Christmas.vg

Here is a list of Christmas concerts and events in Sussex over the festive season, some of which are free! If you would like us to add your event to this list, just leave a comment at the bottom of the article and we’ll put it in. You don’t even have to leave your e-mail address.

Contents (click to go to the relevant section):

Eastbourne

Hastings

Arundel

Adur

Eastbourne

WINTER WONDERLAND CHRISTMAS FAYRE 15/11/2008 & 22/11/2008

• 11am – 2pm Central Methodist Church Hall, Langley Road, Eastbourne (opposite KFC)
  • Come along and enjoy our Winter Wonderland Christmas Fayre. Help raise funds for the Friends of Eastbourne Hospitals Cancer Ward Appeal. Toys, Cards, Games, Raffle, Tombola, Cakes and Sweets Stall, Meet Father Christmas and receive a lovely gift. Hot lunches and steaming mince pies and cream! What more could you want on a cold winter’s day? Step into our Winter Wonderland and find the real Christmas spirit!!!!
  • Contact: Margaret Parker: 07769 751270, zlevi@hotmail.com

JANE DE WECK IN THE ARNDALE CENTRE 17/11/2008 – 21/11/2008

• Jane de Weck Photography will be exhibiting in the Arndale Centre displaying her work with a Christmas theme accompanied by Father Christmas on Monday 17 November. Jane will be displaying her work and fundraising on behalf of Cancer Research UK.
  • A raffle is being held that will be drawn on Sunday 21 December at midday at Jane’s Studio and tickets will be available from the stand in the Arndale Centre and from her studio. Father Christmas will be attending bearing gifts for the children alongside a real, giant Christmas tree.
  • Contact: 01323 727750 janedeweck@hotmail.com

CHRISTMAS MUSIC HALL 27/11/2008

• 2.30pm, Winter Garden – Floral Hall
• Taking you back to those good old days of entertainment will be Marilyn Hill Smith from the BBC’s Friday Night is Music Night, comedy impressionist Adam Daye, harmonica virtuoso David Conway, comedy capers from Ronnie Hayward and singing your favourite Christmas melodies, Tony Leyton and Shelley James. Singalong to your favourite festive songs, plus comedy and music to get you into the turkey and tinsel mood.
• Contact: 01323 412000
• Click here for more information.

ROSELANDS CHRISTMAS FAIR 29/11/2008

• 1.30pm – 3.30pm, Bridgemere Centre, 100 Bridgemere Road
• Melissa and Chrissy invite you to their first ever Christmas Gift Fair at the Bridgemere Centre in Roselands. Baby goods, Toys, Flowers, Candles, Organic produce, Face painting, Books, Hand-made gifts…..so much under one roof! Free entry, Free parking, cheap tea and coffee (and maybe a mince pie or two) Raffle with over 30 prizes too! All profits from the raffle going to the Tuesday O’Hara Fund to help get better facilities at Pevensey Ward, DGH.
• Contact: 07832 227313, tuppennytoys@yahoo.co.uk

THE NUTCRACKER 29/11/2008

• 7pm, Congress Theatre
• A Ballet in 2 acts. Music by Tchaikovsky. With the Southern Youth Ballet Orchestra. Conducted by Kenneth Roberts. The East Sussex based Southern Youth Ballet Company of 65 young dancers presents a traditional version of this much loved ballet.
• Tickets £7.50, £8.50, £10.50, £12.50
• Contact: 01323 412000
• Click here for more information.

A CELEBRATION OF MUSICAL THEATRE AND CHRISTMAS MUSIC 30/11/2008

• 7pm, Congress Theatre, Carlisle Road, Eastbourne, BN21 4BP
• An evening of song and dance in true Rattonian style. The evening will consist of a selection of The Groups’ favourite show numbers, celebrating their 24 years of producing musicals in Eastbourne. Also included are fun Christmas songs including Winter Wonderland and the favourite White Christmas to get you into seasonal mood.
• £12
• Contact: 01323 412000
• Click here for more information.

THE BIG CHRISTMAS SING 03/12/2008

• 5.30pm & 7.30pm, Winter Garden – Floral Hall, Compton Street, Eastbourne, BN21 4BP
• £5.00. Over 60s, Children, People With Disabilities, Students, Unemployed £2.00 off. Baby Tickets £2.00. Family Saver Family of 4 £15.00 (2 Adults, 2 Children)
• Click here for more info.

JOHN MANN CHRISTMAS SHOW 04/12/2008

• 2.30pm Winter Garden – Floral Hall, Compton Street, Eastbourne, BN21 4BP
• £8
• Click here for more details.

