FREE
Issue 38 : November / December 2014
Pick me up Brighton, Worthing ,Lewes, Littlehampton and everywhere in between!
www.familiessussexcoast.co.uk
fun maths for young children
Give your child a love of maths. Pre-school, Reception & KS1 classes
www.mathemagical.co.uk
Photo credit : Next
Inside this Issue Christmas Special Competitions and Panto tickets
The really useful magazine and website for families with children
2
Merry Christmas
from us all at Families Sussex Coast
editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk Sussex Coast
Whats inside?
Welcome
......to the November and December edition of Families Sussex Coast. As always the magazine is jam packed with features, competitions, news and pages of what do to and where to go over the next two months. We have included a Where’s Santa page for you, so you will know where to find the Big Man himself. There are some fabulous Pantomime tickets to give away, so email me your details and you could be in with a chance to take your family to the Panto for free this year! All I can do is wish you all a very, very happy holidays with your families and I look forward to seeing you in the New Year!
Lucy Families Sussex Coast covers: Brighton, Hove, Fontwell, Worthing, Arundel, Lewes, Hassocks,East Preston, Rustington,Littlehampton, Seaford and everywhere in between. Next Issue January / February: Advertising & editorial deadline is 5th Dec 2014. You can contribute to Families Sussex Coast through advertising, editorial and our What”s On pages. Contact Families Sussex Coast 01903 620257
editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk
Design by Sanderswhite. Contact sue@sanderswhite.co.uk Prined by Warners Midlands Plc www.warners.co.uk Please recycle your copy of Families Sussex Coast when you have finished with it. Copyright: Families Sussex Coast November 2014 . Data protection: If you send us your name and address in order to receive free samples or to enter a competition, we may supply your details to the company offering the samples or prizes. If you would prefer us NOT to do so, please state this clearly on your entry. Disclaimer: We take care preparing this magazine but the publisher and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers, nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence. Families Group: Families Sussex Coast is part of a group established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All magazines in the Group are independently owned and operated under licence.
What’s Inside 4 5 6 7 8 9
News - What is happening in Sussex? Clubs & Classes Business Feature Positive Parenting Feature Shop Locally Feature Eating Out with Children - Fun or Stressful?
10 11 12 13
Christmas Tips - Do’s and Dont’s Great Days Out Competitions and Reviews Where’s Santa ?
14 What’s On - around the Sussex Coast
01903 620257 Sussex Coast
3
4
News
Holiday on Ice
ROYAL PAVILION ICE RINK AT CHRISTMAS
returns to Brighton with 70th anniversary celebrations starring Dancing on Ice All Stars winner – Ray Quinn
The Brighton Centre is delighted to announce that after two years away the most popular ice show in the world, Holiday on Ice, is returning to the UK for one week only with their 70th anniversary show PLATINUM featuring Dancing on Ice All Star winner, Ray Quinn. Running from Tuesday 6th to Sunday 11th January at The Brighton Centre only, PLATINUM is a tribute to 70 years of Holiday on Ice which has been appearing at the venue since 1978. Traditional elements and surprising moments combine to create an incomparable show experience, which will enchant audiences of all ages. Taking the audience through the history of figure skating the show will be accompanied by a mix of music from electro and waltz to swing, gospel and samba. Ray commented: “I’m so thrilled to be a part of Holiday on Ice Platinum, it is the 70th year celebration show, so extra special! Holiday on Ice is such an all-time family favourite and for me to be back on the ice is really exciting. The show is going to bring so much together from past, traditional shows to the more contemporary, present day, it’s going to be amazing - I genuinely can’t wait!” Whilst keeping the show fresh and current, the first act ‘That was then…’ has a touch of nostalgia. With contemporary music and costumes referencing the high glamour and traditions that audiences have come to love over the years, it includes incredible footage of world champion Olympic stars who have performed in previous Holiday on Ice shows. The second half ‘This is now!’ explodes with modern scenes and accompanying music that still hold every tradition of a fabulous Holiday on Ice production. Whilst the music may have a hip sound and the costumes look like they have come from the latest Paris catwalk, the skating still takes centre stage.
The South East’s most beautiful winter ice rink will open for its fifth year on November 8th to January 18th on the Royal Pavilion’s Eastern lawns in Brighton.
What will you and the kids be wearing on March 27th? Brain tumour has featured prominently in the news recently. Families are asked to support Wear A Hat Day, a fun-filled, annual brain tumour awareness event helping support research. The organiser, Brain Tumour Research, is asking families and children and schools across the UK to save the date, 27th March 2015, and register now. The involvement of families and school children in the campaign is poignant given that brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under the age of 40. Children have lost parents, family members or even their teachers. And in many classrooms there remains a tragic reminder of a child whose life has been lost or damaged by this cruel cancer. The repercussions are felt daily; the lives of families and friends are never the same again. Taking part is simple. Register today by visiting
www.braintumourresearch.org/wearahatday.
Fundraising materials including posters, leaflets, fridge magnets, pin badges, wristbands quizzes and hat making instructions will be available from the charity in early 2015. For further information email:wearahatday@braintumourresearch.org or call the charity on 01296 733011.
WEY & ARUN CANAL Join in the fun of a festive Santa Cruise on board a beautifully
With the former Royal Pleasure Palace as backdrop, huge rinkside bar and restaurant and 40m terrace, this hidden gem of a rink is beautifully lit at night and is a great choice for those wanting to skate in a beautiful setting and sit down to eat rinkside apres ice. With all of Brighton’s gorgeous independent shops on its doorstep, just 50 minutes from Victoria by train, you can get a little Christmas shopping in too. The 800 square metre rink has space for 250 skaters per session, with a beginners’ area, penguin skate aids and skate sizes from ‘just walking’ to adult. There’s no charge for spectating for those who prefer to sit and soak up the atmosphere in the stunning rinkside Bar & Kitchen, offering mouth-watering patisserie and festive toffee apples for a Christmas treat, a quick drink after work with the best view in the City or a full three-course meal with family and friends. Ice skating tickets cost from £10 for adults (aged 12 and over) and £7 for juniors (children under 12) and the one-hour skate times run from 10am to 10.15pm daily. Club Rinkidinks (10am – 11am daily) offers children under 5 the chance to skate for free when accompanied onto the ice by an adult paying full price. There are also season tickets for those who want to learn to skate (check website for details) and great concessions for students. Box office is open from 9.30am to 9.45pm, but it is advisable to book tickets in advance. Buy your tickets now from
www.ticketmaster.co.uk/royal-pavilion-ice-rink or call 0844 8472352 or for group bookings of ten or more call 0844 8471512. out more at www.royalpavilionicerink.co.uk
decorated boat and travel along the Wey & Arun Canal and through a restored lock. Children under 12 years will receive a gift from Santa who will board the boat at the lock whilst adults enjoy mulled wine and mince pies.
