Hailsham Festival to Celebrate 20 Years of Arts, Culture and Creativity

Hailsham is preparing to celebrate two decades of artistic excellence this September as the Hailsham Festival of Arts and Culture returns with an exciting programme of events to mark its 20th anniversary.

Running from 5 to 20 September, this year’s milestone festival will bring together artists, performers, writers, musicians and community groups from across Sussex and beyond, offering more than two weeks of entertainment, creativity and cultural experiences for all ages.

Supported by Hailsham Town Council again this year by way of a £1,000 grant, the annual festival has become one of the town’s premier events, attracting thousands of visitors each year and showcasing the wealth of artistic talent found both locally and nationally.

The 2026 theme, ‘The World Around Us’, will explore environmental awareness, sustainability and our relationship with the natural world through a wide variety of performances, exhibitions, talks and creative activities.

This year’s packed programme features something for everyone, from live music, theatre and film to literary events, art exhibitions, workshops and family activities.

Festival highlights include Murder on the Morlington Express, an interactive murder mystery supper; a screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show; The Music of Paul Simon performed by the Brighton Beach Boys; Henry VIII starring Tony Harris; and the return of the much-loved Volya Voices Ukrainian Choir.

History enthusiasts can enjoy Death by Chocolate: Some Victorian Female Poisoners, while families can look forward to puppet performances and workshops from the Cable Street Cats Puppet Theatre, a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party Quiz in aid of Demelza Hospice Care for Children, children’s art and creative writing competitions, a family clay modelling workshop, a Book and Author Fair and poetry events hosted by the Downlands Poets.

Town Mayor Councillor Chris Bryant said: “Reaching a 20th anniversary is a remarkable achievement and reflects the passion, dedication and creativity of everyone who has helped make Hailsham Festival such a success over the years. The festival has become one of the highlights of our town’s calendar, bringing people together through a shared appreciation of arts and culture.”

“Whether you enjoy music, theatre, literature, history, visual arts or family activities, there really is something for everyone. I would encourage residents and visitors alike to support the festival, discover something new and celebrate the incredible talent that exists within our community and beyond.”

Speaking ahead of the Festival, Hailsham Festival Chair Tony Biggin expressed his enthusiasm: “We are thrilled and delighted at the way in which the 2026 festival is shaping up. It is a real privilege to live in Hailsham where there is such a rich mix of talent and creativity across all the arts and culture.”

“I’d like to thank Hailsham Town Council and other sponsors – without their generous funds, we wouldn’t be able to commission such a wide range of talent.”

“The arts represent a vital component of our culture, enriching our community and creating a vibrant landscape from which we all benefit. Recent research from University College, London reveals that engaging with arts and culture can slow biological ageing as much as exercise. Increase your life expectancy with Hailsham Festival!”

A full programme of events, ticket information and booking details can be found at www.hailshamfestival.co.uk.

Hailsham Town Council is proud to continue supporting the Hailsham Festival as part of its commitment to promoting arts, culture and community engagement, helping to ensure the town remains a vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike.