Excitement Builds for Hailsham Festival as 20th Anniversary Celebrations Approach

Excitement is building across the town as the Hailsham Festival of Arts and Culture prepares to celebrate its 20th anniversary with an ambitious programme of events taking place from 5th to 20th September 2026.

Now firmly established as one of the town’s leading annual celebrations, the festival will mark two decades of artistic and cultural activity with more than two weeks of performances, exhibitions, workshops, talks and activities designed to appeal to audiences of all ages.

The milestone festival will bring together an impressive line-up of artists, performers, writers, musicians and community groups from Hailsham, across Sussex and further afield, providing opportunities for audiences to experience a diverse range of creative talent.

Hailsham Town Council is once again supporting the festival with a £1,000 grant, helping the organisers deliver a varied programme that celebrates the arts and makes a valuable contribution to the town’s cultural life.

This year’s theme, ‘The World Around Us’, will provide a focus for exploring environmental awareness, sustainability and our relationship with the natural world through a diverse programme of artistic and cultural events.

With such a packed schedule, there will be plenty to discover, including live music, theatre, film, literature, visual arts, creative workshops and family entertainment.

Among the highlights are 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 lovers can delve into the intriguing world of Death by Chocolate: Some Victorian Female Poisoners, while families can enjoy puppet performances and workshops from Cable Street Cats Puppet Theatre.

Other events include 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.”

He added: “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!”

With its 20th anniversary programme offering such a broad mix of entertainment and cultural experiences, organisers are hoping this year’s festival will be one of the most memorable yet.

A full programme of events, together with ticket information and booking details, is available 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 that Hailsham remains a vibrant and welcoming place to live, work and visit.