Shop local this festive season at The Novium Museum's free indoor Christmas market!

From 10am to 5pm, visitors will be able to explore a variety of festive stalls selling unique handmade gifts, while taking in the historical surroundings of the museum — including the remains of a Roman bath house and the Selsey Tramway exhibition. Entry to both the museum and the Christmas market is free, offering a unique setting to browse an exciting selection of handcrafted products, gourmet treats and beautiful decorations from a range of local artists and craftspeople — a perfect place to start, or continue, the Christmas shopping!

Councillor John Cross, Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport and Place at Chichester District Council, says: "We're excited to host our first indoor Christmas Market, providing a warm and welcoming space for the community to shop, celebrate the season, and support local artists.

"The market will highlight the incredible creativity and skill of our talented local vendors and we hope everyone will come along to find something special — whether it's a unique gift for someone or a little treat for themselves."

To keep younger visitors entertained, The Novium Museum will also be offering a selection of free craft activities for children throughout the day. Activities include creating Christmas decorations to add to the museum's tree, festive colouring sheets, and special letter templates to inspire their Christmas wishes.

The museum's gift shop also sells a range of unique and locally produced gifts, including handcrafted jewellery inspired by the museum's collection, books by local authors, souvenirs, and toys. Every purchase supports the museum. As well as gifts available instore, people can shop online on The Novium Museum's online store (opens new window).

There are just a few spaces remaining for local artists and craftspeople interested in joining this festive market. For more information, please contact The Novium Museum by email: thenovium@chichester.gov.uk

Residents and visitors to the city will be able to enjoy even more festive magic as they head into December. A dedicated programme of events, organised and funded by Chichester District Council, will be taking place in The Guildhall in Chichester's Priory Park, visit the Chichester Box Offce web page for The Guildhall (opens new window) for more information. And Chichester's Christmas market will be returning to North Street and East Street from 7 December.

Residents can also find out more about how they can 'Shop Local, Spend Local and Support Local', and read about a series of parking offers available during the festive season, on our Chichester District Council 'Countdown to Christmas' page.

Date of release: 18 November 2024

Reference: 4401