CHRISTMAS MAGIC WEEKEND 06/12/2008 – 07/12/2008

• This year Christmas Magic will be in aid of St Wilfrid’s Hospice with the aim of raising as much money as possible for this very worthwhile local charity. Don’t miss the following events taking place on both days:
  • Local farmers and an ethical Christmas Market
  • Father Christmas Parade
  • Town Centre Treasure Hunt competition
  • Musical entertainment and competitions
  • St Wilfrid’s Bed Push Collection
  • Local choirs and entertainers
  • Town Centre Business Fancy Dress competition
• Contact: 01323 415224

ROYAL AIR FORCE IN CONCERT 07/12/2008

• 7.30pm – 11.30pm, Congress Theatre, Winter Garden, Compton Street, Eastbourne, BN21 4BP
• Join us for an irresistible musical journey through the past, present and future of the Royal Air Force. A diverse mix of light classics, jazz, big band and music from the shows by the critically acclaimed musicians from the Royal Air Force.
• Tickets: £13.50, £16.50, £19.50, 10% discount for Groups of 10 or more
• Click here for more information.

CHRISTMAS JOY WITH THE SALVATION ARMY 09/12/2008

• 7pm, Winter Garden – Floral Hall, Compton Street, Eastbourne, BN21 4BP
• £5
• Click here for more information.

ROTARY CLUB OF EASTBOURNE PRESENTS CHRISTMAS CAROL CONCERT 13/12/2008

• 2.30pm and 7.30pm, Congress Theatre, Winter Garden, Compton Street, Eastbourne, BN21 4BP
• £7
• Click here for more details.

CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT 15/12/2008

• 7.30pm, Congress Theatre, Winter Garden, Compton Street, Eastbourne, BN21 4BP
• Starring the Mozart Festival Orchestra (in full 18th Century costume) with the Mozart Festival Chorus, conductor Steven Devine, soprano Laura Parfitt. Programme highlights include Corelli Alegro and Pastorale from Christmas Concerto, Handel Christmas Sequence from Messiah, Cullen Angels from the realms of glory, Vivaldi Gloria (Opening Chorus), Mozart Laudate Dominum and Bach Air on the G String, plus a selection of carols for all to enjoy.
• Tickets £19.50, £24.00, £26.50
• Click here for more information.

SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARVES 12/12/2008 – 11/01/2008

• Devonshire Park Theatre, Compton Street, Eastbourne, BN21 4BP
• Starring Stefan Booth, Niamh Perry from BBCs I’D Do Anything, Carl Patrick and Martyn Knight. Mirror Mirror on the wall, a perfect panto for one and all… baddies to boo and goodies to cheer, with plenty of songs performed by a live band and of course lots of ‘It’s behind you’ fun!
• Click here for more information.

SLEEPING BEAUTY 17/12/2008

• 7.30pm, Congress Theatre, Winter Garden, Compton Street, Eastbourne, BN21 4BP
• Not invited to Princess Aurora’s christening, Carabosse vows the baby will prick her finger and die. The Fairy of Goodness and Light turns the curse into a hundred year sleep when Aurora will awake to the kiss of a handsome Prince. St Petersburg Ballet Theatre dance to Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece.
• Tickets: £16.00, £19.00, £25.00, £27.50, £30.00
• Click here for more details.

SWAN LAKE 18/12/2008 – 19/12/2008

• 7.30pm, Congress Theatre, Winter Garden, Compton Street, Eastbourne, BN21 4BP
• Join the internationally acclaimed St Petersburg Ballet as they present the wonderful Swan Lake. The spellbinding story of Odette, a swan-princess, released from the curse of the evil Rothbart when she and Prince Siegfried affirm their love for each other.
• Ticket Prices: £16.00, £19.00, £25.00, £27.50, £30.00 (discounts available)
• Click here for more information.

THE NUTCRACKER 20/12/2008- 21/12/2008

• Various times, Congress Theatre, Winter Garden, Compton Street, Eastbourne, BN21 4BP
• Clara and her Nutcracker doll journey to a fantasy kingdom, meet the Mouse King, the Snow Queen and visit the Land of the Sweets. Presented by St Petersburg Ballet Theatre, including live orchestra.
• Tickets: £16.00, £19.00, £25.00, £27.50, £30.00
• Click here for more information.

CHRISTMAS DAY WITH EASTBOURNE SILVER BAND 25/12/2008

• 10:45am – 12:15, The Bandstand, Eastbourne Seafront.
• Christmas Day with our very own town band ‘Eastbourne Silver Band’ directed by Geoff Broom.
• Click here for more information.

