District Dispatch - 16 September 2025
As we head into autumn, there's plenty happening across the district to keep you entertained right through to Christmas.
Firstly, we're excited to welcome the Vegan Market back to Chichester for the second year running. Organised by Vegan Market Co., the market will take place in East Street, Chichester, from 10am to 4pm on Sunday 21 September. Offering a wide selection of ethical and sustainable products, visitors can browse a vibrant mix of street food, artisan bakes, handmade cosmetics, ethical fashion, arts and crafts, and more! Local artists and environmental charities will also be part of the event. This market is one of many different events that we have delivered, or supported, over recent years in response to resident requests for a wider variety of weekend events and markets across the district.
The following weekend, we're supporting the third annual Chichester Tweed Ride, which sets out from the Market Cross at 11am on Sunday 28 September. All cyclists are welcome to join — wear your best tweed or tweed like outfit for a leisurely roll around the city!
You don't have to wait long for the next Chichester Cross Market & More either! The event returns on Sunday 12 October, 10am to 4pm, showcasing local artisan creatives, designers, and makers, with delicious street food and drink.
This autumn, we also have a new museum exhibition to look forward to. 'Every Step of The Way', which explores the South Downs Way through inspirational artworks, will open soon at both The Novium Museum in Chichester and the Weald & Downland Living Museum in Singleton. Curated by artists Tim Craven, Deborah Richards and Melanie Rose, the exhibition illustrates the experience of walking the South Downs Way — a 100-mile national trail stretching from Eastbourne to Winchester — and features unique work from 33 different artists.
'Every Step of The Way' opens at The Novium Museum on Saturday 11 October — admission is free, with donations welcome. You can find more information, along with details about a series of art workshops led by artists featured in the exhibition, on The Novium Museum's 'Every Step of The Way' web page (opens new window). Weald & Downland Living Museum's exhibition opens on 22 September and is included in the museum's standard entry fee.
Looking ahead to November, our Community Wardens are teaming up with road safety charity, Brake, and a range of partner organisations to host a Road Safety Event at Parklands School in Chichester. Taking place on Friday 21 November from 1pm to 4pm, the event is timed to coincide with the new school term and the start of the darker winter months, when accident rates tend to rise.
The event is open to the public and visitors will be able to learn practical safety tips to help people protect themselves and others on the road. We're hoping to be joined by representatives from organisations such as National Highways, Sussex Police, Fire and Rescue and Neighbourhood Policing Teams, with CPR demonstrations, Speedwatch camera trials, and the opportunity to explore emergency vehicles.
With so much going in, don't miss out on any events in your area. Visit our online What's On calendar and follow our events and markets Facebook page (opens new window). You can also get event information and council news to your inbox by signing up to our monthly email newsletter.
I also wanted to let you know that the council has recently launched a brand-new Facebook Messenger channel (opens new window), making it even easier for you to stay informed and connected! By signing up, you'll receive timely updates straight to your Messenger account— including details about upcoming events, emergency alerts, important local news, and opportunities to have your say in council consultations. It's a quick and convenient way to stay in the loop.
Cllr Harsha Desai
Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Communications, Licensing and Events at Chichester District Council
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