Primary Times - the definitive what’s on and where to go family guide of activities and events for children of primary school age. Things to do with your kids during the school holidays including arts and craft activities, music and theatre for children, parties, competitions, days out, and family attractions along with term time drama schools, dance classes, after school clubs and sports activities. Things to do at a place near you!
What's On in Sussex
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Wilfrid the Seal - Trail for Children and Families
7th April-15th November 2025
Venue: Chichester Cathedral
Website: www.chichestercathedral.org.uk
Families are invited to seek out artefacts, such as flowers pressed by a soldier between the pages of a Bible in the trenches of WWI and 800-year-old rings worn by Bishops during the 12th century. Led...
Demonstrations by Call to Arms
12th April-13th September 2025
Venue: Bodiam Castle
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/bodiam-castle
Call to Arms is a group of volunteers with a passion for history and training in Historical European Martial Arts. Dressed in full armour, they show what medieval combat may have looked like, by showing...
Moomins
3rd May-13th July 2025
Venue: Nymans
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/nymans
Delve into discovering the Moomin family and their friends, living an adventurous life in the idyllic and peaceful Moominvalley in harmony with nature. The event is presented by the award-winning creator...
Moomins
8th May-13th July 2025
Venue: Nymans
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/nymans
Nymans invites you to take a magical wander inspired by Moominvalley, with a family trail around the garden, meeting characters from the Moomin stories. Discover the Moomin family and their friends, living...
How to Train Your Dragon Trail
24th May-7th September 2025
Venue: Bodiam Castle
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/bodiam-castle
Let your imagination run wild and channel your inner Viking as you pick up tips and tricks to master the art of dragon training. Discover different dragon species, learn the forgotten language of Dragonese,...
Emily Gravett's Tidy Trail at Bateman's
14th June-31st August 2025
Venue: Bateman's
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/batemans
Join Pete the Badger and his friends for a fun-filled summer adventure. Whether you're a super organiser or a little on the messy side, this family trail is perfect for everyone. Includes activities and...
Dragonfly Festival
21st June-22nd September 2025
Venue: WWT Arundel
Website: www.wwt.org.uk
Explore the magical world of dragonflies and dive into a summer full of wondrous new wetland experiences including outdoor dragonfly games, Dragonfly boat safari, adventure play area, pond dipping and...
John Davis' Funfair
21st June-6th July 2025
Venue: Princes Park, Eastbourne
Website: www.visiteastbourne.com
A travelling traditional funfair attracting local and staying visitors. With a broad range of attractions, there is something for everyone! With one flat fee, you can ride as many rides as you like! £7.99...
Crazy Fun at Hastings Adventure Golf
30th June-25th August 2025
Venue: Hastings Adventure Golf
Website: www.hastingsadventuregolf.com
Home to the World Crazy Golf Championships, Hastings Adventure Golf boasts three imaginatively designed 18-hole courses - Pirate, Adventure and Crazy. They have delicious fish and chips, homemade gelato,...
Explore, create, and connect at Wild Arts
30th June-25th August 2025
Venue: Long Furloug, Worthing
Website: www.wild-arts.com
From mindful exploration of natural and scrap materials to storytelling through movement, circus skills, and yoga, sessions are designed to spark imagination and bring children's ideas to life. Wild Arts...
Free Family Learning Days at Raystede
30th June-25th August 2025
Venue: Raystede Centre for Animal Welfare
Website: www.raystede.org
Every Wednesday and Thursday during the school summer holidays, visitors to Raystede can take part in a fun family trail to learn more about some of the animals the charity cares for. In July, discover...
Harbour Park
30th June-25th August 2025
Venue: Harbour Park
Website: www.harbourpark.com
Take a plunge on the Water Chute or fly around on the Jellyswinger. Family favourites include the Whirlpool Waltzer, Junior Ocean Coaster and Reef Dodgems. Indoor attractions include Under the Sea soft...
Hove Park Junior Parkrun
30th June-25th August 2025
Venue: Hove Park
Website: www.parkrun.org.uk/hovepark-juniors
A free, fun, and friendly weekly 2k event for juniors (4 to 14 year olds) every Sunday at 9am. Free to join but register before you first go along.
Paradise Park and Gardens
30th June-25th August 2025
Venue: Paradise Park and Gardens
Website: www.paradisepark.co.uk
Visit Planet Earth Museum, the Sussex Plant House, Sussex History Trail, and families will love the variety of children’s activities, including crazy golf, a miniature railway, soft play, and both...
Raystede Daily Tour
30th June-25th August 2025
Venue: Raystede Centre for Animal Welfare
Website: www.raystede.org/visit-us/daily-tour
Raystede offer a free guided tour every day at 11.30am. Hear more about the lives of their furry and feathered friends and have the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful and tranquil animal sanctuary.Suitable...
The Outdoors Project Holiday Clubs
30th June-25th August 2025
Venue: Various locations
Website: www.theoutdoorsproject.co.uk
The Outdoors Project was created by local parents Joel and Sam to get children off screens and playing outside. With den making, Nerf, water fights and even tech-inspired days like Minecraft vs Bushcraft,...