Hastings

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING AT BODIUM CASTLE 01/11/2008 – 24/12/2008

• Come and purchase your presents in a relaxed and unhurried atmosphere. Afterwards enjoy a brisk wintry walk in the Castle grounds and then pop into the Tea Room for a hearty lunch or a warming cup of tea and a slice of cake!
• 10:30 to 16:00, Bodiam Castle, nr Robertsbridge, East Sussex TN32 5UA: Telephone: 01580 830196
• Click here for more information.

CHRISTMAS TABLE ARRANGMENTS 13/11/2008

• Heathfield Community Centre, Sheepsetting Lane, Heathfield
• Floral workshop with Tilda Conway. Light refreshments, raffle, sales table.
• Visitors welcome £3.50
• Heathfield Community Centre, Sheepsetting Lane, Heathfield
• Contact Tel.: 01435 866026
• Click here for map.

ST MICHAEL’S HOSPICE CHRISTMAS FAIR 15/11/2008

• 10:00 to 17:00, King John’s Nursery, Sheepstreet Lane, Etchingham
• A seasonal fair offering visitors an excellent early Christmas shopping experience at a pleasant venue. There will be a wide range of stalls including plants, dried flower arrangements, jewellery, contemporary art, Christmas decorations, Christmas cards, incense sticks, monogrammed towels, Hospice raffle and mulled wine. Visitors will also have the opportunity to walk around the beautiful garden of King John’s Lodge next to the Nursery.
• Entrance free.
• Contact Name: Suzanne Leonard
  Contact Tel.: 01424 205552
  Contact Email: suzanneleonard@stmichaelshospice.com

NORTH STAR ENCOUNTER – THE CHRISTMAS SHOW 15/11/2008 – 11/01/2008

• 10:00 to 17:30, Easton Rooms, Rye
• A celebration of new and old artists at the gallery packed with unusual pieces, closed for lunch between 1pm & 2pm
• Contact Tel.: 01797 222433

VICTORIAN MAGIC LANTERN SHOW 15/11/2008

• 19:00 to 23:00, Arthur Easton Centre, St Michaels Hospice, 25 Upper Maze Hill, St. Leonards
• Tickets £6 include cheese or pate supper.
• Contact Tel.: 01424 713991

ST MICHAEL’S HOSPICE CHRISTMAS FAIR 17/11/2008

• 10:00 to 17:00, Cooden Beach Hotel, Cooden Sea Road, Bexhill on Sea
• Visitors will enjoy an early seasonal shopping experience at a very pleasant venue. There will be a wide variety of stalls including Christmas cards and gifts, monogrammed towels, dried flower arrangements, contemporary art, environmentally friendly gift items, home-made cakes and chutneys, jewellery, incense sticks and fashion items. There will also be Hospice stalls and a tombola. Entrance is only £1 and this can be redeemed against drinks, snacks or a restaurant meal (booking advised) at the Cooden Beach Hotel.
• Contact Name: Suzanne Leonard
  Contact Tel.: 01424 205552
  Contact Email: suzanneleonard@stmichaelshospice.com

A MEDIEVAL CHRISTMAS 22/11/2008 – 23/11/2008

• 10am-4pm, 1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey & Battlefield
• A light-hearted look at medieval festive traditions. Enjoy seasonal food in the café and a chance to start your Christmas shopping from the unusual range of gifts.
• Adult £6.50/Conc £5.20/Child £3.30/Family £16.30
• Members Free
• Click here for more information.

CHRISTMAS CRAFT & GIFT FAIR 23/11/2008

• 10:00 to 16:00, Powdermills Hotel, Power Mill Lane, Battle
• 30 stalls selling jewellery, toys, bags, cards, authographed pictures, handcrafted items, stocking fillers plus lots of Christmas present ideas. Refreshments and snacks on sale raising funds for disabled children in Uganda. Free Entry.
• Contact Tel.: 01323 471018

A TUDOR CHRISTMAS 29/11/2008 – 30/11/2008

• 10am – 4pm, 1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey & Battlefield
• Enjoy music and stories as you discover how the Tudors celebrated this festive time of year. Enjoy seasonal food in the café and a chance to start your Christmas shopping from the unusual range of gifts.
• Click here for more information.

CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL 29/11/2008 – 30/12/2008

• 2.15pm, 10:30 to 21:00, St Mary’s Church, High Street, Battle
• The Tree Festival will be opened by the Dean of Battle at 10.30am with a coffee morning and Christmas Fair. At 2.15pm there will be a short musical performance of favourite festive tunes with more music at 4pm with a demonstration and entertainment from the Senlac Hand Bells.
• On Sunday, the Festival re-opens with Father Christmas present at 2.15pm and the Catsfield Hand Bells giving a demonstration at 3pm. At 4pm you will be entertained by the Ascension Voices from Church of the Ascension Telham. The Festival will come to a close with a traditional Advent Candle Carol Service at 6.30pm when the winner of the tree decoration competition will be announced.
• Contact Name: Sue Blackman Contact Tel.: 01424 774201

CHRISTMAS SOUL PARTY 30/11/2008

• 19:00 to 00:00, White Rock Theatre, Hastings
• Featuring SOUL X PRESS and the fabulous 12 piece BLUES BROTHERS SHOW plus 3 great support bands including SHOT TO BITS
• Tickets: Early Bird Special – Pre-Book Now – 2 for £15 or £8.50 each on the night
• In aid of Surviving Christmas & St Michael’s Hospice
• Contact Tel.: 0870 145 11 33

SANTA ARRIVAL IN HASTINGS 27/11/2008

• 17:00 to 22:00, Priory Meadow Shopping Centre, Hastings
• The eagerly awaited arrival of Santa at Hastings. Entertainment commences at 5pm with Arrow FM Roadshow. Santa will walk up the Mall to open the Christmas Grotto approximately 6-8pm.
• Late night shopping until 8pm.
• Charlie the Clown and stilt walker to entertain Grotto queue.

CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS TRAIL AND QUIZ 01/12/2008 – 21/12/2008

• 10:30 to 16:00, Bateman’s
• Follow the Christmas trail to find the snowmen hiding in the garden, who will help you find the answers to the questions.
• £2
• Contact Tel.: 01435 882302
• Click here for more information.

SANTA SPECIALS, KENT & EAST SUSSEX RAILWAY 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, 20th – 24th December 2008

• 11am – 4pm, Kent & East Sussex Railway
• ALL tickets can be booked either in person at Tenterden Station or by telephone on 01580 765155. In addition, Standard Class tickets can be ordered online from early October.
• A present, drink and chocolate for the children 18 months – 15 years. Sherry, port or orange juice and mince pie for the grown-ups. You’ll be greeted by a traditional lorry-mounted pipe organ before entering the station where there’s lots to see and do. Enjoy an unlimited number of free rides on both of our Victorian Carousels. Good value food is available in our licensed restaurant and take-away from our BBQ.
• Click here for more information.

THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO 05/12/2008 – 07/12/2008

• St Mary in the Castle
• 5th & 6th December 7.30pm, 7th December 3pm with Opera South East and the Sussex Concert Orchestra.
• Box Office: 0845 274 1001

LATE NIGHT CHRISTMAS SHOPPING EVENT 05/12/2008

• 16:30 to 20:30, Bexhill Town Centre
• Organised by Bexhill Chamber of Commerce & Tourism, this event sees carol singing in Devonshire Square together with a host of fun seasonal activities for children!
• Event Organisers: 01424 842892

GIFT WRAPPING AND TABLE DECORATION WORKSHOP 05/12/2008

• 10:30 to 15:00, Bodiam Castle
• Nigel Coomber will demonstrate how to create artistic table decorations and how to give your gift wrapping a ‘classy’ touch!
• Contact: 01580 830436

SPECIAL PRE-SCHOOL DAY AT KESR 05/12/2008

• 10:00 to 14:00, Kent & East Sussex Railway
• Enjoy a magical one-hour round trip on a steam train to Wittersham Road Station with a visit from Santa and his Pixies and a present for every child too.
• Three Departures at 10:25, 12:15 & 13:30 from Tenterden. A drink of flavoured milk and biscuits for the children. All children will receive a quality present from Santa on the journey
• Refreshments on-board for the grown-ups.
• £10.50 per person for this package.
• 087 060 060 74

VICTORIAN FESTIVE EVENING

• 19:30 to 00:00, Rye Castle Museum, East Street, Rye
• Songs and readings by Rye Shakespear Company and The Hollington Mummers, performing a traditional Mummers Play
• Tickets £5.00 to include a free festive drink.
• The Curator: 01797 226728

RYE CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL 06/12/2008 – 30/12/2008

• 1pm – 6pm Rye – East Sussex
• On 6th December it’s the opening of the second festival will be a spectacular event with a magical procession, the arrival of Father Christmas, fireworks and street entertainers. Street entertainment will take place around town.
• Throughout December the Festival has a number of events planned to help celebrate Christmas.
• Please see festival brochure available in most of Rye’s shops and businesses or contact the Rye Tourist Information Centre.
• Rye Tourist Information Centre: 01797 226696
• Contact Email: ryetic@rother.gov.uk
• Further Contact Details: Festival Co-ordinator, Peter Cosstick 07867 888670

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL WEEKEND AT HERSTMONCEUX OBSERVATORY 06/12/2008 – 07/12/2008

