Enjoy the festive season in Horsham District

Edition: November 2024

With everything from a fantastic array of local food and drink, artisan gifts to festive entertainment and events, the magic of the season is right here in our District.

Carfax bandstand at last year's Christmas party

Make the most of our free festive events

John Partridge performing

In conjunction with Your Horsham, we have a Christmas Launch Party on 22 November. From 4pm to 9pm the town centre will play host to live music, street performances, lights, markets, extended shopping hours, a special Jack and the Beanstalk trail and more. The party will include a choir parade from St Mary's Church into the town, where the star of this year's Panto, John Partridge will help us light up Market Square. Keep an eye out for The Capitol’s Box Office team, who’ll be handing out exclusive Jack and the Beanstalk goodies.

Christmas market stand selling churros

We will have two further Horsham town centre events in the run up to Christmas. Horsham Peaks on 16 November will see an Après Ski themed day with food and drink, music and entertainment, including a performance from Christ's Hospital School. There will also be a festive Friday Late on 20 December with the return of Beato Burrito.

Sakala window in Steyning

Marvel at magical displays

Explore the festive windows and displays which help to make our towns and villages so magical.

You’ll be able to vote for your favourite (pictured: Sakala Steyning, one of last year's winners) and have the chance to win a fantastic prize as part of our Christmas Magic Displays Competition.

Safe hands funeral services in Steyning with their Christmas window

Find out how to get involved on our website. Participating businesses (pictured: Safe Hands funeral services Storrington) will display a special window sticker or sign to show that they are involved in the competition.

Hot chestnuts and mulled wine stand

Experience local festive markets

Join in some festive cheer at a local market event this Christmas, a fantastic opportunity to delight in a magical atmosphere, enjoy delicious local food and drink, and discover unique gifts.

Wooden Christmas ducks

With markets in Billingshurst, Henfield, Horsham, Pulborough, Steyning and Storrington there is always something new to discover.

The best of arts and culture on your doorstep

As always, we have a dazzling Christmas line up at The Capitol including our panto Jack and the Beanstalk, as well as Santa’s New Sleigh for younger theatregoers.

Don’t forget to check out our New Year shows to kick-start your 2025 in style.

What's on at The Capitol

Horsham Museum and Art Gallery

Visit Horsham Museum and Art Gallery

Make a visit to Horsham Museum & Art Gallery part of your family’s seasonal tradition. Soak up local history and the feel the spirit of Christmas in the heart of Horsham.

See the Christmas decorations from Tuesday 19 November, take part in the Christmas themed family trail and don’t miss the special Museum Late on Friday 20 December with live music and refreshments from 6pm to 8pm.

Our parks have so much to offer on a crisp wintry day

From woodlands to waterways, sports facilities and play parks, there is so much for all ages to enjoy outdoors whatever the weather.

Visit our parks

Get back to nature

Warnham Local Nature Reserve is just one of our great green spaces across the District to catch up with wildlife.

The Reserve is closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day but open to enjoy the rest of the Christmas holidays.

The Friends of Warnham Local Nature Reserve run a number of festive events including wreath making.

Visit Warnham Local Nature Reserve

Walk or cycle into the New Year

Blow out the cobwebs with our free walking routes, heritage trails, and cycle rides.

Wellbeing winter walk

Join us for a Wellbeing Walk

Our popular Wellbeing Walks take place across the district and are free, sociable and family-friendly. Our walk programme is published monthly.

Community activities

Keep an eye on our Neighbourhood Wardens Facebook Page @HDWardens to find even more fantastic community group events near you.

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