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Arundel Festival of the Arts 2026 22 – 31 August 2026

Clear your diary – the much-loved Arundel Festival of the Arts returns for 10 unforgettable days of music, art, theatre, culture, food, drink and family entertainment to our beautiful historic West Sussex town.

Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning to enjoy the whole festival, there’s something for everyone. Some days will have 10 events and activities, some days over 20, which across the 10 days makes it easily over 200 events and activities across a wide genre – there really is something for everyone. From live music and theatre performances, exhibitions, history and literary talks, street entertainment, markets, hands-on family activities, Arundel comes alive with creativity and celebration.

With so much happening across the town, you’ll want to plan ahead. The Festival brochure includes everything you need to know about what’s on, when and where it’s happening and you can pick up a copy in the town or view here.

However here a just a few of the highlights to spark you interest and curiosity:

Art & Culture
Art lovers are in for a treat with another year’s packed programme of exhibitions, performances and creative events. From visual arts to spoken word, there’s inspiration around every corner:

  • Theatre Trail – six short plays in six different venues across the town
  • Shakespeare Open Air Theatre ‘As You Like It’ in The Earl’s Garden
  • Artist of the Year: vote for your favourite work of art
  • Words, Music & Wine: series of talks at Arundel Town Hall
  • Arundel Gallery Trail: 100+ Artists and Makers in 39 venues
  • Art in Nature Poetry Trail – created by Greening Arundel
  • Bleak Expectations – Arundel Plays

Music & Entertainment
Whatever your musical tastes, you’ll find something to enjoy. From classical performances and jazz to contemporary music, tribute acts and lively street entertainment.

  • Sinatra ‘The Reckoning’ at The Norfolk Arms – not to be missed 
    • Jubilee Sessions – early evening live music performances in Jubilee Gardens
    • The Hanover – one of Britain’s finest period instrument orchestras –
    • Live Music at The King’s Arms
    • Acoustic Guitarist inspired by the natural world at The Wetlands Centre
    • Jailhouse Screamers Comedy Night
    • Traditional Morris Dancing at The Kings rms

Workshops
Try your hand at a new craft or learn a new skill, there’s plenty to choose from and here are just a few:
         
Willow Weaving Workshop at The Wetlands Centre
Artful Splodger – Kids & Parents Abstract Art Event at Brookland Barns
Ukelele ‘Have a Go’ Sessions
Samba Workshop & Parade – make musical instruments from recycled junk

Family Fun
Families are spoilt for choice with activities taking place throughout the festival. Popular attractions include:

And Monday 31st August is Family Fun Day, a whole day dedicated to children’s entertainment, interactive activities and special, there’s plenty to keep all ages entertained – check the link and plan your day.

The excitement doesn’t stop there. Enjoy bustling markets, colourful street performances, live music, dancing, the ever-popular Dragon Boat Racing and don’t miss the Duck Race when every year thousands of ducks swim down the River Arun.


Plan Your Visit
Throughout the festival there’s more to discover with theatre, dance, live performances and entertainment filling the streets, all creating an unforgettable atmosphere in what will seem like every pocket of the town and beyond. The festival programme is continually updated, with new events being added, so it’s worth checking back regularly.

Book Tickets
Many events are ticketed, so be sure to book in advance: https://www.arundelfestival.co.uk

Whether you’re passionate about the arts, a music lover, looking for a day out for the family, or simply looking for a wonderful day out, you’ll find plenty to do, see and enjoy in the town. Look forward to seeing you there!