** Please bear with us while we update this post for 2026. We are adding to it all the time**
If you’re wondering what’s on in May in Sussex, help is at hand because we have chosen 10 very different events that you may enjoy. And you’ll also find more things to do in Sussex in our magazine.
Heritage Crafts: Charcoal Burn
2-4 May, Weald & Downland Living Museum
Build and burn the first of two charcoal fires for the season. The process of charcoal burning is both art and science – a controlled burn requiring close attention and great care. At the Museum, knowledgeable interpreter Jon Roberts, together with an Interpretation Team, will bring this practice to life for visitors over this weekend.
Hastings Traditional Jack in the Green,
1 – 4 May, Hastings
This four day British May Day celebration attracts thousands of people. The weekend event includes live bands, dancing, sun (not guaranteed) and social events, fun for all the family. The main event on the Bank Holiday Monday, is the colourful procession through the streets of Hastings Old Town filled with unique characters, dancers, drummers, giants and more. The big finale on the West Hill is the slaying of the Jack to release the spirit of summer.
Brighton Festival
1 – 25 26 May
Brighton Festival is a celebration of music, theatre, dance, circus, art, film, literature, debate, outdoor and community events that is held every year. Whatever your tastes, there will be something in the programme for you. If you’re heading to the city, the Foodies Festival is on 2 – 4 May at Preston Park. Visit their website to book.
Charleston Festival
13 – 25 May, near Lewes
The intellectual event of the year with a line up that brings audiences together with the creative trailblazers shaping our ever-changing world. Join live conversations, electrifying performances, family fun and hands-on creative workshops.
Beer & Cider by the Sea
15 – 17 May, Eastbourne
The ever popular beer and cider festival returns to Western Lawns. Enjoy over 100+ real ales, craft beers, ciders and perries. There are CAMRA volunteers on hand too to offer advice along with food stalls.
Battle of Lewes
9 – 10 May
Witness King Henry III and Prince Edward’s Royalist army battle it out in the streets of Lewes against Simon de Montfort and his barons. This fabulous and free event also includes a Medieval camp, combat displays and activities at The Convent Field and the Priory as well as food and drink, live music and a Medieval trading village.
The Music of Adele: The Candlelight Concert
16 May, Chichester Cathedral
Prepare to be swept away by an unforgettable evening of soul-stirring music as Xperience Live proudly presents ‘The Music of Adele – The Candlelight Concert.’ Surrounded by a warm, glowing sea of candles, this breathtaking live experience celebrates the timeless artistry of one of the world’s most iconic vocalists.
The Petworth Park Antiques & Fine Art Fair
8 – 10 May, Petworth Park
Held in the extensive grounds of Petworth House, this annual event attracts interior designers, collectors and those who enjoy surrounding themselves with fine and interesting art, decorative accessories and furniture. Always supported by the National Trust and the local market town, the businesses in Petworth put on a great show for visitors. In addition, antiques fair ticket holders receive free entry to Petworth House, over the three days, to view some of Britain’s treasures housed within. In a reciprocal arrangement, National Trust members gain free entry to the fair. Opening Times: Friday 11 am to 7 pm, Saturday 10.30 am to 6 pm, Sunday 10.30 am to 5 pm. Tickets: *£10 including catalogue (and re-admission).
Artists Open House Festival
Every weekend in May, various venues
This is a celebration of local talent which takes place every weekend in May across 180 venues in Brighton and Hove, Ditchling, Hurstpierpoint, Ovingdean and along the coast from Newhaven to Portslade. Within the festival there are some individual trails you can do like the Seven Dial Trail in Brighton which incudes 19 venues. The mission of Artists Open Houses is to “help artists connect with audiences in self-curated, non-traditional art spaces; which means usually (but not exclusively) artist’s own homes.” and it runs alongside the Brighton Festival.
Elderflower Fields
22 to 25 May, Ashdown Forest
A festival designed especially for families where you can enjoy the gorgeous countryside while also listening to live music and performances, take part in wellness or sporting activities, learn about art and science and enjoy great food and drink.
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