Festive family day returns to Chichester – a free city-wide celebration for families this Christmas

Now in its third year, the event is a collaboration between Chichester BID and a number of city centre organisations, who will be opening their doors for families to enjoy festive experiences throughout the day. Visitors can enjoy Christmas crafting with Chichester Festival Theatre in the Cathedral Cloisters (access via West Street), drop into Biscuit Pottery in The Hornet to make their own air-dry clay Christmas elves, create 3D ornaments and enjoy storytelling at Chichester Library, and get cosy with Christmas crafts at Jam Café on South Street.

The Chichester Christmas Light Characters will be bringing extra sparkle to South Street, smiling and waving to families on their adventure, while snow flutter effects at The Market Cross will add an enchanting seasonal moment in the heart of the city.

A free day of festive memories

At a time when Christmas can be expensive for families, the Festive Family Day offers a full programme of free, memorable experiences, showcasing the community spirit, creativity and connection that makes Chichester such a welcoming place to explore.

To take part, families simply need their Festive Family Day Passport, which can be found inside the Christmas in Chichester Festivities Brochure - delivered to thousands of households across the local area last month. Copies will also be available to collect from participating trail locations, or you can download a copy online via chichesterbid.co.uk/christmas.

Visit at least three locations on the trail and collect a stamp at each stop. Then head to the V2 Radio outside broadcast van on East Street to redeem a festive surprise (while stocks last).

As families follow the trail, they can also explore the Chichester Christmas Market on East Street and North Street, discover independent shops and enjoy the city’s cafés and eateries.

Natasha McLeod, CEO of Chichester BID, said: “Our Festive Family Day is one of our favourite events of the year because it brings families together to make memories that don’t cost a penny. At a time when Christmas can feel expensive, we want everyone to enjoy the magic of the season in their city centre - taking part in creative, hands-on activities, connecting with local businesses, discovering new places and supporting the independent shops and makers who help our city thrive. We are incredibly grateful to the businesses who open their doors and dedicate their time to this special day.”

Diana Benham of Biscuit Pottery, said: “We loved being part of the Festive Family Day last year and we’re delighted to be back again. It’s a wonderful opportunity to meet new families, welcome people into the workshop and help them make something unique to take home.”

Carry on the magic with Let It Glow

When the crafting and trail activities come to an end, families can continue their festive adventure on the Cathedral Green with Let It Glow: Chichester’s Magical Winter Illumination.

This free light and sound installation, created by award-winning arts collective MakeAmplify, transforms Chichester Cathedral’s historic Bell Tower with colour, motion and music. Visitors can watch glowing projections dance across the architecture and take part in interactive sessions where they can ‘paint with light’ using digital tablets.

Let It Glow runs from 8 – 21 December, so families who are tired after their busy day in the city can return anytime over the following week to enjoy the experience at their own pace.

It’s the perfect way to end a day of festive fun in Chichester - or a magical reason to come back and discover more.

Christmas in Chichester is presented by Chichester BID in partnership with Chichester District Council and Chichester City Council and supported by Mayo Wynne Baxter Solicitors, Blue Spire Accountants and Gold Arts Jewellers.