As summer wears on, there is still plenty to see, do and enjoy. So here’s our round-up of what’s on in September in Sussex in 2026:
Ashdown Forest Open Studios – Artists, Landscape & Legacy
4 – 6 September 2026
A 3D sculpture made of golf clubs, a hat inspired by Forest leaves, and a glass structure reflecting the seasonal light changes are all exhibits in Ashdown Forest’s first Open Studios Event. A diverse collective of more than 80 local artists and makers will be showing and demonstrating their work in some unusual locations in the Forest and local villages. The event, which coincides with the centenary of Winnie the Pooh, celebrates the rich creative tradition of the Forest and features works by painters, potters, sculptors and jewellers plus some more unusual contributors. All of the participants live and work in Sussex and will be showing their work in 20 unique locations including barns and backyards. Some of the artists will be offering workshops and demonstrations throughout the week. In addition, there will be a Gala Evening at the Ashdown Forest Centre on Friday 4 September which will include a silent auction of works donated by some of the artists in aid of The Ashdown Forest Foundation (TAFF). And visitors to the studios will be able to enter a competition to win a prize that can be spent on a piece of the featured artwork. For more details, go to: www.ashdownforestopenstudios.co.uk
Horsham’s Big Nibble
6 September 2026
Discover local produce through a vibrant food and drink market together with a live cookery theatre featuring top Sussex chefs, hosted by food guru Hilary Knight. Little Notes’ fruit and veg band will also return to the Carfax bandstand, with interactive musical performances for young children, their families and friends.
This year, the event will expand its celebration of local producers even further, including a special feature of Sussex honey products to mark 100 years of a very famous honey-loving bear.
Feel Good, The Old Market, Hove
2 – 8 September 2026
An inaugural week-long programme of immersive and holistic music events, from soothing sounds to ambient sound baths, storytelling, 360 degree visual and audio soundscapes to electronic and traditional folk music. Expect a joyous week of music, visuals and unforgettable performances with an exciting line-up of established and up and coming performers all exploring and celebrating the healing power of listening together.
An evening with Kate Mosse
10 September 2026
Kate Mosse in conversation with Katie Derham at the The Assembly Room, The Council House, North Street, Chichester. Celebrating the launch of Kate’s brand new book ‘Autumn’ which explores nature, folklore and history, ‘Autumn’ is a true love letter to Sussex and an atmospheric portrait of the season from one of our most celebrated writers. To book: An evening with Kate Mosse
Hastings Seafood and Wine Festival
11 – 13 September 2026
Set in Hastings Old Town’s atmospheric Stade Open Space, this lively festival blends superb local seafood with wines from Sussex and Kent, alongside an eclectic programme of live music. Expect to discover artisanal producers, enjoy freshly prepared dishes, and soak up the vibrant coastal atmosphere.
All Things Fungi Festival
18 – 20 September 2026
Hosted at Chiddinglye Estate in West Sussex, this unique event celebrates the fascinating world of mushrooms. Visitors can enjoy lectures, guided walks, art installations, and culinary experiences, as well as UV night walks for a truly magical autumn adventure.
Crowborough Carnival & Bonfire Night
12 September 2026
A cherished community event featuring a daytime fête, torchlit procession, and a traditional bonfire. The carnival raises funds for local charities and keeps Sussex’s bonfire traditions alive in a family-friendly setting.
Rye Harvest Wine & Food Fair
12 – 13 September 2026
Held in the medieval town of Rye, this fair gathers more than 30 vineyards, brewers, and food producers from East Sussex and Kent. Visitors can taste award-winning wines and foods while enjoying live entertainment in a historic setting.
Steyning & District Food and Drink Festival
5 – 13 September 2026
This festival celebrates the best of West Sussex’s food and drink. Events include market specials, tasting sessions, brewery tours, and themed suppers in and around the charming market town of Steyning.
Sheffield Park Autumn Colour Walks
Mid to late September 2026
Visit the National Trust’s Sheffield Park and Garden near Uckfield to see the first hints of autumn colour. Stroll among lakes, woodlands, and landscaped gardens as the season begins to change, making it a photographer’s dream.
Weald & Downland Museum Threshing Weekend
5 – 6 September 2026
The Weald & Downland Living Museum’s interpretations team will be demonstrating the process of ‘Threshing’ with a steam powered threshing machine. The team will be demonstrating the processing of the triticale and oats for visitors to see throughout the day, then our rural farming team will be transporting the straw and grain off to be stored with the help of the Museum horses and a cart.
Sussex History & Heritage, Leonardslee Gardens, Horsham
20 September 2026
Join Sussex historian, author, and columnist Kevin Newman for a lively and entertaining evening. Whether you’re a lifelong Sussex local, a curious visitor, or simply intrigued by the charm of “Sussex by the Sea,” Kevin has something for everyone. Kevin will take you on a journey of exploration of our fishing, farming, manufacturing and entertainment industries – as well as some other, more dubious livings – in a lively, funny and interactive talk, quiz and Q&A. Book via the Leonardslee website.
Rye Arts Festival
10 – 27 September 2026
A vibrant cultural highlight, Rye Arts Festival brings music, literature, theatre, and visual arts to historic venues around the town. The programme includes both internationally renowned and emerging talent.
Heritage Open Days
11 – 20 September 2026
This is England’s largest festival of heritage and culture, giving you the chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences – all of which are free to explore. Sussex venues include Anne of Cleves House Museum and Lewes Castle & Museum, Alfriston Clergy House, Wilmington Priory, Coastguard Cottage at Seaford and quite a few more. Check the Heritage Open Days website for details.
Winchelsea Cellar Tours
Various dates in September 2026
Tours run from April to October and take place on most Saturday mornings, plus some bank holidays, and during the Rye Arts Festival in the autumn. They provide an insight into the history of Winchelsea, its role as a Cinque Port and as an important centre for medieval trade.
Autumn Show & Horse Trials
Taking place at the South of England Showground, this event features the prestigious South of England Horse Trials, affiliated with British Eventing. Spectators can look forward to the elegant dressage, exciting showjumping, and thrilling cross-country phases, with top riders competing. Beyond the equestrian events, the show will host a variety of activities and attractions for all ages, including horsemanship and falconry displays, game cookery demonstrations, wood carving, sheep shearing, bushcraft workshops, a dedicated zone showcasing steam engines, and a Scammell rally. There will also be opportunities to try fly casting, archery, axe throwing, laser clay shooting, and more.
Artwave Festival
5 – 20 September 2026
Artwave is one of the largest visual arts festivals in the South East, connecting hundreds of artists and makers with tens of thousands of appreciative viewers and visitors each year. This year, they have more than 160 venues with free-to-visit exhibitions in private homes, studios, potteries, windmills, railway stations, farms and churches, many of them opening their venues for the first time. 
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