The show will end with the absolutely essential light up Brazilian finale and extra features that maintain the show’s energy and the celebratory feel; thus ensuring the ovation will continue for Holiday on Ice for many years to come. Featuring some of the world’s most talents skaters, glamorous costumes, modern staging and exciting scenes make PLATINUM a firework of energy and joie de vivre! Tickets are available from www.brightoncentre.co.uk or by contacting the box office on 0844 847 1538. editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk Sussex Coast
The boat departs from The Wharf next to the Onslow Arms on the B2133 in Loxwood (free car parking). The trips take 45 minutes and depart at 11.00am, 12.00noon and 2.00pm on Sunday 7th, Saturday 13th, Sunday 14th, Saturday 20th, Sunday 21st, Monday 22nd and Tuesday 23rd December. Tickets cost £9 per person (under 12 months are free). It is advisable to book in advance.
01403 752403 or email office@weyandarun.co.uk For details of Boxing Day and New Year’s Day cruises visit www.weyandarun.co.uk/tripboats
Clubs and Classes
01903 620257 Sussex Coast
5
6
Business News
The Starfish Group
After 23 years at the BBC, I was facing redundancy with no idea what I was going to do – starting a conventional business or retraining was going to cost money and time; and nothing else was going to earn me enough income or be flexible to fit around the family. So when a friend said “have a look at this”, I realised it ticked all the boxes – it was part time AND flexible and I started whilst I was still working, fitting it around the family too, with no risk. I was sceptical but because of the training, support and mentoring, I now have a fantastic business working under the umbrella of a hugely successful, stable, global company, with award winning training and support and I’m lucky enough to have had numerous foreign trips (including
Swimkidz The Business Opportunity This role is for those who display dedication, resilience, drive commitment and sheer determination to succeed. The earning potential is rewarding and the work is hard but it is the most amazing job you will ever do. You will run your own successful business with the support from a team who have already done it themselves, giving you the best possible start. You will need to love working with babies, children and of course their parents! Hours can be flexible and fit around the needs of you as an individual and your family dependent on how big you wish to grow your business. Most of all you need to possess a ‘can do’ attitude and be able to smile through anything! We will be there to support you all the way. You will have access to our bespoke database which offers many functions to make your administrative processes streamlined including an operations manual for guidance. You will also have your own personalised web page that you can update with all your available venues, photo-shoots, merchandise and special launch offers. For the full franchise package contact us: franchising@swimkidz.co.uk or call Trish on 07825955533/01189836130
editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk Sussex Coast
Hawaii, Lake Tahoe and Europe), my car is paid for and I’m having a ball! It’s delivered everything it promised and more! But more importantly it’s given me freedom, choices, flexibility and peace of mind. We love working with our team The Starfish Group – diverse, dynamic and fun individuals who work well together and we are really enjoying working with them to achieve their goals and dreams. It’s SO difficult to explain in 250 words what we do as there are a number of opportunities available, but if you like helping people, working as part of a team, are self motivated and are looking for a change where you can work flexibly around your family and still earn a good income, then I’d love to hear from you. Clare Copping 07802 530581 or email me at starfishgroup@flp.com
Music with Mummy is coming to Sussex! The popular children’s music education programme has arrived in Sussex area and we are looking for enthusiastic people to run classes. Created by parents of young children, for parents of young children, the low-cost, small and traditional music classes are a fun and gentle way for children to enjoy music Already this year we have started classes in Brighton, Hove and Eastbourne. Clair Wilson from Hove shares her experiences of being a new Music with Mummy franchisee: “Since having my children we have gone to music groups as well as enjoying singing and playing instruments at home. Going to groups was a way for us to meet new friends and gave us routine to our days. After seeing the Music with Mummy advert and then talking to regional coordinator Ann-Marie, I realised that they were just what I was looking for. The fact that I could do this and still be able to drop my own children at school and pick them up meant it would be extra income without extra complications! It was very easy to get started! I found instruments from charity shops, nearly new sales, online and from friends. I’ve put up posters in the local area and in playgrounds while out and about with my own children, handed out flyers at nearly new sales, carried out a couple of trial lessons with friends and used my Facebook page to spread the word! As with starting any new businesses it has been a little time-consuming to get it off the ground, but has easily fitted around family life. It is now paying dividends as the trial sessions and bookings are rolling in and now word-of-mouth is now starting to take over! If you have a love for music and are you looking for a part time role, to suit you and your family, then ‘Music with Mummy’ could be the new perfect New Year career for you! Sound interesting? Please do give me a call on 01276 670221 or annmarie@mwmsussex.co.uk
Positive Parenting
How to…get your children to behave By Hannah Hunter
Picture the scene. You’re at the supermarket and you’ve refused your child something that they want, causing them to freak out and scream loudly. You react by shouting back at them. Before long the situation is out of hand, with both of you at full-volume and people staring. All kids will have a tantrum at some point, some simple steps can help to avoid this behaviour or at least lessen it. Trying a bit of distraction when the anger starts to build up - telling a joke, pulling a silly face - can be really effective. If it’s too late for humour, then take a deep breath and a mental step back. Is their behaviour really unreasonable? Can you just ignore it and carry on with your shopping? Maybe you have a spare few minutes to put the trolley aside and take them out of the situation? It could be either out of that aisle or maybe even out of the supermarket, where you can both calm down.
place where you can leave them for a period of one minute for each year of their life (i.e. three minutes for a three-year-old) up to a maximum of five minutes. You should not talk to your child through the door or give them any other form of attention during the Time Out period. “Once the Time Out period is over, explain to your child why they were Timed Out and then move on and praise them at the first opportunity.”
Distraction
“As soon as you feel the temper rising, distract them onto something else: a funny song, story, or ‘did you see that green squirrel with orange stripes just fly past the window?’”
Be positive
“One of the biggest mistakes we make as parents is to leave our children alone and say nothing to them when they’re behaving nicely. “Ignore the behaviour you don’t want. Instead, emphasise the positive with cuddles, kisses, and praise, and tell them all the things they need to hear in order for them to understand they will get attention for doing things nicely.”
“Tantrums happen to all parents. They do not mean you are a bad parent. You can try to prevent them with praise and sticker charts. If that fails, you can try to distract the tantrums away. But once started, the best way to stop them is to ignore them. “Remember: distract, ignore, but do not punish.”
Rewards
“At home, a sticker chart is a great way of encouraging good behaviour. Each time your child is good, give them a sticker. Naughty behaviour gets a ‘sad face’. Points mean prizes enough stickers get them a treat.”
