As it prepares to celebrate its 950th anniversary, Chichester Cathedral has announced an exciting series of events. Chichester950 will be a year-long celebration, featuring exhibitions, choral and orchestral concerts and community events, all culminating with a spectacular light show in October.
The programme aims to highlight the Cathedral’s presence as a beacon of faith, spirituality and community, and invites people to celebrate its captivating history that spans over nine centuries.
At the heart of the festivities is Religion, Rebellion & Reformation- a fascinating exhibition running from February until November. This will feature nine objects from across East and West Sussex, each representing a century in history. Through artefacts, stories and pivotal moments, the exhibition aims to highlight how the Christian faith shaped, not just the Cathedral’s history, but the lives of people across the two counties.
In honour of the Cathedral’s renowned musical heritage, a special concert marking the 60th anniversary of Leonard Bernstein’s Chichester Psalms will take place on Sat 17 May 2025. Together in Unity will also feature an exciting new choral composition which has been specially commissioned for the 950th anniversary.
Other events will include TrinityFest on the Green on Sat 15 June, a vibrant celebration marking the Feast of the Holy Trinity, to which the Cathedral is dedicated. This special day will see Chichester city centre come together for festivities and street parties, celebrating music, food and culture.
Chichester950 will conclude with a spectacular light show during autumn Half Term. Running Fri 24 – Fri 31 Oct, this immersive light and sound installation will transform the Cathedral, bringing its 950-year history to life with an awe-inspiring display.
While this momentous milestone offers an opportunity to reflect on the Cathedral’s past, it is also a chance to look ahead to the future. With a newly installed Dean of Chichester, The Very Reverend Dr Edward Dowler, the Cathedral begins a new chapter in its remarkable journey. “It is a privilege to join the Cathedral at this exciting time as plans for the Chichester950celebrations unfold,” he said. “We hope these events will offer something for everyone. The anniversary also prompts us to look ahead to the next 950 years, and our efforts in various ways to create a legacy that will endure for generations to come.”
To find out more about Chichester950 and the programme of events visit: www.chichester950.org.uk