• 10:00 to 17:00, Herstmonceux Observatory
• Spectacular science shows and an opportunity to shop until you drop! ALL children admitted FREE of charge with a paying adult/senior. Shop will be open to the general public 10 am – 4 pm for those stocking fillers and Christmas gifts!
• Bookings Office: Hailsham, East Sussex: 01323 832731 Contact Email: info@the-observatory.org

CHRISTMAS FAIR 06/12/2008

• 11:00 to 13:30, New Hall, Cricket Field, Winchelsea
• Contact Tel.: 01797 225333
• Contact Email: office@winchelsea.net

SANTA SPECIAL DATES 06/12/2008 – 07/12/2008

• Kent & East Sussex Railway
• A present, drink and chocolate for children 18 months-15 years, sherry, port or orange juice and mince pie for the grown-ups.
• You’ll be greeted by a traditional lorry-mounted pipe organ before entering the station where there’s lots to see and do. Enjoy an unlimited number of free rides on both of our Victorian Carousels. Good value food is available in our licensed restaurant and take-away.
• Contact Tel.: 087 060 060 74

THE GREAT DIXTER CHRISTMAS FAIR 06/12/2008 – 07/12/2008

• 10am – 4pm, Great Dixter House and Gardens
• Great Dixter is delighted to announce our third Christmas Fair which will take place in the Great Hall, Yeomans Hall and connecting corridors. Our diverse range of stalls will include products from our own shop* and nursery, the Chelsea Physic Garden and many other interesting items from local traders and of course the gardens will be open to the public.
• £5

CHRISTMAS CRAFTS 06/12/2008

• 10:00 to 15:00, Bedgebury Pinetum
• A medley of Christmas craft activities, outdoors in the pinetum and indoors creating Christmas gifts and generally having fun! £5 per young person. PRE-BOOKING ESSENTIAL. 10am-12noon 4-6 year olds. 1pm-3pm 7-12 year olds.

SANTA IN THE GROTTO 06/12/2008 – 07/12/2008

• 10:00 to 04:30, Bodiam Castle
• Explore the Castle with a fun trail leaflet then meet Santa in his Grotto inside one of the medieval towers. Normal adult admissions apply.
• Contact Tel.: 01580 830436

CHRISTMAS AT BATEMAN’S 06/12/2008 – 21/12/2008

• 11:30 to 15:30, Bateman’s
• An opportunity to see Bateman’s as you have never seen it before. During the first three weekends of December the ground floor will be open and dressed for a Kipling family Christmas.
• 6-7 December; 13-14 December and 20-21 December.
• Contact Tel.: 01435 882302

CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS QUEST 06/12/2008 – 07/12/2008

• 10:00 to 16:00, Battle Abbey
• Can you crack the clues on this Christmas Quest for children. Do not forget to claim your prize.

CHRISTMAS STREET MARKET 06/12/2008

• 10:00 to 15:00, Kings Road, St. Leonards
• The Christmas market will complement the diverse mix of St Leonards shopping and be supported by a variety of Street Entertainment, with hot chestnuts and festive food.

WINTER FRIENDS EVENT 07/12/2008

• 11:00 to 15:00, RSPCA Mallydams Wood, Peter James Lane, Fairlight, TN35 4AH
• Just over two weeks until Christmas! Come and visit the woodland in winter before popping into the shop to pick up some Christmas cards and last-minute stocking fillers!
• Contact Tel.: 0300 123 0750

RYE WURLITZER ORGAN CHRISTMAS CONCERT 07/12/2008

• 14:30 to 00:00, Rye College, The Grove, Rye
• Featuring the 20 strong Regency Singers and International Performing artist Chris Powell playing the historic Rye Wurlitzer. A mix of seasonal favourites with a broad selection of theatre organ music.
• Tickets £6.25 includes seasonal interval refreshments. Children under 16 with paying adult free.
• Tickets available on the door.
• Richard Moore Contact Tel.: 01424 444058

CHRISTMAS LUNCH AT BODIAM CASTLE 10/12/2008 – 24/12/2008

• Bodiam Castle
• Enjoy a brisk wintry walk in the grounds of Bodiam Castle and then warm up with a hearty Christmas Lunch in the Wharf Tea Rooms.
• Two courses £15.95; three courses £18.95; Vegetarian menu available.
• Contact Tel.: 01580 830436
• Bodiam Castle.

PETER PAN 10/12/2008 – 04/01/2008

• 18:00 to 23:00: White Rock Theatre
• STARRING FORMER S CLUB 7 SINGER JON LEE AND LITTLE BRITAIN’S STEVE FURST!!
• The Darling family children receive a visit from Peter Pan, who takes them to Never Never Land where an ongoing war with the evil Pirate Captain Hook is taking place.
• Contact Tel.: 0870 1451133
• Peter Pan at White Rock Theatre.