Positive Parenting
This approach may seem like pie in the sky when faced with a screaming 3-year old, but it’s never too early to try what the NSPCC calls ‘positive parenting’. If you show love and affection to your child and praise them when they are behaving well, they will associate getting attention with good behaviour. So when you feel like you’re at the end of your tether, try to stay calm. After all, a toddler having a tantrum in the supermarket is one thing, but a screaming adult in the frozen food aisle? Not a good look… Here are some hints from leading Clinical Psychologist, Professor Tanya Byron, on how to smooth out behavioural problems, and get the best from your child.
Tantrums
Positive example
Ignoring
“Ignoring gives the message that the behaviour gets no reward and if you use this technique alongside praising lovely behaviour, your children will get a very powerful message.”
Time out
“First ask your child to stop misbehaving. If that doesn’t work, ask again, but more firmly. This gives the child two chances to change his or her behaviour, and if they do, you praise them. “If they refuse to stop the behaviour, or if the tantrum escalates, you go for Time Out. Take your child firmly but with no attention to a safe
“It’s straightforward but it works - your children will copy you. Swear and they will swear, smack and they will smack. Lead by example.” Professor Byron’s new book The Skeleton Cupboard, is out now, published by Pan Macmillan.
http://www.panmacmillan.com/book/tanyabyron/ theskeletoncupboard
Helpful Websites http://www.nspcc.org.uk/help-and-advice/for-parents-and-carers/guides-for-parents/better-behaviour/better-behaviour_wda90710.html http://www.youngminds.org.uk NHS http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/pages/dealing-with-difficult-behaviour.aspx#close
limited spaces available now! Call 01273 323199 to arrange a visit 01903 620257 Sussex Coast
7
8
Shopping Locally this Christmas
Shop locally this Christmas
Will you “shop local “ this Christmas?
Shopping locally gives you:
and give more than just presents...
Christmas is upon us once again, and unless you are amazingly prepared and have bought all your presents already, there’s shopping to be done! The big retailers have been bombarding us for weeks, and you can rarely walk down the street or switch on the television without seeing adverts for this year’s Christmas must-haves.
But what about the small, local, independent retailers? The businesses which are owned and run by local residents, often parents who are trying to feed, clothe and support their own families. Small businesses easily get ‘lost’ in the hubbub of Christmas, when really it’s a time of the year when we should be using them just as much, if not more, than usual.
But what about the things that the big businesses don’t offer?
These are the things that small businesses generally excel at providing – handmade goods and locally produced items, in-depth product knowledge and personalised advice, customer service, a friendly and enjoyable shopping experience. You may not get the lowest prices, but you do get excellent value for money.
NOEL Merry Christmas
with
love
Added to all of this, when you buy local you are making an important contribution to your local economy. Spending money with local businesses causes a ripple-effect, as those businesses in turn spend locally, and on and on..
Small Business Saturday UK
is a grassroots, non-political, non-commercial campaign, which highlights small business success and encourages consumers to ‘ shop local’ and support small businesses in their communities. The day itself takes place on the first shopping Saturday in December each year, but the campaign aims to have a lasting impact on small businesses. In 2014 Small Business Saturday UK will take place on Saturday December 6th.
Handmade goods – made by local craftspeople, these are often one-of-a-kind items that you won’t find in the big retailers. In-depth product knowledge and advice – small business owners often
have a better knowledge of the lines they stock, for example which clothing brands ‘run large’ and which are true to size, or which shoes offer the best fit for narrow feet.
Customer service – love the item but don’t like the colour? Independent retailers are often happy to order in products in other colours or sizes for you, and they usually deal with any complaints or problems in a far friendlier way than bigger businesses do. A more enjoyable shopping experience – local business owners frequently like to take the time to chat and get to know their customers, which makes for a far nicer experience
Stronger community ties – shopping
locally helps to create town centres which are more sustainable and vibrant, meaning people feel part of the community. Local businesses are also often more willing than larger chains are to support local causes that have more meaning to them, and the area in which they live and work.
Dimples and Dandelions Why visit a large shopping centre when you can shop locally?
“Wigwam Toys
is a family run independent toy shop in Brighton. We specialize in quirky, interesting, design led toys and gifts that appeal to kids and parents alike. We also stock Lego, Playmobil, books, craft kits, inflatable dinosaurs, outdoor toys and much much more. We look forward to seeing you soon” Find us at 108 Preston Drove, Brighton, Tel: 01273 505504 www.wigwamtoys.co.uk editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk Sussex Coast
You can eliminate stress and save money by purchasing excellent quality pre-loved children’s clothes (Monsoon, GAP etc) and toys as well as new gifts and unusual items just perfect for all occasions. So come along to Dimples and Dandelions and bag yourself lots of bargains. There’s no travelling or car park fees, and you will benefit from Kate’s individual attention and expertise. Best of all, you will be helping your community stay alive. 62 The Street, Rustington, BN16 3NR
Eating Out with Children
Eating out with the Family... Fun or Stressful? By Editor Family Sussex Coast
As a family of 5 we try and go out for a meal once a month. The question is do we enjoy ourselves or does it just become a meal of hushed ‘sit nicely’ or ‘hold your knife and fork properly’ and even ‘you can’t put your sprouts in your pocket’ – believe me we’ve had them all! The answer is yes we love it, as we all have each other’s attention for at least an hour and a half. So if I’m very good I am allowed to listen to the joys of Minecraft for at least an hour or learn about Arsenals new players in great depth – but again we love it. I personally get a good laugh out of our daughter sharing her encyclopaedic knowledge of ‘19 kids and counting’ and the art of loom-banding with her Father for an hour or more! Yes of course it can sometimes be stressful especially when children are younger as you need the food quickly but if you arrive prepared with their drink cup, toys (quiet ones
of course!), colouring things then you could strike lucky with a pretty relaxed meal. For older children just good old fashioned conversation should really be enough.
We found that by asking for the younger children’s food to come out as soon as it was ready worked really well . Although for a while we did think that there was a conspiracy theory to foil this clever idea by serving the child’s food on a hot plate, so it was still untouchable by the time we had our coffee – so asking for food to come out on a cold plate or have a cold one on the side solves this issue. Here in Sussex we have a fantastic selection of family friendly eateries and as the weather has now changed taking children to a cafe or restaurant can be quality family time. So is eating out with the family - fun or stressful? Well we voted for FUN. Please see below The Duke has teamed up with Families Sussex Coast and are offering freechildren’s meals if you mention the promo code: Families Mag Free
The Duke Of York Children eat FREE!
