Hailsham Town Council is set to bring the community together for a vibrant celebration of Sussex Day, with a free event taking place in Vicarage Field and Hailsham High Street on Saturday 20th June, from 9am to 3pm.
The event will celebrate all things Sussex, featuring a beer tent and a bustling market in Vicarage Field offering locally sourced food, drink and artisan products. Visitors can also enjoy a full programme of live entertainment throughout the day, including traditional maypole dancing by local Brownies, performances by Hailsham Choral Society – including the much-loved Sussex by the Sea – as well as lively displays from the Sussex Stompers and the Long Man Morris Dancers.
Family-friendly entertainment will be a key feature of the day, with activities for children including close-up magic, balloon modelling and a traditional Punch and Judy show, courtesy of Jonathan Cann. Local radio station Hailsham FM will also be in attendance, providing live coverage from the event throughout the day.
A road closure for Hailsham High Street will be in operation from 7am to 5pm on the day.
Town Mayor, Cllr Chris Bryant , said: “Hailsham Town Council’s Sussex Day extravaganza is a free community event that showcases the very best of Hailsham and the surrounding area — from live music and delicious food to craft stalls and local talent. We are proud to be part of the Sussex community, and this event highlights what makes both the county and our town such special places.”
Cllr Anne Marie Ricketts, Chair of the Communities Committee, added: “Saturday 20th June promises to be an exciting day for our town, and the Town Council is delighted to be hosting a Sussex Day celebration for residents and visitors alike. I’m confident the event will support and promote the wonderful work being carried out across our community, from local performers and businesses to volunteers and community groups.”
“This event is about bringing people together, celebrating our shared heritage and showcasing the strong sense of community spirit that Hailsham is known for. With something for all ages to enjoy, we hope it will be a memorable day that encourages people to support local initiatives, connect with one another and take pride in everything Sussex – and Hailsham – has to offer.”
Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to save the date and join the celebrations. Updates will be shared via the Town Council’s website and social media channels in the lead-up to the event.
Sussex Day is the official county day of the historic county of Sussex and is celebrated annually on 16th June. The date coincides with St Richard’s Day, honouring St Richard of Chichester, Sussex’s patron saint, and marks the anniversary of the translation of his remains at Chichester Cathedral in 1276.
For further information about this event or other activities organised by Hailsham Town Council, please call 01323 841702 or email enquiries@hailsham-tc.gov.uk.
Terry Hall, COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Hailsham Town Council, Market Street, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 2AE
Telephone: 01323 841702 | Email: terry.hall@hailsham-tc.gov.uk