A merry-go-round in Brighton, England

Hop on, it's a creative ride. Brighton Festival

If a city could press 'play,' Brighton Festival is when Brighton finds its rhythm. Each May, theatres glow, streets buzz and even the sea keeps time. In 2026, things turn up a notch–it is the 60th edition. From 1-25 May, the program brings together over 100 events and more than 140 artists across three packed weeks. This year also signals a change: no guest director. Instead, the festival is shaped in-house, keeping it closely tuned to the city's creative pulse.

The line-up refuses to stay in one lane–theatre, music, dance, debate and visual art sit alongside circus, hip- hop and physical comedy. Two 'Weekends Without Walls' spill performances into open spaces, where passers-by become audience members. Around 25 free events and plenty of low-cost tickets keep things accessible.

Alongside runs the Brighton Fringe, where rules loosen and surprises land often. Plan ahead or follow the noise–either way, Brighton serves culture seaside-style, no dress code required.