Calendar of East Sussex Coast Events
For a great day out by the beach check out our guide to East Sussex Coast events and seaside festivals taking place each year. If you are looking for things to do and find out what’s on in Sussex, see the events listed below.
Event Dates for your diary
East Sussex coast events and highlights throughout the year for your diary. Find out what’s on in 2024, from food festivals to sailing and sporting events, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
FEBRUARY
Rye Bay Scallop Week
Rye Bay Scallop Week is an annual celebration held in Rye, East Sussex, dedicated to the region’s famous scallops. The festival will take place from February 22nd to March 2nd 2025. Showcasing scallop dishes prepared by local restaurants. Indulge in seafood delights while enjoying tasting events, cookery demonstrations, and live entertainment. During the event, around 15,000 Rye Bay scallops are typically served, making it a must-visit for seafood lovers looking to experience the best of what the region has to offer.
APRIL
Brighton Marathon
The Brighton Marathon 2025 is set to take place on April 6, 2025. This popular event features a scenic 26.2-mile route that begins in Preston Park and finishes at Hove Lawns, offering runners stunning views of the Brighton seafront and iconic landmarks along the way. The marathon is known for its vibrant atmosphere, with thousands of spectators cheering along the route, live music stations, and a festive finish line celebration.
MAY
Brighton Fringe
The Brighton Fringe is an open-access arts festival held annually in Brighton, England, and is the largest annual arts festival in the country. In 2025, it will run from May 2 to June 1. The festival features a diverse range of events, including theatre, comedy, music, and visual arts, and allows anyone to register and perform, promoting local and international talent.
MAY
London to Brighton Challenge
The London to Brighton Challenge is a popular endurance event that takes place over the May Bank Holiday weekend, specifically on May 24-25, 2025. Participants can choose to walk, jog, or run a variety of distances, with the main challenge being a 100 km route from Richmond to Brighton. The route culminates with the stunning sight of Brighton’s coastline.
JULY
Brighton Kite Festival
A perfect family event, the Brighton Kite Festival is one of the longest running kite festivals in the UK, flying for over 35 years. Taking place on July 6-7, 2024. This annual event is held at Hove Lawns and features a vibrant display of kites, workshops, and activities for families. The festival celebrates the art of kite flying, showcasing a variety of kites flown by both professionals and amateurs, making it a colorful and engaging experience for attendees.
AUGUST
Rye Jazz Festival
The Rye Jazz Festival, officially known as the Rye International Jazz & Blues Festival, is an annual event celebrating jazz and blues music in the historic town of Rye, East Sussex. In 2024, the festival will run from August 22 to August 26. The festival features a mix of world-class musicians, along with various local acts.
DECEMBER
Brighton Christmas Day Swim
Its freezing, but every year thousnds of people gather for the bonkers Brighton Christmas Day Swim. It is a festive annual event that takes place on December 25th at Brighton Beach. Participants, often dressed in festive costumes, take a plunge into the chilly sea to celebrate Christmas Day.
Explore all beaches on the East Sussex Coast
Discover East Sussex Beaches
If you are going to a coastal event in East Sussex, check out some of the other beaches nearby
Top East Sussex Beaches
Looking for top East Sussex coast destinations? Miles of sandy beaches, traditional seaside towns and family attractions. Walk the coastal path or find family friendly Blue Flag beaches. There are sandy beaches in East Sussex which are safe for swimming as well as dog friendly beaches for long walks with our four legged friends.
Blue Flag
Family Friendly award winning beaches
Dog friendly
For long walks with our four legged friends.
What’s On
Find out What’s On – from festivals to cultural events along the coast
Beach Guide
See all beaches in East Sussex
Enjoy the UK Coast