GALA EVENING IN BATTLE 11/12/2008

• 18:00 to 21:00, Battle High Street
• Shops, banks and offices stay open until 9pm. Staff will be dressed in their best fancy costumes, Father Christmas returns to his grotto at The Almonry together with music, competitions and entertainment throughout the town.
• Free parking in the Abbey car park for the evening.
• Contact Email: battletic@rother.gov.uk
• Battle website.

RYE PRODUCE MARKET 13/12/2008

• 10:00 to 15:00, Adjoining Cattle Market Car Park, rear of Cinque Ports Hotel, Cinque Ports Street, Rye
• The market will be selling only local produce: food, crafts and more.
• Support Rye’s local economy by doing some of your Christmas shopping here.
• Contact Name: Bosney Farm, Iden, East Sussex TN31 7PY Contact Tel.: 01797 280282 Contact Email: christopher@ryemarket.org.uk
• Rye market website.

SANTAS IN THE GROTTO 13/12/2008 – 14/12/2008

• 10:00 to 16:30, Bodiam Castle
• Explore the Castle with a fun trail leaflet then meet Santa in his grotto inside one of the medieval towers. Normal adult admissions apply.
• Contact Tel.: 01580 830436
• Bodiam Castle.

SANTAS SPECIAL DATES 13/12/2008 – 14/12/2008

• Kent & East Sussex Railway
• A present, drink and chocolate for the children 18 months-15 years, sherry, port or orange juice and mince pie for the grown-ups. You’ll be greeted by a traditional lorry-mounted pipe organ before entering the station where there’s lots to see and do. Enjoy an unlimited number of free rides on both of our Victorian Carousels. Good value food is available in our licensed restaurant and take-away.
• Contact Tel.: 087 060 060 74
• KESR website.

CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS QUEST 13/12/2008 – 14/12/2008

• 10:00 to 16:00, Battle Abbey
• Can you crack the clues on this Christmas Quest for children. Do not forget to claim your prize.
• Battle Abbey.

HASTINGS CENTENARY MARATHON 14/12/2008

• 09:30 to 14:00, Hastings Town Hall, Queen Road, Hastings TN34 1QR
• Register your interest in this ‘one off’ Special Event by emailing racedirector@hastings-half.co.uk
• There will be a 500 limit on this Extra Special Event. Start/Finish – Hastings Town Hall, Hastings.
• Contact Email: webmaster@hastings-half.co.uk
• Hastings Marathon Website.

THE WIZARD OF OZ 16/12/2008 – 21/12/2008

• 19:30 to 23:30, The Stables Theatre
• When their house is hit by a Kansas tornado, Dorothy Gale and her dog Toto are lifted off to Oz. They land on an unpleasant witch, much to the delight of the inhabitants, but to the fury of her wicked sister. Dorothy sets off along the yellow-brick road to seek the Wizard’s help, meeting up with a scarecrow who needs a brain, a tin woodman who needs a heart, and a lion who needs courage.
• Tickes Adults £12; Members, under 18s and groups £7
• Wizard of Oz at Stables Theatre.

THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL 17/12/2008

• 17:00 to 20:00, Electric Palace Cinema, High Street, Hastings
• For a unique twist on a holiday favourite don’t miss The Muppet Christmas Carol. Michael Caine stars as Ebenezer Scrooge in this version of the classic Dickens’ tale about a mean old man who learns to change his ways one lonely Christmas Eve. Kermit the Frog plays Bob Cratchit while Miss Piggy plays Bob’s feisty wife. Tune in for Christmas cheer only the Muppets can bring!
• December listings at the Electric Palace.

THIS CHRISTMAS 18/12/2008 – 19/12/2008

• 20:00 to 23:00, Electric Palace Cinema, High Street, Hastings
• An upbeat comedy centering on a family’s first reunion in four years. The Whitfield clan gathers at the matriarch’s house. For those keeping score during the 3-days, there is one divorce filed, one secret marriage and pregnancy revealed, two guns pulled, one whipping, two beatings, a catfight, one arrest and one very badly cooked meal. Several musical interludes fill “This Christmas” with an infectiously buoyant spirit.
• December listings at the Electric Palace.

LATE NIGHT CHRISTMAS SHOPPING 19/12/2008

• 09:00 to 20:30, Kings Road, St. Leonards
• Late night shopping and Carol Concert and visit from Father Christmas.

