Christmas in Sussex

Christmas Markets

Chichester has a Christmas market each year right in the centre of the city with lots of unique gifts and food and drink.

Petworth is always magical at Christmas, with an annual event with carol singers, food, drink and other stalls and window displays.

Brighton Christmas Festival – Christmas Market and Après-Ski Bar.

Arundel is one of the most festive towns so be sure to pop along for the tree lighting and traditional carol service and their Arundel Farmers Market.

Family Activities

There are many Christmas events at National Trust properties in Sussex – some of them we have enjoyed include Standen and Petworth but each National Trust has their own events and they are always decorated so festively!

Standen House has a Christmas Wishes Family Trail and Twilights at Standen, where you can listen to local choirs and visit the house in the evening as it is festively decorated!

Petworth House has Christmas Lates on Saturday 30th November, Saturday 7 December and Friday 20th December.

Visit Bodiam Castle from 25th November for Christmas at Bodiam, with festive lights and you can also find Father Christmas’s sleigh in the courtyard as well as a festive trail.

Visit the National Trust website for more details on Christmas events at all the National Trust properties in Sussex and full details.

Music

There are many Christmas musical events that you can enjoy to get you in the festive spirit and also lots are family-friendly.

Enjoy the Petworth Town Band Christmas Concert, featuring a special performance by our guest choir, ReChoired! – Saturday 13th December 2025, St Mary’s Church, Petworth, GU28 0AD, 7.30pm, Admission: £12

Ice Skating

Try ice skating this Christmas in Sussex!

Brighton’s Royal Pavilion Ice Rink

Worthing Ice Rink Steyne Gardens

Glow Wild

Glow Wild at Wakehurst

We loved visiting the glow wild event at Wakehurst this year, perfect for all the family, a magical illuminated woodland and mulled wine and warming food and you can visit the gift shop afterwards for any Christmas gifts!

Check dates/times for this year on Wakehurst website, but the event usually runs annually.