Together for Christmas: Local Events Bringing Cheer to Kent, Sussex & Epsom

Christmas isn’t just about what happens inside our homes — it’s also about the wonderful sense of community that lights up our towns, villages and neighbourhoods each winter. Across Kent, Sussex and Epsom, streets sparkle with fairy lights, carol singers fill the air, and local markets bustle with friendly faces.

This time of year is the perfect opportunity to step outside, meet neighbours, and enjoy the festive spirit together. Whether you’re new to the area or have lived locally for years, there are plenty of ways to take part and make some joyful memories.

Discover local Christmas events

From markets and light switch-ons to festive fairs and family trails, there’s something happening in almost every community during December. While each area has its own unique celebrations, most councils and local websites share event listings where you can find all the details you need.

Here are a few places to start:

• Kent residents: Visit Kent County Council’s events page or check your district council’s website for local listings. Towns like Canterbury, Tunbridge Wells and Maidstone often host Christmas markets and ice rinks.
• Sussex residents: Check Visit Brighton or your local council events pages, such as West Sussex County Council and East Sussex County Council, for information on festive light trails, concerts and markets.
• Epsom residents: Head to Epsom and Ewell Borough Council’s What’s On page for details on the Epsom Christmas lights, pantomimes, and local charity events.
• Our local community notice board app! If you’re looking for information on local support services, activities, groups or events in your area, then make sure to check out our new app!

Your local council’s website is a great place to discover smaller community gatherings too — from children’s craft workshops to charity carol services and festive fun runs.

Support local makers and businesses

Christmas is a wonderful time to support the small businesses that make our towns and villages so special. Local Christmas markets are full of unique gifts, handmade decorations and delicious festive treats — and every purchase helps someone in your community.

If you’re based in Kent, the Canterbury Christmas Market is always a favourite, featuring local artisans and food stalls. In Sussex, Brighton’s Royal Pavilion Ice Rink and Market combine skating with festive shopping and food. And in Epsom, the annual Epsom Christmas Market is packed with stalls from independent traders.

Even if you can’t make it to a big event, consider shopping locally for your Christmas tree, visiting your neighbourhood bakery for festive treats, or picking up cards from a nearby gift shop. Those small choices make a big difference.

Join in with local charity and community events

Christmas is also a time to give back — and many communities across Kent, Sussex and Epsom run charity drives, volunteer opportunities, and fundraising events during December.

You might:

• Donate to a local food bank or toy appeal.
• Volunteer at a community centre or charity shop for a few hours.
• Join a festive fun run or charity walk in your area.

Websites like Kent Volunteers, Community Works Sussex and Epsom & Ewell Volunteer Centre share local volunteering opportunities if you’d like to get involved.

It doesn’t have to be a grand gesture — even helping a neighbour with decorations, donating to a local cause, or simply attending a community event helps strengthen the sense of togetherness that makes this season so special.

Enjoy local performances and traditions

Many towns hold Christmas concerts, pantomimes and carol services throughout December. Local theatres and schools often host brilliant family-friendly productions — a great way to support community arts while enjoying a festive evening out.

If you’re in Kent, check out The Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury for their annual pantomime. In Sussex, the Devonshire Park Theatre in Eastbourne puts on classic festive shows, while Epsom’s Playhouse Theatre offers a full calendar of holiday performances.

These events tend to book up quickly, so it’s worth looking early and reserving tickets through official sites or your council’s listings.

Celebrate closer to home

Of course, you don’t need to go far to feel festive. Some of the most memorable moments come from the small things — a group of neighbours organising a window light trail, families decorating their front doors, or communities coming together for a carol singalong.

You could even start a new local tradition: a doorstep mince pie swap, a Christmas jumper walk, or a shared hot chocolate evening after the lights come on. Little ideas like these help bring people closer and keep that sense of community spirit alive long after the decorations come down.

Bringing everyone together

Christmas is all about connection — with family, friends, neighbours and the wider community. So this December, wrap up warm, step outside, and see what’s happening near you. Whether it’s a big market, a quiet concert, or a small local event, every gathering adds to the magic that makes this season so special.

And if you’re not sure where to start, visit your local council’s website — it’s the best place to find up-to-date information on festive events near you. Who knows, you might even discover a new annual tradition!