Chichester Christmas market returns!

The market will feature a range of entertainment and food stalls plus a Santa's Grotto where children will receive a free gift.

Shoppers will be able to browse around 50 stalls, which will be selling a wide range of high-quality products and gifts, including beautiful art, jewellery and ceramics; candles, toys, and knitted items; and Christmas wreaths. Organisers also promise a range of festive food, including mince pies, cakes, Italian panettone plus mouthwatering cheeses.

The market is being organised by external company Bray Associates, with support from Chichester District Council and will run 9am-5.30pm every day except Thursday 12 December (9am-7pm) and Sunday 8 and 15 December (10am-4pm).

Councillor Harsha Desai, Chichester District Council's Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Communications, and Licensing and Events, says: "We're really pleased to be supporting this year's Christmas Market and have been working closely with the organisers to bring a quality selection of stalls. 

"As a council, we know how important it is to support all businesses and we hope the market will encourage plenty of footfall during the festive season. The city centre has so much to offer, and we encourage people to explore the range of shops, cafes and restaurants.

"This Christmas, there is a huge range of events taking place, and as a council we are running a festive programme of events in the beautiful setting of Priory Park.  Chichester Cathedral, The Novium Museum, Pallant House Gallery, and Chichester Festival Theatre are also running their own events and activities. The Chichester BID (Business Improvement District) has worked really hard to organise a fantastic festive programme this year a Christmas Tree Stroll and of course the annual lights switch-on.

"There's so much happening, so please make sure you head to our What's On calendar; and the Chichester BID website (opens new window)."

Sam Theuma from Bray Associates says: "We're really excited to be running a festive market in Chichester this year —- we have lots planned and hope to bring lots of Christmas cheer to the city centre. Our stallholders are looking forward to meeting customers and sharing their amazing products with the public."

Residents and visitors to the district will once again be able to enjoy a series of parking offers during the festive period. During December, customers using the MiPermit app will be able to take advantage of a weekend offer — if they select two hours during weekends in December, they will receive a third hour for free. This will apply across the majority of council car parks except the Avenue de Chartres car park in Chichester. In addition, there will be free Sunday parking in Avenue de Chartres car park in Chichester during December. For more information about MiPermit, visit the Chichester District 'MiPermit' page.

Residents can also find out more about how they can 'Shop Local, Spend Local and Support Local' on the Chichester District Council 'countdown to Christmas' page.

Date of release: 14 November 2024

Reference: 4400