Arundel By Candlelight

Sometimes you come across something and think why have I not known about this before now? Especially when it has been running for over 10 years. Initially I found Arundel by Candlelight on google and then some ladies recommended it in a parenting Facebook group I belong to. So Saturday afternoon Monkey and I braved the parking situation with his Nannie and Bamps and we were not disappointed!

Anyone that knows Arundel knows it can be a little difficult to park during busy times. We had decided to head over mid afternoon wondering if there would be enough to keep Monkey entertained. The High Street shuts down at midday, the main carparks are still open and the town lays on a free park and ride from the wetland centre. We need not have worried as we managed to find parking along the side of the river. On the way into the town we passed a manger which was run by the Chichester Young Farmers Club. Monkey was quite taken by the donkeys. Although there was also a turkey which was being offered around for petting, Monkey is not keen!

Once you set into the main High Street area you can see all the wall mounted Christmas Trees covered in dozen’s of little white fairy lights. As it gets darker its really pretty, especially looking up the hill. The whole event is based around tradition including several small groups of carol singers performing along the streets. As well as a child choir singing well known songs and hymns (they were fantastic).

All the little shops had Christmas decorations inside which added to the festive feel. For anyone who has not visited Arundel before there are plenty of cafes, bakeries and food shops, all selling their festive wares. There are also a number of antique and collectors shops and some beautiful interior design studios to whittle away the hours in.

There was also the intention to have a small Christmas Market, however due to the high winds they could not get all of the marquees up. This meant that this year many of the stalls were not there. However to be honest there was still plenty to nose around. It was lovely seeing the stalls selling traditional wreaths, holly and mistletoe. At the bottom of the High Street there were some sweet and savoury treats. Monkey spotted the candy floss straight away.

There was also popcorn, roasted chestnuts, marshmallows dipped in chocolate, a selection of different hot dogs, burgers and pulled turkey baps. Not to mention the hot chocolate, mulled wine and spiced cider on offer. We took a wander through to a small funfair. Although there was only a couple of rides Monkey really enjoyed his go on the cars and swings. For £1.50 a ride it was very reasonable. We didn’t brave the big wheel or the helter skelter but they would be great fun for older children.

We saw many kiddies with painted faces and carrying little lanterns which they had made in workshops earlier. Although we had feared that there would not have been enough for Monkey to do I think next year we will try to get there for around midday. Especially being that little bit older I am sure he would love making his own jam jar or paper lantern. It would also mean that we could have more of a look round the shops and stalls. Maybe sample some of the other tastes such as the homemade shortbread and gingerbread.

The precession starts at 4.30pm, we all gathered along the High Street to watch the town cryer, flanked by cadets, followed by the manger animals, musical instruments and singing walk down the hill. The children are invited to join in with their own lanterns behind. At the bottom everyone congregates around the Christmas Tree to watch the switch on. I can imagine if Monkey was a little older he would have really enjoyed getting involved.

There was also the opportunity to visit Father Christmas who was giving out gifts to the children in the museum. Unfortunately we got too carried away at the fair and didn’t quite make it on time. Next time we will try to visit him early on. Although we only spent a couple of hours in Arundel everyone really enjoyed themselves. Its not easy to come by events which are so traditional but Arundel by Candlelight is definitely that and we will be back again next year. Note to self remember a torch to get back to the car!!

What traditional activities or days out are you up to this year?