Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Key Takeaways
- The Sussex Six food event Horsham drew hundreds of visitors, transforming Carfax into a bustling food hub.
- Local heroes Kinsbrook Vineyard and New House Farm Shop were crowned “Sussex Six Heroes”.
- A £25,000 boost from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund strengthened support for Sussex producers.
- Live cooking demos, tasting sessions, and entertainment created an *electric* community atmosphere.
- Plans are already underway for more events, expanding the initiative across the county.
Table of Contents
Event Overview
On Sunday, 7 September 2025, Carfax in Horsham was *alive with aroma and applause* as the Sussex Six food event welcomed gastronomes from dawn till late afternoon. From 10 am – 4 pm, street stalls lined the historic square while chefs sizzled local produce before captivated crowds.
Quick facts:
- Venue: Carfax, Horsham
- Date: Sunday, 7 September 2025
- Time: 10 am – 4 pm
Visitors indulged in live cooking demos, hands-on tasting sessions, and toe-tapping local entertainment—proof that food can indeed be the heartbeat of a town.
Participating Businesses
From artisanal cheeses to small-batch gins, stalls showcased the rich tapestry of Sussex flavours. Independent shops, farm shops, cafés, restaurants, and pubs all pulled together in a dazzling display of culinary camaraderie.
Two vendors stole the spotlight as *Sussex Six Heroes*:
- Kinsbrook Vineyard – Thakeham’s award-winning winery with a restaurant and café deli.
- New House Farm Shop – Faygate favourite featuring the beloved Strawberry Fields Tea Room.
Special drink collaborations—think vineyard-brewery mash-ups—left attendees quoting one another: “Sussex in a glass!”
Support for Sussex Producers
A £25,000 injection from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund supercharged exposure for local makers. Rob Leet, Head of Enterprise and Parking at Horsham District Council, remarked, “Sussex Six knits together every link in the food chain—it’s collaboration served on a platter.”
- Boosted marketing through the Sussex Six Campaign
- Networking chances between growers, chefs, and shoppers
- Greater shelf space for hyper-local goods
Community Impact
Horsham’s hospitality sector felt an immediate uptick as footfall surged. Traders reported brisk sales, and residents relished the *shared pride* of seeing friends and neighbours behind the stalls. One attendee summed it up: “The Sussex Six isn’t just a market—it’s our identity on a plate.”
Future Prospects
Riding high on success, organisers plan:
- More Sussex Six events in Horsham throughout 2026
- Expansion to neighbouring districts
- A community pledge encouraging residents to “buy local, eat local” year-round
Follow Natural Partnerships CIC and Horsham District Council on social media for announcements, or explore the Sussex Six initiative online.
Conclusion
The Sussex Six food event Horsham proved that championing local fare can spark economic growth, nurture community bonds, and safeguard culinary heritage. Whether you sipped vineyard fizz or sampled a farm-fresh cheese toastie, you contributed to a thriving local ecosystem—one delicious bite at a time.
FAQs
When is the next Sussex Six event in Horsham?
Organisers hint at spring 2026 for the next instalment—keep an eye on council channels for confirmed dates.
How can businesses apply to become vendors?
Applications open online roughly three months before each event. Criteria focus on locally sourced ingredients and sustainability practices.
Is entry to the event free?
Yes, attendance is free, though individual food and drink purchases vary by vendor.
Are pets allowed at Carfax during the market?
Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome, but owners should avoid peak times for the comfort of all visitors.
How do I volunteer for future events?
Email the council’s events team or register interest via the Sussex Six website. Volunteers receive a meal voucher and behind-the-scenes access.