Just quote: Families Mag Free Located in Sayers Common, Hassocks, The Duke Of York is a lovely, traditional pub with a foodie vibe. It boasts not one but two gardens, offering a play fort for the children in one and a dog friendly and more secluded area in the other. The staff are very knowledgeable on the products they offer and customer service is to the highest standard. It’s no wonder they have a reputation in comparison to a restaurant - when you taste the food you’ll understand why. It is a pub that you don’t mind jumping in the car for 10 minutes out of Brighton to get to. The pub really is a great all round place families and friends.
London Rd, Sayers Common, Hassocks, BN69HY Mon-Sat All day (Closed between 3.30 & 5.30 pm Mon-Thurs) 01273 832262 thedukeofyorkpub@gmail.com
01903 620257 Sussex Coast
9
10
Christmas Tips
The DOs and DON’Ts of a HAPPY FAMILY CHRISTMAS By Sarah Butters
DON’T expect it to be perfect
Like it or not, your Christmas will not be perfect. You will over cook the turkey, under cook the pudding and end up sobbing into a huge glass of Sauvignon Blanc because your mother in law has criticized your gravy. But because you’ve put so much time and effort into hosting the perfect Christmas, the disappointment at the odd hiccup is overwhelming. Start the festive period accepting you’re not Nigella and it won’t be perfect and you’ll enjoy the parts that go well.
and routine are thrown out of the window so relatives can be entertained and trips can be taken. Combine that with too many treats and lots of attention from well meaning visitors and the magic of Christmas can disappear pretty quickly. Try not to let all discipline go out of the window and if you sense that there’s a tantrum on the way,remove your child from the mayhem.
DO try and relax
Forget the stress of present buying and preparing a feast fit for royalty and take a minute to laugh. Remember, when you strip away all the tinsel and tat this is about preparing one meal, on one day with decorations and a gift or two. And if you’re finding smiling hard, try using our favourite Christmas Cracker joke to cheer you up.
DO make your own tradtions
DO get out and about
You are not under house arrest over the festive period. We shouldn’t be surprised that if you fill your home with relatives you rarely see and then lock the door, there will be arguments. Add some wine and the results are anything but festive. Don’t be afraid of getting wrapped up and heading out for a bracing walk. It will clear the house and let the little ones run off some steam.
DON’T expect your children to be angels
They’ve broken up from school about to burst with excitement about the arrival of Santa. You’ve been using the ‘if you’re not good, Santa won’t come’ since Easter and then the presents are opened and your little angels turn into little devils. Rules
editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk Sussex Coast
If you’re not careful, baking the cake, decorating the house and dressing the tree can begin to feel like a chore. Don’t let it become hard work. Give yourself the time to enjoy it and accept that with a little help from your little ones you can create some lovely Christmas memories. Ok, you won’t have a cake fit for Delia. There’ll be precious few needles left on the tree and your house will resemble the aftermath of a children’s birthday party. But despite the imperfections you’ll have happy children and you won’t have spent a penny. Now that’s a happy Christmas.!
DO laugh!
By the time Christmas Day arrives, most of us are exhausted. You’ve probably spent the weeks prior to the big day panic shopping, baking everything that Jamie suggested in his Christmas special and ferrying the family from one festive event to the next. Earmark some time for you. It’s supposed to be a holiday!
Every family has it’s own way of celebrating. Now you have your own children it’s time for you to make your own traditions. Whether it’s a trip to the local crib service on Christmas Eve, or a day of Christmas baking on the Sunday before the festivities begin, it’s up to YOU to create your traditions. A great idea I’ve taken from a friend is the Christmas Eve hamper. This is a basket, left by one of Santa’s helpers filled with goodies to enjoy on the night before Christmas. In it are festive pyjamas for the children, new tooth brushes, a mug to make hot chocolate and a DVD for the family to watch. It’s the perfect kit to help kick start Christmas.
DO enjoy the preparation
What’s Santa’s favourite pizza? One that’s deep, and crisp and even.
DON’T stress about the presents
DO give out jobs
A resentful host is not a happy host so when you do your pre-Christmas shopping list, make sure you also write a list of jobs you’ll need doing on the big day. If you know your Mother in Law has a view about your Yorkshire Puddings, set her to work making some better ones. Remember, a busy cook is often a quiet cook!
DON”T waste money
Let’s face it, this is going to be a tough year for all of us. We want to give our children everything on their list, but won’t be able to. Most of us will be celebrating making it to the 25th December with a job and a roof over our heads. However, you can still enjoy the festivities while being frugal. Swop traditional cards for an email including a festive photo, Organise a secret Santa for adult family members with a spending limit. Or simply suggest that you only buy for the family’s children. Keep reminding yourself that it’s not about the money your spend on each other, it’s about the time you spend with each other.
So you haven’t been able to find the latest Teksta T Rex Dinosaur or bag an Snow Glow Elsa doll. Before you beat yourself, ask yourself this. Do you remember the presents you didn’t get when you were a child? Or do you remember the experiences you had.? My Christmas memories are preparing lunch with my wonderful Nana and attempting to wake my King Charles Cavalier after he’d drink the best part of a bottle of Blue Nun. YOUR kids will remember the laughter and the love and when you wake up in January, so will you
..Happy Christmas!
Great Days Out
Get outdoors this winter at WWT Arundel Wetland Centre Take the kids for a walk this winter at WWT Arundel Wetland Centre and be amazed at wildlife!
Vibrant blue and orange kingfishers visit the reserve regularly and they’ll be easier to spot now that there are fewer leaves on the trees. Ride the free boat safari driven by a WWT guide who will point out the wildlife all around you. Families can hand feed the collection of rare wildfowl from around the world. Beginner birdwatchers can look for wild snipe along the water’s edge from the shelter of eight wildlife hides and see large flocks of wild teal, wigeon and shoveler ducks that visit in winter. Follow the family Robin Trail during the new Discover Birds event on November 29-30th.WWT Arundel Wetland Centre Manager Dave Fairlamb said: “The walks, talks and trails during our Discover Birds event on 29-30th November are a great chance to learn more about winter birds. The activities are aimed at all age groups and levels of birding experience.”
In December our ‘Visit with Father Christmas’ experience on Dec 1314th includes a child’s hot chocolate and a reindeer cupcake as well as a quality WWT gift. Then we count down the Twelve Days ‘til Christmas WWT style, with special activities, like a visit from Hayley New, of Turtle Dove Conservation project, on Dec 15th. After all these activities, why not unwind and warm up in our Water’s Edge café with a delicious selection of hot and cold food, with proceeds going towards WWT conservation efforts. Do a bit of Christmas shop in our gift store on your way out, browsing ranges of house wares, toys and bird care. Arundel Wetland Centre is open from 9:30 am – 4:30 pm every day, except for Christmas Day. On Christmas Eve the centre closes early at 2 pm. WWT Arundel is open on Boxing Day and on New Year’s Day and is located on Mill Road, Arundel
er Discodvs Bir d weeken
30 Nov 29-
Wetland winter fun A wetland winter is full of family adventures like boat safaris, robin trails, discovering birds & seeing Santa! Book your tickets online to save 10%
Discover more at wwt.org.uk/arundel WWT Arundel Wetland Centre
Mill Road, Arundel, West Sussex BN18 9PB t 01903 883355 e info.arundel@wwt.org.uk @WWTArundel
West Sussex BN9 8PB.
