The arts foster well-being and vital creative skills in our fast-changing world. But many people cannot afford tickets. Arts education is in crisis. Free access to shows and creative activities is key. Over half of all Brighton Festival attendances happened at free events last year. But to run free events is getting harder every year. Our organisation, like many others, faces increasing financial strains. Costs are up by 20%. A reduced programme would significantly worsen community well-being.

We are committed to offer a varied, thoughtful and accessible free programme throughout the city, including the Children’s Parade, outdoor music with professional musicians and Create Music students, local neighbourhoods and artists together in Our Place, spectacular installations, street theatre, exhibitions and Audience Club free tickets. But we need your support. We will fundraise from other sources too, and work with schools, partners and local authority to find ways of delivering events.