Arts and cultureArts and culture

Hastings is an area laden with history. You can explore the 1066 Battle of Hastings site or Hastings Castle - the first to be built in England by William the Conqueror and there is also Hastings Museum and Art Gallery.

Film fans can visit the Electric Palace Cinema, which brings independent cinema to Hastings with a wide choice of film and film events, or there is the Odeon that shows more mainstream cinema.

There is a choice of three theatres, including the White Rock Theatre, presenting a wide range of productions, from the traditional to the innovative.

For music lovers there is a wide range of venues and events including live music venues and many pubs with live bands. A free beach concert featuring local bands every year and the Annual Hastings Beer and Music Festival in May attracts well-known groups.

 

Hastings main festivals

and there are many others during the year! Plus a St. Leonards Carnival (July)

Hastings Week (October) www.1066.net/hastings-week  - The week in which the Battle of Hastings took place in nearby Battle - a week of activities in Hastings culminating in a huge procession and bonfire/fireworks on the final Saturday, with 20,000+ people on the seafront.

Jack-in-the-green (Early May Bank Holiday) see the photo gallery at http://www.hastingsjack.co.uk/  and www.1066.net/Jack-in-the-Green  -  Morris dancers, fabulous costumes, the Jack (a walking bush), the May Queen, Giants, and everyone dressed up in green and flowers/leaves to welcome in the spirit of summer.  Also see the May-Day bikers gathering along the seafront - a case of opposites, but always a good friendly spirit of co-existence!

Old Town Carnival (August) www.1066.net/carnival   - A week of activities including a Beach concert, Bike race, Pram race and Street party, with the Carnival procession and fireworks on the Saturday.

Coastal Currents Arts festival - end of August to end Sept.

Hastings Seafood & Wine festival (September) on the Stade.  Sample seafood and wine, and enjoy the music, events and atmosphere. Cooking demos, fish preparation, wine tastings, stalls.