Free Summer Events at Priory Meadow
1st July-31st August 2025
Venue: Priory Meadow
Website: www.priorymeadow.com
The beach will be open daily for the whole of July and August and you can also enjoy a sunshine-filled lineup of FREE family events. From giant bubbles and puppet shows to seaside crafts and roaming seagulls,...
1812 Fireworks and Proms
2nd July 2025
Venue: Eastbourne Bandstand
Website: www.visiteastbourne.com
A truly iconic tradition that is celebrated every Wednesday evening, consisting of a culmination of concert music ending triumphantly with traditional proms favourites and Tchaikovsky’s 1812 overture...
Africa In The Sunshine – Afternoon Event
5th July 2025
Venue: Brighton Open Air Theatre, Dyke Rd
Website: www.brightonopenairtheatre.co.uk
African Night Fever brings the sunshine spirits of Africa to BOAT, with a full day of music, workshops, food and more, all celebrating the beauty of African culture. The day is split into two events –...
JezO Comedy Magic for All The Family
5th July 2025
Venue: Ropetackle Arts Centre
Website: www.ropetacklecentre.co.uk
JezOs brand new magic show is full of ridiculous, chaotic magic amongst great feats of wonder.This unusual blend of comedy, audience participation and magic will include moments of danger, crazy hilarity,...
Large Steam Show
5th-6th July 2025
Venue: Amberley Museum
Website: www.amberleymuseum.co.uk
The Large Steam Show promises to be a fantastic event with steam engine trailer rides, wood sawing demonstrations being carried out throughout the weekend and steam engines of all shapes and sizes moving...
Medieval Festival Weekend
5th-6th July 2025
Venue: Arundel Castle
Website: www.arundelcastle.org
Visitors can explore the tented encampment, be entertained by musicians, see demonstrations of a variety of historical crafts, combat, falconry, fire eater and archery. Plus have a go activities for all...
Reptiles at Kingscote
5th-6th July 2025
Venue: Bluebell Railway
Website: www.bluebell-railway.com
Visit Kingscote Station for their exciting Reptile Zone! Viewing the reptiles is free, but a £5 donation per person is required to pet or interact with them. Cash and card payments are accepted – card...
Stewardship Saturday - July
5th July 2025
Venue: Wilderness Wood
Website: www.wildernesswood.org
Join the Wilderness Wood team and members to get involved with the stewardship and improvement of the woodland. Meet at 10am in The Cook House and jobs will be allocated according to skills and interests. All...
Summer of Play
5th July-7th September 2025
Venue: Standen House and Garden
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Explore the garden, its hidden corners and winding hillside paths, play in Adventure Corner and discover activities in the woodland den. Have a go at archery and swingball near Adventure Corner, on Goose...
Green Woodworking for Adults and Families
6th July 2025
Venue: Wilderness Wood
Website: www.wildernesswood.org
Whittle a spoon, make a bird box - the only limit is your imagination! These small group, outdoor workshops offer the opportunity to experience the joy of working with green wood through your own exploration...
Oskar’s Amazing Adventure
6th July 2025
Venue: Brighton Open Air Theatre, Dyke Rd
Website: www.brightonopenairtheatre.co.uk
This award-winning original play uses a rich mix of storytelling, physical theatre, clowning, puppetry and music and song to tell the tale of a puppy’s search for friendship in the wilderness of the...
Quiet at the Aquarium
6th July 2025
Venue: Sea Life Brighton
Website: www.visitsealife.com/brighton
Quiet times at the aquarium run one hour ahead of opening with the arrival slots available for the first thirty minutes to ensure plenty of time to explore the aquarium. This is a pre-booked tickets only...
Storytime at Standen
7th July 2025
Venue: Standen House and Garden
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/standen-house-and-garden
Join local author Louise Shaw for storytime in the bell tent next to adventure corner. Louise will read from her Tawny Owl Wood book range. Booking is essential, £3.50 per child including an activity...
Rainbow Shakespeare: Macbeth
8th-13th July 2025
Venue: Highdown Gardens
Website: www.wtm.uk/events/rainbow-shakespeare-macbeth
A chilling tale of ambition, power and madness. Expect witches, ghosts, gripping drama and powerful performances in this intense Shakespearean thriller. Live open-air performances in a truly magical setting....
Circus Zyair
9th-13th July 2025
Venue: Goffs Park
Website: www.circus-zyair.co.uk
Fearless acrobats and daredevil stuntmen guarantee maximum thrills by risking life and limb daily for your entertainment! Join Circus Zyair for an unforgettable experience filled with thrilling performances...
Friday Lates
11th July-15th August 2025
Venue: Nymans
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/nymans
Make the most of the summer evenings and experience the garden in a new light. Pack up a picnic, flick out your rug, sit back and enjoy live music on the main lawn. Takeaway drinks and snacks available...
