District Dispatch - 31 August 2023

The exciting programme kicks off from 1pm on 9 September in Market Square with an outdoor cinema showing the films Elvis and Sing 2 plus entertainment, kids' karaoke, and a professional Elvis tribute act.

On 16 September, the town will be filled with live music from around the world with acts performing at restaurants and pubs from 7pm and throughout the evening. Earlier the same day, the town will host a Fold Our Town origami event at the Old Library from 11am to 3.30pm. People of all ages will be able to make a large paper model inspired by Midhurst as part of the popular Culture Spark programme, which is funded by the Government's UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

On 23 September, there will be a Get Active Day at The Grange Leisure Centre from 11am to 4pm, where Everyone Active will be organising activities such as BMX bike displays, table tennis, slacklining and rollerblading.

The last event will be a family fun run the following Saturday (30 September), with a 5k run for anyone over 12 years old or a 2k run for anyone over 4 years old. Both runs will head off from the Wharf at 10am.

Bringing people together for shared experiences is so important for our communities. Events can create a really positive atmosphere, support the local economy, and foster a sense of belonging. I'm really looking forward to the September programme in Midhurst and hope to see as many of you there as possible — not only to enjoy the events, but to experience the town's amazing mix of shops, attractions, restaurants and cafes.

Keeping with the events theme, if you're looking for activities to do with the family over the coming months then be sure to put The Novium Museum's next headline exhibition on your list. May The Toys Be With You is a must-see for fans of Star Wars and the big screen. Opening on Saturday 7 October, the exhibition features one of the UK's finest collections of vintage Star Wars toys and original cinema posters.

The exhibition includes hundreds of incredible vintage toys, posters and memorabilia, including a 1977 movie poster by The Brothers Hildebrant, who were given just 36 hours to complete it, and 12 Star Wars figures from 1978 that were the first to ever be made.

Visitors can look forward to dressing up as a Star Wars character, posing for a selfie with a Storm Trooper, taking part in trails, and exploring other toys from the 1970s. 

In addition to May The Toys Be With You, the museum has a wide range of exhibits from Racton Man; Mystery Warrior — The North Bersted Man; a wide range of local Roman artefacts, including the remains of the a Roman bath house; and, the original King Charles I bust that was in in place at The Market Cross for over 300 years.

If you want to find inspiration and ideas for more things to do in the district, then we have a series of what's on listings on our website. If you have a community event happening in the district then do let us know by emailing whatson@chichester.gov.ukto get it listed.

Best Wishes

Cllr Jess Brown-Fuller

Cabinet Member for Culture and Events at Chichester District Council