Artists Open Houses festival

May is fast approaching, and that means the city is gearing up for the annual Artists Open Houses (AOH) festival. This event is a staple of Brighton's cultural calendar, transforming residences, houses, and gardens across the city into temporary studios and galleries. It’s a truly community-focused event, known for being inclusive and giving artists of all stages a chance to exhibit their work without the usual gallery costs. Historically, AOH started back in 1982 as a protest against the lack of visual arts in the main Brighton Festival, eventually becoming an independent organization in 2002, and it continues to run alongside the main festivals every year.

For 2026, the festival will run across five weekends in May, starting on the 1st. You can plan your visits for May 2-3, 9-10, 16-17, 23-24, and 30-31, covering both Bank Holidays. The event is spread across various locations, organized into themed trails. We’re particularly looking forward to exploring the Kemptown Trail, which is always a highlight. Specific locations, like ‘House of Pop!’ at 27 New Steine, are confirmed to be open from 11 am to 6 pm on those Saturdays and Sundays throughout the month. The best part is that entry to all Open Houses is completely free, giving everyone the chance to meet the artists and browse the wide range of works on display—everything from paintings and photography to ceramics, textiles, and jewelry.

If you find something you love, the festival is designed for attendees to buy high-quality local art and craftsmanship directly from the creators. Just a practical heads-up: while you might find some places accepting cards, many venues still advise bringing cash or a cheque book, as not all houses are set up for card payments. Beyond the art itself, many houses enhance the experience by offering extra activities like workshops, special events, or even just a nice cup of tea and some homemade cakes. It’s a great way to spend a May weekend supporting local creativity and seeing the city’s artistic talent up close.