If you’re wondering what’s on in May in Sussex in 2026, help is at hand because we have chosen a few very different events that you may enjoy. And you’ll also find more things to do in Sussex in our magazine.
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.
Opera in the Vines, Bolney Wine Estate
1 May
In celebration of its partnership with Glyndebourne, Bolney is hosting an exclusive evening of live opera, fine dining and award-winning English wine, set against its vineyard backdrop. Guests are welcomed with sparkling wine and canapés, followed by a performance from a Glyndebourne singer and pianist, before a three-course à la carte dinner with Bolney wine pairings available.
Brighton Festival
1 – 25 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.
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 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.
Silent Disco, Tottington Manor, Henfield
30 May
Their first ever Summer Silent Disco with live DJ: dance the night away and choose your channel with music from 70s disco, 80s classics and noughties favourites.
Beach Life Festival, Eastbourne
30 – 31 May
Showcasing the best in local talent, the annual fiesta of live music and mouthwatering street food promises a packed programme of performances all weekend. The family-friendly festival will showcase a range of genres on the iconic Bandstand stage from 11am to 5pm each day, from a top tribute act to classic rock, pop, funk, R&B, country, new wave, mod, soul and ska. And it’s free.
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