Christmas is a magical time of year, and Chichester is no exception when it comes to spreading festive cheer. Nestled at the foot of the South Downs, our beautiful city is filled with joyful experiences, creative workshops and fun filled celebrations for the whole family to enjoy. From enchanting light trails to interactive crafts and spectacular shows, there’s something for everyone to discover this Christmastime.
Here’s our round-up of the top 10 family things to do in Chichester this Christmas.
1) Light Up Chichester & The After Party – Saturday 22 November
Christmas officially begins in Chichester on Saturday 22 November, when the city centre bursts into light and colour for Light Up Chichester. Enjoy a Pop-Up Food & Drink Market on East Street (10am – 6pm), live music and dance performances on North Street from 12pm, and magical snow flutter effects and projections on the Assembly Rooms. Gather outside the Assembly Rooms for the big countdown as elves from Chichester Festival Theatre and local heroes switch on the city’s Christmas lights at 5:00pm.
Keep the celebrations going with Light Up Chichester: The After Party from 6:00pm.
2) Festive Family Day – Saturday 13 December
Between 11am and 4.00pm, Chichester’s streets will sparkle with festive joy during the Festive Family Day.
Enjoy free activities, storytelling, crafts and live entertainment across the city centre, including creative workshops, festive characters, and plenty of opportunities to get involved. Families can also take part in the Festive Family Trail – collect stamps from participating locations and redeem a special treat from V2 Radio on East Street.
This joyful day is all about celebrating community, creativity, and Christmas spirit in the heart of Chichester.
3) Let It Glow: Chichester’s Magical Winter Illumination – 8 – 21 December
Step into a world of light and colour this December as Chichester Cathedral’s historic Bell Tower is transformed by Let It Glow – a dazzling new immersive light and sound experience on the Cathedral Green.
Created by MakeAmplify, this free experience invites everyone to be part of the magic. Under a weatherproof marquee, visitors can ‘paint with light’ using iPads, seeing their colourful designs projected onto the ancient walls. Beyond the marquee, glowing interactive installations fill the Green, capturing the wonder of Christmas for all ages.
Timings: Weekdays 5.00pm–7.00pm | Weekends 4.30pm–7.30pm
4) Christmas Trails
Join The Novium Museum, Pallant House Gallery, Chichester Library and Chichester Cathedral for the Starlight Trail on Saturday 15 November, 13.00 –16.15 – a festive family afternoon of crafts and creativity. Collect your Starlight Trail passport, create a glowing star lantern, and take part in activities at each venue before lighting your route through the city.
On 28 and 29 November, 16.00–19.00, take part in the free Sounds of Home Trail. Start at The Guildhall and set off on a live performance trail through some of Chichester’s most iconic buildings. This free event is a moving celebration of home and belonging through music, film, and spoken word.
At the Cathedral, join Wilfrid the Seal on a magical journey through ancient building as he sets out to discover the story at the heart of Christmas. Meanwhile, those cheeky Gonks are back at the Novium Museum from 6 December to 3 January causing mischief. Track down all the gonks and claim your festive prize! £2 per trail, including a prize, no need to book – just drop in!
5) Festivities in Priory Park
Enjoy a magical line-up of Christmas events hosted by Chichester District Council in the stunning surroundings of Priory Park. From pantomimes and silent discos to storytelling and live music inside The Guildhall, there’s something to make every visit feel special.
6) Christmas Entertainment
This year, Chichester Festival Theatre brings two unforgettable festive productions to the stage. At the Festival Theatre, Chichester Festival Youth Theatre celebrates its 40th anniversary with A Boy Called Christmas – a heartwarming adventure from the award-winning writer Matt Haig, adapted by Philip Wilson with original music by Tom Brady. Follow young Nikolas on his journey to becoming the very spirit of Christmas itself.
At the Minerva Theatre, discover The Three Little Pigs – a witty, music-filled retelling full of catchy songs and clever rhymes that will have audiences squealing with delight.
Discover more about Christmas at the Chichester Festival Theatre, including its magical Santa’s Grotto experience here.
For movie lovers and young aspiring film makers, Chichester Cinema at New Park is hosting a weekend of affordable festive family films and workshops on 20 – 22 December. Cinema tickets cost just £2.50 for adults and kids alike! Find out more here.
7) Get Crafty this Christmas
Get hands-on with festive creativity this year! At Biscuit Pottery, craft your own gonk tealight holder or hand-painted Christmas decoration. Over at Jam Café, families can make 2025-themed ornaments and festive finishing touches. For a glitter-filled morning, visit Pallant House Gallery for sparkly Christmas craft workshops perfect for little artists.
8) Family Crib Service at Chichester Cathedral
Gather together on Christmas Eve for one of Chichester Cathedral’s most loved traditions – the Family Crib Service. Held at 3pm and 4pm, this joyful service captures the true meaning of Christmas with carols, readings, and the Nativity story beautifully brought to life.
9) Indulge in Hot Chocolate and Gingerbread Treats
Take a festive pit stop in one of Chichester’s many cosy cafés. From Café Paradiso to The Buttery and Crispins Café, enjoy rich hot chocolates piled high with cream and marshmallows, and freshly baked gingerbread treats that are sure to make spirits bright.
10) Explore Christmas Markets
Soak up the sights and scents of the season at Chichester’s Christmas Markets, where you’ll find unique gifts, artisanal foods, and festive decorations galore. It’s the perfect way to shop local, support small businesses and find something truly special for your loved ones.
Experience the magic of Christmas in Chichester
From glowing light shows and live performances to festive trails and heartwarming family moments, Chichester truly knows how to make Christmas magical.
Plan your visit, wrap up warm, and get ready to make cherished memories in our beautiful city this festive season.