Events suitable for the whole family are never hard to come by in Sussex thanks to a range of tourist hot spots including the stunning South Downs National Park, two cities, Chichester and Brighton, an array of seaside resorts, characterful towns, and charming villages. Sussex hosts hundreds of exciting events, all year round for residents, day-trippers, and holidaymakers to enjoy.
To find out what's on in Sussex today or this weekend, use the search box above to narrow down your required date. Families on a budget can look out for the many free events (F) taking place. If you're looking for what's on when it's raining, the coastal geography of Sussex means you can switch the beach for a trip to a local castle, all of which have a calendar of seasonal events to entertain children and adults. You'll find an enviable supply of festivals in Sussex, from food and drink festivals bursting with local produce which is amongst the best in the UK to events celebrating English wine, as this county has the ideal growing conditions and is home to an array of vineyards giving a unique flavour to any event. Sussex means you're never far from an event, a place, or an adventure - guaranteed to keep you entertained and coming back for more.
Chichester Cathedral turns 950 in 2025 - don't miss the chance to visit the year long exhibition or experience one of the many events celebrating this anniversary, which all culminate with a spectacular light show in October. It's also 200 years since the start of the mordern railway, enjoy a trip of one of the Sussex steam railways as part of Railway 200. Grab your diary and start planning your next visit to Sussex, make sure you don't miss some of the most popular events happening across the county - Rye Bay Scallops Week, Rye (22nd February - 2nd March), Bluebell Railway Branch Line Gala, Uckfield (14th - 16th March), Brighton Festival (3rd - 26th May 25), Beer & Cider by the Sea, Eastbourne (16th - 18th May 2025), Chichester Pride (24th May 25), English Wine Week (21st - 29th June).
Take a look at our featured list for inspiration and then scroll to the bottom of the page to see hundreds of more events 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
The guide below shows our full calendar of events in Sussex. Whether you're local or visiting the area, find what's happening near you by clicking the Map View button.
Number of results: 103
, currently showing 81 to 100.
School Holidays
Petworth
Head to the stunning Petworth House and Park, West Sussex this February half term and enjoy a dazzling night to remember. With two colourful laser light shows, each last approximately 20 minutes, its a great way to kick off the half term holidays.
Music
Eastbourne
With more than 100 concerts across the season, Eastbourne Bandstand has a packed line-up in 2025, including the return of the 1812 Proms & Firework Nights on Wednesday evenings from 11th June to 3rd September (except 18th June), and Traditional…
Outdoor Event / Activities
Pulborough
Step into a world of wonder and excitement at the Sussex Steam Rally.
With a variety of exhibits from steam traction engines to vintage vehicles with trade stalls, local crafts and a traditional fun fair to keep the whole family entertained.
Childrens Events
Berwick
Make wild memories this Easter Holidays at Drusillas Zoo Park!
Eggsplorers are you ready for a crackin' good time this Easter?
Give the kids eggsactly what they need this Easter with a zooper day out at Drusillas Park - voted one of the best days…
Festival
East Grinstead
DadFest is returning to the South East for the second year, with a fun-packed weekend of activities for dads and children all ages. And what's more it is free for children. This unique festival takes place over two days in the summer and was awarded…
Music
169--170, Brighton
Andrew Weatherall and Sean Johnstone bring their out-there down tempo club night to Glasgow for a bi-monthly residency.
Exhibitions
Chichester
Dive into the life and work of Dora Carrington – a remarkable artist who defied social norms with her bohemian lifestyle.
School Holidays
Rye
Rye Bay Scallop Week - the perfect opportunity to indulge in seafood delights!
Family
Battle
The one and only Battle of Hastings re-enactment takes place on the very spot where King Harold and Duke William fought in 1066. Don't miss 500 reenactors recreate the drama and intensity of this legendary conflict.
LGBTQ+
Chichester
Chichester Pride is back in Sussex this summer on Saturday 24th May 2025!
Following its sucessful inaugral event last year, Chichester Pride will take place on the leafy green front lawn at Chichester College between 12-7pm. Be prepared for a…
Food
Amberley
Celebrate the wonderful women in your life this Mother's Day and treat them to an unforgettable experience with our lavish Nyetimber Afternoon tea. Delight in an array of delectable treats paired exquisitely with a glass of English sparkling wine,…
Music
Eastbourne
The award winning Eastbourne Pride event is back and promises a day full of fun, love and support for the LGBT community.
Local charity BourneOutLGBT present their family friendly and inclusive Pride event to the Eastbourne community. With the…
Theatre
Chichester
Adapted by Rachel Wagstaff and Duncan Abel from Paula Hawkins's novel – an international phenomenon selling over twenty million copies worldwide – this gripping new play will keep you guessing until the final moment. Multi-talented actor, novelist…
Childrens Events
Chichester
This musical adaptation of the award-winning children's book will delight audiences young and old with beautiful puppets, catchy tunes and an uplifting tale of self-acceptance for all the family. Join them this half term for a dazzling adventure,…
Sporting Events
Eastbourne
Over 35's tennis championships featuring players from all over the UK, at one of the worlds best grass court venues. Watch for free in the beautiful surroundings of Devonshire Park.
All age groups are catered for up to 75 for Women and 80 for Men.…
Christmas
WORTHING
Worthing Ice Rink will return to Steyne Gardens for the winter.
Food
Eastbourne
The full music line-up has been announced for this year’s Beer & Cider by the Sea.
The three-day event takes place on Friday, Saturday and Sunday May 16-18th on the Western Lawns on Eastbourne seafront.
Festival
Lewes
The Love Supreme Jazz Festival is a three-day greenfield music festival held annually on the first weekend of July in Glynde Place in the South Downs of East Sussex. It includes a spectrum of musical styles adjacent to jazz, such as funk, soul,…
Other
West Chiltington, Pulborough
Join us for a family fun day out at the ABC Animal Sanctuary Annual Open Weekend.
Meet the animals • live music
refreshments • variety of stalls
tombola • bric-a-brac • kids corner
face painting • groom a pony
horse parade • tea & cakes at Bertie's…
Gardens
Rogate
Working with the National Garden Scheme, Sandhill Farm House in Rogate, West Sussex near Petersfield is open for a special Snowdrop day on the 9th February 25. Home of author and principal of The English Gardening School, this one-acre garden is a…