Christmas Activities in West Sussex for all ages

Here in Horsham we are known for community spirit and hosting lots of seasonal activities. There are plenty of events taking place throughout our West Sussex county to get you in the festive spirit, so don’t let the cold weather put you off.

Whether you’re looking for something for all the family to enjoy or an adults-only event, we’ve covered it all! There’s nothing better than the exciting Christmas build-up and here’s our list to get you in the mood for festivities. Let us know below what you’re most looking forward to!

Kids Christmas Activities in West Sussex

Free Events:

Southwater Christmas Festival (some paid for activities once inside, but free to attend)

Date: 30th November

This annual event is taking place on 30th November 12-4 pm in Lintot Square. There will be funfair rides, market stalls, Santa meets, Christmas present ideas, food and drink stalls, carols, light switch on and more.

Horsham Christmas Markets 

Date: From 1st December

These will be taking place every Sunday from 1st December through to 22nd December 10am-4pm. There will also be Saturday Xmas markets running from 7th December through to 21st December 9am-4pm. In addition to this, seasonal markets will be held on the Thursdays throughout the month 9am-4pm and on Friday 20th December 9am-4pm. With lots of choice on dates, there’s plenty of opportunity to get involved.

Be sure to head down and see if you can find unique gifts for your loved ones, enjoy a festive beverage or lunch or treat yourself to something new! These Christmas Special Markets also feature festive entertainment and live music alongside a wonderful range of seasonal food, drink, treats and gifts.

Petworth Christmas Event and Markets

Date: From 7th December

Petworth Town Council is pleased to announce that it will be holding its annual Christmas Event on Saturday 7th December 2019.

Popular entertainment includes singers, local choirs from schools and choral societies, the town band, Father Christmas, lantern making and parade, buskers, a magician and a funfair. There will also be a live nativity with a donkey so there really is something for everyone. On top of this, the local shops will stay open until 8pm.

For the light switch on, be sure to get there for 6:00pm with carol singing lead by local churches. This is a great way to start the festivities, and an event the whole family is sure to enjoy.

Paid events:

Santa’s Grotto at Tulleys Farm 

Date: From 30th November

Tulley’s farm are going all out with their festive experience! Attractions include ice skating, circus, reindeer food making, reindeer flying experience, gingerbread making, elves magical forest, Santas sleigh road, Santas post house, the elf hunt and fairground favourites. This all will definitely get you and your little ones in the Xmas spirit.

For further information and prices see here.

Meet Santa and Pantomime at Fishers Farm 

Date: From 7th December

Fishers Farm is hosting a Xmas spectacular this year! You can meet the big man himself in his magical and cosy grotto and the children can pick their own present in the mesmerising toy factory. As well as this, you can also purchase tickets for their on-site pantomime of Cinderella! Tickets include general entry to the farm.

More info here.

Family Xmas Activities Throughout West Sussex

Christmas Market at Weald and Downland museum 

Date: From 22nd November

Their bustling traditional Christmas market sees over 150 stands showcasing their crafts, arts, food, unusual gifts and much more. As well as the stands there will be festive music and tasty seasonal treats to try and buy! Tickets include general admission to their beautiful museum. This market will be open from Friday 22nd November to Sunday 24 November, 10:30am – 4:00pm.

For further information visit the website.

South Downs miniature railway and Santa experience 

Date: From 1st December

December sees the season of Christmas arrive at the South Downs Light Railway! This will feature a ride on the train to various points along the track. When you arrive at ‘north pole’ station you will be invited into the waiting room where the adults can have mulled wine and the children some sweets. You’ll then be led in to see Santa himself, where an appropriate present will be given to each child.

For more information and to book click here.

Santa Special Canal Cruises 

Date: From 8th December

The Wey and Arun Canal Trust are offering Santa cruises through December, on Boxing day and on New Year’s Day. The December dates include a visit from Santa and an early Christmas presents. Children under 12 can join in the festive songs as they cruise along the canal! Festive refreshments on board are included in the ticket price. Book here.

Adults Only Christmas Activities in West Sussex

Wreath making

There are plenty of wreath making events available throughout West Sussex this year from local florists. Some include festive beverages, some cocktails and even afternoon tea! We’ve provided some links to events below. Please get in touch with the company to book.

Blossom Christmas Workshops in Horsham town centre
Cosy Christmas Wreath Workshops in Broadbridge Heath
Wreath Workshop in Southwater
Wreath Workshop at Rudgwick School
Wreath Making in Copsale

Christmas carols and cocktails at Standen House and Gardens

Date: Thu 12 & Fri 13 Dec

Step back in time this Christmas to the 1920/30s at Standen House from 6:30-9:30pm. Put on your best party clothes, enjoy a live musician playing songs from the era, drinks and canapés in the conservatory plus access to certain rooms in the house decorated for the festivities.

£45 per person. Booking essential, call 01342 323029. 

More info here.

Volunteering in Sussex

This festive season, the season of giving, why not give something back to the community and see how you can get involved in volunteering? There are plenty of opportunities which will give you a real sense of happiness including working with the elderly, homeless and vulnerable in West Sussex.

Find us on social media

Follow us on instagram @horshamblog where will be posting about Christmas in Horsham and the surrounding areas. If you have a Christmas event that we’ve missed, please get in touch and we will be happy to add it!

Have a great Christmas!