About

Hidden Beach started with one night in a Hastings nightclub. People loved it, so we did it again, and it grew into a one-day summer music festival on the Sussex coast.

The festival became a Summer of Culture: more than music, with film, art, food & markets, wellness, and things for children & families, championing local makers and independent talent. Then we wanted it to last all year, so Summer of Culture became Seasons of Culture, with something happening through every season.

Our magazine tells the stories behind the culture: the artists, makers, venues and people shaping East Sussex. It's also in print, with each edition bringing 10,000 copies door to door.

Now Hidden Beach is East Sussex-wide. We still run our own events, and we also spotlight the best of what other venues are doing, from Depot in Lewes to the De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill. Music, film, art, food & markets, wellness, and children & families across the county, all in one place.

One night out became a home for East Sussex culture, and it's still growing.

Six creative strands

Everything we do sits in six strands, so you can follow what you love.

Music is our heartbeat, from open-air sound systems at The Oval to intimate acoustic sessions by the sea.

Film brings independent screenings and open-air cinema nights that spark conversation.

Art covers exhibitions, collaborative projects and hands-on creative workshops.

Food & Markets bring people round the table, with community meals, pop-up kitchen takeovers and artisan markets championing local makers.

Wellness ties it all together, with mindful gatherings and movement sessions to recharge by the sea.

Children & Families means events made for all ages, so everyone has a place.

Our values

At its core, Hidden Beach is built on values of inclusivity, collaboration, and safe spaces. We believe that culture is something we build together. Whether you are a lifelong local, a visitor, a maker, or a volunteer, you have a place at our table as we rewrite the rhythm of our coast, one season at a time.