The fun family festival Jack in the Green, Hastings

Jack in the Green, Hastings

1st - 4th May 26 c Jonny Thompson

What's On in Sussex

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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.

Events in Sussex

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.

Visiting Chichester for an event, book a stay at Stubcroft Farm campsite

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.

What's on in East Sussex and West Sussex

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Number of results: 186

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  1. Alice in Wonderland trail

    Type

    Type:

    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…

    Venue

    Sheffield Park and Gardens, East Sussex

    Dates

    From:
    2 May 2026to7 June 2026Open 10:00 - 17:00
  2. Drink and Draw

    Type

    Type:

    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…

    Venue

    Pallant House Gallery, Chichester

    Dates

    From:
    16 July 2026Open 18:00 - 20:00
    From:
    20 Aug 2026Open 18:00 - 20:00
    From:
    17 Sept 2026Open 18:00 - 20:00
    From:
    15 Oct 2026Open 18:00 - 20:00
  3. Pop Inspired Portraits

    Type

    Type:

    Arts

    Chichester

    Explore portraiture through a Pop Art lens with award winning artist Wendy Barratt, creating bold and expressive works inspired by the Pop and the Figure exhibition at Pallant House Gallery.

    In this one-day workshop, you'll work directly from a…

    Venue

    Pallant House Gallery, Chichester

    Dates

    From:
    20 June 2026Open 10:30 - 16:00
  4. Sink & Soften - An Evening Yoga Practice with Calli Popham

    Type

    Type:

    Outdoor Event / Activities

    Haywards Heath

    Join us for a slow, embodied practice designed to help you land, listen, and let go, not by forcing release, but by creating the conditions for it to happen naturally. The practice will take place in the tranquillity of the South Lawn after hours,…

    Dates

    From:
    5 June 2026Open 17:00 - 18:00
  5. The Paint Club painting party at The Royal Oak & Castle

    Type

    Type:

    Arts

    Pevensey

    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…

    Dates

    From:
    18 May 2026Open 19:00 - 21:00
    From:
    2 June 2026Open 19:00 - 21:00
    From:
    15 June 2026Open 19:00 - 21:00
    From:
    20 July 2026Open 19:00 - 21:00
    From:
    4 Aug 2026Open 19:00 - 21:00
    From:
    17 Aug 2026Open 19:00 - 21:00
  6. Santa Special Steam Trains

    Type

    Type:

    Christmas

    Station Road, Tenterden

    We love Christmas at the Kent and East Sussex Railway and we have been welcoming families to meet Santa on our trains since 1974!

    There's nothing quite like the pleasure of a steam train ride knowing your child will meet Santa and receive a named…

    Dates

    From:
    29 Nov 2026
    From:
    5 Dec 2026to6 Dec 2026
    From:
    12 Dec 2026to13 Dec 2026
    From:
    19 Dec 2026to20 Dec 2026
    From:
    23 Dec 2026to24 Dec 2026
  7. The Paint Club painting party at Grounded @ The Forge

    Type

    Type:

    Arts

    Ringmer, Lewes

    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…

    Dates

    From:
    8 Oct 2026Open 19:00 - 21:00
  8. Home Education Stand Up Paddleboard Course

    Type

    Type:

    Outdoor Event / Activities

    Dengemarsh Road, Lydd

    Whether your child is a first-timer or an experienced paddler, our 3-week Home Ed SUP Programme is the perfect way to get out on the water, have fun, and develop new skills. All while gaining the BSUPA Ready to Ride certification, a recognised SUP…

    Dates

    From:
    30 Apr 2026to14 May 2026Open 09:30 - 17:00
    From:
    1 June 2026to15 June 2026Open 09:30 - 17:00
  9. Sheltered Lake Paddleboarding in Kent

    Type

    Type:

    Water Based Activities

    Romney Marsh

    Paddleboarding is a great fun activity for all the family (and dogs are welcome too). Head along to Lydd in Kent and try the Action Watersports paddleboarding experience package which includes tuition before you head out onto the water, handy tips…

    Venue

    Action Watersports, Kent

    Dates

    From:
    5 May 2026to30 June 2026
  10. Cyanotype Printing Workshop

    Type

    Type:

    Arts

    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…

    Dates

    From:
    27 Aug 2026Open 09:30 - 12:30
  11. Curious About Chichester

    Type

    Type:

    Walking

    West Street, Chichester

    Have fun (re)discovering Chichester with two quirky treasure‑hunt walks that get you spotting things you’ve never noticed before.
    It’s a fresh‑air adventure that’s fun, affordable, and perfect for all ages.

    Dates

    From:
    1 Mar 2026to31 Mar 2027Open 10:00 - 16:00
  12. Candle Making Workshops

    Type

    Type:

    Other

    Horsham

    Join local Chandler Ursula, founder of Wax and Willow, for an immersive candle-making experience in The Studio. Discover the artistry behind crafting the perfect candle as Ursula guides you through the different types of waxes and the science that…

    Dates

    From:
    6 June 2026Open 10:30 - 12:30
  13. Original Stormtrooper Meet & Greet

    Type

    Type:

    Father's Day

    Woodchurch, Ashford

    Get ready for a day full of fun as the Stormtroopers visit the Rare Breed Centre for special meet and greets at intervals throughout the day. It's the perfect chance to say hello to your favourite characters, take photos and make magical memories!

    Dates

    From:
    21 June 2026Open 10:00 - 17:00
  14. Eclipse

    Type

    Type:

    Theatre

    Chichester

    In the kitchen of an old Devon rectory, the daughter who stayed and the son who moved away make conversation with their current and former partners, the milkman, the postman, the care workers. They talk about the weather, the roads, the toaster, the…

    Venue

    Chichester Festival Theatre, Chichester

    Dates

    From:
    8 May 2026to6 June 2026
  15. Open Air Opera: The Marriage of Figaro

    Type

    Type:

    Theatre

    Haywards Heath

    Open-air opera returns to Borde Hill the summer as leading touring companyWild Artspresents Mozart's comic masterpiece,The Marriage of Figaro– a sparkling tale of secret lovers, clever disguises and theatrical mischief.

    Taking place on the South…

    Dates

    From:
    4 July 2026Open 19:00 - 22:00
  16. Leonardslee Comedy Club

    Type

    Type:

    Comedy

    Horsham

    Join us at Leonardslee Comedy Club for an evening of live stand-up and plenty of laughs!
    Join us at Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens for top-quality stand-up from Epic Comedy, enjoyed in a brilliant atmosphere and intimate setting on a Friday evening.…

    Dates

    From:
    15 May 2026Open 17:30 - 21:30
  17. Midhurst Rother College Contemporary Craft Show

    Type

    Type:

    Christmas

    Midhurst

    The Sussex Guild is delighted to be returning to the spacious, modern surroundings of Midhurst Rother College to showcase our contemporary crafts this Christmas.

    Dates

    From:
    5 Dec 2026to6 Dec 2026Various Opening Times
  18. McFly - Borde Hill Summer Series

    Type

    Type:

    Music

    Haywards Heath

    With Special Guests The Feeling & Remember Monday

    McFly are set to light up our stunning Parkland at Borde Hill on Friday 14th August, headlining an unmissable summer concert filled with huge hits and a stellar supporting lineup. With gates opening…

    Dates

    From:
    14 Sept 2026Open 16:00 - 22:30
  19. Cyanotype Printing Workshop

    Type

    Type:

    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…

    Dates

    From:
    4 June 2026Open 09:30 - 12:30
  20. Little Crafters: Busy Bees & Bugs

    Type

    Type:

    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…

    Dates

    From:
    24 May 2026Open 10:30 - 11:40