01903 620257 Sussex Coast
11
12
Competitions and Reviews
Lets Race Horley, Surrey
Beauty and the Beast Carley Stenson
Beauty and the Beast,
at the Devonshire Park Theatre
Not that long ago myself and the children were lucky enough to be invited to spend the morning at Let’s Race the UK’s only full motion F1 simulator centre in Horley. Thanks to their specially designed GT Zone, Lets Race offers the perfect solution for children who are looking for an adrenalin rush but aren’t old enough to drive actual cars on a track yet. The centre has five fully adjustable racing pods which run the latest software for Junior F1 racers aged 7-11 providing a great way of introducing young people to racing in a fun, educational and safe environment. What’s great about Lets Race is not only do kids’ sessions start at just £5 for a 15 minute race session with a trained race instructor, but the adults can also enjoy the full size simulators or relax with a coffee in the race centre’s café, Fluid Dynamics. The Batak Wall which tests your reaction times (like an advanced Bop-It) was really good fun as we could play together constantly trying to get a higher score – we could have stayed there all day! The children each had a go on the racing pods, after a few practice runs they then got to compete against each other and as they can track the other persons movements in the corner of their own screens – the competition was certainly on! Joseph aged 11 and myself also had a trial race on the full size simulator which has a viewing gallery inside so that the younger two could sit in with us and also watch us completing our course on giant screens, believe
from 12 December 2014 – 11 January 2015. Tickets from £12 on 01323 412000 or at www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk.
For your chance to win a family ticket for 4 to this stunning Eastbourne pantomime email your answer to theatrespressoffice@eastbourne.gov.uk by 1st Dec:
Q:What does Belle have to do to break the wicked Sorceress’ spell?
Tickets are for Wed 17th Dec 7pm performance and are non-transferable. Starring Carley Stenson (Hollyoaks and the West End)
Win a Family Ticket to see
Holiday on Ice
Starring Dancing on Ice All Stars winner – Ray Quinn
The Brighton Centre is delighted to announce that after two years away the most popular ice show in the world, Holiday on Ice, is returning to the UK for one week only with their 70th anniversary show PLATINUM featuring Dancing on Ice All Star winner, Ray Quinn. Running from Tuesday 6th to Sunday 11th January at The Brighton Centre only, PLATINUM is a tribute to 70 years of Holiday on Ice which has been appearing at the venue since 1978.
Holiday on Ice-Platinum me it’s a lot harder than you think and very, very good fun! Furthermore, Lets Race offers a great alternative for a child’s party. For just £15 per child the standard party package includes: • 2 x 15 minute races in the GT Zone • Unlimited use of the centre’s Batak Wall (tests reaction time) • Party food and soft drinks • Medal for everyone As the weather has started to turn, this is an ideal place to take your children somewhere different over the coming months, with there also being a cafe you can make the most of the facilities and have very happy children. There are also gift cards available from £20 - £100 making this an ideal Christmas present. Let’s Race is a popular venue for Corporate, Stag and Hen events as well. For more information visit:
www.letsrace.co.uk editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk Sussex Coast
WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO THE ‘BEAST’ PANTO IN THE SOUTH!
Tickets are valid to see Holiday on Ice: PLATINUM at The Brighton Centre on Tuesday 6th January 2015 at 8pm only. Family ticket can be used by any combination of a total of 4 adults and children. At least 1 adult must be present. No purchase necessary. Tickets are non-exchangeable. Closing date for entries is the 10th December entries received after this date will not be counted. Winners will be required to collect their tickets from box office on the night of the show. Any travel and accommodation will not be included in the prize. For your chance to win a Family Ticket please email: editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk with your name and contact details.
Where’s Santa Where’s Santa? The Sussex Santa Experience’ at Spring Barn Farm:
Santa will be waiting by his cosy fire to meet you all and hear your Christmas wishes on the following dates: Sat 29th - Sun 30th Nov, Sat 6th- Sun 7th Dec and Sat 13th- Wed 24th Dec inclusive NEW magical wonderland walkway and Santa’s toyshop for 2014! Please see www.springbarnfarm.com for times and prices.
Wey & Arun Canal
Join in the fun of a festive Santa Cruise on board a beautifully decorated boat and travel along the Wey & Arun Canal and through a restored lock. Children under 12 years will receive a gift from Santa who will board the boat at the lock whilst adults enjoy mulled wine and mince pies. The boat departs from The Wharf next to the Onslow Arms on the B2133 in Loxwood (free car parking). The trips take 45 minutes and depart at 11.00am, 12.00noon and 2.00pm on Sunday 7th, Saturday 13th, Sunday 14th, Saturday 20th, Sunday 21st, Monday 22nd and Tuesday 23rd December. Tickets cost £9 per person (under 12 months are free). It is advisable to book in advance. 01403 752403 or email office@weyandarun.co.uk For details of Boxing Day and New Year’s Day cruises www.weyandarun.co.uk
Journey to the North Pole Santa’s Grotto (Friday 28th
November - Wednesday 24th December) Churchill Square,
Brighton
A Christmas Grotto with a twist: intrepid explorers will don ski-masks and enter the snowy world of the North Pole on a quest to find Santa’s Grotto. Follow the paws of the polar bear and do a bit of seal spotting. Learn how igloos are made, calculate something using a compass and make a snow storm in an alternative snow globe showing the northern lights. Then solve the puzzle
of which animals live in the North Pole and which are lost from the south. Eventually explorers will find Father Christmas and can impress him with what they have learned. They will then receive a snow-themed gift and then leave to go back to Brighton, because remember – there’s snow place like home! www.churchhillsquare.com
Saturday 10th November, 10.30am-4pm With over 60 stalls selling everything Christmas and a chance for the children to meet Father Christmas. www.sussexfamilychristmasfair. co.uk
Father Christmas at Chartwell House, National Trust
South East Christmas Fair Fontwell Park Racecourse
Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 December, 11am-3pm Meet the man himself who will be giving out a gift to good girls and boys and then helping the elves to make Christmas crafts Normal admission charges apply, tickets £7 per child, booking essential on 01732 861159 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chartwell
Bodiam Castle Christmas at the castle
