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.
AboutRye Bonfire is one of the most famous Bonfire Night celebrations in Sussex. It attracts thousands of visitors each year. The Rye & District Bonfire Society organises the event. It features a torchlit procession, the town’s famous burning boat ceremony, a large bonfire and a spectacular fireworks display. The event showcases strong Sussex bonfire
AboutThe Christmas Light Tractor Run is an annual festive event bringing a spectacular procession of brightly decorated tractors to Hastings and the surrounding area. Combining Christmas lights, community spirit and charity fundraising, it is a popular event for families and visitors during December. Christmas Tractors in Hastings The procession begins at The Stade
AboutJack in the Green is one of Hastings’ most popular annual events. It ranks among the largest traditional May Day celebrations in the UK. The festival takes place over the Early May Bank Holiday weekend. It transforms Hastings Old Town into a vibrant celebration of music, dancing, folklore and community spirit. Thousands of visitors
Herstmonceux Castle Estate
Herstmonceux Castle, Hailsham, East Sussex
AboutThe Medieval Heritage Weekend at Herstmonceux Castle returns to East Sussex from 1–3 May 2027, bringing three days of medieval history, living-history displays, reenactments and entertainment to the grounds of the historic moated castle. The May Bank Holiday event offers visitors the chance to experience medieval life through combat displays, traditional crafts and historical
AboutThe Famous May Day Motorbike Run to Hastings is an annual event full of tradition and adrenaline. Held on the first Monday of May, it draws motorbike enthusiasts from across the United Kingdom and beyond. Riders celebrate the open road, the camaraderie of the biking community and the enduring spirit of freedom. History
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 Pirate Day is one of the most popular annual events in Hastings, attracting thousands of visitors to the historic Old Town and seafront each summer. For one weekend, pirates of all ages take over the town, creating a lively atmosphere with colourful costumes, live music, family entertainment and themed activities. Guinness World
Western Lawns
King Edward's Parade, Eastbourne, East Sussex
AboutEastbourne Airshow 2027, also known as Airbourne, returns for its 33rd year from 12–15 August 2027. This free four-day event brings spectacular flying displays to Eastbourne seafront, alongside military aircraft, historic planes, aerobatic teams, family entertainment and evening shows. World-Class Aircraft Displays Over Eastbourne Seafront Visitors can watch fast jets, historic aircraft, helicopters
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
AboutThe Rye & District Country Show takes place on Saturday 21 August at Elm Tree Farm in Icklesham, East Sussex, between Rye and Hastings. This popular summer event celebrates countryside life in 1066 Country with entertainment, displays and activities for all ages. Organised in aid of St Michael's Hospice, the show brings together local
