Local Events

Take a look below to read about some of the events that take place in Hastings throughout the year.

JACK IN THE GREEN (first Bank Holiday weekend in May)

In the 16th and 17th centuries in England people would make garlands of flowers and leaves for the May Day celebration, they became increasingly elaborate. Works Guilds would try to outdo each other, in the late 18th century this became a matter for competition, milkmaids in London carried garlands on their heads with silver objects on them, but the crown had to go to the chimney sweeps. Their garland was so big it covered the entire man. It became known as Jack in the Green. Revived in Hastings by the Mad Jacks Morris Dancers back in 1983 and has continued since...

Featuring Folk Music, Ceilidhs, Morris Dancers, Giants, and of course the Jack in the Green, you're sure to have a memorable day out in Hastings during the annual Jack in the Green celebrations. See www.hastingsjack.co.uk for more details.

HASTINGS INTERNATIONAL CHESS CONGRESS (28 Dec - 5 Jan)

The Hastings International Chess Congress is an annual chess congress which takes place in Hastings at the end of the year. The 2009 - 2010 Congress will take place between 28th December 2009 to 5th January 2010. Always a popular event, and alongside the main event there is the challengers section, which is open to all players. Make sure you visit www.hastingschess.org.uk for all the information.

HASTINGS BEER AND MUSIC FESTIVAL (Early July)

This yearly festival held in Alexandra Park gives you an opportunity to watch local live bands as well as many excellent tribute acts perform to the crowds. Spanning an entire weekend during daytime (for the kids) and night time (for the adults) you can also sample the many beers on offer. Visit www.hastingsbeer.co.uk

OLD TOWN WEEK (Late July/Early August)

An annual event, Old Town Week features various events and activities such as street parties, charity races, concerts and Morris Dancing, to name but a few. The week ends with the Old Town Carnival procession (see below). For details, visit www.oldtowncarnivalweek.co.uk

HASTINGS CARNIVAL (Early August)

As you'd expect from any great carnival, floats, dancers, majorettes and marching bands will parade the streets of Hastings. In the evening a huge firework display is held as a finale.

www.oldtowncarnivalweek.co.uk has all the info.