999 Emergency Services Display
12th-13th July 2025
Venue: Western Lawns, King Edwards Parade
Website: www.visiteastbourne.com
A fantastic free emergency services spectacular on Eastbourne's seafront Western Lawns.Get a close look at emergency response vehicles, get on board a fire engine or ambulance, try out the hoses, see arena...
Baby Dino Days
12th-13th July 2025
Venue: Bluebell Railway
Website: www.bluebell-railway.com
Experience a prehistoric adventure with Baby Dino’s! Best of all, this unique attraction is free when you travel on the trains. Take the family along for a fun-filled day, combining the excitement of...
Beach Life Music Festival
12th-13th July 2025
Venue: Western Lawns, Eastbourne
Website: www.visiteastbourne.com
Bringing the summer festival vibe, soundtrack your summer with the best local live musicians at this family friendly event, set against the stunning backdrop of Eastbourne beach. Open 11am to 5pm.
Hurrah for Shippam's
12th July-28th February 2026
Venue: The Novium Museum
Website: www.thenovium.org.uk/whatson
Step into the story of one of Chichester’s most iconic companies in this nostalgic and surprising exhibition. Discover quirky adverts, colourful packaging, factory memories and family-friendly interactives.Admission...
Sense and Sensibility - Open Air Theatre
13th July 2025
Venue: Chichester Cathedral
Website: www.chichestercathedral.org.uk
This funny, fast-paced and faithful new adaptation from the critically-acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre Company features live music, audience interaction, romance and heartbreak.This performance will take...
Rainbow Shakespeare: Much Ado About Nothing
15th-20th July 2025
Venue: Highdown Gardens
Website: www.wtm.uk/events/rainbow-shakespeare-much-ado-about-nothing
Join feisty Beatrice and Benedick as their friends plot to bring them together – whether they like it or not – while Claudio and Hero’s love is tested by deception and intrigue. With music, dancing,...
Grow Up Wild - Home-ed Forest School
16th July 2025
Venue: Wilderness Wood
Website: www.wildernesswood.org
There is a flexible structure to each session with seasonal craft and cooking activities interleaved with regular opportunities for developing fire lighting skills, tool work, exploration, games and...
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
17th-19th July 2025
Venue: Dyke Road Park
Website: www.brightonopenairtheatre.co.uk
Shakespeare’s most magical, fast paced, hilarious comedy; A Midsummer Night’s Dream will be performed in Oddsocks’ inimitable irreverent and knockabout style with live music, comedy action and even...
Taylormania
18th July 2025
Venue: White Rock Theatre
Website: www.whiterocktheatre.org.uk
An award-winning extravaganza that plays tribute to one of the leading contemporary recording artists of our time. Katy Ellis a self confessed ‘Swiftie’ with an incredible live band and dancers promises...
Children’s summer crafts at Bodiam Castle
19th July-3rd September 2025
Venue: Bodiam Castle
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/bodiam-castle
Craft activity for families, children can decorate their own ceramic dragons to take away. Little ones can imagine themselves becoming a knight or Viking as they decorate their own wooden shield. 1pm-4pm,...
Crawley Pretty Muddy Kids
19th July 2025
Venue: Tilgate Park
Website: www.raceforlife.cancerresearchuk.org
Pretty Muddy® Kids is a fun-packed muddy obstacle course for children aged 6-12 (over 1.2m tall). The young fundraisers climb, crawl and slide their way around the course at their own pace, accompanied...
Crazy Golf at Standen - July Weekends
19th July-31st August 2025
Venue: Standen House and Garden
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/standen-house-and-garden
Family fun playing Globetrotters 9 hole crazy golf course, 10.30am-3.30pm. Suitable for ages 4+.Booking essential. Adult £6, Child £4, Family (2 adults, 2 children under 12 £18).
Dragonfly Stilt Walkers
19th July 2025
Venue: WWT Arundel
Website: www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/arundel
With their iridescent wings and shimmering bodies, these larger-than-life insects are certain to catch your eye as they parade around our wetland centre.There are three x 30 minute outdoors shows from...
Exotic Spots Summer Trail
19th July-7th September 2025
Venue: Sheffield Park and Garden
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/sheffield-park-and-garden
This summer, follow the free family trail to discover nine big and beautiful animals from around the world. Each one is hanging out near its favourite exotic tree or plant. There will be dog free Saturday...
Professor Slug's House of Bugs
19th July 2025
Venue: The Hawth
Website: www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk
The House of Bugs is fully booked with all sorts of bugs seeking help from Professor Slug and his fellow bug experts (that’s you, the audience!) But can all these buggy problems be solved before the...
Rail Gala Weekend
19th-20th July 2025
Venue: Amberley Museum
Website: www.amberleymuseum.co.uk
Ride on passenger trains, both steam and diesel, that will be running all day and ‘Peter’ the 1918 Bagnall Steam Locomotive will also be running for the weekend. There will also be several model rail...
