Brighton Festival
02 May 2026
Every May, Brighton Festival transforms the city into a vibrant celebration of creativity and culture. As England’s leading and most progressive annual mixed-arts festival, it brings together world-class performers, pioneering artists, and innovative thinkers from across the globe. From grand concert halls to intimate pop-up venues, and from city squares to the seaside, the festival takes over every corner of Brighton & Hove.
A Celebration of the Arts
Brighton Festival spans an extraordinary range of art forms, including:
🎶 Music — from international orchestras and renowned soloists to contemporary bands and experimental sound artists.
🎭 Theatre & Dance — cutting-edge performances, immersive productions, and boundary-pushing choreography.
🎪 Circus & Outdoor Spectacle — jaw-dropping aerial displays, street theatre, and large-scale outdoor shows.
🎨 Visual Arts & Installations — thought-provoking exhibitions in galleries, parks, and unconventional spaces.
📚 Literature & Ideas — talks, readings, and debates featuring acclaimed authors and cultural commentators.
Festival Highlights
Each year, Brighton Festival appoints a Guest Director — a leading cultural figure who helps shape the programme. This unique approach ensures the festival stays fresh, diverse, and surprising. Previous guest directors have included authors, poets, visual artists, and musicians, all bringing their own creative vision to the city.
Alongside headline acts, the festival champions local talent, offering a platform for Sussex-based artists and emerging voices. Families are also well catered for, with special children’s theatre, storytelling, and free outdoor events.
Venues Across the City
Events take place in an eclectic mix of locations:
The Brighton Dome — the festival’s spiritual home.
Theatres and galleries across the city.
Pop-up stages on the beach and in parks.
Community halls and open-air sites in neighbourhoods across Brighton & Hove.
This city-wide approach creates a truly immersive experience, where every street can become a stage.
Why Visit Brighton Festival?
Attending Brighton Festival isn’t just about seeing a show — it’s about being part of something bigger. The festival embodies Brighton’s spirit of inclusivity, creativity, and boldness. Whether you’re a culture aficionado or just curious to try something new, the festival offers unforgettable experiences for all ages and tastes.
👉 Practical Advice: Book tickets early for headline events, allow time to explore smaller shows, and check the free programme for family-friendly activities across the city.
A Celebration of the Arts
Brighton Festival spans an extraordinary range of art forms, including:
🎶 Music — from international orchestras and renowned soloists to contemporary bands and experimental sound artists.
🎭 Theatre & Dance — cutting-edge performances, immersive productions, and boundary-pushing choreography.
🎪 Circus & Outdoor Spectacle — jaw-dropping aerial displays, street theatre, and large-scale outdoor shows.
🎨 Visual Arts & Installations — thought-provoking exhibitions in galleries, parks, and unconventional spaces.
📚 Literature & Ideas — talks, readings, and debates featuring acclaimed authors and cultural commentators.
Festival Highlights
Each year, Brighton Festival appoints a Guest Director — a leading cultural figure who helps shape the programme. This unique approach ensures the festival stays fresh, diverse, and surprising. Previous guest directors have included authors, poets, visual artists, and musicians, all bringing their own creative vision to the city.
Alongside headline acts, the festival champions local talent, offering a platform for Sussex-based artists and emerging voices. Families are also well catered for, with special children’s theatre, storytelling, and free outdoor events.
Venues Across the City
Events take place in an eclectic mix of locations:
The Brighton Dome — the festival’s spiritual home.
Theatres and galleries across the city.
Pop-up stages on the beach and in parks.
Community halls and open-air sites in neighbourhoods across Brighton & Hove.
This city-wide approach creates a truly immersive experience, where every street can become a stage.
Why Visit Brighton Festival?
Attending Brighton Festival isn’t just about seeing a show — it’s about being part of something bigger. The festival embodies Brighton’s spirit of inclusivity, creativity, and boldness. Whether you’re a culture aficionado or just curious to try something new, the festival offers unforgettable experiences for all ages and tastes.
👉 Practical Advice: Book tickets early for headline events, allow time to explore smaller shows, and check the free programme for family-friendly activities across the city.