Take to two wheels with a Segway experience at Tilegate Park in West Sussex

Segway Special at Go Ape Crawley

Tilegate Park, West Sussex

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, outdoor experiences 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 of upcoming events to suit all ages and interests.

Events in Sussex

Sussex Events

2026 brings an exciting line‑up of events and celebrations across the county of Sussex. From airshows to outdoor festivals, family attractions and seasonal events, you'll always find lots of exciting events in Sussex. This summer it's time to look to ths skies in Sussex with the return of  Airbourne: Eastbourne International Airshow (F), offering a day of high flying free family-friendly action along Eastbourne seafront (3 August - 16 August). The partial solar eclipse will darken the skies over Sussex on the 12 August, ahead of the Astronomy Festival in  Herstmonceux, East Sussex, which offers the chance to enjoy camping, children's activities, stargazing and planetarium shows (28th - 30th August). Not quite as high as the skies - but not far off - take to the trees with Go Ape at Tilgate Park, Crawley - this summer you can save with the Great British Summer Savings scheme.

Autumn doesn't mean the Sussex events diary gets any quieter, as a host of outdoor and immersive events arrive on the calendar. Garden lovers shouldn't miss the chance to visit the Autumn Plant Fair at West Dean Gardens (13 September) or to see McFly headlining the summer concerts at Borde Hill Gardens. For immersive events fans, over 300 re-enactors take part in The Battle of Hastings Re-enactment on the very spot where King Harold and Duke William fought (10 - 11 October) and the sell-out Bluebell Railway Ghost Train returns (22 October - 1st November) with some spine-tingling family fun, ahead of a Murder Mystery Dinner at Leonardslee Gardens (31 October).

From dramatic coastlines and the rolling South Downs to headline festivals, historic re-enactments and award-winning gardens, Sussex is the perfect destination for a seaside stay or countryside escape. Start planning your 2026 adventure today. 

Stop Scrolling and Go Ape

What's on in Sussex this July, August and September

Explore our featured events list and discover what's on this July, August and September in East and West Sussex, from garden events and live music to sporting occasions, family trails and outdoor adventures.

From coastal airshows and outdoor adventures to theatre, art, gardening and heritage events, Sussex offers one of the most varied events calendars in South East England.

DoubleTree by Hilton Brighton Metropole overnight stay and visit to Royal Pavilion

Plan your visit to Sussex

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.

Frequently asked questions about events in Sussex

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 to plan your visit.

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) or add free to the keyword search box and you will find airshows, festivals, community celebrations and seasonal events taking place across East and West Sussex throughout the year.

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

Number of results:

Number of results: 143

, currently showing 21 to 40.

  1. Beer & Cider by the Sea

    Type

    Type:

    Food

    Eastbourne

    Beer & Cider By The Sea will serve up another selection of real ales, craft beers, artisan ciders and perries for summer 2027, after its sell-out success. The three-day music, food and drink festival, which is one of the biggest on the south coast,…

    Dates

    From:
    14 May 2027to16 May 2027
  2. Peter Pan: A musical adventure

    Type

    Type:

    Theatre

    Chichester

    One of the most beloved stories of all time, in a wonderful version with songs by Stiles & Drewe (Honk!, The Three Little Pigs, Half a Sixpence), Peter Pan – A musical adventure is the perfect Christmas show for all the family.

    Join Chichester…

    Venue

    Chichester Festival Theatre, Chichester

    Dates

    From:
    14 Dec 2026to30 Dec 2026
  3. A Tale of Two Cities

    Type

    Type:

    Theatre

    Chichester

    Adapted by Terence Rattigan (The Winslow Boy, The Deep Blue Sea) and John Gielgud, based on Dickens' classic novel, this epic story of love, sacrifice and redemption asks: is there any price too great to pay for love? A Tale of Two Cities at…

    Venue

    Chichester Festival Theatre, Chichester

    Dates

    From:
    9 Feb 2027to13 Feb 2027
  4. Eridge Park 10 Trail Challenge

    Type

    Type:

    Sporting Events

    Eridge

    This corker of a race returns in 2026 to bring us 10 miles of trail delights and glory. Dubbed the 'favourite of off-road' races, the course is renowned for its captivating views, steep & narrow climbs and copious quanties of mud. Prepare to fall in…

    Dates

    From:
    27 Sept 2026
  5. Hastings Half Marathon 2027

    Type

    Type:

    Sporting Events

    Grosvenor Crescent, Saint Leonards on Sea

    The energy: electric
    The crowd support: epic
    The course: achievably challenging
    The vibes: unmatched

    WINNER OF MIDSIZED EVENT OF THE YEAR AT THE 2025 RUNNING INDUSTRY AWARDS!

    Join thousands of runners on the start line at the iconic - and…

    Dates

    From:
    21 Mar 2027Open 10:30 -
  6. A Magical Christmas at Petworth House and Park

    Type

    Type:

    Christmas

    Petworth

    This Christmas, journey through grand state rooms of Petworth House where creativity and nature come together. Marvel beneath the stars, gaze up at the moon, and discover an enchanting festive experience inspired by the natural world.

