Hundreds Brave Torrential Rain To Join Local Heroes As Chichester's Christmas Lights Shine Bright
Published 15:25 on 24 Nov 2025
Hundreds gathered in Chichester city centre on Saturday 22 November to watch this year's Light Up Chichester celebration and the official switch-on of the citys Christmas lights. Despite the persistent rain, Chichester proved its festive spirit knows no bounds as local heroes Wendy Wheelan and seven-year-old Samuel SuperSam Bezants took to the stage in front of the Assembly Rooms on North Street to illuminate the city.
Chichester MP Jess Brown-Fuller applauded the crowds for braving the weather and encouraged everyone to support their high street this Christmas by shopping local and supporting the citys independents.
As anticipation built, Helen Marshall, Chair of Chichester BID, led the city in the countdown to the magical moment at 5pm when Wendy and Samuel pressed the button, lighting up Chichester for the 2025 festive season.
A joyful build-up, despite the weather
The day's entertainment brought colour and energy to the wet streets, with LED stilt walkers, cheeky elves from Chichester Festival Theatres Grotto, and a wonderful programme of performances from local choirs, dance groups and community organisations. Their talent and good humour lifted spirits and kept families smiling throughout the day.
A special pop-up festive food market on East Street added to the atmosphere, while seasonal tunes filled the air as people went about preparing for Christmas.
After the Lights Switch-On, the city kept the celebration going into the evening as part of the Light Up Chichester After Party.
Local heroes honoured on stage
Saturday's moment was particularly meaningful for Wendy and Samuel, this year's Light Up Chichester heroes following nominations from the community.
Wendy, a much-loved and dedicated volunteer marshal at Priory Park Junior Parkrun, and Samuel, whose bravery during years of intensive treatment for neuroblastoma has inspired so many, were greeted with heartfelt cheers as they lit up the city together.
Helen Marshall, Chair of Chichester BID said: Wendy and Samuel embody everything we admire in Chichester: kindness, courage and community spirit. Seeing the crowds turn out in such weather to support them shows just how much this city cares.
CHRISTMAS IN CHICHESTER: WHATS STILL TO COME
With the lights now sparkling across the city, Chichesters festive programme is just getting started. Highlights include:
LET IT GLOW: CHICHESTERS MAGICAL WINTER ILLUMINATION
8 21 December - Chichester Cathedrals Bell Tower transforms into a glowing world of creativity as visitors of all ages paint with light in this free interactive experience, created by MakeAmplify. Presented by Chichester BID, Chichester City Council and Chichester District Council, and part-funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
FESTIVE FAMILY DAY
Saturday 13 December - A free city-wide celebration filled with seasonal spectacles, storytelling and crafting activities.
CHRISTMAS MARKETS & PRIORY PARK FESTIVITIES
6-7 & 13-14 December - East and North Streets will be filled with gift stalls, local treats and festive shopping with an array of indoor markets taking place at various venues across the city in the run up to Christmas.
With so much happening over the coming weeks, Chichester BID is encouraging residents and visitors to shop local, support independent businesses, and enjoy everything the city has to offer this Christmas.
Natasha McLeod, CEO of Chichester BID, said: Christmas in Chichester is designed to bring joy to everyone. By choosing to shop, celebrate and spend time locally, we can help our city thrive and create festive memories along the way.
With the support of Chichester District Council, Chichester City Council, Mayo Wynne Baxter Solicitors, Blue Spire Accountants and Gold Arts Jewellers Christmas in Chichester promises to be more magical than ever.
For full listings and a digital copy of the Christmas in Chichester brochure, visit:
www.chichesterbid.co.uk/christmasinchichester