Ship Ahoy! Family Trail
19th July-7th September 2025
Venue: Petworth House and Park
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/petworth
Step into the world of J.M.W. Turner and set sail on an artistic adventure through Petworth House and Garden! Follow the clues to discover the golden light, rolling landscapes, and stormy skies that inspired...
Shippam's Family Day
19th July 2025
Venue: The Novium Museum
Website: www.thenovium.org.uk
Children can enjoy themed craft activities inspired by the Shippam’s brand, while grown-ups can explore fascinating stories and share memories of a local company that left a lasting impression on generations. Dive...
Southern at War
19th-20th July 2025
Venue: Bluebell Railway
Website: www.bluebell-railway.com
Enjoy a weekend filled with educational displays and re-enactors, classic and military vehicles, aircrafts and artifacts, weapons displays, and more. Get into the spirit of the occasion by dressing up...
Summer of Play at Bodiam Castle
19th July-3rd September 2025
Venue: Bodiam Castle
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/bodiam-castle
Take to the stage with dressing up, test your aim with archery, and try your hand at jester skills like juggling. Includes other fun games to enjoy, including hobby horses, quoits, sand play, dancing ribbons,...
The Dinosaur That Pooped a Rock Show
19th July 2025
Venue: Pavilion Theatre
Website: www.wtm.uk/events/the-dinosaur-that-pooped-a-rock-show
Adapted from the number 1 best-selling books by Tom Fletcher and Dougie Poynter.The whole family will have a poopy good time enjoying a brand new story for the stage, featuring new songs by Tom and Dougie,...
Wind in the Willows - Outdoor Theatre
19th July 2025
Venue: Sheffield Park and Garden
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/sheffield-park-and-garden
Pack your picnics and join Ratty, Mole, Badger, and the fantastically irrepressible Toad as they embark on the adventure of a lifetime culminating in a colourful battle to save Toad Hall from the mischievous...
Medieval Jousting Tournament
22nd-27th July 2025
Venue: Arundel Castle
Website: www.arundelcastle.org
The International Jousting Tournament is returning to Arundel Castle once again. Held over six days, this year’s tournament comprises eight competitors divided into four teams that will be competing...
Circus Zyair
23rd-28th July 2025
Venue: Oaklands Park
Website: www.circus-zyair.co.uk
Fearless acrobats and daredevil stuntmen guarantee maximum thrills by risking life and limb daily for your entertainment! Join Circus Zyair for an unforgettable experience filled with thrilling performances...
Kwik Cricket on Wednesdays in the Summer Holidays
23rd July-27th August 2025
Venue: Sheffield Park and Garden
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/sheffield-park-and-garden
Practise your skills this summer with Kwik Cricket sessions on Sheffield Park and Garden's famous cricket pitch every Wednesday during the holidays.Normal garden admission applies but there is no need...
Railway 200 Inspiration Train
23rd-29th July 2025
Venue: Horsted Keynes Station
Website: www.bluebell-railway.com
This unique travelling exhibition, curated in partnership with The National Railway Museum, features interactive displays, inspiring stories, and hands-on activities for all age groups. With an eye-catching...
Summer Holiday Activities
23rd July-31st August 2025
Venue: Amberley Museum
Website: www.amberleymuseum.co.uk
Discover more about the history of the railways as part of the 200th year anniversary celebrations of the modern railways in Britain. Follow the new family railway trail available throughout the summer...
HMS Pinafore
24th July 2025
Venue: The Hawth
Website: www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk
Full to the gunwales with sharp dialogue and catchy tunes, this timeless comic opera is performed outdoors by a cast of six outstanding performers from the world of musical theatre, on a spectacular nautical...
Pride and Prejudice - Outdoor theatre
24th July 2025
Venue: Nymans
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/nymans
This Summer, critically acclaimed theatre company This Is My Theatre brings Jane Austen’s classic tale to life in a stunning one-act adaptation to celebrate the author’s 250th anniversary year. Packed...
Fun Art Fridays
25th July 2025
Venue: Petworth House and Park
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/petworth
Each week, children can explore a different artistic technique inspired by Turner’s work, from capturing dramatic skies and rolling landscapes to experimenting with light, colour, and even nautical themes.No...
My First Cinema: Room On The Broom
25th July 2025
Venue: Ropetackle Arts Centre
Website: www.ropetacklecentre.co.uk
To the annoyance of her cat, a kindly witch allows a dog, a bird and a frog to ride on her broomstick making it top-heavy. A fire-eating dragon destroys the broom and threatens to eat the witch! Cert U/...
How to Train Your Dragon
26th July 2025
Venue: Chichester Cinema
Website: www.chichestercinema.org
As an ancient threat endangers both Vikings and dragons alike, the friendship between an inventive Viking and a Night Fury dragon becomes the key to both species forging a new future together. Kids only...
Knights and Castles with Classroom Adventures
26th-27th July 2025
Venue: Bodiam Castle
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/bodiam-castle
Join Sir Stephen de Blenerhayset and Lady Eleanor for an unforgettable journey into the 'high life' of the Middle Ages. This family-friendly event at Bodiam Castle offers a unique blend of history and...