Saturday 6, Sunday 7, Saturday 13, Sunday 14, Saturday 20, Sunday 21 and Monday 22 December, 10.30am-3pm Come a Wassailing at Bodiam this Christmas and enjoy traditions both old and new. There’s a trip to Father Christmas’s grotto for the children as well as masks to make and glass of wassail (hot mulled cider) for the grown-ups. Normal admission charges apply, additional charge for Father Christmas visit includes castle entry, visit and a present to take home Booking essential on 01580 831324 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/bodiam
Standen – Woodland Santa
Saturday 6, Sunday 7, Saturday 13, Sunday 14, Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 December, 12pm-1pm and 2pm-3pm Join Santa at the woodland plantation for hot chocolate and toasted marshmallows Normal admission charges apply, £3.50 per child, booking essential on 01342 323029 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/standen
13
Sussex Family Christmas Fair Charmanden Centre, Worthing
Saturday 13th December 10am – 5pm Meet Father Christmas and his reindeers whilst shopping for Christmas presents, crafts, fashion and also food galore. To find out more visit: www.southeastchristmasfair.co.uk
Brighton Christmas Gift Fair Brighton Racecourse, Saturday
15th November 10am – 5pm Santa’s Grtto, Nativity and mobile farm, children’s funfair and over 100 indoor stands and outdoor Christmas market. For more information visit: www.brightonchristmasfair.co.uk
Arundel Wetlife Centre
December 13th-14th, 9.30-4.30 The visit with Father Christmas’ experience includes a child’s hot chocolate and a reindeer cupcake as well as a quality WWT gift. For more information visit: www.wwt.org.uk
The Magic of Christmas Past and Meet father Christmas Hever Castle, Kent
November 29th-30th and every weekend until the 14th December from then onwards the event is open daily 10.30am – 6.30 For a fun-filled festive family day out, discover the origins of English Christmas traditions at Hever Castle and follow the snow covered trail to visit Father Christmas in his grotto. To meet Father Christmas you have to book online before your visit: www.hevercastle.co.uk
Amberley Museum
Sat 6th, Sun 7th, Sat 13th, Sun 14th, Sat 20th, Sun 21st December: Santa Special Days Experience a traditional Christmas at
Santa’s cabin and elves’ workshop. Children and adults will love
turning their own wooden Christmas decorations, printing a sign to guide Santa to your home and sending him a telegram as well as free bus and train rides. Tickets available now: www.amberlleymuseum.co.uk
Christmas at Kew
26th November – 3rd January 5pm-10pm This glittering night-time trail includes a garden of fire, Tunnel of Lights, sparkling giant snowflakes, glowing gardens, Santa’s Snowflake Grotto, Mistletoe Moments and the iconic Palm House and pond bathed in Christmas colour. Plus vintage rides and festive foodie treats. Please see website for further details as there are some dates when the event is closed: www.kew.org There is also a daytime event with traditional Christmas festivities again please check the website for further information on opening times and prices.
Meet Father Christmas Fishers Farm
December 6th-7th, 13th-14th, 19th,20th,21st,22nd,23rd and 24th A magical winding walkway with twinkling lights, leads you to a cosy fireplace where Father Christmas will be appearing in his magical grotto between 10am – 5pm, with a break to feed his reindeer at 1pm. www.fishersfarmpark.co.uk
Field Place Winter Wonderland, Worthing
20th-23rd December Visit Santa’s Grotto, enjoy the Christmas Wonderland Train and join in the festive fun. www.worthingleisure.co.uk
01903 620257 Sussex Coast
14
What’s On
What’s On
1st November – 24th December German Style Christmas Market
Churchill Square, Brighton Once again, Churchill Square will play host to a German style Christmas market, opening at the end of October. Shoppers can browse 14 beautiful wooden stalls selling a selection of delicious Christmas food and unusual gifts. Fairy lights will illuminate the stalls with thousands of twinkly lights, giving shoppers a magical Christmas experience. Enjoy mulled wine, German bratwurst and traditional crepes as you browse the stalls manned by both local and European producers, selling handcrafted gifts, glass ornaments, fine jewellery, hand-knitted hats, gloves and scarves and much more.
1st November Arundel Fair Trade & Ethical Christmas Fair
Arundel Castle Gardens 10.00am – 5.00pm With more than 50 stalls, everything at the fair is fairly traded or sustainable in some way. Amongst the stalls this year will be old favourites as well as many new traders: fair trade scarves from India; clothes from The Fair Shop in Brighton; South American soap; recycled wooden furniture and household items; many styles of bags made locally from reused materials and mulled wine. Free entry into the Castle gardens. http://www.arundel.org.uk/arundelfair-trade-and-ethical-christmas-fair
1st – 30th November WW1 Exhibition
Arundel Museum 10.00am – 4.00pm Images, photographs, uniform, equipment and service records give the visitor a glimpse at the contribution made by Arundel families during this difficult time. Local schools have written letters and drawn pictures on their thoughts and investigations on the War, and these are also displayed in the Museum. www.arundelmuseum.org
2nd November End of Season
Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre, Station Road, Amberley, Arundel Farewell to the end of the season at Amberley with visiting exhibits and stalls, there are 2 for 1 offers available but please check their website for further details. www.amberleymuseum.co.uk
2nd November Pavillion Fairs
Pavillion Theatre, Worthing 10.30am – 4.30pm Each fair showcases a wide range of high-quality local arts, crafts, plants, food, drink and well-being products. Pick up tasty nibbles, something new for your garden, beautiful hand-made cards and jewellery or a good read. www.worthingtheatres.co.uk
2nd November RAC Veteran Car Run
Madera Drive Celebrating the 118th year of the Run. The event is not a race, the cars are limited to an average speed of 20mph and the only reward for a successful run is a Finisher’s Medal (awarded to all who reach Brighton before 4.30pm).
5th November Tide of Light & Fireworks Display
Worthing Town & Beach A fantastic family event with a procession of candles going along Chapel Road, street food, fun fair along the sea front and ending with a spectacular firework display at the end of the Pier – an evening not to be missed. www.worthinglions.co.uk
6th December Makers Boutique
Brighton Unitarian Church 11am – 5.00pm A regular contemporary arts and crafts fair, selling a vast range of arts and crafts including original artwork, homewares, photography, textiles, jewellery, ceramics, fashion, and exciting locally made foods sold directly by the producer. www.makersboutique .co.uk
8th November Shoreham Farmers Market
9.00am-2.00pm Award winning farmers market selling local products from across the county.
