What will Christmas in Chichester city centre look like this year?

It may not be welcomed with crowds, parades and grand opening ceremonies – but Christmas is still coming to Chichester city centre this year.
James Garrow, who donated the Christmas tree, with his graddaughter, Elin, in Chichester 2019James Garrow, who donated the Christmas tree, with his graddaughter, Elin, in Chichester 2019
James Garrow, who donated the Christmas tree, with his graddaughter, Elin, in Chichester 2019

The festive season will no doubt look different, with social-distancing guidelines and rules preventing gatherings still in place.

But Mike Evans, president of the Rotary Club of Chichester, confirmed the club was preparing to put up its tree at the cross as usual and had applied for a license to hold collections, which will feature Father Christmas.

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He said: “We are playing it low-key – but it will go ahead. That’s the important thing.”

The Christmas tree will help ‘lift our spirits’, he said, adding: “More than ever the citizens and shopkeepers not only need, but deserve to celebrate Christmas.”

Meanwhile the Chichester BID confirmed that the Christmas lights would come on in phases from mid-November.

Jeanette Hockley, Operations Manager at Chichester BID, said: “There will not be a big light switch on this year but instead the lights will come on in phases from mid-November with the main overhead lights in North and East Street being switched on early on Saturday 21 November.

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“Working on behalf of the city centre businesses, we are still going ahead with the same programme of festive light displays as last year to ensure the city looks just as magical as ever this Christmas.

“We are also running various socially distanced activities over the festive season, including a fairy tale trail and window display competition.”

When asked about the Christmas market, the district council said no decision had yet been made on what Christmas activities would take place this year.

A spokesman said: “We are currently working with partners including Chichester City Council and the Chichester BID (Business Improvement District) on what COVID-safe Christmas activities can be organised for this festive season.

“No decisions have been made as yet.”