There are lots of festive frivolities taking place across East Sussex this December. Here’s a few of our favourites to tempt you to venture out:
Festival of Christmas Trees, Uckfield
1 – 3 December 2023
Holy Cross Church in Uckfield will be opening its doors once again for another magical Festival of Christmas Trees. Pews, balconies and even the altar will be taken over by 105 beautifully decorated and illuminated Christmas trees.
Rother Young Creators Christmas Market, Bexhill
2 December 2023
This vibrant Christmas market showcases the works and wares of young creative talent in Rother. Being held in The Studio at the De La Warr Pavilion from 10am to 4pm, the market is a great opportunity to purchase unique Christmas gifts and homemade treats.
Christmas with Mouse and Mole Family Trail, Sheffield Park and Gardens
1 December 2023 – 2 January 2024
Take a winter wander around the spectacular gardens and follow Mouse and Mole’s festive adventures on the Christmas trail . From playing festive music to posting a Christmassy letter to woodland friends, join in their irrepressible excitement for the festive season.
Christmas at Bedgebury, Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest
Selected evenings from 17 November – 31 December 2023
Experience this magical Christmas trail with new lights for 2023 and take an after-dark stroll through an iconic, illuminated tree collection. Discover softly-lit doves delicately balanced on branches, sparkling tunnels of light and the Pinetum filled with all the colours of the rainbow as you walk under Liquid Sky, just one of the new displays to see this year.
Christmas at Drusillas, Alfriston
25 November – 23 December 2023
Experience the glistening magic of Christmas at Drusillas. Meet Santa snuggled in his cosy cottage, get nose-to-nose with cuddly huskies, join in with the jolly singing reindeer, and marvel at the spectacular 24ft Christmas tree.
Christmas Card Workshop, Lewes
8 December 2023
Unlock your creativity and embark on a vibrant artistic journey at Lewes Castle, with this Christmas card workshop. Design beautiful Christmas cards inspired by the wonders of nature with renowned artist Giulia Casarotto.
Christmas Wreath Making Workshops, Sheffield Park and Gardens
8, 9, 15 and 16 December 2023
Learn how to put together a stunning festive decoration at these wreath making workshops. All materials and festive refreshments are provided in these sociable sessions with artist Holly Mills. Geared towards adults, places are limited so advance booking is required.
Glyndebourne Christmas Concerts, near Lewes
9, 10, 16 and 17 December 2023
Glyndebourne’s popular Christmas Concerts include favourite carols as well as orchestral showpieces. The concerts shine a spotlight on the talents of the Glyndebourne Chorus and the Glyndebourne Sinfonia, and provide a festive finale to the year.
Horrible Histories: Horrible Christmas, Bexhill,
22 December 2023
The Horrible Histories team present an alternative to panto! This hair-raising adventure runs through the history of Christmas in the company of Charles Dickens, Oliver Cromwell, King Henry VIII and St Nicholas, as they all join forces to save the festive season.
And finally, get your skates on…
Lightening Fibre’s Ice Rink, Eastbourne
9 – 31 December 2023
Glide into the holiday spirit this December with the return of Lightning Fibre’s Ice Rink complete with everyone’s favourite Christmas tunes, incredible lights, and festive decorations.
Royal Pavilion Ice Rink, Brighton
Now until 7 January 2024
Stunning, twinkly, romantic, child-friendly – the Royal Pavilion ice rink is open now until after Christmas so you can get into the festive spirit in the shadow of the magnificent palace.
We can’t capture all the December events taking place this year, so make sure you look out for any festive activities taking place near you and let us know your favourites!
Image: Festival of Christmas Trees, Holy Cross Church, Uckfield
