Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Horsham will transform into a food lover’s paradise on 7 September 2025.
- The event is the flagship celebration of the Sussex Six initiative, shining a spotlight on regional producers.
- Over 100 independent businesses will collaborate in the historic Carfax plaza.
- Visitors can sample seasonal dishes, craft beverages, and enjoy live demonstrations.
- The festival is expected to boost local sales by around 30 %, creating lasting community impact.
Table of contents
Event Overview
“The Sussex Six Food Event Horsham is more than a market—it’s a movement.” As the cornerstone of the Sussex Six campaign, the festival encourages retailers, cafés, and restaurants to feature at least six locally sourced products. The 2025 edition is poised to attract hundreds of visitors eager to celebrate Sussex’s culinary heritage.
Venue Details
Historic yet spacious, Carfax lies at Horsham’s heart and offers an inviting open-air setting for bustling stalls, live cooking stations, and networking corners. Its central location ensures effortless access for both residents and out-of-town gourmands.
Local Food & Drink Offerings
- Farm-fresh produce & award-winning artisanal cheeses
- Hand-crafted baked goods and street-food favourites
- Craft beverages, from Sussex sparkling wines to small-batch beers
- Seasonal dishes that capture the *flavour of the South Downs*
Visitors can journey through Sussex’s terroir in just a few bites, discovering flavours seldom found in supermarket aisles.
Participating Businesses
Expect a vibrant mix of farm shops, café delis, and emerging food brands, including:
- Kinsbrook Vineyard of Thakeham
- New House Farm Shop in Faygate
- More than 100 independent eateries, pubs, and restaurants that have taken the Sussex Six pledge
Collaboration Among Local Businesses
Organised by Natural Partnerships CIC and backed by Horsham District Council, the event embodies collective spirit. Producers swap ideas, share stalls, and create cross-menu collaborations—proving that cooperation can be as tasty as competition.
Culinary Highlights
- Signature dishes crafted by independent chefs using 100 % Sussex ingredients
- Pop-up wine tastings hosted by local vineyards
- Interactive cooking demos where guests can *learn, taste,* and replicate dishes at home
“Our menu is a love letter to Sussex—each bite tells a story of soil, sea, and skilled hands,” says a participating chef.
Impact on the Local Community
- Economic boost: average sales uplift of 30 % during festival weekend
- Education: workshops on seasonal eating and sustainable sourcing
- Engagement: residents meet artisans face-to-face, forging long-term loyalty
Market Features
The thoughtfully designed layout will include wide aisles, sensory tasting zones, and shaded seating, ensuring a relaxed yet lively experience. Visitors can purchase exclusive small-batch products not stocked by national retailers.
Role of South Lodge
Luxury hotel South Lodge in Lower Beeding will:
- Host networking brunches for Sussex Six participants
- Award “2025 Hero” certificates and lavish spa gifts from Botanica Spa
- Champion ongoing collaborations beyond the festival date
Opportunities for Attendees & Businesses
For food fans:
- Discover new regional specialities and speak directly with producers
- Stay informed about upcoming Sussex Six markets and festivals
- Grasp the environmental benefits of eating locally
For businesses:
- Join the Sussex Six network for collective marketing power
- Showcase products to a consciously-curated audience
- Forge partnerships that extend beyond one spectacular day
Call to Action
Mark your calendars for 7 September 2025. Attend, taste, and support the producers who keep Sussex’s food scene thriving. Want to stay in the loop? Explore the official website of the Sussex Six initiative for future events and ways to get involved.
FAQs
What time does the festival start and finish?
Stalls open at 10 am and close at 5 pm, with live demos scheduled throughout the day.
Is there an entry fee?
Entry is free, though individual vendors set their own tasting or product prices.
Are pets allowed at Carfax during the event?
Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome, but owners must avoid busy demo areas for safety.
How can businesses sign up for a stall?
Prospective vendors should complete the online form on the Sussex Six website; applications close 31 May 2025.
Will there be vegetarian and vegan options?
Absolutely—numerous stalls will specialise in plant-based dishes, ensuring *everyone* can feast.