8th November Shoreham Family Bonfire & Fireworks Display
Starting at 6.15pm with the procession starting from Beach Green along Kings Walk, arriving at the Church at 6.45pm Bonfire lit at 6.30pm and Fireworks display 7.15pm on the beach near the Church of the Good Shepherd with live entertainment and food available. www.shorehambonfire.co.uk
8th November Family Firework Spectacular
Neville Recreation Ground, Hove 5pm start, fireworks at 6.30pm This is a truly spectacular firework display designed to be suitable for everyone, especially families with children. Food stalls will be open all evening, and glow sticks and flashing toys will be on sale at stalls inside the grounds.
8th November – 8th January Royal Pavilion Ice Rink
Royal Pavilion’s Eastern Lawns, Brighton Ice skating tickets cost from £10 for adults (aged 12 and over) and £7 for juniors (children under 12) and the one-hour skate times run from 10am to 10.15pm daily. Club Rinkidinks (10am – 11am daily) offers children under 5 the chance to skate for free when accompanied onto the ice by an adult paying full price. There are also season tickets for those who want to learn to skate (check website for details) and great concessions for students. Box office is
editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk Sussex Coast
open from 9.30am to 9.45pm, but it is advisable to book tickets in advance. www.royalpavillionicerink.co.uk
8th November Dramapips, Worthing Museum
10.00am – 11.00am Dramapips for 2-5 year olds 11.30am – 12.30pm Artpips for 5 – 8 years Combining multi-sensory arts and drama to explore exciting themes linked to history, nature and culture. www.worthingmuseum.co.uk
9th November Antique and Collectors Fair
Worthing Leisure Centre 10.00am – 4.00pm Vintage jewellery,glass,china,textiles and much more. With over 60 stalls, there is also a large free car park and a great café on site! www.worthingleisure.co.uk
10th November Free Washable Nappy Demonstration
Muma Baby Sanctuary, Lewes 7.00pm – 8.30pm To book a place email Juliet@thewashablenappy.co.uk or call 01424 434580 www.thewashable nappy.co.uk
11th November WWE Live!
Brighton Centre Fans will be able to see all their favourite WWE Superstars and Divas all under one roof. www.brightoncentre.com
15th November Worthing’s Emporium Market
Montague Place, Worthing 9.00am – 5.00pm This is a market with a difference bringing together over 45 stalls of delicious locally sourced food, bread, meats and deli stalls as well as craft, art, gifts and homewares. www.worthingemporium.co.uk
15th November The Fairytale Fair
Patcham Methodist Church 10.30am – 3.30pm Over 35 craft and vintage stalls selling handmade or hand designed festive gifts. Jewellery, prints, cards, knitted items, felted items, chocolates, decorations, children’s items, baby clothes, art, vintage accessories. You can also take part in a festive themed workshop and learn something new. There will be workshops suitable for all ages, ranging from felted festivities, to jewellery and much more. Full workshop details are on their website. Don’t forget the kids can also bring the fairy tales to life by having their faces painted too! www.thefairytalefair.co.uk
15th November Brighton Christmas and Gift Fair
Brighton Racecourse 10.00am – 5.00pm Shop for Christmas decorations, festive food & drink, stunning jewellery, stock-
ing fillers ,ceramics, glassware, interior & home accessories, contemporary designs, beauty & fashion, vintage gifts, handmade crafts, traditional toys, children’s gifts, gardening gifts, gadgets and lots more! Stands selling a vast selection of beautiful, affordable and unique gifts you simply won’t find on the high street. www.brightonchristmasfair.co.uk
15th-16th November Stylish Christmas Fair
Amex Stadium, Brighton 10.00am – 5.00pm With over 100 exhibitors across 3 floors including; Christmas gift ideas, decorations, home accessories, food & drink, fashion & beauty, technology & gadgets and much more. They are also offering wine and ale tasting by Harveys of Lewes and floral demonstrations by Owen Lavin. Children under 12 are free. www.stylishchristmasfairs.co.uk
22nd November Makers Boutique
Brighton Unitarian Church 11.00am – 5.00pm A regular contemporary arts and crafts fair, selling a vast range of arts and crafts including original artwork, homewares, photography, textiles, jewellery, ceramics, fashion, and exciting locally made foods sold directly by the producer. www.makersboutique .co.uk
22nd November The 1914’s House – Christmas
Preston Manor, Brighton 2.00pm – 3.45pm “It will all be over by Christmas”: 1914 was probably the most poignant Christmas of the 20th century. Find out how people marked the season not only in Britain but across nations affected by war. £15 per ticket.
22nd November Worthing Countdown to Christmas Event 11.30am to 4.00pm South Street Square Worthing A programme of entertainment to get Worthing shoppers into the Christmas Spirit ! Mr Worthing, Dave Hunt, will be the master of ceremonies with a little help from Santa. The Panto and Christmas show stars will be in town and singers the Sleigh Belles and Magic Martin performing which will ensure a great start to Christmas.
23rd November Pavillion Fairs
Pavillion Theatre, Worthing 10.30am – 4.30pm Each fair showcases a wide range of high-quality local arts, crafts, plants, food, drink and well-being products. Pick up tasty nibbles, something new for your garden, beautiful hand-made cards and jewellery or a good read. www.worthingtheatres.co.uk
30th November Free Washable Nappy Demonstration
Anahatha Clinice, Brighton
What’s On? 11am – 12.30pm To book a place email @thewashablenappy.co.uk or call 01424 434580 www.thewashable nappy.co.uk
29th and 30th November ‘A Taste of Christmas’
Spring Barn Farm, Lewes Join us for two days of tastings in our farm shop, Visit the Farm Shop and sample the best of our homemade festive fayre from the farmhouse kitchen! Including Christmas meats, pates, pies, sauces and chutneys and more! There will also be a chance to try some of our favourite local Sussex produce and place all of your Christmas orders. www.springbarnfarm.co.uk
28th November – 1st March Ice Skating in Steyne Gardens,
Worthing This is a great opportunity to practice your skills, or start from scratch, and lots of fun has been shared on the rink’s previous visits. The Marquee means that you can enjoy your skating on real ice, regardless of the weather outside. There will also be 23 Christmas market huts around the ice rink outside in Steyne Gardens which will be open at weekends for Christmas presents
29th November – 6th and 13th December East Beach Studios Christmas Wonder Gallery
East Beach, Worthing 10.00am -5.00pm East Beach Studios invite you to walk through a Wonder-Gallery of finery and fun for all ages. Santa may be walking around, mulled wine and roasted chestnuts abound and many fine, artistic and crafted gifts will be available for sale; things you cannot buy anywhere else.
2nd December Shoreham Christmas Festival
4.00pm – 8.00pm Come and enjoy the Christmas Festival in Shoreham-by-Sea with street entertainment, childrens rides/sideshows and a Christmas Market.
3rd December Late Night Christmas Shopping Event.
