Step into Christmas with the huge range of fun, festive events taking place across East Sussex this year.
From sparkling light trails and Christmas tree festivals, to Christmas fairs, concerts and a Santa Dash, there’s something for everyone over the holiday season.
Eastbourne Artists Christmas Open Houses, Eastbourne
23 & 24 November
This event features over 40 artists showcasing and selling their work from their homes and studios around Eastbourne.
Most venues open between 11am and 4pm, however some venues may have different hours so please check the website for details.
Christmas Tree Festival, St Mary’s Church, Battle
23 & 24 November and 30 November & 1 December
Enjoy the annual Christmas Tree Festival in this picturesque 900-year-old church.
In addition, there will be an Artisan Craft Fair on Saturday 23 November, and Christmas Stalls on Saturday 30 November.
Frost Fair, The Bell, Ticehurst
24 November
The Frost Fair presents a great opportunity to shop locally, as all the stall holders are local artists and artisans.
With stalls in The Stable, The Big Room and the garden, there will be something to delight everyone. Winter warming food and top tipples will also be available.
Wilderness Wood Christmas Fayre Weekends, Hadlow Down
30 November & 1 December, and 7 & 8 December
Embrace Christmas outdoors as the Christmas Fayre Weekends return to Wilderness Woods.
Enjoy wood-fired pizzas, barista coffee, local bubbly, mulled cider, roasted chestnuts and music. Browse and buy beautiful gifts and decorations, or make your own Christmas decorations at our courtyard craft station.
There will also be a selection of beautiful, locally grown Christmas trees available to choose from.
Christmas at Bodiam Castle, Bodiam
30 November 2024 to 5 January 2025
Enjoy a merry Medieval Christmas when you visit Bodiam Castle this winter and discover Christmas – medieval style.
Help get the castle ready for a Christmas feast as you follow the merry medieval trail which is perfect for getting families into the festive spirit. Enjoy the magic of Christmas through festive stories told in a cosy, grotto-style castle tower room and be enchanted by tales of dragons, knights, and castles.
Bexhill Lions Santa Dash and Santa Paws, Bexhill
1 December
This popular, fun, festive family event is open to all ages and abilities. Get into the festive spirit, whilst raising vital funds for your chosen good causes.
You can run, jog, walk, push prams, walk the dog or use a wheelchair on the flat, user friendly promenade. All entries will receive a Santa Suit and a medal!
Christmas with The Salvation Army, Royal Hippodrome Theatre, Eastbourne
1 December
The Salvation Army returns for their annual Christmas Carol Concert at the Royal Hippodrome. This fundraising event will put you right in the mood for Christmas.
Come and sing carols and enjoy the band, songsters and the young people of Eastbourne Citadel Salvation Army. Christmas starts here!
Christmas Market at Seven Sisters, Exceat Visitor Centre
7 and 8 December
The Christmas Market returns to the Visitor Centre at Exceat, just east of Seaford, for the third year running.
From local produce, beer, and honey to gifts, arts, and crafts this fair promises something for everyone.
Festival of Christmas Trees, Holy Cross Church, Uckfield
6, 7 and 8 December
Come and see over 100 stunning Christmas trees displayed in the church.
All the trees are decorated by local organisations, businesses, charities, schools and individuals. Entry is free.
Lightening Fibre’s Ice Rink, Eastbourne
6 to 31 December
Enjoy a magical skating session at the Eastbourne ice rink this December.
Nothing says Christmas more than a spin around the ice with family and friends.
Candlelit Carols, De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill
15 December
This sublime concert of carols and seasonal classics is staged in an evocative candle lit setting.
With the brilliant Mozart Festival Orchestra and the heavenly voice of soprano Harriet Eyley, all under the expert baton of Steven Devine, this concert promises to be a magical experience that captures the true essence of Christmas.
For more Christmas fun and festive frolics, read about some of the local Christmas light trails and festive experiences happening this year.
Image: Festival of Christmas Trees, Holy Cross Church, Uckfield
