Thousands enjoy feel-good laser light shows in Chichester

Thousands of people from near and far attended the free evenings, which were organised by Chichester District Council to help support the local economy and bring people into Chichester. All of the shows were funded using grants from the UK Government, which were secured by the district council.

This year a third performance was added to both nights, with each of the three unique shows specially choreographed to various music hits by the Chichester-based Showmen Events Group.

Before each show people could enjoy a variety of delicious refreshments thanks to a selection of local food and drink vendors, and the canal café. Jade Knights from Fire Knights Circus and Nick Cook from NC Circus entertained the crowds with their glowing roaming displays while children could also enjoy a carousel ride and other activities.

Councillor Harsha Desai, Cabinet Member for Licensing, Events and Communications at Chichester District Council, says: "There was such a positive atmosphere throughout the two evenings - there was a real community spirit among the spectators, with people of all ages attending. We had comments saying that over the four years we have been doing these shows, this year was the best and for families with youngsters, the shows also provided an exciting finish to the half-term holidays. We were even told that the lights could be seen as far away as Bognor Regis and Emsworth! As well as local residents, we also had people attending from further away including Hampshire and Horsham.

“Chichester Canal Basin is such a special location and so we were really pleased to be able to bring the shows to this part of Chichester again and highlight this unique location. I’d like to thank everyone who came along to enjoy the events, and to everyone who was involved in making them happen, from local residents to the Canal Trust, Showmen Events, the emergency services, marshals and volunteers. Everyone involved worked hard to ensure the evenings were a fun and safe experience for all those who attended.

"As part of our Events Strategy we want to focus on bringing a wider range of free events to the whole district and cater for different age groups and audiences in order to support our local businesses and the evening and night-time economy. These amazing events also attract visitors from outside the area, which raises awareness of the district and boosts tourism.

“As ever we are keen to hear people’s views and suggestions, and we would really appreciate it if people could complete our short survey by going to: https://app.snapsea.io/p/c/chichester/chichester-laser-light-show-events-2026/participate

People can also share their pictures of the night with us by going to: https://app.snapsea.io/p/link/chichester-laser-light-shows-2026

“I would also encourage people to sign up to our monthly email newsletter initiatives+ www.chichester.gov.uk/newsalerts so they can keep up-to-date with other exciting council events.”