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- 🐦 £15 Solstice Oysters, Puppy Parades & 30 Years of Snooping
🐦 £15 Solstice Oysters, Puppy Parades & 30 Years of Snooping
From cheap champagne oyster deals and a dog-friendly puppy parade on the manor lawns to celebrating over thirty years of Brighton’s ultimate salmon pink treasure trove.
Béla Molnar
June 19, 2026
Hello, Brighton and Hove
England actually won last night without giving the nation a collective heart attack, so the city is buzzing. But drop the flags for a second: this Sunday is Father’s Day. If you haven’t sorted a card yet, this is your gentle nudge to grab one and perhaps pair it with a proper roast. Saturday also brings the Summer Solstice, so you can fully blame the endless daylight for your inevitable weekend hangover.
Culture-wise, the calendar is out of control. We have £15 champagne oyster deals, open-air puppy parades, and a massive 5th birthday street party at The Hole In The Wall. Whether you are sweating it out in a beach sauna or getting lost in Snoopers Paradise, stick the kettle on and let’s dive straight in.
Here is what’s squawking this week:
🦪 A massive citywide oyster festival kicks off with £15 drinks and seafood pairings.
🐶 Preston Manor hosts open-air cinema nights complete with a Sunday puppy parade.
📚 The Brighton Book Festival returns to champion grassroots and marginalised voices.
🍻 The Hole In The Wall shuts down the street for a massive 5th birthday bash.
🤠 The seafront transforms into a mega country music festival with rodeo bulls.
19/6/2026 - 21/6/2026
📚 Brighton Book Festival 🕣 Fri, Sat & Sun 21 Jun The Brighton Book Festival is in full swing, bringing together authors, poets, and activists for a week of powerful storytelling and community-led events. The festival focuses on making literature accessible to everyone, showcasing marginalised voices and local talent through dynamic panel discussions, workshops, and book launches. 🎟️ More Info 🦪 Brighton Oyster Festival 🕣 Fri 19 Jun-Sun 28 Jun BITE Sussex is launching a city-wide celebration of oysters paired with sparkling wine, Champagne, and cocktails. Over a dozen top local venues, including The Coal Shed, Embers, and The Salt Room, are running a special £15 deal for a drink and oyster snack with no booking required. Keep an eye out for unique ticketed experiences too, like a cocktails and canapés night inside the Brighton SEA LIFE aquarium. 🎟️ More Info 🎬 Outdoor Cinema by Picturehouse 🕣 7:30pm (Fri-Sun), 19 Jun-Sun 23 Aug The summer season launches tonight on the lawns of Preston Manor. Running on select weekends through August, the open-air series kicks off this Friday with Josie and the Pussycats, followed by David Byrne's American Utopia on Saturday, and a dog-friendly Best In Show screening plus puppy parade on Sunday. Every ticket includes a £7 food and drink voucher to use at the onsite cashless bar for hot dogs, popcorn, and cocktails. 🎟️ More Info 🎡 Electric Vehicle Rally 🕣 8am-8pm, Sat 20 Jun Over 100 electric vehicles, ranging from cars and SUVs to motorbikes and e-bikes, are completing the annual energy-efficiency trial from London to the coast. Once the vehicles arrive, Madeira Drive transforms into a 2.5-mile 'EVillage' packed with interactive exhibits, new tech, and manufacturer test drives. The free public event also features live music, stunt shows, circus workshops, and slackline challenges. 🎟️ More Info 🎵 The Music of The Lord of The Rings: Tribute to Howard Shore 🕣 6:30pm-7:30pm & 7:30pm-8:30pm, Sat 20 Jun The Mystery Ensemble orchestra is performing a live tribute to Howard Shore's iconic Middle-earth soundtracks. Set within the atmospheric surroundings of St George's Church, the 60-minute concert covers a wide range of the film score, including 'The Fellowship of the Ring', 'The Shire', and 'May It Be'. There are two separate seating sessions scheduled for the evening. 🎟️ More Info | 🤠 The Road to Nashville: Brighton Country Fest 🕣 12pm-10:30pm, Sun 21 Jun The seafront is transforming into a mega country music celebration for the day. This family-friendly festival features top-tier tributes to stars like Luke Combs, Dolly Parton, and Shania Twain. Alongside the live music, you can dive into line dancing, a rodeo bull, axe throwing, and plenty of smoker BBQ food vendors. 🎟️ More Info 🎬 Brighton Rocks International Film Festival 🕣 Mon 15 Jun-Sun 21 Jun Brighton's underground film festival has been running since Monday, making this weekend the perfect time to catch what's left of the action. The 9th annual event features over 200 independent films, including 50 local productions. Head to hubs like Dukes at Komedia, Daltons, and The Actors for indie screenings, documentaries, and filmmaker Q&As before it closes on Sunday. 🎟️ More Info 🧺 Big Summer Market 🕣 9am-3pm, Sat 20 Jun The Sussex Peasant is hosting a massive open-air celebration of seasonal food, farming, and community right by the Pepper Pot. You can browse a vibrant lineup of local farmers, growers, bakers, and independent producers selling fresh summer produce, artisan bread, flowers, cheeses, and thoughtfully sourced local food. 