Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Hundreds descended on Horsham’s Carfax to celebrate the Sussex Six food festival.
- Independent eateries and suppliers earned Sussex Six Hero certificates for championing local produce.
- Families enjoyed live cookery demos, artisan stalls and children’s activities under late-summer sunshine.
- The event deepened community bonds and boosted sales for small producers.
- Organisers have hinted at even bigger celebrations in 2026.
Table of contents
Event Overview
Carfax, the historic centre of Horsham, transformed into a culinary playground on Sunday 7 September 2025. From 10 am until 4 pm visitors meandered between vibrant stalls, inhaling aromas of freshly baked breads, sizzling Sussex sausages and aromatic herbs. A buzz of anticipation rippled through the crowd as chefs in crisp whites took to the demonstration stage, showing just how versatile local ingredients can be.
“It felt like the whole town turned out,” laughed one stallholder, eyes sparkling behind a flour-dusted apron. “We sold more in six hours than we usually do in a week!”
Local Business Participation
The festival put indie businesses centre stage. Two stand-outs were:
- Kinsbrook Vineyard – pouring award-winning vintages beside a pop-up café-deli from their Thakeham base.
- New House Farm Shop – tempting passers-by with bakes from Faygate’s beloved Strawberry Fields Tea Room.
“Being part of the Sussex Six initiative has boosted our business and tightened our ties with growers next door,” noted Sarah Thompson, owner of New House Farm Shop.
Farmers Market & Local Produce
Shoppers loaded sturdy tote bags with ruby tomatoes, heritage apples and golden jars of Horsham Honey. Artisan cheesemakers offered generous samples, while butchers proudly explained the provenance of their pasture-raised meats. Producer John Smith beamed:
“The Sussex Six campaign has given tiny outfits like ours a voice – and an eager audience.”
Food & Drink Offerings
- Steaming Sussex steak and ale pies encased in buttery pastry.
- Colourful plant-based bowls bursting with local beetroot, kale and quinoa.
- Kinsbrook platters pairing soft cheeses with crisp rosé.
- Fluffy sourdough loaves from renowned county bakeries.
Interactive gin, chocolate and bread workshops let visitors roll up their sleeves. Horsham resident Emily Brown confessed she had no idea “there were so many exciting flavours born on our doorstep.”
Community Initiative & Impact
Driven by Natural Partnerships CIC and Horsham District Council, the Sussex Six campaign now counts 100+ businesses. Councillor Jane Roberts explained the wider vision: strengthening supply chains, shortening food miles and nurturing community pride.
Early figures suggest a surge in weekend footfall and a spike in online orders for featured producers – proof that tasting local often leads to buying local.
Future Engagement & Opportunities
Missed the festival? Keep the momentum alive by:
- Dropping into participating cafés and farm shops throughout the year.
- Choosing menus that highlight at least six Sussex-produced items.
- Following event updates via Horsham District Council and tourism channels.
- Exploring the initiative’s story on Sussex Six Celebrates Food & Drink Collaboration 2025.
Organiser Emma White teased: “The enthusiasm today shows Horsham has a real appetite for celebrating local food – watch this space!”
Conclusion
From sun-lit tastings to new supplier partnerships, the Sussex Six food festival demonstrated that Horsham’s culinary heartbeat is stronger than ever. As stalls packed down and the last crumbs were swept away, one sentiment lingered: local food isn’t a trend – it’s part of the town’s identity, ready to be savoured all year round.
FAQs
What is the Sussex Six campaign?
It’s a pledge encouraging eateries and retailers to stock at least six products made in Sussex, supporting regional farmers and producers.
How often is the Horsham food festival held?
The main Sussex Six festival is annual, with smaller pop-up events and markets happening throughout the year.
Can new businesses join the initiative?
Absolutely. Interested venues can contact Natural Partnerships CIC or Horsham District Council to sign up and receive marketing support.
Is there an entry fee for visitors?
No – the festival is free to attend, making it accessible for residents and tourists alike.