Steyning 6:00pm - 9:00pm There’ll be something for everyone: shopping, music, fun fair, entertainment, food and drink!!
4th/5th/6th December Christmas Tree Festival
St John’s Church, Ripley Road, Worthing 10.30am – 6.00pm In support of Chestnut Tree House Children’s Hospice this four day festival of family fun showing magnificent Christmas trees decorated by local businesses and sponsors. There is a Christmas Fair on Saturday.
5th December FVRA Spirit of Christmas
Kings parade, Findon Valley 5.00pm
Festive fun and entertainment includes a variety of children’s amusements, Vale School Choir, grand raffle, bottle tombola, hospitality from the shops, side shows, music from a Dutch Street Organ, stands with local charities, display of work from the Findon Valley Arts & Crafts Group and of course Father Christmas! There is also a children’s photograph prize winning competition to capture the best ‘Spirit of Christmas’ sparkle of the evening!!
6th December Arundel by Candlelight
1.00pm-7.00pm Featuring a Christmas Market with a wide range of stall-holders who are hand-picked for the quality and variety of their products; the food and drink providers include seasonal treats such as roasted chestnuts, mulled wine and hog roasts. Festive entertainment featuring traditional carols, Father Christmas, brass bands and local choirs. The Christmas tree lights will be officially switched on by Her Grace, the Duchess of Norfolk.
6th December West End Christmas Parade
The Parade will start at approx. 2pm at the junction of Heene Road/Rowlands Road. It will then proceed along Rowlands Road to Montague Place where you can sing carols with the Rotary.
6th -7th December Tudor Christmas
Michelham Priory, Nr Hailsham 11.00am-4.00pm Find out how the Tudors celebrated Christmas with food, archery, crafts and traditional entertainment. www.sussexpast.co.uk/properties-to-discover/michelham-priory
7th - 14th December Kids Xmas Gingerbread House Workshops Blatchington Mill Windmill, Hove 9.30am
13th and 20th December
Heene Community Centre, Worthing Come along with your children for a fun-filled morning, where you get to make and take away your very own foot high gingerbread house. All supplied, you just need to bring yourselves and lots of enthusiasm. A great way to spend some time with your little ones before Christmas. Class lasts three hours. www.brightoncakes.com
13th December Shoreham Christmas Market
9.00am-4.00pm A celebration of great festive food & drink from around the world with food tastings and over 80 traders taking part. Live festive music with carol singing and traditional Christmas entertainment.
13th December South East Christmas Fair
Fontwell Park Racecourse 9.30am-7.30pm The beautiful grounds will be dressed up specifically for Christmas with a
60ft pine Christmas tree, twinkling lights and floral Christmas decorations throughout the venues and grounds. You’ll meet over 150+ designers, producers and artisans from all across the South East showcasing exciting one of a kind unique gifts. Visit the Marquee, Premier Grandstand, Fontwell House and the outdoor Christmas market for those last minute Christmas gifts all in one place! www.fontwellpark.co.uk
15
December 5th – 17th January Sleeping Beauty
The Emporium Theatre, Brighton A knight, a princess, a witch and a dragon – all are present and correct in a merry mix of myth and magic for all the family. www.emporiumbrighton.com
December 5th – January 4th Aladdin
Worthing Museum 10.00am – 11.00am Dramapips for 2-5 year olds 11.30am – 12.30pm Artpips for 5 – 8 years Combining multi-sensory arts and drama to explore exciting themes linked to history, nature and culture. www.worthingmuseum.co.uk
Connaught Theatre, Worthing It’s a jewel encrusted family pantomime set to dazzle and delight so fasten your seat belts for a magical ride of mystery, sparkling romance and dazzling adventure with this year’s lavish production of Aladdin, where everyone can escape to a world of magic, where adventure beckons on this pantomime flight of spectacle, slapstick and song! www.worthingtheatres.co.uk
20th December Worthing’s Emporium Market
December 12th – January 1st Jack Frost’s Frozen Christmas
13th December Dramapips
Montague Place, Worthing 9.00am – 5.00pm This is a market with a difference bringing together over 45 stalls of delicious locally sourced food, bread, meats and deli stalls as well as craft, art, gifts and homewares. www.worthingemporium.co.uk
21st December Burning the Clocks
Brighton Seafront 6.30pm-8.00pm Burning the Clocks is a unique community event created by Same Sky that brings the whole city together to mark the shortest day. Local people make their own paper and willow lanterns and after processing through the city, they pass them into a blazing bonfire on Brighton beach, as a token of the year’s end. www.samesky.co.uk
22nd December Christmas Ceilidh
Corn Exchange, Brighton The best family knees-up on the block, with an under 10’s leisure lounge and a kids cocktail bar. 7.00pm www.brightondome.org
Christmas Shows November 22nd
Father Christmas Needs a Wee!
Connaught Studio, Worthing At every house Father Christmas eats and drinks the tasty treats that have been left for him. But when he reaches number ten he realises that he’s forgotten to do something rather important and he really, really, really needs a WEE! www.worthingtheatres.co.uk
December 1st – 3rd Miracle on 34th Street
Theatre Royal, Brighton Featuring all time classic songs such as, ‘It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas’, this heart warming tale is one for all the family and promises to get you in the mood for the happiest time of the year. www.agttickets.com
Pavillion Theatre, Worthing The sequel to Santa Claus – The Musical is another snow-capped adventure to the North Pole with a cast of new colourful characters joined by familiar festive faces. Santa and his elves are preparing for Christmas but the out-cast Jack Frost, who has been frozen in the ice for the last 20 years since the Ice Queen’s demise, begins to thaw and plot his revenge on Santa. www.worthingtheatres.co.uk
December 12th – January 11th Beauty and the Beast
Devonshire Park Theatre, Eastbourne Eastbourne’s famous pantomime returns with this classic tale of Belle and the beast, but can love break the spell? www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk
December 18th-21st Jack and the Beanstalk
Brighton Dome All children (and their giants) will find something to delight and enthrall them in this one man show: enormous shoes, tiny houses, showers of gold and a big, leafy explosion. www.brightondomw.co.uk
December 21st-31st December Sleeping Beauty
Ropetackle Arts Centre, Shoreham Will the Kingdom Of Nod wake up in time to see a certain young Princess be rescued by a handsome Prince – all on the eve of her eighteenth birthday? Will the evil Queen Maleficent’s unforgiving rule be ended by Scales The Dragon‘s magical breath? Will the brave(ish) baldy Muddles make it to knight-time to become Sir Naughtybottom? And we all know what a Naughtybottom needs don’t we!!? www.ropetacklecentre.co.uk
01903 620257 Sussex Coast
16
editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk Sussex Coast