Sussex Woodland and Jazz Festivals for Summer 2026

Summer is officially here, and if you are looking to escape the city streets of Brighton for some music in the fresh air, the Sussex countryside has some incredible woodland and outdoor festivals lined up for 2026. Whether you want to lounge under the trees listening to world-class jazz or dance on the beach, there is plenty to choose from over the coming months.

First up is the Love Supreme Jazz Festival, taking place from July 3rd to 5th at Glynde Place near Lewes. This massive event on a historic rural estate in the South Downs features over eight stages. This year's lineup includes headliners Loyle Carner, Ezra Collective, and a full band show by De La Soul, alongside acts like DJ Pee .Wee (Anderson .Paak), Jalen Ngonda, and Samara Joy. Beyond the music, you can find wellness activities like yoga and saunas, glamping options, and even an on-site Ottolenghi restaurant. For travel, festival buses run directly from Brighton and Lewes stations, and coaches are available from various south coast locations.

If you prefer the sound of the waves to the rustle of leaves, OnTheBeach LIVE returns to Brighton Beach from July 16th to 26th. This series turns the pebbled shore into an open-air venue over two weekends. Fatboy Slim brings his Big Beach Boutique 7 from July 16th to 19th, followed by Madness on July 23rd and 24th, The Maccabees on July 25th, and Moby closing the series on July 26th. Since there is no camping on the beach, you will need to head home or book a local spot after the music ends.

For something completely different and deeply rooted in nature, the All Things Fungi Festival takes place from September 18th to 20th at the Chiddinglye Estate in West Hoathly. This eco-conscious gathering focuses entirely on the kingdom of fungi, offering mushroom identification walks, cultivation workshops, microscopy, and discussions on rewilding. It is an alcohol-free event where Friday and Saturday are strictly for adults, and children are only permitted on Sunday. Tickets are around £50.00.

Rounding out the summer, you can also catch These Hills by Beak Brewery at Glynde Place on August 8th and 9th, the Rye International Jazz & Blues Festival from August 21st to 25th, and the electronic-focused Boundary Brighton Festival at Stanmer Park on September 25th and 26th.