CAROLS AT ST MARY-IN-THE-CASTLE 20/12/2008

• St Mary-in-the-Castle, 7 Pelham Crescent, Hastings, East Sussex, TN34 3AF
• Hastings Philharmonic Choir herald in Christmas with a traditional celebration for choir, brass ensemble and audience. With musicians from Claremont School.
• Tickets from Hastings Information Centre, or 01424 431442/440044
• Contact Tel.: 01424 431442 Contact Email: admin@hastingsphilchoir.org.uk

CHRISTMAS CRACKERS 20/12/2008

• 10:00 to 14:00, Mallydams Woods Education Centre, Fairlight
• Make festive gifts for your family pets and garden wildlife with our animal-themed art and craft day.
• For children 8 – 12 years.
• Contact Tel.: 0300 123 0750

CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS QUEST 20/12/2008 – 21/12/2008

• 10:00 to 16:00, Battle Abbey, Battle, East Sussex, TN33 0AD
• Telephone: 01424 775705, Fax: 01424 775059
• Can you crack the clues on this Christmas Quest for children. Do not forget to claim your prize.
• Click here for more information.

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE 20/12/2008 – 21/12/2008

• 20:00 to 23:00, Electric Palace Cinema, High Street, Hastings
• Jimmy Stewart is the owner of a money lending company that for years has been helping people in his town live their dreams. But when one Christmas he has one calamity after another, he decides to take his own life, believing everyone would be better off if he had never lived. His guardian angel stops him in the act and grants him the opportunity to see what things would have been like if he had never been born.
• Electric Palace Cinema.

SANTA IN THE GROTTO 20/12/2008 – 21/12/2008

• Bodiam Castle
• Explore the Castle with a fun trail leaflet then meet Santa in his grotto inside one of the medieval towers. Normal adult admissions apply.
• Contact Tel.: 01580 830436
• Bodiam Castle Website.

SANTA SPECIAL DATES 20/12/2008 – 24/12/2008

• Kent & East Sussex Railway
• A present, drink and chocolate for the children 18 months – 15 years, sherry, port or orange juice and mince pie for the grown-ups. You’ll be greeted by a traditional lorry-mounted pipe organ before entering the station where there’s lots to see and do. Enjoy an unlimited number of free rides on both of our Victorian Carousels. Good value food is available in our licensed restaurant and take-away.
• Contact Tel.: 087 060 060 74
• KESR website.

THE ORCHESTRA OF ST. JOHN’S PRESENTS: A FAMILY CHRISTMAS 21/12/2008

• 3pm – 10pm,
• The perfect start to Christmas. Take a musical toboggan ride through crunchy snow and icy wind with Sleigh Rides by Mozart and Leroy Anderson, and play ‘Spot the Christmas Carols’ in British composer Hely-Hutchinson’s Carol Symphony. After the interval, enjoy the film of Raymond Briggs’ classic The Snowman, with the Orchestra of St John’s performing the soundtrack live.
• De La Warr Pavillion.

MID-WINTER AT BATEMAN’S 22/12/2008

• 10am – Noon Bateman’s
• The longest night of the year has passed and now the days begin to lengthen. Come and explore the bits of the Bateman’s estate not normally open to the public and hear a tale or two about the Winter Solstice.
• Contact Tel.: 01435 882302
• Bateman’s.

CIRCUS ETC 24/12/2008 – 30/12/2008

• De la Warr Pavilion, Bexhill
• Direct from Circus Space, London Circus ETC is a brand new Circus Variety show that will thrill and dazzle the whole family.
• Comedian and street entertainer Goronwy Thom is your host for the show – this Tommy Cooper-esque performer has been described in one word by The Stage – “Gulp !” ‘Everything was so wrong, which made it so right!’ said Simon Cowell about Hoop La La who gave their show-stopping performance in the semi-finals of ‘Britains Got Talent’. Craig Reid, Tiina Tuomisto and Jessica Walters and the thousands of people who voted for them have shown the world that hoola-hooping is cool!
• Pavillion website.

Arundel

ARUN CHORAL SOCIETY CAROL CONCERT 06/12/2008 & 13/12/2008

• Cathedral House, Parsons Hill, Arundel, West Sussex, BN18 9AY
  • Telephone: 01903 882297
    Fax: 01903 885335

FRIENDS OF ARUNDEL CATHEDRAL CHRISTMAS CONCERT 19/12/2008

• www.arunchoralsociety.co.uk or ACS Box Office 01798 812481
• 7.30pm, Cathedral House, Parsons Hill, Arundel, West Sussex, BN18 9AY
• Telephone: 01903 882297
• Fax: 01903 885335
• more information from the ‘Friends’ Office 01903 884567 or www.arundelcathedralfriends.org

