Release date: 13 June 2023
West Sussex County Council invites everyone to celebrate the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of the county this Sussex Day.
Celebrated every 16 June, Sussex Day brings together residents and visitors alike to celebrate all the things that make Sussex special. The date itself is rooted in Sussex history as it coincides with St. Richard’s Day, which marks the life of St. Richard, who was Bishop of Chichester from 1245 until his death in 1253.
Famous novelists, poets, and artists such as Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Jane Austen, John Keats, and William Blake have all found inspiration from the beautiful landscapes around Sussex.
With over fifty percent of the county designated as Areas of Outstanding Beauty and an extensive network of public rights of way that allows access throughout the county, you can explore everything from the sandstone hills of the High Weald, walking in the rolling South Downs or unwinding on the county’s many beaches.
Councillor Pete Bradbury, Chairman of the County Council, shares: “We’ve already enjoyed the Coronation of King Charles III this year and now we have another chance to celebrate, this time Sussex Day on 16 June.
“Sometimes it’s easy to forget just what a great county we live in. Sussex Day is an opportunity to pause and appreciate this wonderful part of the world that’s home to almost 900,000 people and that welcomes tens of thousands more each year as visitors from across the world.
“At the County Council, we encourage communities to come together, take advantage of everything our county has to offer and support our vibrant and prosperous economy.
“As we’re heading into the summer, you could explore the stunning array of walks in our beautiful countryside or along our 50 miles of coastline, or discover the county’s vast selection of art, culture, heritage, nature, events, venues, sport and eateries.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to wish you a happy and healthy Sussex Day 2023 and hope you will discover something new to enjoy in our county.”
Residents are invited to visit our Experience West Sussex website for inspiration on places to go, things to see, where to eat and drink, and to find out walks and cycle trails you can enjoy on Sussex Day and beyond. More information on the different local attractions and events happening in the county can be found on our Sussex Day Event page and our West Sussex Libraries have also created a special Sussex Day quiz to test everyone’s local knowledge.
For tips on how to celebrate safely during the current hot weather, visit our Safer Seasons: Summer page.
