Chichester BID has launched its annual search for two local heroes to lead the city’s festive celebrations by switching on the 2026 Christmas lights.
The “Light Up Chichester” event is scheduled to take place on Saturday 21 November 2026, with the official switch-on moment set for 5:00pm. Organisers are inviting the public to nominate individuals who have made a significant contribution to the community to take centre stage at the ceremony, which will be held near the Market Cross in the heart of the city centre.
The search is divided into two categories: one for residents aged under 18 and another for those aged 18 and over.
How to nominate
Nominations are officially open and will remain open until midnight on Friday 30 October 2026. Members of the public can submit their entries via the official Chichester BID website, providing details of why their chosen “hero” deserves the honour.
A formal judging panel will review all entries to select the winners. This year’s panel includes:
- Natasha McLeod, CEO of Chichester BID
- Councillor Sean McHale, the Mayor of Chichester
- Nicola Brown from Mayo Wynne Baxter
- Mark Waldron, Editor in Chief of Sussex World
The event, which marks the start of the city’s festive season, is organised by Chichester BID and is supported by local law firm Mayo Wynne Baxter. The 2026 plans focus on the outdoor stage area at the Market Cross.