A vibrant programme has been revealed for SussexFest on Chichester's Cathedral Green, a free community celebration marking Sussex Day and everything that makes Chichester and Sussex so special.
Open to all ages, this joyful gathering brings together the very best of the city for a day of family entertainment, discovery and community pride - taking place on Sunday 14 June 2026 (11.00am - 4.00pm).
SussexFest is an open invitation to come together and celebrate Chichester - with free admission to all activities (excluding food vendors) and no booking required.
The day also marks the launch of the Festival of Chichester – a month-long arts, music and culture festival held in Chichester every June and July.
Explore, discover and get creative
A wide range of organisations will deliver hands-on activities and interactive experiences throughout the day. Participants include Fishbourne Roman Palace, Chichester Library, The Novium Museum, Chichester Festival Theatre and JAM Café. They are joined by the Festival of Chichester, Tangmere Aviation Museum, Henry Adams, Stonepillow, LifeCentre, Home-Start and Chichester Rotary.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to observe Chichester Cathedral’s resident peregrine falcons through a telescope, offering a rare and memorable insight into one of the city’s most iconic wildlife features.
Music and performances
A lively programme of performances will take place throughout the day:
- 11.00am – Once upon a Roleplay, Chichester Festival Theatre
- 12.00pm – Rosemary Bell School of Dance
- 1.00pm – Steel Pan Duo
- 2.00pm – Morris Dancers, Fishbourne
- 3.00pm – Big Notes Adult Choir
Family-friendly entertainment will be at the heart of the day, with highlights including Bubbles Man UK and free face-painting with Marshie Sparkles. A tractor will also be on display from Sussex’s Woodhorn Farm.
Food and drink
A selection of local food traders will be serving throughout the event, including E&J Syrian Cuisine, Whisk Art, Crepe Britain and the Cloisters Kitchen and Garden at Chichester Cathedral.
City-centre food and drink businesses will also be putting on special deals for during and after the event with Chichester BID. Whether you’re buying food at SussexFest, of bringing along a picnic – there's something for everyone to enjoy.
SussexFest is supported by Chichester City Council, Chichester District Council and Chichester Business Improvement District (BID).