What's On in Sussex

Sussex is ready to welcome you for a year filled with colour, creativity and coast-to-countryside events. Whether you’re drawn to vibrant seaside cities, peaceful gardens, world‑class culture or family‑friendly days out, you’ll find plenty to enjoy across East and West Sussex in every season.

2026 brings an exciting line‑up of celebrations. At Borde Hill, the much‑loved Jay Robin’s Rose Garden marks its 30th anniversary, with more than 750 David Austin roses across 100 varieties taking centre stage. Across the county, the Brighton Festival celebrates its 60th year, bringing theatre, music, dance and visual art to venues and open spaces throughout the city from 2–25 May 2026. East Sussex honours the 100th anniversary of Winnie‑the‑Pooh, with Ashdown Forest hosting themed walks, family activities and exhibitions inspired by the Hundred Acre Wood. Whilst in West Sussex, Chichester Cathedral welcomes visitors back to its spectacular Festival of Flowers, returning from 3rd – 6th June to mark 30 years with more than 50,000 blooms filling the historic nave and cloisters.For foodie fans the tasty Rye Bay Scallops festival is a great way to indulge in this delicious seafood running from 21st February - 1st March 26.

From dramatic coastline and rolling South Downs landscapes to headline festivals, historic re‑enactments and flourishing gardens, Sussex is the perfect place for a short break or longer escape. Start planning your 2026 adventure today — your Sussex experience is waiting.

What's on in Sussex this weekend?

To find out what's on in Sussex today or this weekend, use the search box above to narrow down your required date, explore the featured list or head to the bottom of the page and explore the list of events in Sussex. If you are on a budget look out for the free events (F) taking place across the county. Sussex means you're never far from an event, a place, or an adventure - guaranteed to keep you entertained and coming back for more.

• 13th - 15th Feberuary 26, Hastings Fat Tuesday Music Festival, East Sussex
• 14th - 22nd February 26, Kids for £5, Drusillas Park, Alfriston, East Sussex
• 14th - 21st February 26, Mudfest 2026, WWT Arundel Wetland Centre, Arundel, West Susses
• 14th February - 22nd March 26, Kids Trail: Mission Spring, Borde Hill Gardens, Haywards Heath, West Sussex
• 9th March - 11th April 26, Roald Dahl's The BFG, Chichester Festival Theatre, Chichester, West Sussex
• 11th March & 8th April 26, The Paint Club Painting Party at Heathfield Tavern, Heathfield, East Sussex
• 11th March 26, Spring Garden Tour, Bates Green Garden, Polegate, East Sussex
• 13th March 26, Open Day, Pallant House Gallery, Chichester, West Sussex (F)
• 20th - 22nd March 26, Spring Steam Gala, Bluebell Railway, East Sussex
• 21st March - 12th April 26, Become a Garden Explorer, Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens, Horsham, West Sussex
• 22nd March 26, Hastings Half Marathon, St Leonards on Sea, East Sussex
• 3rd April - 10th May 26, Bluebell Spectacular & Woodland Walk, Arlington, East Sussex
• 16th April - 1st May 26, Tulip Festival, Pashley Manor Gardens, Ticehurst, East Sussex
• 1st May - 4th May 26, Jack in the Green Festival, Hastings, East Sussex (F)

Staying overnight in Sussex?

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

Sussex events near me

Sussex hosts hundreds of exciting events, all year round for residents, day-trippers, and holidaymakers to enjoy. The guide below shows our full calendar of events in Sussex. Find what's happening near you by clicking the Map View button.