The Brighton Rock'n'Roll Circus

The Brighton Rock'n'Roll Circus is heading back to The Font this May, bringing its usual unofficial mini-festival energy to the South Lanes. Organised by Kick Out The Jams, the event is scheduled to start on Wednesday, 13th May 2026, at 19:30. There is a bit of a discrepancy in the listings regarding the end date—some sources suggest it runs until the 16th while others mention the 17th—but the scale remains consistent with 50 bands lined up to perform over the duration. The venue, located on Union Street (BN1 1HA), will host the entire programme, which has become an annual fixture for those following the local rock'n'roll scene.

One of the main things to note is that the event is entirely free to attend. There are no tickets required, though it is strictly an 18+ event. Looking at how previous editions like 'Vol #2' were handled, the music often runs from midday, around 12:00, until 22:30, though the 19:30 start on the opening Wednesday is the confirmed kickoff point. In the past, the venue has enforced the age restriction specifically from 19:00 onwards, so that's worth keeping in mind if you're planning to be in the Lanes earlier in the day. The festival is a collaborative effort, with backing from several labels and music platforms including Blaggers Records, Bubblebrain Records, End Of The Trail, MILK, and The Songbird.

Because it’s held at The Font, the atmosphere tends to be quite concentrated, fitting 50 different acts into a single space over four or five days. The focus is purely on rock'n'roll, and the involvement of multiple partners like The Songbird and MILK suggests a variety of acts within that sphere. Since it’s right in the heart of Brighton and doesn't cost anything to get in, it functions as a drop-in festival where you can catch a few sets or stay for the full evening sessions. It’s a straightforward setup: no frills, just a lot of live music in a familiar local spot.