Horsham, West Sussex
Discover what's on in Sussex, including festivals, family-friendly events, theatre shows, garden trails, 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.
2026 brings an exciting line‑up of events and celebrations across the county of Sussex. From outdoor adventures to festivals, workshops to seasonal events, you'll always find lots of exciting events in Sussex. This autumn the Bonfire Society Procession returns along Eastbourne seafront, celebrating its 25th anniversary, with a beach-side bonfire and fireworks (3 October) (F) ahead of some festive fun in Little Chelsea, with the festive Christmas lights and fireworks on (4 December). The thrilling Go Ape Sundown Adventures returns to Tilgate Park, Crawley, offering visitors the chance to experience the treetops after dark (16 October - 8 November).
Autumn doesn't mean the Sussex events diary gets any quieter, as a host of outdoor and immersive events arrive on the calendar. For living history 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) ahead of this year's Guy Fawkes Celebrations in Battle (7 November). The sell-out Bluebell Railway Ghost Train returns (22 October - 1 November) with some spine-tingling family fun, along with a Murder Mystery Dinner at Tottington Manor, West Sussex (31 October).
From dramatic coastlines and the rolling South Downs to fireworks, 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.
Explore our featured events list and discover what's on this September, October and November in East and West Sussex, from garden events and live music to sporting occasions, family trails and outdoor adventures.
From coastal celebrations and historic re-enactments to family attractions, theatre performances and countryside adventures, Sussex offers one of the most varied events calendars in South East England.
If you're 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 to plan your visit.
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's 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) 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.
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: 147
, currently showing 101 to 120.
Outdoor Event / Activities
Lower Beeding, Horsham
Come and enjoy a seasonal walk with the Head Gardener at Leonardslee Gardens. See the best places to enjoy Autumnal colour and learn about how we manage the garden and estate at this magical time of year.
Sporting Events
Pett, Hastings
This cross country event is great for all the family, with the main race being accompanied by a Fun Run and the Children's Scurry. There truly is something for everyone and afterwards, bask in the festive spirit and enjoy a yummy mince pie. Explore…
Christmas
Haywards Heath
Enjoy some festive fun and challenges at Elf Training Camp – before heading into Santa's Grotto to receive a special Christmas gift at Borde Hill Gardens this Christmas.
Bonfire Night
Battle
The world’s oldest bonfire society
In 1646, St Mary’s Church allocated 2 shillings and 6 pence in funds for gunpowder treason rejoicing. Since then there have been annual celebrations in the town of Battle.
Halloween
Chichester
Dare to take on the Monster Maze this Halloween? Friday Fright Night on 30 October, 3:30pm - 7pm at Aldingbourne Country Centre, near Chichester, West Sussex
Outdoor Event / Activities
Cranbrook
Go Ape Sundown Adventures are back for autumn 2026 at Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest in Kent!
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.
Water Based Activities
Lydd
Three hours of dedicated Jet Ski time with exclusive use of the lake for Jet Skis at Action Watersports in Kent.
Theatre
Brighton
Our popular backstage tours are back!
Water Based Activities
Lydd
Summer holidays might be over, but the Aqua Park fun definitely isn't. Even better, pre-book a session for 5 or more people and enjoy the Aqua Park for just £19.99pp!
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.
Special Events
Lydd
A rare opportunity to bring your own Jet Ski and ride on our private freshwater lake in the South of England.
Fireworks
Robertsbridge
The Sussex bonfire season goes out with a bang with the Robertsbridge Bonfire and Torchlight Procession.
Outdoor Event / Activities
Lower Beeding, Horsham
Step into a world of wonder and join us on the hunt for marvellous mushrooms in the enchanting woodland gardens at Leonardslee.
Free Event
Eastbourne
Airbourne: Eastbourne International Airshow is scheduled to return for its 33rd year from 12 – 15 August 2027, bringing one of the South East's top events back to the South Coast.
Theatre
Chichester
Following smash hit runs in London, New York and Melbourne, Heathers the Musical comes to Chichester - wickedly funny, deliciously dark and full of big fun.
Theatre
Chichester
Direct from a London run, The Last Laugh imagines three of Britain's all-time greatest comedy heroes – Tommy Cooper, Eric Morecambe and Bob Monkhouse – in a dressing room, discussing the secrets of life, death, comedy and what it means to be really…
Theatre
Chichester
Actor, author and podcaster Giovanna Fletcher stars in the world stage premiere of Before I Go To Sleep at Chichester Festival Theatre, West Sussex. Based on the international bestselling novel by S.J. Watson which became a hit film, this tense,…
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.
Food
Horsham
Celebrate 15 years of The Velvet Rooms with an unforgettable evening inspired by the dazzling decadence of the Roaring Twenties. Slip into your finest flapper dresses, fedoras, and feathers, and prepare to become part of an immersive, interactive…
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