Discover cultural, traditional and country events in Hastings and Sussex, celebrating local heritage, seasonal traditions and community festivals. From historic celebrations and annual favourites to country fairs and rural shows, these events showcase the rich culture and character of the Sussex coast and countryside.
South of England Showground
Selsfield Road, Ardingly, West Sussex
AboutThe South of England Show is one of the UK’s best-loved countryside events. It takes place every June at the South of England Showground in Ardingly, Sussex. The three-day event attracts thousands of visitors from across the South East. Farming Heritage and Rural Traditions Since 1967 Organised by the South of England Agricultural
AboutHastings Pirates Day is a vibrant, exhilarating event that transforms the historic seaside town of Hastings, UK, into a swashbuckling haven. This annual summer extravaganza draws crowds of enthusiastic buccaneers, families and history lovers, all eager to enjoy a day of high-seas fun. The Spirit of Hastings Pirates Day The heart of Hastings
AboutHastings Old Town Carnival Week takes place every summer in the Old Town of Hastings, East Sussex. August Celebrations in Hastings Old Town The carnival week usually happens during the first week of August. Winkle Island officially opens the celebrations. During the week, organisers host concerts, street parties, charity races and Morris dancing
Monkings Farm
Hastings Road, Horns Cross, East Sussex
AboutRural Past Times Show is one of East Sussex’s most popular countryside events. Held annually at Monkings Farm in Horns Cross, near Hastings and Rye, the show celebrates traditional farming, vintage machinery and rural heritage with a full weekend of family-friendly entertainment. Vintage Tractors, Steam Engines and Rural Heritage Visitors can explore impressive
Western Lawns
King Edward's Parade, Eastbourne, East Sussex
AboutThe Eastbourne Airshow (Airbourne) stands as one of the UK’s most spectacular summer events and attracts visitors to the South Coast every August. The organisers host it on Eastbourne’s iconic seafront and it ranks among Europe’s largest free seaside aviation events. Because of this, it draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
The Polegrove
Brockley Road, Bexhill-on-sea, East Sussex
AboutThe Bexhill 100 Classic & Custom Car Show takes place each year at Polegrove Recreation Ground in Bexhill-on-Sea. The town earned its place in motoring history as the birthplace of British motor racing in 1902. Celebrating Bexhill’s Motoring Heritage The event celebrates Bexhill’s rich motoring heritage. It showcases an impressive collection of classic
AboutHastings Week is an annual celebration in the historic town of Hastings. This vibrant event honours the town’s rich history, dating back to 1066 when the famous Battle of Hastings took place. Events run all week, with a massive bonfire and fireworks display on Saturday 17th. Mayor’s Opening Ceremony and Civic Awards The
AboutThe Battle of Hastings Re-enactment marks the 960th anniversary of the legendary 1066 battle. It will take place on 10–11 October 2026 at Battle Abbey. This iconic event invites visitors to experience the Norman Conquest where it actually happened. Celebrating 960 Years Since the Battle of 1066 To mark 960 years since King
AboutHastings Borough Bonfire Society’s Torchlit Procession and Fireworks – Saturday 17th October 2026. Bonfire societies from all over Sussex march through the streets of Hastings in a procession of drums, flares and flaming torchlights. Spectators will see a huge bonfire on the beach, watch the effigy burn and enjoy a spectacular firework display. The
AboutEvery year on 5 November, the historic town of Lewes hosts one of the UK’s most famous Bonfire Night celebrations. Known as the “Bonfire Capital of the World”, Lewes Bonfire attracts thousands of visitors who come to experience its torchlit processions, dramatic fireworks, traditional costumes, and centuries-old Sussex customs. History of Lewes Bonfire
