What's On in Sussex

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.

Top Sussex Events Not To Miss in 2026

2026 brings an exciting line‑up of events and celebrations across the county of Sussex

• World of Wizardry, Bluebell Railway, Sheffield Park Station, Uckfield, East Sussex
  24th, 25th, 27th - 30th May 26
  A magical adventure of enchantment and adventure for all the family at Horsted Keynes Station.
• Beach Life Music Festival, Eastbourne Bandstand, Eastbourne, East Sussex
  30th & 31st May 2026
  Family-friendly free seaside music festival (F).
• Treetop Challenge, Go Ape, Tilegate Park, Crawley, West Sussex
  Ongoing 
  Exhilarating family-friendly adventure up in the tree canopy, with Tarzan swings and ziplines.
• Rose Week, Pashley Manor Gardens, Wadhurst, East Sussex
  12th - 20th June 2026
  With rose themed talks and walks and the chance to enjoy the beautiful English Rose.
• Summer Season, Chichester Festival Theatre, Chichester, West Sussex
  Includes 45 Years (12th June – 11th July 2026) and My Fair Lady (6th July – 5th September 2026)
  Award-winning theatre shows full of secrets, intrigue and life-changing stories.
• Airbourne: Eastbourne International Airshow, Eastbourne Seafront, East Sussex
  13th - 16th August 2026
  Featuring the Red Arrows ,The Starlings Aerobatics Team and Aerosuperbatics Wing Walkers (F)
• Battle of Hastings Re-enactment, Battle Abbey, Battle, East Sussex
  10th & 11th October 2026
  Dramatic living history event that changed the course of English history.

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. 

What's on in Sussex this May, June and July?

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.

• Bluebell Spectacular & Woodland Walk
  3rd April - 10th May 26 | Arlington Bluebell Walk, Arlington, East Sussex
• Alice in Wonderland Trail
  2nd May - 7th June 26 | Sheffield Gardens, Uckfield, East Sussex
• Festival of Flowers
  3rd - 6th June 26 | Chichester Cathedral, Chichester, West Sussex
• Painting Party 
  16th June & 21st July | Paint Club, Tottington Manor, Henfield, West Sussex
• Peacehaven Trail 10K Run
  28th June 26 | Nice Work, Peacehaven, East Sussex
• Plant Fair
  5th July 26 | Parham House and Gardens, Pulborough, West Sussex
• Music in the Gardens
  12th & 26th July, 9th & 30th August | Borde Hill Gardens, Haywards Heath, West Sussex
• The Labyrinth Challenge
  24th - 26th July 26 | Leonardslee Gardens, Haywards Heath, West Sussex

Planning your visit to Sussex events

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.

Planning a short break around an event 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

What's on in Sussex today or this weekend?

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.

Are there any family-friendly events in Sussex?

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.

Are there free events in Sussex?

Yes. Look for events marked (F), including airshows, festivals and community celebrations. 

Sussex events near me

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.