am and 11.30am
Where: The Novium Museum
Tickets: £6 per child, £2 per adult
Create a little magic at Pallant House Gallery
Let imaginations run wild at Pallant House Gallery, where Magic Forest, a free family drop-in activity, runs from 25 October to 1 November.
Using recycled materials, children can create magical trees, mushrooms, flowers and fantastical creatures to add to a growing enchanted landscape. Watch as everyone’s creations come together to transform the forest into something extraordinary.
When: 25 October – 1 November, 1.30pm–5pm
Where: Pallant House Gallery
Admission: Free
This is a self-led activity, with materials provided.
A frightfully good breakfast at The Ivy
Halloween doesn’t have to wait until after dark!
On Saturday 31 October, The Ivy Chichester is hosting a Little Monsters Breakfast Banquet, offering a suitably spooky start to the day before heading off to enjoy Halloween adventures around the city.
Halloween shopping and autumn treats
Of course, half the fun of Halloween is getting ready for it. Whether you’re hunting for costumes, face paints, decorations or sweet treats, Chichester’s shops have plenty of inspiration for your spooky celebrations.
And between all the activities, make time for the simple pleasures of autumn. Think pumpkin-spiced lattes, indulgent hot chocolates, freshly baked cakes and leisurely lunches in the city’s cafés and restaurants.
From Halloween preparations and family adventures to catching up with friends over coffee, there’s every reason to make a day of it in Chichester this October half-term.