Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Hundreds flocked to Horsham’s Carfax to sample the best of Sussex food and drink.
- *Local vineyards, farm shops, pubs and cafes* united under one banner: Sussex Six.
- Cooking demos, workshops and live music turned the town centre into a festival stage.
- The event championed sustainable buying by urging outlets to stock six Sussex-made items.
- Officials hail a “significant boost” to footfall and community spirit across the district.
Table of contents
Event overview
Sunday, 7 September 2025 saw Horsham’s historic Carfax transform into a bustling open-air market from 10 am to 4 pm. The *Sussex Six Festival* welcomed residents, day-trippers and food enthusiasts to explore more than 40 stalls packed with regional delicacies. Light autumn sunshine, drifting aromas of wood-fired pizza and the clink of tasting glasses set an unforgettable scene.
Festival highlights
- Local Restaurants & Pubs – pop-up menus showcased seasonal produce in imaginative street-food portions.
- Artisan Producers – New House Farm Shop’s pastries and *strawberry scones* sold out by midday.
- Vineyard Tastings – Kinsbrook poured award-winning sparkling rosé to enthusiastic queues.
- Live Entertainment – acoustic sets and children’s dance troupes kept crowds moving between stalls.
- Chef Demonstrations – impromptu lessons on zero-waste cooking drew crowds eager for tips.
The Sussex Six story
Launched in June 2023, the Sussex Six campaign encourages eateries and retailers to pledge at least six Sussex-made items on their menus or shelves. Backed by Horsham District Council and powered by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, it now spans neighbouring districts and has recruited more than 100 independent businesses.
Kinsbrook Vineyard’s sleek deli and New House Farm Shop’s country-style café have both been crowned *Sussex Six Heroes* for weaving local produce into every corner of their offerings.
Community voices
“Sussex Six brings together businesses across the entire food chain in Sussex, fostering a strong sense of local pride and unity.” – Rob Leet, Head of Enterprise & Parking, Horsham District Council.
Stallholders echoed the praise. One baker described the atmosphere as *“a true celebration of everything grown, baked or brewed on our doorstep.”* Residents, meanwhile, revelled in tasting sessions that cost “less than a train ticket to Brighton, yet felt like a world tour of flavour.”
Economic & cultural impact
Early footfall counts show a 28 % rise in Sunday visitors to Horsham town centre compared with the same weekend last year. Retailers reported *double-digit* sales uplifts, while producers secured new wholesale deals thanks to face-to-face introductions. Culturally, the festival strengthened links between farmers, chefs and shoppers, encouraging more sustainable consumption patterns across the district.
Looking ahead
Organisers have confirmed a winter “Sussex Six on Ice” market and a spring countryside tour. Residents keen to take part can:
- Attend the next festival dates (to be announced in local listings).
- Support businesses displaying the Sussex Six badge.
- Share recipes and reviews on community forums to keep the momentum alive.
FAQ
What is the main goal of the Sussex Six campaign?
To encourage every participating venue to offer at least six Sussex-produced items, boosting local supply chains and reducing food miles.
How can a business become a Sussex Six Hero?
By pledging the six-item minimum, featuring them prominently and evidencing a commitment to seasonal Sussex produce. Recognition follows a short verification visit from campaign coordinators.
Are future events free to attend?
Yes. Entry remains free, though tastings, workshops or premium masterclasses may carry modest fees.
Where can I find updates on upcoming festivals?
Follow Horsham District Council’s event pages, local press listings and the official campaign site linked above for the latest schedules.