East Sussex offers a wide range of events and activities this August. From science workshops and theatre productions to jazz festivals, concerts and living history events, there is something for everyone. Enjoy the summer in East Sussex and see what’s on near you.
Bronze Age Archaeological Digs, New Coghurst Farm, Hastings, 2 to 8 August
Come and be a part of this exciting project excavating a Bronze Age Settlement found on the farm two years ago.
No experience is needed to join the archaeological dig days held at the beginning of each month from April to September. There is even Kids Dig experiences for the younger generation too. Plus during dig weeks the team host a series of ancestral skills workshops, which can be booked alongside dig days.
Stars and science workshops, The Observatory Science Centre, Herstmonceux, various dates in August
Find out more about our solar system, our planet and our bodies with a selection of children’s workshops this August, suitable for 7 to 11 year olds.
Sensational Solar System workshop, 5 August
Every planet is different; hot, cold, solid or made of gas or ice. Come and find out more about our Solar System, and make a spacecraft to land an egg safely on the surface of another planet like Mars.
Rocket Science workshop, 6 August
At the Rocket Science workshop children can look at different rockets, and learn more about how they launch and how far they travel.
World of Colour workshop, 12 August
We see our beautiful planet in millions of colours. Join the Observatory team on a journey of discovery through fun experiments to observe how eyes can see in different ways and why.
Your Body: How it Works!, 13 August
The body is amazing! From your brain to your big toe there is so much stuff packed in that keeps us alive. How does it all work together? Come and find out on this journey from your head to your heels and all the bits in between.
The Chemistry Lab, 19 and 20 August
Chemistry is definitely fun, especially when trying to find out what goes with a bang! Come and try some fabulous chemistry experiments and see some spectacular demonstrations.
Sketchbooking Workshop, Bates Green Garden, Arlington, 7 August
Join the Bates Green Garden team for a creative workshop introducing the art of sketchbooking.
You will use various mindful drawing, playful mark-making and collage techniques to explore and foster a connection with the garden and its wildlife. Run by Emma, a local artist, the session will finish with discussions on collecting and composition.
The session includes access to Bates Green Garden, the Wildflower Meadow and Beatons Wood and a complimentary hot drink and delicious homemade cake.
Rye Pirates and Smugglers Day, Rye, 9 August
The cobbled streets of Rye are set to come alive once more with smugglers, pirates, and a sea of striped shirts and tricorn hats as Rye Pirates and Smugglers Day sails into town. A swashbuckling family adventure awaits!
Enjoy a day full of free family fun, music, mischief, and maritime magic. With a nod to Rye’s rich smuggling past, the event brings together locals, performers, and stallholders for an unforgettable day.
The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, Congress Theatre, Eastbourne, 12 to 16 August
Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime as this West End smash-hit production comes to the Congress Theatre this August.
Step through the wardrobe into the magic kingdom of Narnia where a world of wonder awaits.
Join Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter as they meet new friends, face dangerous foes and learn the lessons of courage, sacrifice, and the power of love.
Airbourne, Eastbourne seafront, 14 to 17 August
Airbourne returns with four days of spectacular flying by the sea, and it’s all free!
Featuring the best of the RAF and international display teams across Eastbourne seafront and over Beachy Head.
The event also includes children’s entertainment areas, arena events, evening concerts, military exhibition area and end-of-show fireworks.
Picnic at Pevensey – three concerts at the castle, Pevensey Castle, 17 August
This year’s Picnic at Pevensey includes popular medieval instrument ensemble Faronel, featuring multi-instrumentalist Michael Withers. Local cellist Rachel Firmager and the remarkable Sussex sisters Gigi and Kitty Casey, who are making their names in the world of singing, will also be performing.
Bring your own picnic to enjoy in the glorious grounds or buy drinks and light refreshments from the castle café. Explore the castle and its rich history and enjoy three short concerts in the East Tower, the Second World War Room and the dungeon. A fanfare from the battlements will herald the beginning of each recital.
Rye’s International Jazz and Blues Festival, Rye, 21 to 25 August
This popular annual music festival is back bringing a wonderful mix of Jazz, Swing, Blues, Roots, Soul, Funk, and Latin music to East Sussex.
Experience world-class headline concerts with an array of international music talent, which take place at St Mary’s Church and other venues across the historic town of Rye. There’s also a programme of free fringe events on the outdoor stage.
East Sussex Living History Festival, Michelham Priory, Upper Dicker, 23 to 25 August
Take a step back in time at this vibrant, immersive celebration of the past.
History comes to life with authentic encampments, live demonstrations, and family-friendly entertainment. The festival covers centuries of change, from the early medieval age through to the Tudor era, and is set within the stunning, moated grounds of historic Michelham Priory.
Festival of Transport, Broad Farm, Hellingly, 23 to 25 August
The annual Festival of Transport has been run by Eastbourne Historic Vehicle Club since 1976.
Enjoy steam cars and engines, classic buses, cars, motorbikes and commercial vehicles, as well as military vehicles and more! Browse market stalls and watch displays in the main arena. A great day out for all the family!
Tell us what you’re up to in East Sussex this summer in the comments section below. Visit our things to do pages for more inspiration on places to visit and things to do in East Sussex.
Image: Airbourne Eastbourne International Airshow
