Could you be Chichester’s Christmas hero?

Christmas is coming to Chichester — and this year, two local heroes will get the honour of pressing the big switch

Chichester BID is inviting people to nominate two inspirational members of the community to officially switch on the city’s Christmas lights on Saturday 21 November.

The Local Heroes initiative is returning for 2026 and aims to celebrate people who make a real difference in Chichester, whether that is through volunteering, helping others, going the extra mile at work or simply being the kind of person who deserves a little recognition.

There will be two categories — one for people aged under 18 and another for those aged 18 and over — with one winner chosen from each.

The pair will take to the stage near the Market Cross and officially switch on the Christmas lights at 5pm.

Festivities will begin in the city centre during the afternoon, building up to the big moment before the celebrations continue with the Light Up Chichester After Party.

Natasha McLeod, CEO of Chichester BID, said: “The Christmas Lights Switch On is always such a brilliant moment for the city and we love that our local heroes are the ones who get to do the honours.

“It gives us an opportunity to celebrate some of the people who make a real difference to Chichester, while bringing everyone together to mark the start of Christmas in the city.”

She added that the celebrations will continue after the lights come on, with cafés, bars, pubs and restaurants across the city taking part in the evening.

This year’s switch-on is being delivered in partnership with Chichester City Council.

The Mayor of Chichester, Councillor Sean McHale, will be among those helping to choose the winners.

He said: “Chichester is fortunate to have so many people who give their time, energy and support to others, often without expecting any recognition in return.

“I’m delighted to be involved in selecting this year’s local heroes and look forward to hearing more about the people who make such a positive contribution to our city.”

The initiative is also being supported by Sussex law firm Mayo Wynne Baxter.

Nicola Brown, Partner at the firm, said: “This fantastic initiative is all about recognising the unsung people within our community who make a difference to others, often without seeking recognition themselves.”

Nominations close at midnight on Friday 30 October.

Those nominated must be available between 4.30pm and 5.30pm on Saturday 21 November to take part in the switch-on.

The winners will be selected by a judging panel including representatives from Chichester BID, Chichester City Council, Mayo Wynne Baxter and Sussex World.

The Christmas lights will be switched on at 5pm at the Market Cross, with the Light Up Chichester After Party continuing at participating venues across the city centre.

So, if you know someone who spends the year quietly making Chichester a better place, this could be their chance to have a very bright moment in the spotlight.

To nominate a Local Hero, visit https://chichesterbid.co.uk/lightupchichester/. Separate nomination forms should be completed for the under-18 and 18-and-over categories.

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