🎟️ More Info 🕯️ Candlelight Events 🕣 7pm-8pm (Hans Zimmer) & 9pm-10pm (ABBA), Sat 20 Jun The historic Royal Pavilion is hosting a pair of live, multi-sensory musical experiences, completely illuminated by candlelight. The evening begins with a string quartet performing dramatic renditions of Hans Zimmer's most iconic film scores, including Inception, The Lion King, and Gladiator. Later, the energy shifts as the quartet delivers a classical tribute to ABBA's legendary pop catalogue, featuring hits like Dancing Queen and Mamma Mia. 🎉 The Great Get Together ‘26 🕣 12pm-9:30pm, Sat 20 Jun Prestonville is shutting down the streets for its annual community celebration of togetherness and kindness. The day is packed with non-stop entertainment, including live bands and DJs from midday, a dedicated kids' activities area, a water fight, and a street tug-of-war. You can also enter your furry friend into the "Port Hall Paws Dog Show" at 1pm to win a meal at The Chimney House, or bring your best bakes and crafts to the Village Show drop-off morning. 🎟️ More Info |
🥗 Snoopers Paradise
I was thinking about how easy it is to take the spots we pass daily for granted, and honestly, nothing feels more like the soul of our city than Snoopers Paradise. We’ve all squeezed through that turnstile to rummage through old vinyl, but the actual history here is brilliant. It’s a proper Brighton institution that has spent over 30 years protecting our independent trader scene.
Most people don't know it started in 1991 when Frank and John Thompson bought an old furniture store. Instead of forcing a corporate plan, they let the quirky desires of locals completely shape it. Today, that massive salmon pink emporium houses over 90 utterly unique independent traders across 7,000 square feet, selling everything from ancient Roman coins to taxidermy.
What I love most is how it remains a genuine sanctuary for grassroots collectors. Upstairs in Snoopers Attic, the boutique was even named one of the best places in the UK for vintage clothes, and they’ve still got that original Photomatic booth downstairs. Skip the online scrolling this weekend, head to Kensington Gardens, and go support a true local treasure.
📍 7-8 Kensington Gardens, North Laine, BN1 4AL
🕒 Open daily: 10:15am – 5:45pm & Sun - 11:15am – 16:45pm
💰 Free to snoop
🔗 Plan Your Visit
🍺 The Cleveland Arms
If you fancy a change of scenery from the bustling city centre, it is well worth heading up to Fiveways to find The Cleveland Arms. Tucked away right opposite Blakers Park, this place is an absolute masterclass in what a proper, independent, family-run local should be. It is owned and passionately looked after by Jamie and Sarah, a local couple who live and breathe this community. Along with their tight-knit team, they’ve poured their hearts into making it a genuinely welcoming extension of their own living room.
While they’ve picked up massive accolades, including a legendary Best Sunday Roast in England title, the food and drink never feel pretentious. The kitchen serves up phenomenal, elevated British classics using ingredients from Sussex farms, and the bar showcases brilliant independent local ales. But honestly, the real magic is the family-first atmosphere they’ve created. Whether you’re settling in by the open fire, relaxing in the bright conservatory, or catching up with regulars, you can feel the pride and personal care behind every single detail. It is a genuine neighbourhood powerhouse that is well worth the short trip out of town.
Bring Dad for a homemade roast, and we’ll treat him to a free pint. Serving roasts from 12pm to 7pm.
📍 14 Cleveland Road, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 6FG
🕒 Mon-Thu 4pm to 11pm, Fri-Sat 12pm to 12am, Sun 12pm to 10.30pm
🔗 Visit their website & book a table
 🎧 On The Beach: Fatboy Slim 📅 Thu 16 Jul & Sun 19 Jul Fatboy Slim brings a massive homecoming celebration to the pebbles for Big Beach Boutique 7. With Friday and Saturday fully sold out, legendary party-starters can still catch the iconic DJ on Thursday and Sunday for an unforgettable open-air dance music experience right on the Brighton seafront.  🏳️🌈 Pride on The Park - Brighton Pride 📅 Sat 1 Aug & Sun 2 Aug The official Brighton & Hove Pride fundraiser returns for an inclusive weekend of music, protest, and celebration. This year's stellar lineup features massive performances from Raye, Jessie J, Diana Ross, and Paris Hilton, alongside top-tier electronic talent like Armand Van Helden, The Blessed Madonna, and Purple Disco Machine. 🎟️ Buy Tickets |  🎷 Madness presents Madrophenia 📅 Fri 24 Jul The legendary Nutty Boys are heading to the coast to headline a momentous outdoor summer party. Madness will perform their massive catalogue of iconic British anthems live on the pebbles, with a fantastic supporting lineup featuring reggae royalty David Rodigan and the high-energy Hot 8 Brass Band. 🎟️ Buy Tickets  🎸 On The Beach: The Maccabees 📅 Sat, 25 Jul A massive full-circle homecoming show topping an incredible cross-section of British indie. Joining them on the Editors, Miles Kane, Anna Calvi, Ash, Badly Drawn Boy, and local favourites Lime Garden. The band aims to top the legendary energy of an early Brighton gig that famously got them banned when fans hung from the ceiling.
