HAILSHAM Festival 2025 promises an unforgettable celebration this month of local talent, artistry, and creative expression, spanning from community performances to immersive workshops and virtual exhibitions.
The festival has officially been launched with a day of lively opening celebrations at Vicarage Field. The morning was enlivened by music from Rising Stars Children’s Choir and Wealden Brass, alongside circus acts by the East Sussex School of Circus Arts.
Art lovers can explore the vibrant Art and Discovery Trail, running 6–21 September—an outdoor journey showcasing the ingenuity of local artists across town.
At Gallery North, the “Of Substance” exhibition displays contemporary sculptural forms in wood, ceramics, textiles and mixed media (6 September–1 November), while children’s creativity shines in both the Children’s Art Exhibition (6–20 September) and the Children’s Virtual Art Gallery, featuring works uploaded throughout the past year at hailshamfestival.co.uk.
Workshops abound throughout the festival: from needle-felting landscapes (9 September) and acrylic painting (10 September) to pottery at Belle’s (10 & 12 September), and yarn basketry (11 September).
The performing arts take centre stage with “Rainy Days, Mondays & Good Old Dreams,” a musical tribute to The Carpenters (6 September); Tea with Joyce Grenfell (7 September); Acoustic Music Night at the King’s Head featuring local talents (7 September); and the free Festival Concert at the parish church with Hailsham Choral, guest soprano Yvonne Lloyd, and the Key Largo Trio (13 September).
Additional highlights include the lively Book and Author Fair (14 September), the nostalgic The Lost Boys Experience film night (17 September), playful performances like Murder Mystery Supper (19 September), and the charming Nostalgia Fair (20 September). An immersive screening of Pride & Prejudice (2005) marks Jane Austen’s 250th anniversary on 20 September.
A special “Art & History” exhibition at Woodside Annexe, The Hellingly Centre, on Saturday 13 September (10 am–2 pm), offers visitors a rare glimpse into staff and resident creativity alongside history from the old Hellingly Hospital—guided by former staff who will share personal insights and historic photos.
Tickets to events and more information can be found at hailshamfestival.co.uk
