Christmas truly is the most wonderful time of the year, and there are few places better to get you in the festive spirit than Lewes.
With Christmas crafts, seasonal exhibitions, and a host of festive shows, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season.
Read on to discover five fun festive days out that your whole family will enjoy in Lewes.
1. Enjoy the life and works of Raymond Briggs
Raymond Briggs was a cartoonist, author, and a national treasure. Although he delighted adults and children alike with his works for decades, he is best remembered for his timeless Christmas classic, The Snowman, and the television adaptation is still aired every year.
Briggs made his home in Sussex, and for the first time since his passing in 2022, a deeply personal exhibition showcases his artworks, ideas, and the objects that inspired him.
This tribute reflects his life’s work in bringing joy to generations, featuring beloved creations such as mischievous monsters, flying snowmen, and of course, Father Christmas – each piece illustrating why Briggs will be remembered as one of Britain’s greatest storytellers.
Whether you’re young or old, this exhibition offers some festive magic for everyone, celebrating the unique charm, humour, and heart that defined Raymond Briggs’ legacy.
‘Bloomin’ Brilliant: The Life & Work of Raymond Briggs’ runs until 22 December at the Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft, Lodge Hill Lane, Ditchling, Hassocks.
2. Visit Farmer Christmas on the Middle Farm
Everyone knows Father Christmas, but have you ever heard of Farmer Christmas?
While Father Christmas has a sleigh led by reindeer, Farmer Christmas travels on a magical flying tractor. And instead of delivering gifts to children, Farmer Christmas spreads joy by bringing special treats to well-behaved animals around the world.
Farmer Christmas is a festive, family-friendly event hosted at Middle Farm, where children can experience the magic of Farmer Christmas’s tractor up close. Each child will also receive a pot of feed to treat the farm animals, helping Farmer Christmas spread joy to all creatures.
It’s a wonderful opportunity for families to celebrate the season, connect with animals, and get into the Christmas spirit!
The Farmer Christmas experience runs 16 – 19 December on the Middle Farm, Lewes.
3. Sing Christmas carols at St Michael’s
Join the New Sussex Singers choir and children from South Malling CE Primary and Nursery School for an enchanting evening of Christmas carols at St Michael’s Church.
You can sing along with festive classics and hear some lesser-known carols to get yourself into the holiday spirit.
This family-friendly event is an ideal way to celebrate the season. Enjoy beautiful harmonies, and warm your mind, body, and soul in the cosy setting of St. Michael’s.
The carols are at 4 pm on 14 December at St Michael’s Church on the High Street, Lewes.
4. Watch A Christmas Carol at Cliffe Hall
This year, the Dot Collective theatre company is returning to Lewes to bring Charles Dickens’ timeless classic, A Christmas Carol, to the stage.
The Dot Collective specialise in family- and dementia-friendly theatre that can be enjoyed by old and young alike.
With stage magic and audience interaction, this lively adaptation of Dickens’ beloved Christmas story brings every detail to life as four talented actors take on all the roles, filling the stage with music and holiday spirit.
It’s a perfect December evening for the whole family, capturing the warmth and wonder of one of the most famous Christmas tales ever told.
You can watch A Christmas Carol on 14 December at Cliffe Hall, Lewes.
5. Make your own Christmas wreath
Create decorations and make your own Christmas wreath with the florists at Bunches of Sussex.
With guidance from professionals, you can design and craft your own unique wreath using fresh greenery and festive decorations, or you can work on one together as a family.
All materials and tools are provided, so you’ll have everything you need to bring your holiday creation to life.
This hands-on experience will fill you with festive cheer and leave you with a handcrafted decoration that captures the spirit of the season.
So, bring your green fingers and embrace the start of Christmas by creating a beautiful wreath to hang on your door or gift to a loved one.
The workshop is open to all ages and skill levels, though children may need supervision with the snippers.
The Christmas wreath workshop is on 1 December at Saltdean Lido, The Oval Park, Saltdean.
Get in touch
Our team of independent financial advisers in Lewes is here to support you in creating a financial plan that helps you to achieve your long-term goals.
To find out more, please get in touch by emailing us at financial@barwells-wealth.co.uk or by phone on 01273 086 311.
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