Littlehampton Waterfront Festival 2025
26th-27th July 2025
Venue: Littlehampton Harbour
Website: www.visitlittlehampton.co.uk
As in previous years, the harbour will showcase as many of the different activities that take place in Littlehampton Harbour as possible including dinghy sailing, open water swimming, angling, power boats,...
Story Garden Launch with Ed Boxall
26th-28th July 2025
Venue: Nationwide
Website: www.eastsussex.gov.uk/libraryevents
Tap into a world of imagination this summer in East Sussex Libraries. They have lots of free events from storytelling and crafts to library treasure hunts. Events are free. Visit www.eastsussex.gov.uk/libraryevents...
Storytelling in the garden
26th July-30th August 2025
Venue: Bateman's
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/batemans
Discover new adventures through live storytelling sessions delivered by expert volunteers in the magical setting of Rudyard Kipling’s very own garden. Running throughout the day and 15-20 minutes in...
The Harvey Buffs: WWII re-enactment group
26th-27th July 2025
Venue: Sheffield Park and Garden
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/sheffield-park-and-garden
See the period come alive and discover more about Sheffield Park and Garden’s WWII history and see what a WWII encampment would have looked like.The Harvey Buffs will be located by the Concrete Path,...
Exclusive SEND Activity Events
27th July 2025
Venue: Out of Bounds, Golfers Lane, Angmering
Website: www.out-of-bounds.co.uk/offers-events/send-event
Out of Bounds is proud to be a fully-inclusive activity centre, where people with a wide range of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) can come and enjoy themselves to the max. These events...
Rude Science with BBC Gastronaut Stefan Gates
27th July 2025
Venue: The Hawth
Website: www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk
Expect enormous bottoms, fart machines, snot cocktails and more in this celebration of the fascinating bodily science essential to life. The show transforms complex biology, physics and chemistry into...
The Really, Really Good Afternoon Show
27th July 2025
Venue: Brighton Open Air Theatre, Dyke Rd
Website: www.brightonopenairtheatre.co.uk
Join The Noise Next Door for an epic hour of ridiculous characters and perfect punchlines.The Noise Next Door have appeared on The One Show (BBC One) and Britain’s Got Talent (ITV1) and have even worked...
Circus skills with Circus Allstars at Bodiam Castle
28th July-29th August 2025
Venue: Bodiam Castle
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/bodiam-castle
Experience the thrill of circus arts with the talented instructors from Circus All Stars. Learn fun circus skills such as juggling, spinning plates, and walking on stilts. Suitable for families, weekdays...
Summer Fun: Sandpit Searchers — Festival of Archaeology
28th July-1st August 2025
Venue: Fishbourne Roman Palace and Gardens
Website: www.sussexpast.co.uk
Have a go at excavating like an archaeologist at Fishbourne Roman Palace as part of the CBA’s Festival of Archaeology. Dig around a giant sandpit to find artefacts from Fishbourne from 20,000 years ago...
Sussexsport’s Summer Holiday Activities Programme
28th July-29th August 2025
Venue: University of Sussex Sport Centre
Website: onlineshop.sussex.ac.uk/product-catalogue/sussexsport/summer-sports-activities-for-kids
Sussexsport children’s activities include basketball, netball, badminton, multi-sports and circus skills. There are camps available for children aged 7-17. Contact Luke Terrill at l.o.terrill@sussex.ac.uk...
Cinderella
29th-31st July 2025
Venue: Brighton Open Air Theatre, Dyke Rd
Website: www.brightonopenairtheatre.co.uk
Embark on the most magical fairytale adventure as Cinderella comes to Brighton this Summer. Expect magic, madness and plenty of silliness in this brand new summer show! Suitable for all ages.
Bing's Birthday
30th July 2025
Venue: The Hawth
Website: www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk
Join Bing and his friends Sula, Pando, Coco, Amma and of course Flop as they get ready to celebrate his special day in the brand-new stage show. With beautiful puppetry, original music and songs, made...
Cirque The Greatest Show - Reimagined
31st July 2025
Venue: Assembly Hall Theatre
Website: www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk
Experience iconic West End showstoppers paired with awe-inspiring circus acts showcasing their breathtaking feats of agility. This all-new production promises to transport you on a vibrant, kaleidoscopic...
Knight and Viking School with Histrionics at Bodiam Castle
31st July-3rd August 2025
Venue: Bodiam Castle
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/bodiam-castle
Experience action-packed tournament duels, arming a knight and get involved with storytelling shows and armour handling throughout the day, as performers from Histrionics present this interactive, family-friendly...
Sandcastle Competition
31st July 2025
Venue: Stage by the Sea, Littlehampton Seafront
Website: www.visitlittlehampton.co.uk
Entry for the competition is free and there are prizes up for grabs! Find them on the seafront, near the Stage by the Sea, from 9.30am to register and receive your free bucket before the competition commences...
