VIP Preview Evening tickets for Chichester Cathedral’s Festival of Flowers go on sale

Taking place on Tuesday 2 June 2026, from 6 – 9pm, the Festival of Flowers Preview Evening is a rare opportunity to experience the Cathedral transformed in an intimate setting before the Festival opens to the public. Guests are invited to step inside the Cathedral after hours for an elegant and atmospheric evening - taking time to wander, pause and enjoy the ancient space filled with flowers, music and conversation.

While being among the first to admire the Festival’s incredible floral displays, guests will enjoy English sparkling wine from local vineyard Tinwood Estate alongside beautifully prepared canapés from the award-winning Jacaranda, with a backdrop of live music adding to the atmosphere.

Lead designer Caroline Daines, founder of Nordic Twigs, will also be present at the evening. Caroline conceived this year’s 2026 Festival theme, Nature’s Embrace, which has shaped more than 60 floral installations throughout the Cathedral’s historic spaces.

Preview Evening tickets include access to Philip Jackson’s sculpture exhibition, curated by the artist himself, alongside exclusive first access to the Festival Market, featuring a carefully considered selection of artisan gifts, pre-loved fashion and fun games such as Bottlebola and a Tree of Treats.

Festival of Flowers 2026

The 30th Festival of Flowers opens to the public from Wednesday 3 to Saturday 6 June 2026, once again transforming the Cathedral with breathtaking floral installations. Over 100 florists, volunteers and students will bring Nature’s Embrace to life, filling the Cathedral with colour, fragrance and creativity.

Guests from previous Preview Evenings shared their experiences, commenting:

“The VIP Preview Evening at the Chichester Festival of Flowers was truly magical. Arriving ahead of the general crowds made the entire experience feel exclusive and wonderfully relaxed. The Cathedral was breathtaking, with the floral installations looking beautiful in the evening light. I loved wandering at my own pace, discovering new details at every turn.”

“With a glass in hand and live music gently filling the space, I was able to take in the artistry up close. There was a warm buzz of conversation, yet the atmosphere remained calm and intimate — as though we were part of something thoughtfully curated and very special. It wasn’t just about admiring beautiful flowers; it felt like being part of a shared celebration of art, nature and heritage.”

“This wasn’t simply a preview — it was a memorable occasion, and the perfect way to experience the Festival.”

Tickets and key dates

Preview Evening: Tuesday 2 June 2026, 6 – 9pm

Ticket price: £60

Booking: With limited availability, early booking is advised. Tickets can be booked here: https://www.chichestercathedral.org.uk/events/festival-flowers-2026