Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Key Takeaways
- The Sussex Six food festival turned Horsham’s Carfax into a bustling culinary hub, drawing hundreds of visitors.
- More than 100 local eateries showcased at least six Sussex-sourced products, reinforcing the buy local pledge.
- Live demos, tastings, and entertainment created an inclusive community atmosphere.
- The festival spotlighted strategies to reduce food miles and strengthen the local economy.
- Upcoming Sussex Six events promise to broaden the initiative’s reach across the county.
Table of contents
Event Overview
Sunday, 7 September 2025 saw Horsham’s Carfax burst into flavour as the Sussex Six food festival celebrated Sussex’s finest produce. According to organisers, attendance “far exceeded expectations,” with an estimated 5,000 visitors exploring interactive stalls, watching sizzling cooking demonstrations, and sampling complimentary bites of artisan fare.
“It’s inspiring to see so many people passionate about eating local,” noted festival coordinator Sarah Mills.
From dawn until dusk, live music added rhythm to the aromas of freshly baked bread, smoked meats, and seasonal fruit compotes. Families sprawled on picnic blankets, children joined cupcake-decorating workshops, and tourists snapped photos of the iconic Carfax bandstand framed by colourful market stalls.
Showcasing Local Produce
Central to the festival was a dazzling array of Sussex-grown delights: heirloom tomatoes, creamy Brighton Blue cheese, pasture-raised charcuterie, and award-winning sparkling wines. Each vendor proudly displayed a “Sussex Six” badge, confirming that at least six menu items were sourced within the county.
- Seasonal fruit & veg from New House Farm Shop
- Sourdough loaves by Little Street Bakery, using local heritage wheat
- Crisp rosé from Kinsbrook Vineyard
Visitors raved about the freshness, with many remarking that they could “taste the Sussex sunshine” in every bite.
Food & Drink Campaign
The festival forms part of the wider Sussex Six campaign, a county-wide initiative managed by Natural Partnerships CIC. Businesses signing the Sussex Six pledge commit to featuring at least six local products year-round. The campaign’s influence now stretches as far as Gatwick Airport’s Sussex House Kitchen & Bar, giving travellers an immediate taste of the county.
By shortening supply chains, organisers estimate the campaign has cut collective food miles by over 120,000 km since launch.
Support for Local Businesses
Local restaurateurs seized the chance to showcase success stories. Faygate’s Strawberry Fields Tea Room reported a 30 % sales uplift after embracing Sussex Six sourcing, while Thakeham’s Kinsbrook Vineyard said festival exposure doubled weekend booking inquiries.
“Being part of Sussex Six means our menu proudly tells the story of our neighbours’ farms,” said Kinsbrook chef-owner Ed Dallimore.
Community Engagement
Beyond food, the festival featured eco-talks on composting, children’s seed-planting tables, and zero-waste cooking demos. Volunteers from Horsham Green Hub guided visitors through carbon-saving tips, emphasising that small local choices create big global impacts.
Looking Ahead
Organisers hinted at pop-up markets this winter and a spring festival in Lewes, with dates to be announced via community channels. Residents eager to stay updated should follow town council bulletins and the Sussex Six social pages.
Conclusion
Horsham’s latest Sussex Six food festival proved that when communities rally behind local producers, flavour, economy, and environment all win. As anticipation builds for future events, one message echoes through Carfax: “Eat local, celebrate Sussex.”
FAQ
What is the Sussex Six pledge?
It’s a commitment by participating businesses to feature at least six locally-sourced Sussex products on their menus or shelves year-round.
How does the festival reduce food miles?
By prioritising hyper-local suppliers, producers travel shorter distances, cutting transport emissions and keeping the supply chain resilient.
Can new vendors join future events?
Yes. Prospective vendors can register interest via the Sussex Six website or contact Natural Partnerships CIC for application details.
Is admission to the festival free?
Entry is free, though workshops or premium tastings may carry a small fee to cover ingredients.
Where can I find dates for upcoming Sussex Six festivals?
Follow local council newsletters, the official Sussex Six social media channels, or sign up for email alerts on their website.