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19/6/2026 - 21/6/2026
Fri
🐱 Cat Movie Night: Kedi | 8:45pm, Fri 19 Jun @ Purrfect Space
Watch the heartwarming documentary Kedi alongside friendly rescue cats, including some saved from Istanbul's streets. Tickets include the film, feline interaction time, and free tea or coffee. Doors close at 9pm sharp! More Info
🧠 Joe Tracini: Ten Things I Hate About Me | 7:30pm, Fri @ Studio Theatre
Actor and author Joe Tracini presents a powerful blend of comedy and storytelling about living with Borderline Personality Disorder. More Info
🎹 Jess Robinson: Elton Reimagined | 7:30pm, Fri @ The Old Market, Hove
Vocalist Jess Robinson performs Elton John's greatest hits using pitch-perfect impressions of legendary female singers. More Info
🎤 Tadiwa Mahlunge at The Secret Comedy Club | 8pm, Fri @ Artista
Headliner Tadiwa Mahlunge performs a stand-up set alongside a full lineup of supporting comedians at this intimate, no-heckling show. More Info
🎭 Jerusalem | 7pm, Fri, 2pm & 7pm, Sat @ Brighton Open Air Theatre
Hailed as the greatest British play of the century, Jez Butterworth's masterpiece follows local outlaw Johnny "Rooster" Byron in an irreverent, magical hymn to myth, mischief, and England’s lost wildness. More Info
📽️ Outdoor Cinema - Josie and the Pussycats | 7:30pm, Fri @ Preston Manor
This open-air cinema screening presents the cult-classic pop culture satire on the lawn with included snack and drink credit. More Info
🎸 Fleetwood Mac- A Celebration | 8pm, Fri @ Ironworks Studios
This dedicated tribute night features live performances of the band's greatest hits, a trivia quiz, and a themed after-show disco. More Info
📝 All about Love: The Poetics of Resistance | 6:30pm, Fri @ Afrori Books
Inspired by bell hooks' seminal book, Dr Mona Manjot Dhaliwal leads a poetry workshop exploring themes of freedom, beauty, and hope as detailed in All About Love. More Info
🎭 Priscilla Queen Of The Desert The Musical | 7:30pm, Fri & 2.30pm & 7.30pm, Sat @ Theatre Royal, Brighton - Shake your groove thing with this fabulous musical extravaganza packed with iconic 80s and 90s disco anthems, starring Kevin Clifton and Adèle Anderson. Catch Friday's evening show or Saturday's matinee and evening finales! More Info
Sat
🖼️ Vintage Train Running Day | 10:30am, Sat @ Brighton Toy and Model Museum
This special midsummer event celebrates the golden age of summer railway travel by operating classic British and continental vintage locomotives on a three-rail layout. More Info
😂 Thomas Green: Brainstorm | 7:30pm, Sat @ Brighton Dome
The high-energy Australian comic and Have A Word regular brings a chaotic, brilliant hour of fast-paced stand-up to the stage. Prepare for a hilarious deep-dive into a life of impulsive decisions, random tangents, and absolute stupidity. More Info
🛍️ Brighton Makers Market | 11am, Sat 20 Jun @ Jubilee Square
Discover a rotating lineup of talented local artists, craftspeople, and independent businesses at this vibrant, dog-friendly outdoor market in the heart of the Laines.
