'Rowvember' will return to Chester this November, celebrating the city's world-famous Rows for an entire month.

This year's programme invites visitors to explore the only surviving continuous first-floor medieval galleries in Britain, through a mix of free and ticketed events. 

It follows last year's successful inaugural event, led by Heritage Chester CIC, which sought to celebrate The Rows, Chester's Grade I Listed covered galleries dating back to the 13th century.

The Rows will see pop-up choir performances, dance and theatre from University of Chester students, specialist tours, and interactive family activities.

The celebration aims to shine a spotlight on both the remarkable heritage of these unique structures and the vibrant businesses that call them home today. 

"Last year's inaugural Rowvember generated lots of interest," said Stuart Robinson, director at Heritage Chester.

"People were genuinely excited to learn about these Grade I Listed buildings they walk past every day. The Rows aren't a movie set or part of a theme park – they're a living, breathing part of Chester.

"Where else can you shop for contemporary fashion in a medieval gallery, enjoy lunch where merchants have traded for centuries, or discover an independent bookshop in a space that's been welcoming customers since the 1300s? 

"Rowvember celebrates this incredible blend of past and present." 

Rowevember's closing event will be an original film played in Chester Picturehouse. It will feature the face behind The Chester Blog, delving into his experiences of Chester over the past 12 years. 

Richard Trotter from The Chester Blog added: "Rowvember is exactly the kind of creative celebration that helps residents and visitors alike connect with Chester's extraordinary history." 

Throughout Rowvember, participating businesses will share their stories and reveal what makes trading in these 700-year-old galleries so special.

From independent shops tucked into medieval alcoves, to modern cafés with Roman foundations, each business adds to the Rows' continuing story. 

Furthmore, each day throughout November, archaeologist James Dixon will share fascinating tales about a different building within the Rows, revealing hidden histories and architectural secrets.

Rowvember runs from 1-30 November 2025, with events happening daily throughout Chester's historic Rows.

Most activities are free and drop-in, making it easy to explore at your own pace.

The full programme is available to explore on heritagechester.co.uk/Rowvember, with ticketed tours and workshops available for advance booking now. 

The celebration is part of Heritage Chester CIC's year-round programme of events promoting and preserving Chester's remarkable heritage.