West Sussex Summer Festivals 2026: Music, Arts, Film and Community Celebrations
West Sussex comes alive in the summer with a vibrant calendar of festivals celebrating music, literature, theatre, film, art and community spirit. From internationally recognised arts festivals to family-friendly local events, there is something for everyone across Chichester, Petworth, Arundel, Midhurst and beyond.
Here's a guide to some of the standout festivals taking place across West Sussex in 2026.
Chichester Fringe
30 May - 14 June 2026
Chichester Fringe continues to grow as one of the region's most exciting grassroots arts festivals. Featuring theatre, comedy, music, spoken word and family entertainment, the Fringe champions emerging performers and accessible arts experiences.
With performances spread across multiple venues throughout the city, the Fringe brings a lively and creative energy to Chichester at the start of the summer season.
Stansted Summer Festival
27 - 28 June 2026
Held in the beautiful grounds of Stansted Park, this eclectic family festival blends live music, heritage displays, reenactments, food, crafts and outdoor entertainment.
Visitors can explore vintage vehicles, historical camps, childrens activities and performances while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of one of the areas finest country estates.
Festival of Chichester
June - July 2026
The Festival of Chichester is a broad celebration of arts and culture spanning approximately five weeks each summer. The programme includes concerts, theatre, exhibitions, lectures, literary events, guided walks and community activities.
Unlike a single-venue festival, it acts as a city-wide umbrella event, bringing together hundreds of independently organised performances and cultural experiences. This year it has over 100 events, many free or low cost, for all ages and interests.
Petworth Summer Festival
16 July - 1 August 2026
One of the county's best-loved cultural events, Petworth Festival combines world-class classical music with jazz, folk, spoken word and contemporary performance. Concerts and events take place in beautiful venues including St Mary's Church, Petworth House and the Leconfield Hall.
The 2026 programme includes acclaimed musicians, family events, literary talks and outdoor performances, continuing the festival's reputation for attracting exceptional artistic talent to the South Downs.
Southern Cathedrals Festival
16 -19 July 2026
Hosted in Chichester Cathedral in 2026, the Southern Cathedrals Festival is one of England's great choral music traditions. The combined choirs of Chichester, Salisbury and Winchester Cathedrals come together for four days of concerts, recitals and services.
The programme includes major choral works, organ recitals and talks, all performed within the magnificent surroundings of the cathedral and other venues around Chichester.
MADhurst Festival
June - September
MADhurst is Midhurst's vibrant community arts collective, organising a varied programme of creative events, exhibitions, workshops and performances throughout the year. During the summer months, the organisation hosts open studios, live music, visual arts projects and community celebrations that bring together local artists, makers and performers.
With a strong focus on creativity, wellbeing and community engagement, MADhurst has become an important part of the cultural life of the town and surrounding villages.
Chichester International Film Festival
7-23 August 2026
The Chichester International Film Festival is one of the South Coast's most celebrated film events, bringing world cinema, independent films, documentaries and classic screenings to the city each summer. Established in 1992, the festival combines acclaimed international programming with unique local experiences, including open-air screenings, filmmaker Q&As and special events hosted across Chichester's historic venues.
Arundel Festival of the Arts
22-31 August 2026
The Arundel Festival is one of the South East's most established arts festivals, bringing together music, theatre, literature, visual arts and street entertainment in the stunning setting of Arundel.
Founded in the 1970s, the festival now attracts thousands of visitors every summer and includes open-air events, concerts, exhibitions and community celebrations. Highlights often include performances at Arundel Castle and events along the River Arun.
With its welcoming atmosphere and diverse programme, it has become a highlight of the city's summer festival calendar for film lovers and visitors alike.
Other Summer Festivals Worth Exploring
Goodwood Festival of Speed
9-12 July 2026
Although best known as a motorsport event, Goodwood Festival of Speed has become one of West Sussex's biggest summer attractions. Featuring legendary drivers, historic vehicles and cutting-edge automotive technology, it draws visitors from around the world.
Cowdray Gold Cup
19 July 2026
The Cowdray Gold Cup is one of the highlights of the British polo season. Combining top-class sport with social events and summer hospitality, it remains a key fixture in the Sussex calendar. In 2026, for the first time taking place alongside the Gold Cup final will be the finale of the British Ladies Open.
A Summer Full of Culture in West Sussex
Whether you enjoy classical music in historic churches, fringe theatre in intimate venues, outdoor family entertainment or independent cinema, West Sussex offers an extraordinary range of festivals throughout the summer.
With beautiful market towns, countryside settings and coastal scenery providing the backdrop, these festivals are a wonderful way to experience the creativity and community spirit of the county.