More Info
☀️ Summer Solstice Sauna | Sat 20 Jun @ Beach Box Sauna
Celebrate the longest day of the year with midsummer beach saunas, mini massages from Elke, and the annual Midsummer Fest right on the shore. More Info
🥳 The Hole In The Wall 5th Birthday Street Party | 12pm, Sat 20 Jun @ The Hole In The Wall - The pub celebrates its 5th anniversary with its first-ever street party. Expect free beer, birthday cake, DJs, an annual treasure hunt, special collaboration brews, and killer food. More Info
🛍️ Summer Solstice Maker’s Fair | 10am, Sat & Sun @ Middle Farm, West Firle
Celebrate Sussex Craft Week in the South Downs with 30 curated exhibitors selling handmade ceramics, slow fashion, and jewellery. Enjoy live music, craft demos, a farm shop, and a cider barn. More Info
Sun
🎵 Shalamar - The Gold Tour: A Fifty Year Celebration | 7:30pm, Sun @ Dome
The highlight of the week and a perfect Sunday finale! Original members Jeffrey Daniel and Howard Hewitt turn the venue into a massive party with a seven-piece live band playing iconic soul hits from five decades, including "A Night to Remember. More Info
🏇 Father's Day Family Fun Day | 12pm, Sun @ Brighton Racecourse
Celebrate Dad with a thrilling afternoon of flat racing, panoramic sea views, and free "big boy's toys" entertainment including a golf simulator, gladiator duels, and an extreme assault course. Under 18s get in free, and London to Brighton bike riders get £5 entry with their medal! More Info
🐦 Sunday Birds | 11:30am, Sun @ Location on Event Page
Slow down and spot local birds with RSPB volunteers using sight, sound, and the Merlin app at this family-friendly launch event, followed by a community picnic. More Info
🎵 Irish, Welsh And English Folk Night | 7pm, Sun @ The Green Door Store
Celebrate the summer solstice with an evening of traditional melodies and storytelling. The lineup features mythical Welsh soundscapes from Cara Elin, medieval acoustic harmonies from Babette, and folk arrangements by harpist Alice Brightman. More Info
📅 Father's Day Fun Day | 11am, Sun @ The Terrace (American Express Stadium)
Treat dad to an epic family game day featuring mini golf, cornhole, and child-friendly axe throwing. Enjoy street food and pints to the sounds of DJ Mike Pantelli, then kick back on the big screen for a late-afternoon screening of Big Daddy. More Info
Live Music
Alex Clarke | 5:30pm, Fri @ St Andrew's Church Ticket
Chelsea | 8pm, Fri @ The Prince Albert Ticket
Fleetwood Mac - A Celebration | 8pm, Fri @ Ironworks Studios Ticket
The Getaway ‘ashes’ Single Release | 7pm, Fri @ The Rossi Bar Ticket
Ingrown | 7pm, Fri @ The Hope & Ruin Ticket
Jess Robinson: Elton Reimagined | 7:30pm, Fri @ The Old Market Ticket
Junebabies | 6pm, Fri @ Concorde 2 (Free entry)
The Kendall Connection | 7pm, Fri @ Komedia Ticket
Maow Presents SILK | 8pm, Fri @ The Folklore Rooms Ticket
Role Call: a Celebration of Iconic Moments in Musical Theatre | 7:30pm, Fri @ South East Dance Ticket
Candlelight: A Tribute to ABBA | 9pm, Sat @ Royal Pavilion Ticket
Candlelight: Hans Zimmer's Best Works | 7pm, Sat @ Royal Pavilion Ticket
Chelsea | 8pm, Sat @ The Prince Albert Ticket
Clash 'N' Sleazy | 7:30pm, Sat @ The Brunswick Ticket
FME HOUSE (D&B) Boat Party | 12:45pm, Sat @ Brighton Marina Ticket
Best Of Stock Aitken Waterman | 8pm, Sat @ Ironworks Studios Ticket
Jam Tarts Indie Choir | 7:30pm, Sat @ The Old Market Ticket
The Music of The Lord of The Rings | 6:30pm, Sat @ St George's Church Ticket
Myles Bullen + Rain McMey & Tim Holehouse | 7pm, Sat @ The Brunswick Ticket
Nevertel | 7pm, Sat @ Patterns Ticket
Simon Reynolds: Interview + Book Signing | 6:15pm, Sat @ Resident Music Ticket
Spellbound | 9pm, Sat @ Komedia Ticket
Sssputnik Electronic | 7pm, Sat @ The Green Door Store Ticket
Wakefire: An Incantion to Summer | 8pm, Sat @ Brighton Dome Ticket
Shalamar | 7:30pm, Sun @ Brighton Dome Ticket
All Them Witches | 6pm, Sun @ Chalk Ticket
The Brighthelmstone Midsummer Ball | 2pm, Sun @ The Prince Albert Ticket
Free Outdoor Concert | 2:30pm, Sun @ St Peter's Church More Info
Hard-fi: Live + Signing | 6pm, Sun @ Resident Music Ticket
Irish, Welsh And English Folk Night | 7pm, Sun @ The Green Door Store Ticket
Midsummer Punk Rock | 2pm, Sun @ The Prince Albert Ticket
Richard Durrant: Music for Midsummer | 2pm, Sun @ Brighton Open Air Theatre Ticket