This week saw the official start of Chichester950, the year-long celebrations to mark Chichester Cathedral’s 950th anniversary.
Bringing together the local community, hundreds of people convened inside the Cathedral to make the shape of the number ‘950’. The group included volunteers, local school children from Prebendal School, elected officials from Chichester District Council and Chichester City Council, members of their congregations and other local supporters.
This striking image of unity commemorates an extraordinary 950-year milestone, highlighting the historic grandeur of the Cathedral’s ancient Nave and the vibrant community that is so integral to the Cathedral’s enduring legacy.
“With a year of remarkable events planned to celebrate Chichester950, it felt right to begin by coming together to create a lasting visual that captures not just the fabric of the Cathedral, but the people who bring it to life - our staff, volunteers, congregations, local residents, school children as well as the wider community who we serve.” said Dean of Chichester, The Very Reverend Dr Edward Dowler.
“Sharing this anniversary with the Diocese of Chichester, we celebrate the Cathedral as a beacon of faith, spirituality and community, serving the people of East and West Sussex. For us, Chichester950 is an opportunity to invite everyone to discover the Cathedral’s captivating history.”
A vibrant programme of events throughout 2025
At the heart of the festivities is a compelling exhibition Religion, Rebellion & Reformation, which runs from 14th February - 15th November 2025. Featuring artefacts and treasures contributed by local parishes and community groups across Sussex, each item represents a century of local heritage, uncovering fascinating stories of faith, resilience and transformation through the lives of educators, thinkers, reformers and rebels.
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 Saturday 17th May 2025. Together in Unity will also feature an exciting new choral composition which has been specially commissioned for the 950th anniversary.
TrinityFest on the Green on Sunday 15th June 2025 is 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.
The Cathedral’s world-class Cathedral Choir will also perform in a special candlelit gala concert in the company of much-loved British composer, Sir John Rutter on Saturday 11th October 2025.
Ending a momentous year of festivities under the banner of Chichester950, visitors are invited to delight in an immersive light and sound installation by the internationally acclaimed artistic collaboration Luxmuralis. The experience will illuminate the Cathedral’s iconic architecture from 24th – 31st October 2025 and will feature 30,000 images, weaving together centuries of history into a stunning display that honours the Cathedral’s rich heritage while celebrating its vibrant role in the present day.