Drag In The Park: Family Edition
1st August 2025
Venue: Brighton Open Air Theatre, Dyke Rd
Website: www.brightonopenairtheatre.co.uk
Featuring some of the UK’s top Queens, this family-friendly extravaganza will be a delight for kids of all ages. Join in with your favourite pop and Disney songs, dance until you fall over, and don’t...
Elio (PG)
1st August 2025
Venue: Chichester Cinema
Website: www.chichestercinema.org
A young space fanatic with an active imagination, finds himself on a cosmic misadventure where he must form new bonds with alien lifeforms, navigate a crisis of intergalactic proportions and somehow discover...
ESCC Library Summer Reading Challenge
1st-31st August 2025
Venue: East Sussex Libraries
Website: www.eastsussex.gov.uk/libraryevents
East Sussex Libraries have lots of free events from wildlife crafts plus After the Rain theatre performance, Wildlife inspired crafts with the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation, Zoolab animal experience...
Superman (12A)
1st August 2025
Venue: Chichester Cinema
Website: www.chichestercinema.org
Superman must reconcile his alien Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing as reporter Clark Kent. As the embodiment of truth, justice and the human way he soon finds himself in a world that views...
Unicorns at Kingscote
2nd-3rd August 2025
Venue: Kingscote Station
Website: www.bluebell-railway.com
Have your chance to meet and greet unicorns and have your photo taken with them at Kingscote station between 11am and 3pm on both days. This event is FREE to anyone who purchases an all day rover travel...
Make, Do and Trend: Summer Workshops
4th-28th August 2025
Venue: Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens
Website: www.leonardsleegardens.co.uk
Join Kirsty from Make, Do & Trend this summer for exciting workshops, suitable for 5+ year olds.Tickets from £15 per child, garden entry included in ticket price for children under 5. All materials shall...
Family Film: Wicked
5th August 2025
Venue: Ropetackle Arts Centre
Website: www.ropetacklecentre.co.uk
This is a glorious return to the Golden Age musical. The combination of brilliantly conceived set pieces, crafty storytelling and immensely appealing characters seems even more timely today than when it...
Mini Musicians with Bea Everett
5th August 2025
Venue: Wilderness Wood
Website: www.wildernesswood.org
Bea is brushing off her ukulele and rehearsing all the favourite nursery rhymes for the summer holidays. Take your little ones for a sing and a shake, out under the trees - no experience necessary. £8.50...
The Koala Who Could Live
5th-6th August 2025
Venue: De La Warr Pavilion
Website: www.dlwp.com/event/the-koala-who-could-live
An empowering and chuckle-out-loud story about embracing change — whether we like it or not. Join Kevin, King of the staying-still-kings, and his friends kangaroo and wombat in an Australian Outback...
Mrs Armitage On Wheels
6th August 2025
Venue: Ropetackle Arts Centre
Website: www.ropetacklecentre.co.uk
Adapted from Quentin Blake’s classic tale, Scoot Theatre present a 40-minute interactive, energetic show, celebrating the joy of getting outdoors and being active. Scoot Theatre’s adaptation is a fun,...
The Secret Garden
6th August 2025
Venue: The Hawth
Website: www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk
Suitable for anyone aged 6+ who loves literature and the great outdoors, audiences have described the show as ‘truly captivating’, ‘uplifting’, ‘totally charming and magical’. This heartfelt,...
Children’s Yoga: For Children Ages 5-11 years old
7th August 2025
Venue: Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens
Website: www.leonardsleegardens.co.uk
Join this magical experience where children can explore yoga surrounded by the serene beauty of the gardens. This empowering event fosters well-being, joy, and mindfulness in every child. They’ll also...
History Day
7th August 2025
Venue: Arundel Castle
Website: www.arundelcastle.org
Take the whole family to experience history in action with a variety of historical characters, including a Norman knight, a pirate, and a medieval archer. Try your hand at exciting activities like axe...
Summer Fun: Historic Hijinks
7th August 2025
Venue: Fishbourne Roman Palace and Gardens
Website: www.sussexpast.co.uk
Get creative at Fishbourne Roman Palace this summer, with fun, family-friendly activities.Every Thursday in August, they’re hosting a range of fun family activities taking place across the site including...
Bluebell Railway 65th Anniversary
8th-10th August 2025
Venue: Bluebell Railway
Website: www.bluebell-railway.com
It is also Bluebell Railway 65th birthday during the Railway 200 event and they invite you all to join the celebration with a mini gala event! They will be showcasing the home fleet with multiple sets...
Brighton Beach Cleans
8th August 2025
Venue: Sea Life Brighton
Website: www.visitsealife.com/brighton/explore/events/beach-cleans
An estimated 26 million tons of plastic pollution ends up in the oceans each year where it chokes, entangles and poisons marine life, and that it kills millions of marine creatures each year? If you are...
Family Jesmonite Workshop
8th August 2025
Venue: Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens
Website: www.leonardsleegardens.co.uk
Bring your kids for some creative fun and make it a family day out! During this workshop you’ll be exploring the wonders of Jesmonite, an eco-friendly material that sets in just 30 minutes. booking...
