What's On in 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.

Sussex Events

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. 

What's on in Sussex

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.

• A Midsummer Night's Dream
  18 September - 17 October 26  | Chichester Festival Theatre, Chichester, West Sussex
• Landscape Photography Workshop
  24 September 26 | Farleys House and Gallery, Lewes, East Sussex
• Garden Tour & Cream Tea
  29 September & 27 October | West Dean Gardens, Chichester, West Sussex
• Late Summer Sketching Workshop with Anna Ribo
  30 September 26 | Gravetye Manor, West Hoathly, West Sussex
• Wallace & Gromit Fantastic Fungi Trail
  17 October - 1st November 26 | Wakehurst, Haywards Heath, West Sussex
• Go Ape Adults Only Adventures
  16 & 23 October 26 | Go Ape Crawley, Tilgate Park, West Sussex 
• Giants of Steam
  16 - 18 October 26 | Bluebell Railway, Sheffield Park Station, East Sussex
• Illuminating Art Light Experience
  23 - 31 October 26 | Chichester Cathedral, Chichester, West Sussex
• Half Term Horrors
  24 - 30 October 26 | Knockhatch Adventure Park, Hailsham, East Sussex
• Pallant Proms
  30 October 27 November & 18 December 26 | Pallant Gallery, Chichester, West Sussex
• Christmas Market
  20 - 22 November 26 | Weald & Downland Living Museum, Singleton, West Sussex
• Snowdog Sculpture Trail
  28 November - 10 January 27 | Sheffield Park & Gardens, Uckfield, East Sussex

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.

Plan your visit to Sussex

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.

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'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.

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.