Summer has arrived in Brighton and Hove — and the city has responded with a packed weekend of live music, comedy, clubbing and culture. Whether you’re looking for a big night out, a lazy afternoon in the sun or something a little different, here’s what’s happening across the city this weekend.
Friday Night — Kick Off the Weekend
Komedia’s legendary Comedy Club runs every Friday at 8pm, and this week is no exception. Three top acts plus an MC make it one of the most reliable nights out in Brighton — consistently good, consistently funny and always worth booking in advance. If you haven’t been, this is the perfect introduction to one of the city’s best-loved venues.
Over at the Prince Albert, Pauline Murray and Helen McCookerybook are playing a rare live set — a strong draw for anyone with a taste for post-punk and independent music heritage. One of those gigs that Brighton does better than anywhere else.
Patterns has Starbenders on the bill — an Atlanta-based rock act with a devoted following. Doors are early so get there in good time.
Saturday — The Big Day
Saturday is headlined by the Glorious Day Festival at Hove Lawns, with Todd Terry topping the bill. One of house music’s genuine legends, Todd Terry has been defining the sound of dancefloors since the late 1980s. An outdoor festival setting on Hove Lawns in June doesn’t get much better — bring layers for the evening and arrive early to make the most of the site.
For those staying closer to the city centre, the Volks Club is running its celebrated Drum & Bass street party — 8 hours outside the legendary venue followed by 8 hours inside. If you’ve never done the Volks street party in summer, this is the one to tick off.
Elsewhere, Calibre plays Concorde 2 for a summer day party with SP:MC on mic duties — a properly curated drum and bass event at one of Brighton’s finest venues. Concorde 2 remains one of the best mid-sized rooms in the country and Calibre is at the top of his game.
For something more intimate, the Cowley Club has a strong punk and metal lineup with Soga from Mexico headlining alongside UK acts Leashed and Future Primitive. Entry is pay-what-you-can and the atmosphere is always electric.
Sunday — Wind Down or Keep Going
Black Veil Brides bring their gothic rock spectacle to Concorde 2 on Sunday night, with Saint Agnes in support. A proper headline show for fans of the harder end of the rock spectrum — expect a full production and a devoted crowd.
CHALK has Melrose Avenue, Banks Arcade and KNIFE BRIDE — a strong indie and alternative triple bill that will keep the weekend going well into Sunday evening.
For something more reflective, Nick Diver plays the Folklore Rooms — an intimate acoustic set in one of Brighton’s most characterful small venues. Tickets are limited so check availability now.
World Cup
England play Ghana on Friday evening and the city’s pubs will be buzzing. The Black Lion and Mash Tun are both showing every game of the tournament — arrive early for a seat and stay for the atmosphere that only Brighton delivers on a big football night.
Art and Culture
The Walter Sickert: Working Notes exhibition continues at the Brighton Museum this weekend — a thoughtful show for anyone wanting something quieter on Saturday afternoon. Carole Waller’s Portal paintings and prints are also showing nearby, combining textiles and fine art in a colourful and accessible exhibition.
Whatever your plans, Brighton is doing what it does best this weekend. Get out and enjoy it.
