Bluebell Railway 2nd - 4th May 26
Discover what's on in Sussex, including festivals, family-friendly events, theatre shows, garden open days, food festivals and seasonal events for a great day out in East and West Sussex. Whether you’re drawn to vibrant seaside cities for a holiday, peaceful gardens for a day out near you, world‑class culture for a short break away or events that the whole family will enjoy, you’ll find plenty to upcoming events to suit all ages and interests.
2026 brings an exciting line‑up of events and celebrations across the county of Sussex
From dramatic coastline and rolling South Downs landscapes to headline festivals, historic re‑enactments and flourishing gardens, make Sussex the perfect place for a seaside stay or countryside escape. Start planning your 2026 adventure today.
Explore our featured events list and discover what's on this May, June and July in East and West Sussex, from spring garden festivals to sporting events to take part in, family trials and outdoor adventures all waiting to be explored.
If you planning to come to South East England to enjoy one of the many events on offer in Sussex, find answers below to some frequently asked questions.
If you're travelling from outside the area for an event in Sussex, there are numerous hotels and other accommodation options to suit your needs >>> Search & Book Sussex Accommodation
You'll find daily updated listings of events across East and West Sussex by using the date filter in the search box above or scroll to the bottom of the page to see our full events guide to Sussex - great for providing inspiration and ideas.
Yes. Many of Sussex events are designed for families, including garden and nature trails, steam railway events, outdoor festivals and school-holiday activities. Use the 'type filter' in the search box above and choose family to find suitable events.
Yes. Look for events marked (F), including airshows, festivals and community celebrations.
Discover events for residents, day-trippers, and holidaymakers. Browse the full calendar of events in Sussex below or switch to Map View to find out what's happening near you. A visit to Sussex means you're never far from an event, a place, or an adventure - guaranteed to keep you entertained and coming back for more.
Number of results: 167
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Arts
Redhill, Nutfield
About the Event
Everything You Need to Paint a Masterpiece
Join The Paint Club for a relaxed and creative evening of painting! One of our friendly artists will guide you step-by-step from a blank canvas to your very own work of art.
Each artist…
Outdoor Event / Activities
Horsham
Take on one of the UK's biggest inflatable obstacle courses this summer!
24 - 26 July
Spanning 1,000ft with 34+ obstacles across 5 zones, it's a fun-filled test of skill and stamina for anyone over 1.2m tall.
Quiet sessions: 24 July between 9:30…
Theatre
West Sussex
This summer, Leonardslee Gardens is proud to welcome The Lord Chamberlain's Men for the very first time, presenting Shakespeare's Othello- one of the most powerful tragedies ever written.
Step back in time and experience Shakespeare as it was…
Countryside
Arlington, Polegate
Take an early morning amble through the spring woods to discover and learn some birdsongs. Sarah Wilesmith has worked in the woods for over a decade, and can help you tell your Coal Tit from your Great Tit, and Nuthatch from Treecreeper. We may even…
Guided Walk
Brighton
A smalltown mystery is a digital activity where you read a story, search for clues, answer questions and solve a mystery. You walk in the town centre for about an hour. After the walk it’s perfect to finish off with a coffee break to solve the…
Exhibition
Ardingly, Haywards Heath
Whatever the weather with more exhibitors, vehicles, and interactive experiences being brought indoors you can experience an unforgettable journey through time! Battles Through History, is the unique and exciting multi period living history military…
Sporting Events
Peasmarsh near Rye
This exciting event will be organised in conjuction with the Peasmarsh Memorial Hall Committee to help raise funds for the Village Hall. The race follows a challenging and scenic course on the quiet country lanes surrounding the pretty village of…
Theatre
Haywards Heath
Pinocchio by Carlo Collodi, adapted by Oliver Gray
Illyria brings Carlo Collodi's magical coming-of-age classic Pinocchio to Borde Hill's stunning Azalea Ring in a joyful, music-filled outdoor theatre performance perfect for all ages.
Since its…
Community
Ardingly
Art in Nature: Wakehurst Community Festival
8–9 May 2026 | Free Event (Booking Essential)
Ignite your creativity at Wakehurst's two‑day Community Festival celebrating Art in Nature. Enjoy a vibrant programme of accessible, hands‑on activities…
Sporting Events
Nutley
The Ashdown Forest 10 & 5 Mile is a test of endurance at its purest. Challenge yourself to conquer the 1568ft elevation and earn the unrivalled reward of breathtaking views across The Downs. The route explores hard packed trails through Ashdown…
Childrens Events
West Sussex
Let your little ones get stuck into this fun and creative crafting session for 18 months - 4 year olds with Kirsty from Make, Do & Trend.
Your budding artists shall be inspired to learn new skills as well as completing at least 4 themed crafts plus…
Sporting Events
Goudhurst
Enjoy the epic scenery, the race day buzz and delight in every twist and turn of this traffic free trail. Perfect for novices and experienced athletes alike, the course meanders through the narrow trails of this beautiful woodland. If the weather…
Gardens
Arlington, Polegate
The workshop will begin with an introduction to the cyanotype process, what it is, its history and show you all examples by artists and myself. I'll explain the chemicals involved which are non toxic and then perform a demonstration to show everyone…
Arts
Arundel
£48 per person, 18+ only, book online
This full‑day wood carving workshop introduces participants to the craft of wildlife carving under the guidance of the Bentley Wildlife Carvers. Attendees learn the fundamentals of carving as they shape a…
Gardens
Uckfield
Sat 2 May – Sun 7 June 2026
Step into the magical world of Alice in Wonderland at Sheffield Park and Garden for an enchanting trail through the garden, filled with characters and games inspired by Lewis Carroll's classic tale.
Follow the white…
Outdoor Event / Activities
Arundel
Want to experience wildlife in stunning detail? Our monthly Optics Days are here to help you find the perfect binoculars or scope, for your birding and wildlife adventures.
Taking place on the last Saturday of the month in our Discovery Hide,…
Community
Chichester
Join us for a laid-back Studio session where you'll have the chance to sketch and enjoy a drink or two in a friendly and informal environment, supported by one of our experienced artist educators.
We will set up the studio tables with a selection…
Arts
Haywards Heath
About the Event
Everything You Need to Paint a Masterpiece
Join The Paint Club for a relaxed and creative evening of painting! One of our friendly artists will guide you step-by-step from a blank canvas to your very own work of art.
Each artist…
Free Event
Eastbourne
Magnificent Motors is established as one of the biggest FREE motoring spectaculars on the south coast. More than 600 vintage and classic cars, motorbikes, buses and more all displayed on Eastbourne’s Western Lawns
Gardens
Arlington, Polegate
On Wednesday, July 8th, join us at Bates Green Garden for a Summer Propagation Workshop dedicated to the fascinating technique of taking cuttings. This practical session will help you master the different types of cuttings you can take in July,…
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