Adur

NIGHT OF FESTIVE FUN AND CHRISTMAS SHOPPING EVENT 27/11/2008

• 6pm to 9pm, North Road, Lancing
• (part of The Adur Town Centres Initiative)
• To book a stall at the event click here for a word document, or here for a pdf.
• For information please contact : David Steadman, Adur Town Centres and Street Scene Coordinator, Tel: (01273) 263152 (Mobile : 07786 075027), david.steadman@adur.gov.uk

SOUTHWICK SQUARE CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL

• 2008 dates to be announced (in 2007 it was : Saturday 1st December : a daytime event – finish approx. 5pm)
• Southwick Square Traders Association are holding their annual Christmas Festival on Saturday 1st December. There will be a kiddies funfair running all day and Father Christmas will be in the Square’s Post Office approx. 2pm. There will be charity fundraising stalls, the Police CCTV van and display and St. John’s will also be there both in official capacity and fundraising. There will be some new Christmas illuminations thanks to a donation from Adur District Council. There will be plenty of pre-Christmas bargains and a fun day for everyone.
• Organiser : Beryl Ferrers-Guy on behalf of Southwick Square Traders Association.
• Tel : (01273) 591284 e-mail : beryl.ferrersguy@pablab.co.uk

CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL 09/12/2008

• 4pm to 9pm, Shoreham Town Centre, High Street, East Street, Ropetackle
• Switch on of Christmas Lights 5.00pm
• Christmas shopping, Street performers, Live music, Christmas Carols, Santa grotto, Children’s sideshows and rides.
• Organised by Shoreham Town Centre Association with the support of Adur District Council Town Centres Coordinator.
• To book a stall at the event click here for a word document, or here for a pdf.
• For information please contact : David Steadman, Adur Town Centres and Street Scene Coordinator, Tel : (01273) 263152 (Mobile : 07786 075027) david.steadman@adur.gov.uk

SHOREHAM CHRISTMAS FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL 13/12/2008 & 14/12/2008

• Shoreham Town Centre, East Street and St Marys Road, Shoreham-by-Sea
• A Weekend to Celebrate Great Festive Food and Drink
• Festive Live Music throughout the Weekend
• Live Nativity Scene
• Saturday 13th December :
  • Christmas Farmers Market
• Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th December :
  • Festive Fine and Speciality Food and Drink Fair with Arts and Crafts
  • Heated Marquee Coronation Green
• Market stalls Sunday 14th December :
  • Brunomarts French and Continental Market
• Event Organised by Adur Town Centres and Street Scene Coordinator as part of the Adur Town Centres Initiative.
• To book a stall at the event click here for a word document or here for a PDF.
• For information please contact : David Steadman, Adur Town Centres and Street Scene Coordinator, Tel : (01273) 263152 (Mobile : 07786 075027) david.steadman@adur.gov.uk
• More information on taking part in an Adur market.

ORPHEUS ENTERTAINMENT – GREEK INTERNATIONAL EVENING 14/12/2008

• 7.30pm to , Shoreham Airport
• Highly recommended for a good night out, this professional greek band have played music all over the UK and abroad. If you like Greek dancing this is a must for you, they will get you joining in so you can zorba the night away. Take a look at their website www.orpheusentertainment.tk to give you a taste of what is to come.
• Purchase your tickets by telephoning Shoreham Airport Reception on 01273 467374 / 375 or call in between 9.00am and 5.00pm.
• Doors open @ 7.30pm – 11.30pm, Tickets £8.00pp, Food Available.
• For more details see : Shoreham Airport website – events section.

CHAIRMAN’S CELEBRATION SERVICE OF CAROLS AND READINGS 17/12/2008 (provisional)

• 

  St Mary De Haura Church

  start at 6.30pm, St Mary De Haura Church

• The Chairman of the Council is inviting all Adur residents to a Celebration Service of Carols and Readings. The service this year is guaranteed to get you in the Christmas mood with carols, festive readings and music. The service will commence at 6:30pm and people are invited to join the Chairman for mulled wine and mince pies after the service.
• For information please contact : Chris Cadman-Dando, Democratic Services Officer, Tel : (01273) 263025, demsers@adur.gov.uk

ABBA’S ANGELS 19/12/2008

• 8.30pm to 10.30pm, Shoreham Airport
• Abba’s Angels, one of the UK’s premier Abba Tribute groups have been established since 2000. They have appeared on BBC TV’s Children in Need twice, on the front cover of the Sunday Times Magazine and been recently recommended in the Sun newspaper. Abba’s Angels perform all the best known Abba songs wearing hand-made replica costumes with choreographed dance routines.
• For more details see : Shoreham Airport website – events section.