Summer Screenings In Priory Park
8th-10th August 2025
Venue: Priory Park
Website: www.chichesterfilmfestival.co.uk
Take your own chairs and picnic blankets and have a joyous family day in the sunshine or a night under the stars! Gates open: 3pm for the 4pm films and 7pm for the evening ones. Wood-fired pizzas on site...
Wicked (Open Air) 12A
9th August 2025
Venue: Priory Park
Website: www.chichestercinema.org/film/wicked-open-air
After two decades as one of the most beloved and enduring musicals on the stage, ‘Wicked’ makes its long-awaited journey to the big screen as a spectacular, generation-defining two-part cinematic event...
Old School Block Party
10th August 2025
Venue: Brighton Open Air Theatre, Dyke Rd
Website: www.brightonopenairtheatre.co.uk
Dad La Soul are throwing down a funky, family-friendly, hip-hop, funk and soul block party. They want dads, mums, kids, grandparents and everyone else on the dancefloor to show off their most impressive...
Drama in the Woods Summer Camp
11th-15th August 2025
Venue: Wilderness Wood
Website: www.wildernesswood.org
Your child will get to choose from a whole range of outdoor activities, like den building. With games through the woods such as Capture the Flag and Print Stamp Run! Art and craft activities, drama workshops,...
Lilo and Stitch (PG)
11th-13th August 2025
Venue: Chichester Cinema
Website: www.chichestercinema.org
A hugely entertaining live-action remake of the much-loved 2002 animation, where a lonely Hawaiian girl befriends a runaway alien, helping to mend her fragmented family.Kids only £2.50!
Phil Blackmore
11th August 2025
Venue: Ropetackle Arts Centre
Website: www.ropetacklecentre.co.uk
Featuring world class juggling, jaw-dropping circus tricks, along with hilarious comedy and real 'WOW!' moments – Phil Blackmore is guaranteed to entertain all ages! Phil dazzled all at “Britain’s...
Family Film: Flow
12th August 2025
Venue: Ropetackle Arts Centre
Website: www.ropetacklecentre.co.uk
Animated fantasy adventure with universal critical acclaim. When Cat’s home is flooded out he finds refuge on a boat where he has to team up with other animals. The best aspects of humanity are shown...
Robin Hood
13th August 2025
Venue: Brighton Open Air Theatre, Dyke Rd
Website: www.brightonopenairtheatre.co.uk
From songs around the campfire, to archery competitions and sword fights, the legend of Robin Hood is brought to life in a fun and vibrant way for the whole family to enjoy. Full of memorable characters,...
Airbourne - Eastbourne International Airshow
14th-17th August 2025
Venue: Airbourne, Eastbourne Seafront, King Edwards Parade
Website: www.visiteastbourne.com
Featuring the best of the RAF and international display teams across the seafront and over Beachy Head. Event also includes childrens entertainment areas, arena events, evening concerts, military exhibition...
Eastbourne International Airshow
14th-17th August 2025
Venue: Eastbourne Seafront
Website: www.visiteastbourne.com/airshow
Featuring four days of flying displays, military exhibitions, ground attractions, children's entertainment, fireworks, tribute shows and more, marvel at the fast jets, historic warbirds and precision aerobatic...
The Addams Family – A New Musical Comedy
14th-16th August 2025
Venue: White Rock Theatre
Website: www.whiterocktheatre.org.uk
The White Rock Summer Youth Project is celebrating its 22nd year of performances. A professional creative team help to bring the full-scale musical to the main stage of the White Rock Theatre. Featuring...
Mud-Kitchen Disco
15th August 2025
Venue: Wilderness Wood
Website: www.wildernesswood.org
You know how when you hear a great song on the radio, so you turn it up and boogie around your kitchen (aka - Kitchen Disco) - well, that’s what Wilderness Wood are going to do here, but outdoors, with...
The Merry Wives of Windsor
15th-16th August 2025
Venue: Arundel Castle
Website: www.arundelcastle.org
Enjoy Shakespeare’s comedy in Arundel Castle's Earl's Garden transformed into a captivating outdoor theatre with the backdrop of the Cathedral. This unique performance promises to be a highlight of the...
Bluebell Railway Music Festival
16th-17th August 2025
Venue: Centred around Horsted Keynes Station
Website: www.bluebell-railway.com
An incredible line up of weekend music, and vibrant performances at the centre of Bluebell Railway, in the field at Horsted Keynes Station. Fun for all the family, with hands-on activities and workshops,...
Family Geology Day
16th August 2025
Venue: The Novium Museum
Website: www.thenovium.org.uk
Join members of the West Sussex Geological Society at The Novium Museum on Saturday, 16 August to learn more. With incredible specimens to see, expert knowledge and advice, craft activities, and books...
Screen on the Green - School of Rock
16th August 2025
Venue: East Green, Littlehampton Seafront
Website: www.visitlittlehampton.co.uk
Take a blanket, pick your spot and join the East Green for School of Rock on their giant 40ft inflatable screen!Food and drink will be available to purchase from 7pm from onsite caterers. The film will...
