Christmas market, pantomime and silent disco in Chichester as festive season begins

Pantomime, live music, storytelling and a silent disco are among the events planned for Chichester as the district council prepares to launch its festive programme.

Chichester District Council’s Christmas line-up begins at the end of November, with activities for all ages taking place in and around Priory Park and across the city.

The programme includes the return of the Priory Park Panto Experience, a live performance trail, a festive jazz café and the Chichester Festive Market.

Councillor Harsha Desai, the council’s cabinet member for economic development, licensing, communications and events, said: “At the heart of the celebrations will be the stunning Guildhall building in Priory Park which will again be beautifully set with a decorative Christmas willow sculpture which will welcome visitors and set the festive scene.

“As well as helping to create joyful and memorable experiences for people across our communities, our events programme is also aimed at supporting our local businesses, attracting more visitors to our beautiful city and helping to create a bustling, vibrant atmosphere at this wonderful time of year.”

She said the Guildhall in Priory Park would once again be decorated with a Christmas willow sculpture to create a festive setting for visitors.

The events are also intended to support local businesses, attract visitors and bring a lively atmosphere to the city over the Christmas period.

The programme begins on Friday, November 27, and Saturday, November 28, with Sounds of Home, a live performance trail now in its second year.

Running from 4pm to 6pm, the trail starts at The Novium Museum in Tower Street, where visitors can take part in art and craft activities before exploring the city and enjoying live performances from local musicians.

Pre-school children can join storytelling sessions from December 8, with opportunities to create sound effects and dress up as characters from festive tales.

A Festive Soundbath takes place on December 9, followed by Deck The Guildhall on December 12. The evening will feature seasonal songs, poetry and other entertainment led by the cast of the Priory Park Panto Experience.

The pantomime returns with Fairy Sparkle, Santa, Mrs Santa and Norman the Elf, alongside the new character Uncle Holly. Performances are scheduled for December 12, 13, 19, 20, 21 and 22, at selected times.

Mike Carey’s Big House and Jazz Band will host the Festive Jazz Café on December 16, combining seasonal music and words with actors, poets and special guests.

An over-18s Silent Disco follows on December 17, inviting people to dress up in sparkles and sequins and dance to a range of music in historic surroundings.

The Chichester Festive Market will run over two weekends, on December 4, 5 and 6, and December 11, 12 and 13. Stalls will offer gifts, crafts and seasonal treats.

Tickets for the council’s festive events are available to book through The Novium Museum.