Dressing the City Summer Campaign Banners Display

It’s that time of year again when Brilliant Brighton starts preparing to transform the city centre for the summer. The annual 'Dressing the City Summer Campaign Banners Display' is set to launch on May 1, 2026, perfectly timed to coincide with the start of the Brighton Festival. This initiative, run by the Brilliant Brighton Business Improvement District (BID)—a group representing over 500 local businesses—aims to bring vibrant colour and a welcoming atmosphere to the main shopping areas, making the city feel fresh for both residents and visitors throughout the warmer months.

For the 2026 edition, the chosen theme is 'We Love Brighton'. Local artists have been invited to submit work that captures the city's unique spirit, whether that’s its coastal charm, rich history, or the diverse mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants found downtown. The winning artwork will be converted into large-scale banners displayed prominently across key routes like Western Road and North Street. While the banners are the main feature, the campaign also includes installing colourful bunting in areas like North Laine and The Lanes, alongside the addition of hanging floral baskets, ensuring the visual uplift is comprehensive and free for everyone to enjoy as they walk through the streets.

The display will remain up throughout the entire summer season, running from May until September. This provides significant exposure for the commissioned artist, who receives a £1,000 fee for their work. It’s a great way to support local talent, following in the footsteps of previous contributors like Bella Gomez and Rosie Apps, whose work has previously adorned the city. In fact, banners from past campaigns have often been auctioned off afterwards, helping to raise funds for other Brilliant Brighton projects, such as the city's Christmas lights. If you’re planning a trip downtown this summer, keep an eye out for the new artwork starting in May.