    Venue

    Petworth House & Park, Chichester

    Dates

    From:
    28 Nov 2026to3 Jan 2027Open 10:30 - 16:00
  7. Garden Tour & Cream Tea at West Dean Gardens

    Type

    Type:

    Tour

    Chichester

    Enjoy an exclusive tour of the famous West Dean Gardens in West Sussex, with the senior Garden Team followed by a delicious cream tea in the prestigious Oak Hall. Seasonal highlights will be explored, including the Walled Kitchen Garden, Victorian…

    Venue

    West Dean Gardens, Chichester

    Dates

    From:
    29 Sept 2026Open 13:00 - 16:00
    From:
    27 Oct 2026Open 13:00 - 16:00
  8. Halloween at Leonardslee: The Potion Master's Quest

    Type

    Type:

    Outdoor Event / Activities

    Lower Beeding, Horsham

    A spellbinding Halloween adventure awaits at Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens...

    Venue

    Leonardslee Gardens, Horsham

    Dates

    From:
    17 Oct 2026to1 Nov 2026Open 09:00 - 14:00
  9. Landscape Photography Workshop at Farleys

    Type

    Type:

    Arts

    Lewes

    Join us at Farleys, either as a complete beginner or a keen improver, for a workshop in which Andrew Hasson will introduce some theories of landscape photography and, equally importantly, introduce workshop attendees to the idea of forward planning…

    Dates

    From:
    24 Sept 2026Open 10:00 - 16:00
  10. Beginners Photography Workshop

    Type

    Type:

    Workshop

    Horsham

    Want to start a new hobby or learn more about photography and escape auto mode? Learn the fundamentals indoors and practice it all outdoors exploring Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens.

    Venue

    Leonardslee Gardens, Horsham

    Dates

    From:
    16 Oct 2026Open 09:30 - 13:00
  11. Halloween at Leonardslee: The Potion Master's Quest

    Type

    Type:

    Outdoor Event / Activities

    Horsham

    A mysterious quest begins in the gardens this October and throughout half-term. Young alchemists are invited to collect their Alchemist's Activity Book before setting off on a self-led journey through Leonardslee's beautiful autumn gardens.

    Along…

    Dates

    From:
    17 Oct 2026to1 Nov 2026Open 09:00 - 16:00
  12. Tour | British Landscapes: A Sense of Place

    Type

    Type:

    Arts

    Chichester

    Join one of our experienced guides for a tour of our current exhibition, British Landscapes: A Sense of Place.

    Explore our current exhibition British Landscapes: A Sense of Place with one of our guides and let them share their knowledge and passion…

    Venue

    Pallant House Gallery, Chichester

    Dates

    From:
    19 Sept 2026Open 15:00 - 15:50
    From:
    17 Oct 2026Open 15:00 - 15:50
    From:
    20 Oct 2026Open 11:00 - 11:50
  13. Brett Lydd Half Marathon & 20 Mile

    Type

    Type:

    Sporting Events

    Lydd

    This long-established and highly coveted running event takes place on a pancake flat course, using the wide, quiet country lanes surrounding the marsh town of Lydd in Kent.

    Venue

    Nice Work, East Sussex

    Dates

    From:
    4 Apr 2027Open 09:00 - 14:30
  14. Curious About Brighton

    Type

    Type:

    Walking

    Brighton

    Explore Brighton’s big sights and hidden corners, uncover quirky stories, and enjoy 1–2 hours of fresh‑air exploring on each fully wheelchair and buggy‑friendly route.

    Dates

    From:
    1 July 2026to31 Mar 2027Open 10:00 - 16:00
  15. Lino Printing Workshop: Embracing Nature

    Type

    Type:

    Arts

    Lower Beeding, Horsham

    Learn the art of Lino printing in the peaceful setting of The Studio here at Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens in West Sussex

    Venue

    Leonardslee Gardens, Horsham

    Dates

    From:
    21 Sept 2026
  16. The Spellbound Express

    Type

    Type:

    Childrens Events

    Tenterden

    This October half term, join us at Kent and East Sussex Railway on a spellbinding steam train adventure bursting with Halloween fun for little witches, wizards, and magical mischief-makers.

    Dates

    From:
    28 Oct 2026to30 Oct 2026
  17. Crowborough 10k & 5k

    Type

    Type:

    Sporting Events

    Crowborough

    The Crowborough 10k has been a superb race offering from hosts, Crowborough Runners, for over the last thirty years. The 5k, which is a more recent addition to the event, has also proven an incredibly popular running race in East Sussex.

    Venue

    Nice Work, East Sussex

    Dates

    From:
    1 Nov 2026Open 10:00 - 12:00
  18. Grand Winters Makers Fair at The British Engineerium

    Type

    Type:

    Christmas

    Hove, Brighton & Hove

    Paper Daisy Events return to the beautiful & iconic British Engineerium in Hove for a spectacular & much anticipated Grand Winter Makers Fair over the weekend 21st & 22nd November, showcasing in excess of 120 small creative businesses, all specially…

    Dates

    From:
    21 Nov 2026to22 Nov 2026Open 10:30 - 17:00
  19. Discover the Wild: Foraging Walk at West Dean

    Type

    Type:

    Walking

    Chichester

    Step away from the everyday and discover the delicious wild foods growing across the West Dean estate. Whether you're new to foraging or want to deepen existing knowledge, join a professional forager for a relaxed, hands-on walk through the…

    Venue

    West Dean Gardens, Chichester

    Dates

    From:
    17 Oct 2026to18 Oct 2026Open 11:00 - 13:30
  20. St Michael's Hospice Run

    Type

    Type:

    Sporting Events

    Seafront, Bexhill-on-Sea

    Join us for this coastal charity run and help support the incredible work of St Michael's Hospice. Whether you choose the 5k or 10k route, you'll enjoy a beautiful stretch of seafront while raising vital funds for local hospice care.

    Race…

    Dates

    From:
    31 Jan 2027Open 10:30 - 12:30