Christmas is a wonderful time of year in Mid Sussex, with festive markets, Christmas lights, family activities and community celebrations bringing people together across Burgess Hill and the surrounding villages.
Whether you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy a festive afternoon, pick up some unique Christmas gifts, take the family to see Santa or simply soak up the atmosphere, there are plenty of things happening locally in the run-up to Christmas 2026.
There is also a special festive event taking place at Hilgay Care Home in Burgess Hill, where residents, families and visitors will be welcoming some very special four-legged guests.
To help you plan the festive season, we’ve put together a guide to some of the Christmas events and activities taking place in Burgess Hill and the surrounding Mid Sussex area.
1. A Special Christmas Donkey Visit at Hilgay Care Home
Monday 14 December 2026 | Time to be confirmed
Location: Hilgay Care Home, Keymer Road, Burgess Hill, RH15 0AL
One of the highlights of the festive season at Hilgay Care Home will be a very special visit from some four-legged friends!
On Monday 14 December, donkeys will be visiting Hilgay for a heartwarming Christmas occasion, bringing a little extra festive magic to residents, families and visitors.
Animal visits can be a lovely way to create meaningful moments, encourage conversation and bring smiles to people’s faces. The visit promises to be a memorable occasion and a chance to enjoy something a little different during the Christmas season.
The event is also an opportunity to welcome members of the local community into Hilgay and share in the festive celebrations.
Interested in attending? Contact Us for further information about the visit, including timings and arrangements.
2. Burgess Hill Christmas Festival and Lights Switch-On
Thursday 26 to Sunday 29 November 2026
Location: Church Walk and Burgess Hill town centre
Burgess Hill is hosting its first-ever extended Christmas Festival in 2026, bringing four days of festive entertainment, shopping and activities to the town centre.
The festival combines the traditional Christmas lights switch-on with a Christmas market and a programme of seasonal entertainment.
Visitors can look forward to Christmas chalets, handmade gifts, food and drink, live music, festive performers and family activities.
The Christmas lights switch-on takes place on Thursday 26 November at 5pm, marking the start of the celebrations.
The festival continues throughout the weekend, with the following published opening times:
- Thursday 26 November: 11am–7pm
- Friday 27 November: 11am–7pm
- Saturday 28 November: 10am–8pm
- Sunday 29 November: 10am–4pm
It’s a great opportunity to support local traders, enjoy the festive atmosphere and get into the Christmas spirit without travelling far from home.
Find out more through Burgess Hill Town Council.
3. Burgess Hill Christmas Craft Markets and Art Fair
Friday 27 to Sunday 29 November 2026
Various locations around Burgess Hill
Alongside the main Christmas Festival, there are several additional markets and creative events taking place around Burgess Hill.
These include:
Burgess Hill Artists Art Fair
Friday 27 and Saturday 28 November, 11am–5pm, at St John’s Church.
A chance to browse and purchase artwork from local artists, with potentially some lovely gifts for anyone looking for something a little different this Christmas.
Burgess Hill Creative Community Crafters Market
Saturday 28 November, 10am–8pm, at The Hub, 77 Church Walk.
This handmade market is a good opportunity to discover locally produced crafts, gifts and seasonal items.
Community Market
Saturday 28 November, 11am–3pm, at Market Place Shopping.
Local charities and community groups will be taking part, making this another opportunity to support organisations within the Burgess Hill community.
Burgess Hill Theatre Club Christmas Craft Fair
Sunday 29 November, 10am–4pm, at Burgess Hill Theatre, Church Walk.
Visitors can browse Christmas gifts, cards and decorations, with food and refreshments also available. Entry is free.
These events offer a lovely way to support local people, independent creators and community organisations during the festive season.
4. South of England Winter Fair, Ardingly
Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 November 2026
Location: South of England Showground, Ardingly
A little further from Burgess Hill, the South of England Winter Fair is a popular seasonal event and a good option for a festive day out.
Taking place at the South of England Showground in Ardingly, the Winter Fair features a mix of seasonal shopping, food, entertainment and family activities.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Christmas shopping and seasonal gifts
- Food and drink stalls
- Live music
- A giant snow globe
- Children’s activities and workshops
- Santa’s Grotto
- Ice skating and additional festive attractions
The event runs from 9am to 5pm on Saturday and 9am to 4pm on Sunday. Some activities have an additional charge, so it’s worth checking the ticket information before travelling.
Find out more at the South of England Agricultural Society.
5. Haywards Heath Christmas Festival
Saturday 28 November 2026 | 12pm–5pm
Location: Haywards Heath Baptist Church, Centenary Hall and The Orchards Shopping Centre
Just a short journey from Burgess Hill, Haywards Heath will also be celebrating Christmas with its own festive festival.