Truckfest
16th-17th August 2025
Venue: South of England Showground
Website: www.truckfest.co.uk/truckfest-south-east
See incredible trucks of all shapes and sizes including American rigs, customised trucks, emergency vehicles and vintage trucks. Have a chance to be part of the action with the Monster Ride Truck and...
Communications Day
17th August 2025
Venue: Amberley Museum
Website: www.amberleymuseum.co.uk
This event mainly takes place in the Connected Earth BT Exhibition, as well as the usual communications displays, there will be several extra displays and demonstrations where staff and volunteers will...
Dinosaurs at the Railway
19th-21st August 2025
Venue: Bluebell Railway
Website: www.bluebell-railway.com
Visit Bluebell Railway for an epic adventure with dinosaurs of all shapes and sizes at Sheffield Park, East Grinstead and on their Timetable C service Set A trains! Regardless of the weather, you’ll...
Make your own Shippam's Advertising Poster
20th August 2025
Venue: The Novium Museum
Website: www.thenovium.org.uk/whatson
Take inspiration from Shippam’s famous bold and quirky adverts to create your own vintage-style poster. From flying paste pots to talking sardines, get creative with the Museum archive materials. 10.30am...
The Wild Washerwomen
20th-23rd August 2025
Venue: Brighton Open Air Theatre, Dyke Rd
Website: www.brightonopenairtheatre.co.uk
A brand new adaptation of this wonderful, anarchic, classic children’s picture book. A family musical with lots of singing and running about, heaps of silliness, and people getting very dirty and also...
Family Event - Crabbing Competition
21st August 2025
Venue: Chichester Harbour Education Centre
Website: www.conservancy.co.uk
There will be a briefing at 10.45am after which the competition will begin. Your crab haul can be officially counted/measured anytime up to 11.45am when the Finishing Hooter will sound. A prize will be...
Labyrinth Challenge
22nd-25th August 2025
Venue: Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens
Website: www.leonardsleegardens.co.uk
With over 34 unique obstacles spread across 5 exciting zones, the Labyrinth Challenge is a test of skill, stamina, and bravery, perfect for anyone over 1.2m tall.The mini Labyrinth Challenge is designed...
East Sussex Living History Festival
23rd-25th August 2025
Venue: Michelham Priory House and Gardens
Website: www.sussexpast.co.uk
Experience the East Sussex Living History Festival – a vibrant, immersive celebration of the past, where history comes to life through authentic encampments, live demonstrations, and family-friendly...
The Merry Wives of Windsor
23rd August 2025
Venue: The Hawth
Website: www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk
Performed in the great outdoors by five phenomenal professional actors, this fast-paced production has been created using only the First Folio text. Join the sensational international-award-winning Illyria...
Toy and Rail Fair
23rd August 2025
Venue: Horsted Keynes
Website: www.bluebell-railway.com
Exciting day out for all toy and model railway collectors and enthusiasts! In an extensive layout of stalls on Horsted Keynes station platforms and car park, you’ll find model railways (new and second-hand),...
Grand Slam Wrestling
24th August 2025
Venue: White Rock Theatre
Website: www.whiterocktheatre.org.uk
Experience the excitement of summer’s biggest wrestling event, featuring top stars, intense rivalries, and jaw-dropping athleticism. From high-flying manoeuvres, to bone-crunching slams, this show promises...
Outdoor theatre: Emma
25th August 2025
Venue: Nymans
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/nymans
Ever the matchmaker and never the match? So seems to be the case for Emma Woodhouse… Take a picnic and sit back, relax and enjoy a performance in front of the romantic ruins. Suitable for audiences of...
A Midsummer Night's Dream
28th August 2025
Venue: Wilderness Wood
Website: www.wildernesswood.org
The Three Inch Fools return to the woods for their third year, presenting Shakespeare’s most iconic comedy. It’s Midsummer’s eve and deep in an enchanted forest mischief is stirring. With shapeshifting...
Family Circus Day
30th August 2025
Venue: Pavilion Theatre Atrium
Website: www.wtm.uk/events/family-circus-day-2
Fun day of family-friendly circus activities. Drop in at any point between 11am-3pm. You can learn to juggle, poi dance, hula hoop or plate spin with the talented team from Poi Passion Circus all day,...
Out of the Box
30th August 2025
Venue: Pavilion Promenade
Website: wtm.uk/events/out-of-the-box
This family-friendly comedy show is packed with surprises as an unlikely character and his mysterious box take you on a whirlwind of wonder.With Darryl’s gentle, non-verbal clowning, everyday objects...
Family Fun Day
31st August 2025
Venue: Brighton Racecourse
Website: www.brighton-racecourse.co.uk
Join this Family Fun Day to end the school Summer holidays with a bang. Enjoy thrilling horse racing, the best free entertainment, and a fantastic atmosphere. Includes face painting, bumpercarz, teacup...