West Sussex has enjoyed a significant weekend of culture and community as two major regional festivals concluded on Sunday, 20 September, marking the traditional transition from the peak summer season into autumn. From the multi-stage energy of Worthing’s BroadFest to the heritage charm of the Bluebell Railway, the combination of live music and local brews remains a staple of the county’s entertainment calendar.
BroadFest 2026 transformed Broadwater Green over three days, offering a varied programme of live performances across the Main and Arrow stages. The event, which offered free entry to the public, also featured a dedicated DJ tent, drawing crowds from across the region to celebrate what many consider the final major outdoor party of the summer.
Simultaneously, the Bluebell Railway hosted its sixth annual Beer & Cider Festival in collaboration with CAMRA. Running from 18 to 20 September, the heritage line provided a unique backdrop for enthusiasts to sample regional ales while enjoying live music. The event operated on a token system for drinks, maintaining its reputation as a key fixture for both rail fans and real ale supporters in Mid Sussex.
The Hoedown arrives in Emsworth
The focus now shifts to Emsworth this coming weekend as The Sussex Brewery prepares to host its first-ever Country Western music festival. Named ‘The Hoedown’, the event is scheduled for Saturday 26 September and promises a day of themed entertainment.
The festival will be hosted by Dawn The Drag Queen and features a line-up led by a Shania Twain tribute act.