The free event brings together local businesses, charities and community groups, with stalls and activities taking place around the town.
Highlights include:
- Christmas market stalls
- Local gifts and seasonal products
- A Christmas window trail
- Family activities
- A lantern parade
- The Christmas lights switch-on at 5pm
The lantern parade gathers at The Orchards Shopping Centre from 4.30pm before the lights are switched on at 5pm.
It’s a lovely opportunity to enjoy another local Christmas celebration and explore what Haywards Heath has to offer.
Further details are available from Haywards Heath Town Council.
6. Cuckfield Christmas Street Festival
Friday 4 December 2026 | From 5.30pm
Location: Cuckfield High Street
Cuckfield’s Christmas Street Festival is another festive event worth adding to your diary.
The High Street will host the annual Christmas celebration, bringing the local community together for an evening of seasonal festivities.
Previous celebrations have included Christmas stalls, food and drink, craft activities, Santa’s Grotto and late-opening local shops.
The 2026 event is scheduled to begin at 5.30pm, although the full programme and finishing time have not yet been confirmed.
Keep an eye on Cuckfield Parish Council for the latest information.
7. East Grinstead Christmas Market
Sunday 6 December 2026 | 11am–3pm
Location: East Court, College Lane, East Grinstead, RH19 3LT
For those happy to travel a little further across Mid Sussex, East Grinstead is hosting a Christmas Market at East Court.
The event is free to attend and is expected to feature more than 30 local stalls, offering gifts, seasonal products, food and drink.
Other attractions include:
- Santa’s Grotto
- Christmas craft activities
- A children’s Christmas trail
- Local traders and community stalls
East Court provides a lovely setting for a festive market, making it a good option for a Sunday outing.
Further information is available from East Grinstead Town Council.
8. Lindfield Christmas Festival Night
Tuesday 8 December 2026 | Times to be confirmed
Location: Lindfield High Street
Lindfield is another nearby village that comes alive during the festive season.
Its Christmas Festival Night is listed for Tuesday 8 December 2026, with the High Street expected to host seasonal stalls, festive shopping and entertainment.
The event is organised by Lindfield Parish Council. As the published information about the date and timings has not been entirely consistent, it’s best to check the council’s website before making plans.
Visit Lindfield Parish Council for updates.
9. Enjoy a Festive Walk Around Burgess Hill
You don’t always need a planned event to enjoy the Christmas season.
A walk around Burgess Hill and the surrounding area can be a lovely way to appreciate the festive decorations, enjoy some fresh air and spend time with family and friends.
St John’s Park offers a pleasant green space close to the town centre, while the town’s Christmas Festival provides an opportunity to enjoy the seasonal atmosphere, browse the shops and stop for a festive drink.
For anyone who prefers a quieter outing, a gentle walk followed by a coffee or lunch can be just as enjoyable as a busy Christmas market.
10. Enjoying Christmas at Hilgay Care Home
Christmas is a special time at Hilgay Care Home, and the festive season provides plenty of opportunities for residents to spend time together, enjoy seasonal activities and make memories with family and friends.
From festive decorations and seasonal treats to special visits and time spent with loved ones, the focus is on creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere where everyone can enjoy the celebrations.
The Christmas Donkey Visit on Monday 14 December will be one of the highlights of this year’s festive programme, bringing residents, visitors and the wider community together for a memorable occasion.
At Hilgay, the importance of companionship, meaningful activities and personal interests continues throughout the year. Christmas is another opportunity to celebrate these things and make the home feel special.
Looking for Residential, Dementia or Respite Care in Burgess Hill?
The festive season can also be a time when families reflect on the care and support a loved one may need, whether now or in the future.
Hilgay Care Home is a welcoming residential care home in Burgess Hill, set within peaceful landscaped gardens and offering a comfortable, supportive environment.
The home provides a range of personalised care services, including:
- Residential Care: 24-hour support for older people who need assistance with everyday living.
- Dementia Care: Personalised support for people living with dementia and memory-related conditions.
- Respite Care: Short-term care and support, offering reassurance to individuals and a break for family carers.
With comfortable bedrooms, welcoming lounges, a light-filled conservatory and daily activities, Hilgay aims to create a homely environment where residents feel valued, supported and part of the community.
If you are considering care for yourself or a family member, the team would be happy to discuss your requirements and arrange a visit.
Book your viewing of Hilgay Care Home in Burgess Hill Today!
Hilgay Care Home
Keymer Road, Burgess Hill, RH15 0AL
Telephone: 01444 244 756
Please check with event organisers before travelling, as dates, times and activities can change. Some events may require advance booking or have additional charges.