It’s Halloween weekend, the clocks have gone back and bonfire season is in full swing. Whether you’re after fright nights, fireworks or a quiet Sunday lunch, here’s what’s on across Brighton and Hove.
Saturday: Fireworks at Preston Park
The big free event of the weekend is the Coles Funfair and Preston Park Fireworks on Saturday 31 October. The funfair opens from 2pm, there’s a children’s show at 6pm, and the grand finale lights up the sky at 8pm. Around 10,000 people are expected, so wrap up warm and get there early.
Halloween Nights Out
Komedia is the place for Halloween parties. On Friday, The Album Era performs Black Sabbath’s Paranoid in full, followed by Black Parade, a late-night noughties emo anthems party. On Saturday, The Witchcraft and Vagrancy Act hosts a Halloween party, with the Spellbound club night running late. The Komedia Comedy Club runs on both nights for anyone who’d rather laugh than scream.
For something more cinematic, Brighton Museum hosts Halloween pop-up screenings on Saturday of Hocus Pocus (PG) and cult classic The Rocky Horror Picture Show (12A). Fishnets are optional but encouraged.
Spooky Family Fun
It’s the last weekend of half-term fun at the city’s museums. Preston Manor, said to be one of the most haunted houses in England, runs a ghost tour for young people, and its Ghostly Gatherings exhibition continues until mid-November. Friday also brings Dragon Hunters Wanted!, a magical quest at the Royal Pavilion. It’s your last chance to see the DRAGONS exhibition there, which closes on Sunday 1 November.
On Sunday afternoon, Komedia’s Disco Kidz Halloween Special gets younger party-goers dancing.
Exhibitions
If you want to escape the crowds, Brighton Museum has three strong shows: The Biba Look: Photography and Fashion, celebrating the cult 1960s and 70s label; Magic Place; and Making the Masked Singer, which goes behind the scenes of the TV hit’s extraordinary costumes.
Albion on the Road
Brighton travel to league leaders Manchester City on Saturday at 3pm, a huge test for Fabian Hürzeler’s side, who are flying high near the top of the table. Expect the pubs around the Lanes to be packed with fans watching on screens.
Sunday Comedy and Lunch
Sunday evening brings comedy at Komedia’s Down the Hatch Comedy Club, plus Spanish comedian Sergi Polo performing live in Spanish. For a long Sunday lunch outside the city, the new Town House in Arundel is well worth the drive.
Looking Ahead: Bonfire Week
Next week is the highlight of the Sussex calendar. The famous Lewes Bonfire takes place on Thursday 5 November, but expect enormous crowds and travel restrictions. Many locals prefer a closer display. On Saturday 7 November, Sussex Cricket hosts its Fireworks Night at the County Ground in Hove (book in advance), and Shoreham Harbour Club has a free waterside display on Friday 6 November. See our full Sussex Bonfire Night guide for more.
Brighton Local
Halloween and bonfire season are a big boost for local businesses, from pubs and restaurants to bakeries enjoying Albion’s success. If you’re heading out, support the independents. Check timings before you travel, as outdoor events can change with the weather.
Related Reading
- Back by Popular Demand: The Old Market’s Immersive Midwinter Dining Experience
- Christmas at Kew 2026: Exciting New Light Trail Opens 13 November
- James B Partridge Brings The Big Christmas Assembly to Brighton Theatre Royal
